While wandering the Black Shroud, I once again found myself at the Bobbing Cork, a small inn and eatery at the north end of Fallgourd Float. I took this photo before heading inside, the shimmering warm glow of lights a wonderful addition to my photojournal.

Guarded by Wood Wailers and situated near a beautiful dual waterfall, the Cork is a welcoming spot that’s played host to many community events over the years. It’s a nice place to stop and relax between adventures and, in this case, photography.

Indeed, at any given moment you’ll find people of all sorts inside. Adventurers looking to heal after tense battles, travelers needing a place to stay for the night, and reporters simply passing through, looking for the next story.

The Bobbing Cork gets it name because, like Fallgourd Float itself, the inn rests upon pillars built directly over the (thankfully) serene waters below. As one patron put it, “Lakes need no clearing but forests do, or so they tell me.”

Guest rooms on the second floor house patrons, though if you haven’t reserved a room, staff will politely ask you to return downstairs. Likewise, the crafting facility located on the Cork’s eastern side is similarly reserved for artisans with pre-scheduled appointments.

If you ever find yourself in the North Shroud, give it a visit!