You arrive at the village shortly before sunset... Or rather, what is left of it.

The wooden palisade surrounding the settlement has partially collapsed inward. Several rooftops are missing. One of the wells is somehow upside down. Chickens run through the muddy streets in a state of obvious distress. In the distance, someone is loudly yelling about bees.

The atmosphere feels strange. It's as if you had stepped into a completely different other world. One that is deeply illogical and makes zero sense.

As you pass, the villagers eye you wearily. They have the hollow expression of people who have collectively survived a disaster.

You eventually stop beside a roadside inn whose sign hangs crookedly by a single chain."The Lucky Wanderer". The word "Lucky" has been violently scratched out and replaced with: "DOOMED."

Inside, the innkeeper nearly drops a glass when he sees your traveling bag.

"No."

You don't move, a bit startled. The establishment is completely empty. It's the first Inn you've ever been to in which customers are not allowed at all. The innkeeper hisses at you.

"No travelers. Especially not armed ones."

You look down at your attire. You are only carrying a backpack, a flask of water and a walking cane. Nothing that screams "weapon".

The innkeeper rubs his face tiredly and points at you.

"Listen carefully. Here, everything is a weapon. EVERYTHING. You are armed just by existing. I want you out. RIGHT NOW!"

The innkeeper suddenly rushes to you, and manhandles you out.

"If you meet another traveller with a dog, you walk the other way. You do NOT help him. You do NOT travel with him. You do NOT follow him ANYWHERE . You run. AND FAST."

The man slams the door. You are left standing there. Suddenly, out of the blue, the sky turns black. Water pours. Thunder rumbles. A distant howl echoes across the valley.

A young man approaches, covered in soot, mud, leaves, and what looks concerningly like glitter.

"Oh good! The inn is still standing!"

He chuckles.

"Well. Mostly."

His layered traveler clothes are covered in charms and random trinkets. An overstuffed bag hangs from one shoulder while a small white dog walks beside him.

The man notices you for the first time and smiles warmly.

"Oh! You're new."

He walks over to you

"Come, we should probably leave before thunder strikes the inn again."