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"Seems like it happens to the best of travelers. Don't worry, lassies, I'll help ya out," the bartender said with a friendly grin. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the counter. "Whereabouts are ya headin'?"

I exchanged a glance with Zephara, silently deferring to her to answer. She cleared her throat, straightening her posture before speaking. "We're trying to reach the northern territories," she replied, her voice steady despite the lingering uncertainty.

The bartender's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "The northern territories, ye say? That's quite the journey, especially on foot," he remarked, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "What business do ye have up there, if ya don't mind me askin'?"