Vanessa outpost

We arrive just in time. The sky has already darkened, and the moon and stars are gradually coming into view.

Up ahead, an outpost sprawls across a wide clearing in the forest, its perimeter enclosed by low wooden fences. A few guards patrol the area, and a short guard tower—bearing the Adventurer's Guild emblem on a large flag—stands watch. Meanwhile, wooden torches line the path, offering a gentle, flickering glow that pushes back the shadows of the encroaching night.

"We're here, Felicia," Eris says, gently setting me down from her back. "This is the Vanessa Outpost. We'll stay here tonight and head to the dungeon tomorrow morning."

"Nn," I reply, briefly smoothing out my hair and clothes, wanting to appear at least a little presentable.

According to Eris, outposts like this serve three crucial purposes.