Fate of deception

Chapter 8 - Umaizah's POV

We walked back down the same hill as before but we saw more people than earlier in the morning. Later, when we were in the muddy parts of the grass, Amir placed me on his back and went across the same route. I made sure all of Layna's jewellery was properly put on beforehand, just in case if they fell. I loved her jewellery since it looked unique but I couldn't tell where she found such exquisite pieces.

The necklace I wore seems to be getting under my skin. Every time I glance at the key pendant, a sense of unease washes over me. The way that third word vanished into thin air still haunts me, leaving me feeling unsettled and restless. It's as if the necklace is whispering secrets to me, secrets I can't quite grasp. If it was a person, it would be entertained by teasing me. The beauty of the pendant is being overshadowed by the mystery it holds, and I can't shake the feeling that there's more to it than meets the eye.

Amir walked for a while until we were coming close to the more dryer areas of the village. He slowly stopped as I slid off his back. I scanned the shop where many people kept coming in and out of. There was a sign that read, "Arrow's Edge." The overall shop was nestled within a forest. The shop's wooden interior boasted elaborate carvings depicting fantastical creatures, adding an air of enchantment to the space.

We both walked inside, as I found a vast collection of enchanted bows, arrows and accessories, each with its own unique power and purpose. The shopkeeper greeted us both warmly.

"Nice to meet you again, Amir." He smiled widely. "I see you have a friend with you." He reached his hand to me. I gladly shook his hand out of respect, sending a smile back to him.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Umaizah."

"I know who you are darling. Anyone would if they saw you a mile away." I smiled not knowing if I should laugh or not.

"I'm the owner of the business, it's lovely to see Amir bring someone with him. He usually comes here by himself." He chuckled for a bit before introducing himself further.

"You can call me Gareth. I'm a retired elf archer. What do you folks need for this time of the morning?"

"I'll just be taking a long bow and quivers. Nothing special for today." Amir spoke, giving his attention to Gareth while putting his left elbow on the wooden counter infront.

I observed the archeries. There were a variety of enchanting items and tools for archers. From beautifully crafted bows of different sizes and styles, to an assortment of arrows with unique designs and magical enhancements, the shop is a treasure trove for any aspiring or seasoned archer.

I also came across some mystical quivers, protective armguards and other accessories that could enhance the archers abilities. I appreciated the art of archery. I hope to witness Amir doing some archery. He's mentioned it twice already. It seems like he has a passion for it.

We waited for Gareth to come back with what Amir needed. Amir leaned his back on the wooden counter trying to make eye contact. I avoided him by pretending to look at the nearby equipment.

"How long will he take?" I asked. I was already bored within two minutes.

"Probably a while. He's in his 50s but can still manage." Typical. There were others in the store, but minded their business. I anticipated that some of the people didn't think much of me in here. They gave a few stares here and there, but it didn't bother me as much.

"He's the only one who works here too." Amir added on.

"He works alone?" In his fifties but has no employees? I shouldn't judge, I had many servants in the palace to do things for me. Never had to lift a finger, so I should keep things to myself for the moment.