Outside of the cosy confines of the taverns warmth and walls, the setting night was like any other. The rustling and jolly commotion of what took place inside slowly faded   out with distance, as too did the radiating light offered from the glass windows. Amongst the silver lined star lit darkness those windows became little yellow flashy guiding beacons off hope, rest and security for the weary or lost traveller.

The heavy footsteps of one such adventurer casually trod the flat stone path leading towards the tavern, a driven man lured by such promises.

Outside the taverns almost mystical sphere of influence and atmosphere, piercing the silence was the inharmonious un-orchestrated song of the night. Crickets chirped and shrubbery rustled with no discernible timing. Occasionally an owl would hoot or some other rodent would let out a shrill cry for its territory or life.

Step by tired step the mans large worn boots and loose apparel jangled each time a foot slapped against hard stone. Slowly the tavern would take shape.

A great howl echoed out from the far distance beyond, yet only a faint whisper of its glory pierced the distance and the solid structure of the taverns timeless walls.
Insistent on being heard it called again, a short moment later another powerful call fills the air. A true silence ensues this time as nature pauses her song. 

The eerie silence was almost more terrifying than what ever creature caused it, almost. But at the end of that silence was the soft audible hum of hope and safety at the stone paths end.

The footsteps became a hurried walk quickly ascending into a frantic run. Feet pounding wildly against the floor all sounds washed away beneath the growing thrumming of a panicked fast beating heart. With deep exasperated breaths his lungs drew in desperate gasps of cold air, attempting to fuel malnourished muscles that burned as though fuelled by acid. Limbs numb and sore, continued to operate beyond reason, moving on their own accord as though his life depended on it.

Finally the path came to an end, the runner didn't notice or slow. 
Instead coming to an explosive halt as he crashed violently into the unforgiving wooden tavern door with a loud sudden shocking thud.