Isle of the Damned

The Stumbling Mule

We all checked on Evander. He was knocked out from exhaustion but the doctor had stated that he should okay. The medicine that was given to him was the best out there. Alvaro was exhausted but deeply concerned for his brother and so he decided to sleep in there for the night. Out of concern for both of them, Myla stayed as well. Ava, James and I thought it'd be best to give them space and so headed off in search of our rooms.

Braelynn and Teo had been nice enough to give us all large rooms decked out with large beds, mirrors, en suites, dressing tables and sofas/chairs. They were a wealthy kingdom and that was heavily reflected within their castle. Everything was the best of the best. 

Apparently, the king and queen were hosting an extravagant ball tomorrow for the people of their court as it was Analias' birthday. I didn't want to go but could hardly refuse given the help they were offering us. I was glad I'd bought the dusty pink dress in Helena's kingdom. Although it wasn't what I'd normally wear, it'd fit me well and would help us blend in. 

Tonight, however, I'd asked to visit the town. No one knew me and since I had the right attire, there should be no troubles. It'd be weird not to be known as a queen or a 'monster' from the isle. I'd simply be me and so I'd have time to think and reflect. The last few days had been so stressful that relaxing was all I wanted to do now. 

I'd said goodbye to everyone, letting them know where I was going. They all thought it was a horrendous idea but understood. They agreed to let me go as long as I took a handful of weapons for protection. I don't know what'd I'd need them for but I knew, given the last few days, they'd be worth taking. 

The town near the castle was apparently well known for its food and I was damn near starving. I would kill for some hot, comforting food. They told me of a tavern that was locally famous. It's supposed to busy but only after seven at night. Currently, it was only four and so it was likely to be deserted. The emptiness would be welcomed and appreciated.

The town was in sight and was only a ten-minute walk from the castle. From the hill I was walking down I could see a large stretch of land. The town looked pretty large and seemed to contain a large number of trees. It didn't look as pretty as the village in Brilanthi but it certainly had its own charm. 

I headed into the town in search of the tavern called 'The Stumbling Mule'. A clock tower was on the right of me and several houses were on the left. They said it'd only be about 15 houses in. I walked along looking at the grey brick walls and old wooden doors. Although it was somewhat dull it all looked sturdy and well made. 

I quickly made it to the tavern and I was glad to see light shining out from the small windows. It was open and now I'd get my chance to breathe. I opened the door to see a large bar with stools and a few worn-out wooden tables.  A small number of candles were dotted around to lighten up the otherwise dark area. A large fireplace was situated on the left wall but because of the outside heat, it hadn't been put on. On top of it, a portrait of the royal family hung. All in all, it seemed to have a homely and comforting feel and I could see why it'd be so popular.   

"Hallo, what can I get ya, young lady?" a man, who I assume is around sixty, asked me in a deep gruff voice from behind the bar as I walked up to it.

"What do you have?" 

 "We've just rustled up a nice stew if you'd like some?"

"oooh.yes, please," I said thinking about how tasty and pleasant it'd be. 

The bartender was quick about delivering the stew in a wooden bowl. It smelled comforting. I was extremely glad about my decision to come here. I took a spoonful, blew on it and stuffed it in my mouth. It was delicious. Well seasoned and cooked perfectly. It couldn't be better. 

"How is it dear?" the bartender said looking at me. His voice was rough and gravelly but he seemed to be a gentle soul.

"Perfect. It's so good. I wish I could stay and eat here all the time," I said as I warmly smiled at him. He gave a grateful smile and turned to wipe down the surrounding surfaces. 

As I was eating I was vaguely aware that someone else had entered the tavern. I wasn't too concerned as I was just focused on the food in front of me. It was far too flavoursome to direct my attention elsewhere. 

"May I get you a drink to go with that stew?" a young man's voice asked next to me. I dragged my eyes up to him. There was no one else in here so it'd have to be he's talking too. 

I took in the sight of him. He was pale with thick brown hair and gorgeous matching brown eyes. He was very attractive but I had no time to be distracted. 

"No thank you," I said with a sweet smile before turning right back to my food.

"You're going to deny a prince the opportunity to buy a beautiful woman a drink. I have no expectations for anything back."

"A prince?" I questioned with my eyebrows furrowed.

"Prince Tyson, at your service," he joked as he did a little bow. 

"Prince Tyson? As in King Seths son?"

"Yup. As in Prince of Pethryn."

I could feel the dread growing in my stomach. All I wanted was to take some time to myself and now I've ended up in the same location as the son of my enemy. How unlucky was I? Fate wants me dead, I'm sure of it.