The night atmosphere within the inn's ground floor carried a steady warmth, the soft glow of hanging lanterns illuminating the wooden beams overhead as the quiet murmur of conversation filled the air. A few travelers sat scattered across the modest dining space, their voices blending with the faint clinking of utensils and the occasional crackle from the small hearth resting near the far wall.
Luca and Seraphina approached the counter together, maintaining the same carefully crafted demeanor they had displayed throughout the day. Seraphina's hand rested lightly around Luca's arm, her posture relaxed, her presence deliberately noticeable in a way that suggested careless confidence rather than caution.
The old innkeeper stood behind the counter once more, polishing a wooden cup absentmindedly before glancing up at their approach.
