Chapter 13 – Return Home

After Emil shouted a couple of rights and lefts we finally ended up where we started. Lovely. His eyes seemed to be on the verge of flooding. Why though? I doubt he understood the intention of the thugs in the first place. But he described the directions perfectly as well.

“Em-“

“You were so cool!”

Huh.

“Alice you were so amazing! You did a weird bang noise and managed to distract them to let us escape!”

I forced a smile and put a finger on my lips,

“Keep this a secret okay?”

He gave a nod before repeating the sign.

“Why did you have to cover my eyes though, I wanted to see it!”

I did it so it wouldn’t have blinded you…

Crouching slightly to reach his ear, I said:

“It was a magic trick!”

He opened his mouth as if to say woah before smiling and giving a nod. Honestly, I was too tired to continue, but for the sake of this dumb, dumb child, I endured the rest of the tour.

It was just the repetition of the same wooden stalls with a coloured cloth over it to block the sun. His face was glued to the stalls – did he not even consider bringing any money?

Wait!

The merchant’s ring was what he stored his money with, so if I do this correctly…

Please just give me some coins inside the storage thing!

I thought to myself as I kept one palm open and…

A golden coin!

I don’t know how currency worked in this world so –

“Emil, since you keep looking at the stalls, take this money and buy something you like.”

“Thank you, Alice!”

And he ran off. I honestly can’t keep up with my current state, but as long as I don’t overexert, I should make it till I get back.

Drifting again, my mind began to think of all the possible magics I could put into the crystal to become stronger for next time. At least enough to beat the mansion’s guards or the thugs ten times over. Maybe I could become the next head if I take over the estate?

*tug*

“Arisch lwet’s go!”

Again, I was being pulled on the road by an Emil who this time had his mouth stuffed with meat and was holding … cotton candy? Despite my stomach demanding some as well I just slammed my fist against it and sighed. Even though I was this kid’s pet, my pride wouldn’t let me sink lower.

As we walked back, my thoughts lingered to what Marie had told Emil. Why would she point towards a garden in the middle of the slums? Could it be that she herself completely guessed the location and just pointed towards the middle of the slums?

Oh well, we’re finally here.

After saying my compulsory thanks to Emil and a short bow I return to my room and collapse on the bed. None of the servants or guards were even present to check his safety – I guess he is a tossed child.

Leaving my sympathy to one-side, I should just tear apart the rest of the jewels I have in my room. Some more red jewels? Fire magic? What if I accidentally burned the place down? Maybe interrogate Marie first?