Overtaking The Throne

Adventure, Hills and a Swamp

Chapter Twelve
Adventure, Hills and a Swamp

Herman's eyes shone like watery crystals, reminding me so much of a sad kitten. I gave Herman a pat on the head as I feebly attempted to reassure him.

The problem honestly wasn't even a big deal, but I didn't particularly want to leave right that moment.

Earlier today, he and I had been planning to have a game night. We were both looking forward to it, until Herman realized this wouldn't be occurring today. Instead of being supportive, he gave me those pitiful eyes as his plea for me not to go.

"Don't worry about it buddy. I'll be back soon. If everything goes well, you'll be seeing me fresh and early tomorrow," I reassured him.

The Scorin's expression did not change.

"Don't look at me like that! In our last takeover attempt I used my best spell. And I cannot create any new spells without more gems. Which I don't have. I've got to go get good gems."

Truth be told, I missed my wishing spell. (And all the other spells I need to create for future takeovers, but whatever. That was implied, I guess.) It requires a specific gem that is extremely hard to obtain if you didn't know someone.

Luckily, I knew someone.

This someone didn't live anywhere in Imperatrice, her residency passed my forest and a hill range in order to arrive at her swamp. Already was I regretting going to her, and I hadn't even left yet!

Unfortunately, the decision was inevitable. As much as I despised going to her, she would help me. If I payed her well, that is.

Herman huffed, drawing me out of my world.

Can't I at least come with you? He seemed to ask.

I shook my head. "This is one of those battles I have to face alone. Ask Ana if you need anything. She can move solid objects now, and she's super proud. I'm sure she would happily help you if you want. And considering she's partially me, when I say 'I'm sure' I know what I'm talking about." With that, I strapped on my blue satchel, ready for this adventure.

Navigating the forest alone had become second nature. I managed to avoid the peskier bugs, not meet up with any of the more powerful mystical animals, all while wearing bright blue everything. (If she saw me wearing blue and assumed I lived in a forest, my days of overtaking attempts would be over. Instead, I would reside in a jail for the rest of my life if I was lucky.)

It took several hours before I made it out of the forest. The pit stop to pet a group of deer probably didn't help. (What? They're my second favorite animal. Scorin is in the lead, deer is the runner up, and a smidge behind deer are owls.)

My real hatred had to be the hill range.

I mean sure, I hated that there were no places to hide if need be, but my real trouble was the slope. I was going to be completely winded after this. At least I wouldn't have to climb a mountain like I used to do in order to get to the palace.

Man, remind me to thank Herman for not making me climbing that mountain.

Uphill, huff, huff, downhill. Uphill, huff, huff, downhill. Uphill, huff, huff, downhill. The pattern etched itself into my brain and burned into my lungs. The grassy terrain made for a pretty view. Unfortunately, when you're attempting to get across hills as quickly as possible, you don't have time to stop and smell the roses. Instead you run past them and hope not to get a thorn stuck in your leg. (Don't worry. I did not get pelted by thorns.)