Hell's Eyes

Chapter Five A Most Dangerous Expedition

E lsie leaned against the countertop of Mr. Basil’s infirmary vaguely listening as he instructed Liza about what needed to be taken care of in his absence. “Ready to go, Miss Hyacinth?” Mr. Basil shouldered his pack. Faint clinking and tinkling accompanied the movement, cluing Elsie into the potential potions and tonics sitting in wait in case they had need of them during their excursion. “I suppose there’s no time like the present.” She smiled thinly, tight ening her grip around her bow. Her stomach clenched at the realization that her bow and arrows probably wouldn’t do her any good. “Are you quite certain you’re up to doing this, Miss Hyacinth?” Mr. Basil asked, noticing the tight purse of her lips and the anxious flit in her gaze. “Quite certain, yes,” she said hurriedly. “Have you any weapons with you, Mr. Basil?” His eyes twinkled with unshed laughter. “I believe you’re armed enough for the both of us, Miss Hyacinth. Though, if it eases your mind, I have my pistol and all the magic within me should we need it.” “You doubt we’ll find the creature, then?” she asked, taking note of how at ease the town’s Healer seemed. He hummed, gesturing to Liza at the wooden table that served as

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