Off to the mountains...

Looking up, you see a wooden sign with "To mountains" etched into it. You walk over to stand by it and wait.

Finally, an old, rickety wagon appears to take you to the mountains. The driver is an elderly man, and the way he looks he reminds you of someone from a hillbilly movie. He's missing teeth, his clothes are filthy, he's wearing a straw hat, and his wagon smells really bad.

"You going to the mountains?" he asks.

"It would appear that way," you reply. "Will you take me there?"

"Ten copper coins," he answers promptly.

"With a price like that, you'd think you could afford to fix up your wagon," you mutter.

The man glares at you. "I heard that, and I'll have you know that I'm the sole owner of this station, so I have to pay to fix it up," he snaps.

"Sorry," you say. You reach into your pocket and give him the money.

"Well, let's go then." And with that, you're off.

The man's driving is terrible. He goes so fast that with every bump you're sent flying out of your seat. You arrive in good time, however. You see a path leading up into the mountains from a distance. You sigh with relief; your ride is almost over.

Suddenly, the wagon stops. "I won't go any closer to the castle; no siree. Have a nice day."

You look at the driver quizically, but get off and head towards the path.

Continue...