Not wanting to overly tire Miri, the normally two day ride to Stoneport took five.  The summer heat would be stressful at times for the old mare with the added burden of a rider and pack and they would have to stop often to allow the horse to rest.

Arriving in Stoneport around midday, Cailin asked an arguing couple where she might find the local inn.  Obviously perturbed by the interruption, the townswoman pointed down the road, "that way on the left" and returned to her conversation with her companion.  Not wanting to further be involved with the couples less than jovial disposition, Cailin thanked them and hastily departed company.

After tying Miri to a nearby shade tree, Cailin entered the inn and found a seat at a table where a breeze from the windows felt refreshingly cool.  Within a few moments, the tavern maid came over and with a smile said, "hello Miss, haven't seen you around before, new in town?"  Cailin looked up and replied, "just passing through, been a long ride.  I could really use a good cool drink and something to eat."

"Well, you're in luck sweetie, just happen to have some fresh redberry cider and my cook Jerral makes a mean beef stew... it ain't royal cuisine, but the folks around here like it.", said the tavern maid,  "you also mentioned you'd been on the road awhile.  If you're interested, I've got a room upstairs that you can rent for as long as you want.  It's only fifteen coppers a night and while it ain't fancy, it's clean, bedbug and vermin free.  If you like, we also have a private bathing room that for another five coppers, I can draw you a nice hot water bath" ,and adding with a wink, " I'll even throw in some bath oils on the side for free."

Looking up at the tavern maid, Cailin gave a weary smile, " the cider and stew sounds good, so does the room.  By the way, is there a stable close by for my horse, I'd really like to get her bedded down and off her feet, soon.  Also, I heard there's a master blacksmith here in Stoneport, where might I find him?"

"Even more luck comes your way Miss, Old Ironbeard's smithy and stables is just short ways around the corner... two birds with one stone", the tavern maid answered, "now let me get you your meal and I'll head on up to put fresh linens on your bed."

As the tavern maid headed toward the kitchen, Cailin leaned back in her chair and savored the light cooling breeze that passed over her body...