The town of Oakrest welcomed them with the familiar bustle of a border settlement: merchants shouting prices, carts rumbling over cobblestones, the smell of fresh bread mixing with woodsmoke and horse sweat.
The main street widened into a lively market square lined with stalls, inns, and supply shops. The group paused at the edge of the square, taking in the scene.
Adam scanned the buildings quickly—eyes landing on a sturdy two-story inn with a sign reading "The Traveler's Rest" hanging above the door.
"Alright," he said, turning to the others. "We split up to save time. Elise and I will find us a place to stay for the night. The rest of you—Ignis, Lilith, Seraphina—handle supplies. Food, water, anything we might need for the next leg. Meet back here in two hours."
Ignis pumped her fist. "Market time! I'm gonna find the spiciest thing they have!"
Lilith's crimson eyes flicked toward her with faint amusement. Adam caught the look and added quickly,
