Chapter 166: Another One (4)

The girl with the black hair cast one last glance at the commotion outside but quickly dismissed it, her expression cold and indifferent. "It is none of our concern," she murmured, her voice low and final. The maid, though still curious, nodded in agreement and followed her mistress into the inn.

The warmth of the Verdant Heart Inn greeted them, a stark contrast to the cold dampness of the outside. Inside, the atmosphere was quiet and modest, with worn wooden furniture and a few patrons scattered about, keeping to themselves. The scent of rain and hearth fire mingled in the air.

Behind the counter stood an elderly woman, her hair streaked with gray and her eyes sharp despite her age. She looked up as the two approached, taking in their finely crafted travel cloaks and composed demeanor.

"Welcome to the Verdant Heart Inn," she said with a warm but cautious smile. "What can I do for you, travelers?"