A Fool's Tale

Chapter 9 - Castle Brimstone

I carefully picked my way through the forest. Although the moon was full, its light had difficulty penetrating the thick canopy of leaves. Fortunately, I'd been to the clearing many times before and didn't require much light. Unfamiliar rustling noises startled me as I walked, and with each crackle, my heart jumped. It was my first time travelling in the woods at night and I hadn't expected the forest to be so lively.

Hurrying along, I my ears pricked at the sound of every snapping twig. In the distance, wolves began howling. I think they were a long ways off, but their cries were surprisingly loud and pushed me to move even faster. I poked the staff in front of me, hoping that it would push away any insects or animals that might scurry in my path.

Eventually, the trees thinned and I sighed with relief as I entered the glade. Although the clearing provided no cover or protection if an animal were to attack, it was a familiar place, and for that, I was grateful.

I looked up to the sky. The round moon shone bright and I could make out a faint black outline of the castle tower in the distance. Talia had said to present myself at its gate. I shook my head. Though I was ignorant about castle life, I wasn't so foolish as to think someone would be waiting to welcome me and hand me a job at this late hour. It would be best to spend the night in the clearing and head to the castle at first light.

Had I planned my escape better, and controlled my temper, I could have left the cabin closer to dawn, but now I was stuck outside. Cursing my stupidity, I curled up, lay down on my side and hugged myself in a ball; a pathetic to stay warm. I tried to sleep, but it was colder than I expected and every time I started drifting off, the growl, or howl, or hoot of some animal disturbed me. All I could do was shiver and worry about what the next day would bring. Talia said she knew a perfect job for me. I should have asked what it was. Although I fantasized about becoming a squire, it didn't make much sense considering my inadequate experience. Talia knew I'd lived in the woods for most of my life. It seemed more likely she'd think I was suited for something outdoors. Maybe a hunter's apprentice, or perhaps there was a farm or garden at the castle that I could work in? Whatever the position, I was grateful for the chance to get away from my uncle.

At sunrise, my stomach grumbled to greet the new day. I hadn't eaten anything for dinner or brought any food with me. Stupid. If I had even a shred of common sense I would have taken some vegetables or bread. Grimacing, I tried to ignore my growling stomach and stared toward the distant tower. Sunlight glittered off the white stonework like a beacon of promise. Hopefully, there would be something to eat at Castle Brimstone.

At that moment, I realized how fully I'd placed my trust in Talia. What if I arrived and they had no idea who I was? I had nowhere to go. Returning to my uncle wasn't an option. I bit my lip nervously then straightened my shoulders. No, Talia would never deceive me.

Picking up the walking stick, I strode into the forest. Almost immediately upon entering I discovered a bush thick with rueberries. Dropping the staff, I hurried over and pulled the red treats free, jamming them into my mouth. It took no time at all to pick the bush clean, and although I would happily have eaten more, there were plenty to soothe my rumbling stomach. I wiped my red-stained hands clean on my pants and continued walking.

The castle drew closer, and as it did I began to hear the din of voices in the distance. I moved toward the noise. Through the trees, I viewed a wide dirt road heading toward the castle gates. Along the road were houses, shops, and many people, who I assumed were going about their day-to-day business. I was shocked. Talia had never mentioned a town outside the castle gates.

I looked at my clothes. They were streaked with dirt, and one of my pant legs was stained red with rueberry juice. My hands were empty and I realized I'd left my staff at the rueberry bush. I frowned. Yet again, I was proving how ill prepared I was to be on my own. No matter. I would return for the walking stick on another day. For now, I was excited to explore the castle town.