The rows of flowers grew in wild abandon, their colorful blooms commanding the attention of all who entered the garden. Not a single weed dared to disrupt their beauty. Small stones dotted the landscape, etched with messages that urged visitors to explore the garden’s hidden treasures.
The flower bushes and shrubs, standing tall at six feet, were impressive in their own right. But the tree, a black oak, stole the show. For over a decade, Nissa had poured her love and care into its growth, transforming it into the true centerpiece of the garden. Its size and majesty could not be matched, drawing all eyes to its towering form.
Nissa met Hattie at a local tavern that evening to discuss their next plans. Despite not frequenting the place often, Nissa found the atmosphere inside to be welcoming. The exterior was modest, with clay and stone beams forming most of the building’s structure, and curtained windows that kept the interior hidden from view. However, the clinking of beer glasses could be heard from outside.
Upon entering the tavern through the large hardwood door, the aroma of roasted meats and various other tantalizing scents greeted Nissa. The bartender struck up a conversation with her as she waited for Hattie to arrive. The interior was just as charming as the outside, with hardwood beams supporting the upper floor and its lights. The walls were mostly bare, likely because of customers bumping into them.
The tavern was bustling with people, primarily groups from various organizations, such as sports or music. They occupied long tables and kept to themselves, while they filled smaller tables with people enjoying themselves to the fullest. Even the bar stools were mostly taken, but no one seemed to mind the company. Although rumors abounded about the tavern’s fame, Nissa couldn’t recall what for. However, judging from the mouth-watering smells emanating from the kitchen, it was likely the food. She found a seat and prepared for what promised to be a memorable evening.
Nissa spotted Hattie entering the tavern and quickly informed the bartender that she was meeting a friend. “Just signal me and I’ll get you your favorite Brandy,” he replied with a grin. Nissa made her way to a nearby table, where Hattie joined her shortly after. “It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” Nissa remarked. Hattie chuckled and smiled. “Yes, it has. How’s your sister? She was a great help that night.” Nissa nodded and smiled. “She’s doing well. I’m glad you ran into her.” The two caught up on each other’s lives before Nissa presented Hattie with a necklace she had crafted for her. Hattie was grateful and impressed that her friend had thought of her and made something for her protection.
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As they chatted, the noise level in the tavern rose. The groups at the long tables were getting rowdier, and the patrons at the smaller tables were laughing and shout more loudly. Nissa and Hattie glanced around, curious about what was going on. That’s when they noticed a commotion near the entrance.
A group of men had just walked in, and they were causing a stir. They were dressed in dark clothing, and their demeanor was menacing. The other patrons in the tavern seemed to avoid them, and a hush fell over the room.
Nissa and Hattie exchanged worried glances. “Should we leave?” Hattie whispered. “No,” Nissa replied firmly. “Let’s stay put for now and see what happens.”
The group of men made their way to the bar, where they ordered drinks. The bartender served them, but Nissa noticed he seemed nervous and was avoiding eye contact with them.
Suddenly, one man spotted Nissa and Hattie at their table. He made his way over to them, and the other men followed. Nissa’s heart raced as they approached, unsure of what their intentions were.
“Hey there, ladies,” the man said with a smirk. “What are two pretty girls like you doing in a place like this?”
Hattie looked frightened and unsure of what to do. Nissa knew she needed to take the lead in this situation, especially since they were facing a group of men. She used her special ability, one that she reserved for seducing men. However, this group was larger than any she had dealt with before, and she wasn’t sure if it would work on all of them. Putting on a confident smile, she approached the men and said, “Why, we were just waiting for a handsome group of men to join us.” The main man, named Idris, introduced himself and his companions. Nissa did most of the talking, while Hattie sat and listened, preparing herself to use magic if needed.