The Shadowed Oak Inn

The Shadowed Oak Inn is known among travellers as a reliable, if somewhat peculiar, place to rest. The locals respect Thoran for his hard work and the inn’s role as a social hub, though they remain curious and a bit wary of his guarded demeanour and the inn’s occasional strange happenings. Few suspect the dark secrets that lie beneath its foundations.

Exterior

  The Shadowed Oak Inn is a sturdy, two-story building with a thatched roof and weathered wooden walls, nestled at the edge of a dense forest. The inn takes its name from the massive, ancient oak tree that stands sentinel outside, its gnarled branches casting long, eerie shadows over the property. A wooden sign depicting an oak tree hangs above the entrance, swaying gently in the breeze and guiding all those who live in Mareford .  

Surroundings:

• The Forest: The inn is surrounded by a thick, dark forest that adds to its secluded and somewhat ominous ambience. The forest is dense with underbrush and towering trees, creating an almost labyrinthine landscape.
• Cobblestone Path: A narrow, cobblestone path leads up to the front door, flanked by overgrown shrubs and wildflowers. Lanterns on either side of the path flicker with dim light, casting dancing shadows on the ground.

Atmosphere:   The inn has a generally welcoming yet slightly eerie atmosphere. The common room is often filled with the sounds of clinking mugs, crackling fire, and lively conversation, but an undercurrent of unease lingers due to the inn's hidden history and Innkeep Thoran Grimwood wary nature. The presence of the ancient oak tree and the surrounding forest adds to the sense of seclusion and mystery.

Interior

Ground Floor:

• Common Room: The heart of the inn is the common room, a spacious area with low wooden beams and a large stone fireplace that provides warmth and light. The walls are adorned with faded tapestries and hunting trophies, giving the room a rustic charm. Long wooden tables and benches fill the space, where travellers and villagers gather to eat, drink, and share stories.
• Bar: At one end of the common room is a sturdy bar made from dark oak, polished smooth by years of use. Behind the bar, shelves hold an assortment of bottles containing various spirits, ales, and wines. Thoran Grimwood, the gruff and stoic barkeeper, can usually be found here, serving drinks and keeping a watchful eye on his patrons.
• Kitchen: Adjacent to the common room is a modest kitchen, where simple but hearty meals are prepared. The aroma of stews, roasted meats, and freshly baked bread often wafts through the air, enticing hungry guests.
• Storage Room: A small storage room off the kitchen holds supplies, barrels of ale, and crates of provisions.

Upper Floor:  

• Guest Rooms: The upper floor consists of several guest rooms, each modestly furnished with a bed, a chest for belongings, and a small writing desk. The rooms are clean but unadorned, providing basic comfort for weary travellers. The walls are thin, and the creaking of the floorboards adds to the inn's rustic charm.
• Thoran’s Quarters: Thoran's private quarters are at the far end of the hall. This room is slightly larger and more comfortably furnished, reflecting his status as the innkeeper.

Basement:

• Cellar: The cellar is accessed through a door near the kitchen. It is cool and damp, filled with shelves of preserved foods, barrels of ale, and bottles of wine. The air is thick with the scent of earth and aged wood.