Merlin's description of the innkeeper was accurate. She was a jovial and welcoming woman. Until the evening waned and she had sampled some of her own ale. It was then her mood grew dark, and she began to ask patrons who had outlived their welcome...to leave. None objected when they saw a mace in the woman's hands. After the local drunks had departed. The innkeeper gazed about the room seeing only to figures sitting at a small table. It was then the woman's face lit up with sudden glee.
"Well...I had forgotten you were haunting my hall...Merlin."
"I am not a ghost...good Anavik. you can dispense with the weapon. We will cover our meal and we will need a room."
"Well...I know you, but who is the lad with you?"
Before Arthur could speak Merlin raised his hand in signal for Arthur's silence.
"My companion's passage must go unnoticed."
"Always mystery with you wizard. A room, stable for the horse, and food in the morning I assume."
"Indeed, but dried rations as well if you please."
"None of it free if you please."
Merlin gazed at Arthur, who sighed in return. Arthur reached into his coin purse and threw silver coins on the table. Anavik gazed at the table and then looked back at Arthur. A few more coins rand on the table.
"That should cover it, your room is upstairs."
Merlin and Arthur bid Anavik good night and climbed the stairs to their room.
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