The Tea shop and the rumor...

Leon longed for a moment of respite.

Ahead of him, nestled between a general goods store and a small blacksmith's shop, was a modest tea house.

Its wooden sign swung gently in the breeze, proudly displaying the name *The Whistling Kettle*. The scent of freshly brewed tea wafted out, inviting and warm. Deciding to take a break, Leon pushed open the door, the soft chime of a bell announcing his arrival.

The tea house was cozy, with small wooden tables and chairs placed strategically around the room.

Shelves of herbs and tea leaves lined the walls, casting a warm and earthy scent throughout the space. A few villagers sat at tables, quietly sipping tea and engaging in conversation.

The shopkeeper, a middle-aged woman with kind eyes and graying hair, smiled warmly from behind the counter. "Welcome, traveler. Please, make yourself at home."