The Firefly's Embrace

The Firefly’s Embrace is a famous tavern, located next to the Diamond River. The inside is softly lit by enchanted lanterns that resemble the glow of Ayrith's famous fireflies, casting a golden, flickering light over the polished wood and stone interior. Dark wooden beams criss-cross the ceiling, and potted plants hang in between, adding a lush, natural feel. The place is cosy, with a large stone hearth at the back of the room where patrons gather during cold evenings. Windows are adorned with thick curtains, but often left open to allow the soft breeze from the Crescent Bend to pass through. Each table is simple but crafted from fine oak, with hand-carved designs of vines and blooming flowers.
The owner, Liora Felmaris, is a imperial woman known for her calm demeanour and nurturing spirit. Liora spent her younger years as a wanderer, learning cooking techniques and hospitality from all over southern Ferra, particularly favouring her time in the Principality of Marle. Never forgetting her home or the beautiful nature and fireflies, she eventually settled back in Ayrith to open The Firefly's Embrace.
Liora is known to host "Firefly Nights" once a month, where the tavern’s magical lanterns are dimmed, and natural fireflies are released in the tavern, creating a dreamy atmosphere. During these evenings, musicians from Ayrith perform soft music, and special dishes are offered to match the ethereal feel of the night. It's a very popular event for couples and first dates.
== Menu ==
=== Food ===
* Firefly Stew – 6 silver  
** A hearty and flavourful stew made with wild game, root vegetables, and seasoned with thyme and rosemary. The dish is garnished with small glowing berries that give off a faint light, earning its name. The glowing berries are harvested from magical bushes outside Ayrith and add a slight acidic tang to the dish.
* Ember-roasted Pheasant – 8 silver  
** A delicate, slow-roasted pheasant cooked with a honey and sage glaze, served with charred leeks and potatoes. This is a dish Liora learned from her travels to Marle and is one of the more popular offerings at the tavern.
* Moonleaf Salad – 4 silver  
** A refreshing and vibrant salad made with moonleaf greens, which shimmer slightly in low light. Tossed with toasted nuts, berries, and a tangy citrus vinaigrette. It is a light and refreshing dish, often paired with heartier meals.
* Golden Wheat Bread (served with each meal) – Complimentary  
** Freshly baked loaves of bread with a hint of honey and spice, served with salted butter. The bread is crisp on the outside, but warm and soft on the inside, making it a favourite alongside any meal.
* The Glowing Tart – 3 silver  
** A dessert made with luminous fireberry filling, encased in a buttery pastry. The filling is slightly sweet with a tang, and it softly glows, making it a visually stunning end to any meal.
=== Drinks ===
* Firefly Wine – 1 silver per glass  
** A sweet wine made from fireberry, which gives the drink a subtle glow. The taste is a mix of berries and citrus, with a light, sparkling sensation when drunk.
* Ember Ale – 7 copper per mug  
** A dark, smoky ale brewed with local spices and barley, giving it a rich, robust flavour with hints of roasted coffee and chocolate. Perfect for a cold night by the hearth.
* Honeydew Mead – 1 silver per glass  
** A sweet, golden-hued mead made from local honey and local dewberries. It’s light and crisp, with a slightly floral aftertaste.
* Dewdrop Water – Complimentary  
** Served in crystal-clear cups, this water is infused with a hit of berries, fruits, or herbs.
== Lodging ==
The Firefly’s Embrace has six cosy, well-furnished rooms on the upper floor, each designed to provide rest and relaxation for weary travellers. The walls are adorned with simple tapestries of the surrounding landscape, and the beds are covered with soft quilts. Each room has its own small hearth to keep it warm during the colder months. The windows overlook Crescent Bend, offering a peaceful view of the nearby river.
* Basic Room – 8 silver per night  
** A comfortable room with a single bed, wooden furniture, and access to a shared bathroom. The room has a large window that overlooks the Crescent Bend and the nearby forest.
* Luxury Room – 3 gold per night  
** This room is larger, with a king-sized bed, a private bathroom, and a small balcony. Guests who stay in this room are offered complimentary firefly wine and a fruit basket upon arrival.
Category:Tavern/Inn