Page 6 of Wolfsbane

“A bit too much, it seems,” Orion stated as we slowly rode the horses through the streets, noticing the cold, quieted voices, all eyes on us as the people of Hellbore, once lively and optimistic, hushed, filled with a sadness that could be felt in my bones.

Our party approached what appeared to be a small inn as the moon began to rise in the sky and the sun faded behind the thick clouds of night.

“A graveyard possesses more life in it than this,” Orion stated as we dismounted our horses and tied their reins. “Something isn't right here, Morel.”

“Boletus is here… I assure you, there is nothing right about that. We need to inquire about the king and queen and figure out what happened to them and their kingdom.” The party gathered as we exchanged looks. “Be as silent as the night and do what you must. Trust no one.” The men nodded as they slowly faded through the town, and Orion and I inhaled before stepping into the low-lit tavern.

The tavern was oddly quiet, only a few drunken stragglers seated around the room, minding their own business despite their wandering eyes. I knew I stood out, with my large frame and above average height, but I was hoping that, beneath my hooded cloak, I could blend in. In truth, I think it only drew more attention to myself.

Orion approached the bar as I shadowed him, the older gentleman behind it observing us closely. “Good evening, good sir.” I rolled my eyes at this fake persona he was once again presenting. “Two pints, please. Say, did Hellbore adapt new banners?” The old man’s eyes widened, obviously frightened by the topic.

My own gaze followed, noticing a trio of uniformed men drinking in the farthest corner of the tavern, watching us with narrowed eyes.

“I’m ‘fraid I’m not sure what you’re asking.” He forced a fake smile, pouring the two pints. “Hellbore is, as it has been, peaceful.”

“Deadly peaceful,” Orion muttered under his breath. He leaned close to the old man. “You need not fear us, good sir. I assure you, the kingdom of shadows is friend to all Hellbore.”

The barkeep's face dropped as he realized who we were, frantically eyeing the group in the corner. His sight moved and landed on me, his face silently telling me he knew who I was.

“Heavens. It is you, the king of darkness,” he whispered. I nodded ever so lightly.

The man fumbled with a cloth rag, presenting our pints. As we reached for them, he grabbed our hands and leaned in close and whispered between us. “Hellbore is prisoner to Scorpius, the prince sitting on our king’s throne.”

“Where is he? Where is the king and queen?” I whispered quietly, trying not to draw any attention to ourselves. The barkeep released our hands as Orion sipped the pint.

“There has been no sight of them since prince Boletus attacked, defeating our forces in a fortnight. His men burned all Hellbore’s flags, replacing them with his own. The kingdom has been on curfew, only allowed to move about as he sees fit, his men roaming freely while we suffer in silence or meet our own death. I could hang for simply repeating any of this to you, King Morel.” A low grunt vibrated in my throat as I stared into the pint. The man crossed his arms, glancing between Orion and myself as he leaned forward. “Is it true?”

“Iswhattrue?” My eyes met his.

“That you, King Agaric’s twin brother, are cursed by the devil himself?”

I stared at him, my brows furrowing as the side of my lips curled upwards. “Iamthe devil.” His face drained of all color.

“Aye!” Great. The trio of Boletus’ men finished their pints as they stood, and began to slowly approach us. “What’s going on over here?”

The old man looked at me as I sighed, taking a sip of my drink, ignoring them. Orion finished his, slamming the cup down in a dramatic effort.

“Heavens, that's some good ale! Really quenches the thirst, doesn’t it, boys?” He twirled around, a smug look plastered across his face as the men stopped.

“Can’t say I recognize you or yourshylittle friend. What business do you two have here in Hellbore?” I had to force myself to keep my eyes low and not react.

“We’re just two entertainers, stopping by for a drink. Care to hear a song?” My eyes moved to the corners, peeking over my shoulder as I watched Orion try to appease the men.

“You two don’t look like entertainers.” One of the men repositioned his hand, revealing a sword at his waist as the others mimicked his motions. It was obvious they were either too stupid or too drunk, looking for a fight.

One of the men stepped to my side, poking my frame. “Yeah, this one here looks more like a bear.” The three men snickered and chuckled as my jaw tightened.

“Why don’t you two come with us?” The first man unsheathed his sword.

“Easy, gentlemen. There's no need?—”

“Bite your tongue, peasant!” the man by my side hissed at the old man behind the bar.

“You kiss your mother with that mouth?” The man looked at me in horror as I took another sip, pleased with my muffled response.

“What did you say?” he asked.

“Easy,” Orion warned, his usual demeanor returning.

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