Meridith at 34 Years Old

A crow fascinates Meridith the Dwelf and the Barkeep who feeds it. 300 Word Contest Winner

Meridith watched the crow land on the counter. The outdoor bar was the only place in the Crow and Gibbet Tavern that allowed her to stand up to her full height. The adventurer took another pull on her enormous tankard. The dark beer went down her gullet smoothly. The tankard was special. Twice the size of a pint, and made of intricately carved pewter, it fit the overgrown Dwelf.

Draining the mug of its last contents she looked sadly at its depths. She was still thirsty. Her eyes widened. The crow was holding a silver piece in its beak. The rook sized bird was waiting patiently for Hansen, the barkeep.

"He pays like everyone else." Hansen mentioned at the petite giantess.

Astonished Meridith watched the blond-haired Hansen place a small delicate bowl on the counter and fill it with some light pale ale. Before reaching for the money, he also put a board of food, a small bread and cheese, beside the drink. Then and only then did the Immaculately preened crow lay the shining silver coin in the barkeeper's hand and begin to partake of his meal. After each few bites the black bird would caw enthusiastically and drink the ale.

Once the marvelous bird was finished Hansen fished in his pocket and produced a bronze coin as change for the price of the meal. The Crow took it respectfully and flew off in a flutter of black feathers.

"I wonder where he gets the money?" Meridith asked idly.

"I do not know, but he always takes change."

On the balcony of the castle, the invalid Princess Ivy waited impatiently for her friend and his gift. She gave him silver, and it amused her to think of his antics in bringing her a bronze coin in its place.