Gifts from the Golden Oak

Lynn briskly led Hill toward the silver Moonbridge.

This beautiful magical arch bridge stood high above the river, glimmering with a dangerous radiance.

Yet most people seemed unable to see that light.

As Hill stepped onto the bridge, he felt a peculiar thrill. If the tremendous power within this magical structure were truly unleashed, it could destroy every city within a hundred miles.

Lynn turned to Hill and said, "Since you'll be staying in Silver Moon City, I won't take you everywhere. You can explore on your own later. If you get lost, just ask any of the guards in silver armor on the streets.

"Let's head to the inn first. The auction will be held the day after tomorrow, and I'm worried we won't be able to book a decent room."

After thinking for a moment, he added, "By decent, I mean comfortable without being too expensive. If you want one of those luxurious suites, though, there shouldn't be any problem.

"Those wealthy people usually won't choose the Golden Oak we're going to. They prefer the Gilded Rose in the noble district. That place is a money pit; anyone who goes there is either rich or has a noble title.

"Adventurers still prefer the Golden Oak."

He glanced at Hill, hesitated, then said, "There's also the House of the Stubborn. More ordinary folk stay there. People looking for craftsmen or other skilled workers usually go there.

"The innkeeper will help make introductions. If you need anything, you can also find craftsmen and repairmen there."

Hill nodded.

Lynn seemed to have stopped saying things like, "If you run out of money..."

He touched the shield-shaped pendant hanging from his chest. This thing apparently really was quite useful; Lynn seemed to think that even if Hill spent all his money, he