The Crossroads Inn

The largest building on the market square, and the town's beating heart. Thick stone walls, a broad slate roof, and a common room that smells of woodsmoke, stew, and wet wool. Marta Vance keeps the place. Her ale is reputed the best for three days' ride — a claim travellers rarely dispute.

Rooms above the common floor, stables behind. A fireplace large enough to roast half an ox. The name comes not from any romantic notion but from its location: every road in and out of Thornwick passes within a stone's throw of its door.

What you'll find there

• A hot meal at any hour the kitchen is manned
• News from three directions before the day is out
• Old men by the well outside, nursing cups and watching strangers
• Marta, who remembers your name whether you gave it or not