The inn! At last, this long leg of the message's journey had found its end. He opened the door, the warmth of the idle fire drifting over him as he entered.
"Come on in!" The innkeeper waved gently. "Just stoked the fire."
"Wonderful." He sighed, removing his hat. The layer of chain mail below his outfit clinked slightly as he took a seat near the fire. "What do you have for a weary traveller?"
"Drinks for the thirsty and food for the hungry." The innkeeper flashed a charming smile as she walked over. "What are you after?"
"Meat, if you have any."
"Sure thing, it's coming right up." She headed away from the table and walked down some stairs, soon out of sight. The gentle crackle of the fire was his only companion. He reached his hand into his pocket, gently rubbing his finger over the paper roll within. It was vital that it reached its destination; the fate of the entire nation depended on it. He looked around the empty inn, enjoying the rustic nature. Built from logs, nails and determination, it was a simple inn. It stood on the long road between the major cities of the land, so it saw some business. He looked back at the counter, to see the woman walking up.
"Five gold for this, please."
"How much for a drink too?" He brought out the money and a little extra.
"I can think of something for you for this much." She grinned as she took the gold, walking back to the counter.
"Much business lately?" He asked, stretching his legs a little under the table.
"Not these days, there's too much tension from the war." She sighed. "It isn't even on yet, and it's scaring people..."
"With any luck, it'll all blow over." He sighed, eating the stew before him.
YOU ARE READING
10 Minute Tales
General FictionThe result of a New Year's Resolution, I have decided to write for at least 10 minutes a day. This is the result of that effort! Note that I first uploaded to Tumblr, so while I did start this on Jan 1, the earliest this e-book will show is Jan 19.
