A Fractured Fairy Tale

Once upon a time in a kingdom by the sea a trio of weary travellers stumbled upon a modest castle. It was neither too small nor too large, but just right... for a brief sojourn out of the intense Mediterranean sun...

 

The trio were received warmly by the inhabitants who mentioned there had been only too few travellers of late.

Despite the hospitable welcome, our travelling trio began from the first to sense something amiss... Yet they were hesitant to insult their hosts and decided amongst themselves that they probably just had a bad case of post road jitters---with all the ogres, wolves and giants afoot, life could easily become overwhelmingly stressful---always watching one's back whilst fumbling among a weighty baggage for magic beans, talking dolls or golden egg laying poultry. Travel was without a doubt a tiring and dangerous prospect and it was good to relax for a bit...
Their hosts smilingly proposed a tour of the castle with an introduction to all its inhabitants. To commence, the travellers were treated to views of the latest in court fashion, worn by what must surely have been some of the leading innovators of the day....

And after, a dazzling show of courtly comedy...

Followed by an introduction to local practices of vino culture...

And a view of the amazingly lifelike displays in this groundbreaking cabinet of natural curiosities...

They were made privy to a thrilling glimpse of gold being coaxed from lead in the castle alchemist's subterranean chamber (although the trio wisely decided against mentioning the simpler process with their own golden egg laying hen...or was it a goose?)

Suddenly a sinister figure emerged from the shadows and the travellers felt strong hands placed roughly on their shoulders. Their hosts froze and began to back away slowly...

They were led through dim corridors hung with weapons...

Past increasingly more sinister sights...

until they found themselves in a dark place where they feared their wandering lives would end...

Suddenly there was a loud whisper from behind a curtain at stage left..."PSSST...I can get you out of here...but it's gonna' cost you..."

PHHEEWW...That was close!!!