New Horizons

As the ship docked at the mainland port, the party disembarked, their footsteps echoing off the wooden planks as they set foot on dry land. The sounds of the bustling port filled the air - merchants hawking their wares, the clang of hammering on metal, and the chatter of people from all walks of life. The smell of saltwater, fish, and freshly baked bread wafted through the air, enticing their senses. Finnley, however, remained on the ship, busy with the task of maintaining the vessel and restocking supplies for their next journey. The party bid farewell to their friend, thanking him for his help in getting them to the mainland safely. As they watched the ship set sail, Eira turned to the others and grinned. "Well, now that we're here, I think it's time we got ourselves looking presentable. We can't be traipsing around town in our worn-out gear, can we?" Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she gazed out at the town. Scorch chuckled, nodding in agreement. "I could do with some new clothes, actually. My armor's getting a bit tattered, and my dresses are in need of replacement." She ran a hand through her hair, feeling the tangles and knots from their journey. Valoric smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I think we can manage that. Eira, why don't you and Scorch go find a clothing shop and get yourselves some new outfits? I'll take care of getting our weapons looked at and sharpened." He flexed his shoulders, feeling the weight of his sword on his back. The two women set off, weaving through the crowded streets as they searched for a suitable shop. They eventually found a small boutique, its windows filled with an assortment of colorful dresses, tunics, and cloaks. The sign above the door read "Madame Elara's Fine Wear". Eira pushed open the door, and they stepped inside. The shop was a treasure trove of fabrics and textures, with racks of clothes that seemed to stretch on forever. Madame Elara, the proprietor, greeted them warmly, her eyes sparkling with interest. "Welcome, ladies! I have just the thing for you. What seems to be your style?" She gestured to a rack of elegant gowns, her hands fluttering over the fabrics. Eira and Scorch browsed the racks, oohing and ahhing over the various garments on display. They eventually settled on a few dresses and outfits, which Madame Elara helped them try on. Eira opted for a flowing white dress with intricate lace trim, while Scorch chose a dark blue tunic and leggings set, complete with a matching cloak. As they changed, Valoric made his way to the local blacksmith, his sword and Scorch's bow slung over his shoulder. He was greeted by the sound of hammering on metal and the smell of hot iron. The blacksmith, a burly man with a bushy beard, looked up from his work and nodded in greeting. "Ah, you must be the one Finnley told me about. What can I do for you?" He wiped the sweat from his brow, his eyes squinting as he examined Valoric's sword. Valoric smiled, handing over his sword. "Just a bit of sharpening and maintenance, please. And my friend Scorch's bow could use a new string." He watched as the blacksmith took his sword, his hands moving with a practiced ease. The blacksmith nodded, taking the sword and bow from him. "I'll have these done in no time. You're welcome to wait, or I can have them delivered to your lodgings." He gestured to a small bench in the corner, where Valoric could sit and wait. Valoric smiled, opting to wait. As he sat, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. What lay ahead for them in this new town? Only time would tell.