A Stay in Gensokyo

Chapter Fifteen - The Hat of the Detective

When comparing human sight to animals, we usually fall behind some categories but have advantage in others. For example, when it comes to colour, we can see them much clearly compared to dogs or cats. However, when it comes to navigating upon nightfall, they have us beat. Whilst vision during the night would be helpful, I believe we could all could stand to benefit if we're able to see the same way eagles do; that way we'd appreciate more of what nature has to offer.

For some reason it'd appear that as of the moment, I'm able to spot colours in the distance at a much grander scale.

...

"A-Alice! T-That's-!"

I begin pointing at her anxiously as this could be the very clue I've been searching for; the first only clue.

I begin running in the directing she's flying towards, but Alice prevents me from doing so as she takes my hand.

"I have to go after her, Alice!"

Feeling my anxiety reaching its peak, I desperately try to break free, however, Alice's hold is firm and unyielding as though she doesn't believe what I see.

"You won't get far on your own, you won't catch up."

Though in saying that, she plays along.

"But I have to somehow! If I let this chance pass up then-!"

"Hmm then... Excuse me."

Releasing her grasp, she picks me up in the bridal carry as I gasp aloud.

"A-Alice?!"

I immediately look around us for any passerby, but fortunately it seems we're in a quiet area. But that doesn't make it any less embarrassing. My cheeks flush as I try hiding my expression from her with my hands.

"Don't move now, it'd be a problem if you were to fall. I didn't want to resort to this but it seems we have no choice."

"N-No t-hat's not the problem... c-could you put me down?"

With one hand still against my face, I use the other to try and get Alice to compromise. 

I don't think I can handle this!

"Hmm?"

She lets me down as I take a few deep breaths before moving behind her.

"J-Just a piggyback will be fine... I'm sure it'll be easier for you as well."

"Very well."

Passing her basket to me, I wrap my arms around her as she slides her arms behind my legs and lifts me up. This sensation is still rather embarrassing, but it's more bearable than being carried like that... But being this close to her? I'm acting like a grade school girl!

Closing her eyes as though to concentrate, she soon reopens them as we begin to ascend.

"Marisa's usually around whenever I'm out shopping, always trying to coincidentally bump into me. But it appears she's not here today. Honestly. Whenever you need her she's nowhere to be found."

Voicing her irritation aloud, perhaps she doesn't necessarily mind Marisa's antiques, to an extent.

"...Thank you, Alice."

"Don't mention it. We'll never catch up at this rate so it'll be a rough ride."

Being this close to Alice, I feel like my safety is secured. Though I still feel bad to have her do this for me.

...

Flying off in her direction, I call out to the girl numerous times before she stops and looks back at us.