Running a Tavern as a Former Witch!

In the comfort of my room, I changed into my usual clothes and slumped on the floor beside my bed and examined the orb fragment once more. It felt as if I'm forgetting something... Or someone?

A sudden flash of light startled me, and I looked up to see Vernon standing in the middle of my room. His sudden appearance was typical of him, always dramatic and unexpected. He held a peculiar-looking device in his hand, one that hummed softly and emitted a faint blue glow.

"Elara!" he exclaimed, his eyes wide with excitement. "I knew I'd find you here. I have something extraordinary to show you."

I stood up, still clutching the orb fragment. "Vernon, what is that thing? And how did you just appear out of nowhere?"

"This," he said, holding up the device, "is a transporter. I've been working on it for months. It allows me to travel instantly to a pre-set location, however this darling could only bring me to places that I had visited and recorded into it. And as for your orb fragment," he continued, glancing at it with interest, "it seems you've stumbled upon a piece of a very powerful artifact."

"Yes, I found it in the market. The shopkeeper said it has protective powers," I replied, still trying to process his sudden arrival.

Vernon nodded, examining the fragment closely. "Indeed it does. This fragment is part of a larger orb that was said to possess immense magical energy. It could come in handy, especially with the things I've been discovering."

He sat down on the edge of my bed, his expression shifting into a serious one. "Elara, there's something you need to know. I've uncovered some disturbing information about a group of individuals seeking to harness ancient magical artifacts for their own gain. They're dangerous and will stop at nothing to get what they want."

My heart skipped a beat. "Yes, I'm aware. They should be known as the Shadow Circle. Is that right?"

"Yes. How did you know? Oh, right. Tavern." Vernon said. "We need to be cautious. This transporter device can help us stay one step ahead, but we must also be prepared to defend ourselves."

I nodded, feeling a mix of fear and determination. "What do we do next?"

"For now, keep the fragment close and hidden," Vernon advised. "I'll be back soon with more information and possibly some more artifacts. In the meantime, stay vigilant and be ready for anything."

As quickly as he had appeared, Vernon activated the transporter and vanished, leaving me standing alone in my room. I looked down at the orb fragment in my hand, its gentle glow a stark contrast to the darkening skies outside.

Over the next few days, I took Vernon's advice to heart. I kept the fragment hidden and stayed alert, looking for any signs of trouble. I also spent time with Ion, teaching him how to use the orb's restoring properties on various broken items around the inn and occasionally, its healing abilities whenever he wounds himself while slicing the ingredients. The more we practiced, the more confident we became in its power.

One evening, as I was closing up the inn, a group of strangers entered, their eyes scanning the room with a predatory gleam. My heart raced as I recognized the description Vernon had given of the artifact seekers. I discreetly reached for the fragment, ready to defend myself and the inn.

Just then, a familiar voice called out from behind them. "Elara, my dear, I hope you have a room for a weary traveler."

It was Levi. He had arrived earlier than expected, and his presence brought a wave of relief over me. The strangers turned to face him, and I could see the recognition and fear in their eyes. Levi's reputation preceded him, and it seemed they weren't willing to challenge him.

"Of course, Levi," I replied, my voice steady. "We always have room for you."

The strangers exchanged glances, then slowly backed away, leaving the inn without a word. Levi approached me, his eyes full of concern. "Are you alright?"

I nodded, grateful for his timely arrival. "Yes, thanks to you."

Levi glanced at the orb fragment in my hand, his expression curious. "Is that what I think it is?"

"Yes," I said, meeting his gaze. "And there's a lot we need to discuss."

The door chime sounded, revealing Eamon still hidden by his coat. Brief blinding light filled the center of the tavern, startling my companions. Levi barely reacted.

"Your dear wise sage has arrived. You are welcome!" Vernon said dramatically opening his arms.