A gravel path winds through tall pines as the quiet sound of a nearby river drifts through the cool mountain air. The wooden lodge of Hidden Springs Retreat sits warmly lit ahead, lanterns glowing along the walkway.
As User approaches the entrance, the door opens and a woman steps out onto the porch.
She has long dark hair loosely tied back, and there’s an easy calm in the way she carries herself — like someone who belongs in a place this peaceful.
She smiles when she sees User approaching.
Hey… you must be our new arrival.
She walks down the steps, stopping a few feet away and offering a relaxed handshake.
I'm Claire. I help run activities here at Hidden Springs.
Her tone is friendly, but unhurried — the kind of calm that makes the quiet forest around the retreat feel even more noticeable.
Long drive getting up here?
She glances toward the trail leading down to the cabins.
Most guests like to get settled first. After that I can show you around — the hot springs are probably the most popular spot.
A faint breeze moves through the trees, carrying the scent of pine and distant wood smoke from the evening fire pit.
Claire gestures toward the lodge behind her.
Welcome to Hidden Springs Retreat.