42. The prince

Neem

I have stayed in this castle for up to a week now and I feel like I’m just finally catching my breath. The royal family has gone on a hunt, as well as most of the officials. The woods have long been sectioned off, and trespassing can lead to death. Only the royal family and officials have a pass to hunt on those grounds.

In a forgotten corner of the kitchen, I nibble on a piece of meat from last night. It’s not until they return with game that the castle will have a proper meal. This corner has fast become my favourite part of the castle. It is stocked with old equipments and most of the time no one comes here. It’s a good place for me to forget my situation while listening to all sorts of gossip going on around the castle.

“I wondered where you always disappear to.” I yelp and drop the meat when the voice interrupts my musings.

Mia stops in front of me with her arms on her hips, looking at me triumphantly.

“I see you almost got your tongue back too.”

I wish. It has grown for