Chapter 11: A Haven in Oakwood

As they entered the quaint town of Oakwood, Lyra led Kael down the main street, lined with thatched roof cottages and bustling with activity. The smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, enticing their senses and making their stomachs growl with hunger. Lyra smiled, seeming to sense Kael's discomfort, and steered him towards a large stone building adorned with a wooden sign creaking in the gentle breeze. "The Red Griffin Inn," she said, her eyes sparkling with warmth. "A fine establishment, known for its excellent accommodations and warm hospitality. We can rest our heads and store our gear here, and then continue on to find you some more...suitable attire." Kael nodded, grateful for the prospect of a comfortable place to rest. As they entered the inn, the warm glow of the fire pit and the murmur of conversation enveloped them, immediately making them feel at ease. Lyra approached the desk, where a stout man with a bushy beard and a friendly smile greeted them. "Welcome, travelers! What can I do for you?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. Lyra smiled, taking charge as usual. "We're looking for a room, please. Just for the night, I think. And a place to store our gear." The innkeeper nodded, producing a large key from a hook on the wall. "Room 3, upstairs to your left. You can store your gear in the storage room downstairs. I'll have one of the lads show you the way." As they made their way to their room, Kael couldn't help but feel a sense of relief wash over him. A warm bed and a chance to rest his weary body were just what he needed after the long journey. Once they had stowed their gear, Lyra turned to Kael with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Now, let's find you some clothes that don't make you look like a vagabond," she said, her voice low and teasing. Kael chuckled, following her out of the inn and onto the bustling streets of Oakwood. They walked for a short while, Lyra leading the way, until they came to a small shop with a sign that read "Finley's Fine Clothes". "Ah, Finley's," Lyra said, pushing open the door. "One of the best clothing shops in Oakwood. I'm sure Finley himself will be happy to help you find something suitable for your travels." Inside, the shop was dimly lit, but Kael's eyes quickly adjusted to the soft light. Rows of clothing racks lined the walls, filled with an assortment of tunics, breeches, and cloaks in various colors and textures. A bespectacled man with a kind smile looked up from behind the counter, greeting them warmly. "Welcome to Finley's! How may I assist you today?" Lyra smiled, gesturing to Kael. "This young man is in need of some new clothes, suitable for traveling. Can you help him, Finley?" Finley's eyes lit up with interest as he surveyed Kael's worn attire. "Ah, a traveler, I see. Well, I think I have just the thing. Let me show you some of our finest fabrics and styles, designed specifically for the road."