Defying the Prophecy

The room where I opened my eyes was dimly lit. Feeling around, I understood that though I was brought in as a prisoner or something similar, I was free of any bondage. I could freely move my hands and swung my legs down from the bed I had been lying unconscious on.

I tried to find my way towards the door, if there was one within my reach. Walking straight in the direction my nose pointed, I reached a small window covered in grills and mesh. It allowed the outside light to sieve into the room.

I noticed a slight movement at the corner of my eye. Tensed and semi-frozen, I slowly turned my head towards the movement.

"It's not safe here," a woman whispered before I could realize how close she was. "You should leave before the house learns your name." She breathed into my ear, her muffled voice sounding both mean and horrified.

"I-I..." I trailed off as I felt a cold touch on my shoulder.

"If you have any doubts or questions, go ask the candle," the same voice hissed again, this time with a hint of compassion.

"But how?" I dared to ask.

"Blow out a candle and ask whatever you want to the smoke. But be careful to make it quick, as it doesn't stay long," she answered urgently. "And yes, the candle is lying beside your pillow, where you were lying, with a matchbox."

After a while, I got my answer. I was in the land of darkness, ruled by the beast king, Dyrmundur. His people considered him precious and worshipped him. He provided protection to both them and his land.

"So, you say..."

"I told you not to delay your stay here. You know where you are, so hurry and leave," she cut in.

"Just one thing..." I pleaded.

"Spit it out... but make it fast..." She turned her head from side to side, as if trying to scan the area for safety or spies.

"The prophecy says the beast can't be killed... then... can it be..." I gathered all my strength to ask what I wanted. "...Loved?!" I blurted out.

I felt her breath seize for a moment, and I couldn't even sense her presence. "Are you there, or have you disappeared?" I asked in a voice just above a whisper of wind.

"I'm - I'm here. It's just... that your idea took me by surprise," she exhaled loudly, stuttering for the first time.

"And?" I asked.

"And you're out of your mind. I am here, risking my life to save you because I felt some warm familiarity with you. But you are intent on getting both of us killed," she spoke under her breath, with gritted teeth.