imitation

The gloom lifted from the fellowship's collective spirit as they beheld the snow-dusted hamlet nestled among the undulating foothills. Glints of gold framed by plumes of white marked welcoming hearths still burning brightly against lengthening shadows. Even the stern-faced gate guards now softened in burgeoning expectation.

Passing farmers and herders bobbed humble greetings as townsfolk emerged grinning from thatch-roofed cottages. The rich aroma of smoked mutton beckoned seductively further inward. Until now the guardians had not fully comprehended just how heavy a toll weeks of wilderness and warfare had etched. Hearts soared in unison at the thought of simple comforts.