“What will happen to me now?” asked Miniya.

Faced with the question, Ali didn’t have an answer. He too was at a loss of what they would do with the daughter of a once powerful family head. As Aok already stated, they stood no chance against any of the factions in the city. Aok and Lorn only managed to establish a base by keeping a low profile. Anything that could attract more attention like Miniya would threaten everything they built over the years. Their only protection was the secrecy since they couldn't be targeted if no one suspected them. While it was possible for the various factions to have eyes and ears in the slums, it was far less likely when they had nothing to gain. Ali had to make sure it stayed that way.

In the end, it’s really my fault for getting involved in this mess.

“I don’t know,” said Ali once he found the courage. “I can barely protect myself in the city so I don’t know why your father picked me.”

“He picked you because he was out of options.”

Ali listened as Miniya explained the days leading up to his arrival. Following her father’s injury, he had explored all the options with those he trusted and Miniya was present for all the meetings. Regardless of what they came out with, there was simply no guarantee that their enemies hadn’t anticipated it either. When Ali arrived, they decided that he was their best bet, despite the odds still being heavily against them. Following some preparations, they went with the plan, making Ali the key proponent of keeping Miniya safe. The girl didn't expect the teenager to be of much help but she wasn't about to give up when the odds were heavily stacked against her.

“Well, better get some rest! We can look at the situation tomorrow after we’re well rested.”

Miniya nodded her head and went to her bed. Shortly after Ali laid down, his companions returned to wake him up. Reluctantly, he joined them in the courtyard away from the doorway.

“Who’s that girl?” asked Kurata. “What have you been doing while we’re doing errands? How do you find time to be a womanizer?”

“It’s not of his own volition,” said Belen after Ali looked to her for help. “I asked Aok and he told us to not get involved in this mess. The less you ask, the better.”

“Not get involved?” Kamis stepped forward. “I won’t stand idle while Ali’s life is at risk.”

Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

Ali hastily rushed to reassure Kamis on the matter. He stated that he did get involved in something big and, for his safety, the three of them should be kept in the dark.

“Do you not trust me?” asked Kamis.

“I don’t even know if Aok can resolve the matter,” admitted Ali. “That’s how bad the situation is.”

Kamis studied Ali for a short while before shaking his head, stating that he wouldn’t hesitate to help when Ali asked. Ali thanked his companion and suggested that they all get some rest. As he headed back to his bed, he noticed some movement from Miniya. The teenager walked over to check on her.

“Sorry, I’m just not used to sleeping outside my room. It’s very scary!”

The words made Ali realize that Miniya was still a little girl. She might put up a tough act but she was terrified of the unknown. She had to leave everyone she knew and loved to live with complete strangers. Meanwhile, the threat of people hunting her down wasn't helping either. Wanting to help the girl, the teenager took a moment to brainstorm ideas. Once Ali had an idea, he consulted with his companion first. After getting permission, he summoned Mika and presented the lightning mink to the girl.

“This is my friend, Mika. He’s strong and cute so I think he’ll make a great bodyguard for you while you sleep. I know you're probably hesitant but I can promise you that this lightning mink is very reliable!”

Miniya didn’t hesitate in reaching out to embrace Mika gently. After rubbing cheeks with the creature, she laid back down and closed her eyes. Once the lightning mink reassured Ali that everything was under control, the teenager returned to his bed. He noticed the other three were already asleep.

They must be worn out! I hope I get permission to deliver so I can take the load. It doesn't seem like Aok's business is getting any less busy these days. I still don't know where he gets all these orders.

Ali closed his eyes but, before he could fall asleep, he felt a burning sensation in his chest. He touched his chest but felt no physical wound.

Was I poisoned? Was I discovered already by those hunting Miniya?

The teenager opened his eyes, expecting to wake up on his bed in the darkness. Given how bad the pain was, he wondered if he could even wake up. The teenager had heard about poisons that would put the victim in a semi-conscious state where they were conscious enough to feel the pain and were unconscious to the outside world. Fearing that he was suffering from such a poison, Ali desperately hoped he could wake up and maybe call for help. Yet, he suddenly found himself in the summoner realm, the last place he expected to show up. The odd thing was that the pain within him didn’t lessen but in fact was amplified. With Mika now watching over Miniya, he called out to Tian who was the only one he could call for help from. After what seemed like an eternity, the air serpent finally arrived. Tian was initially happy to see him but the air serpent quicklyrealized something was wrong.

“What’s wrong?” asked Tian with concern as he hovered over Ali. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in pain while in the summoner realm.”

“I don’t know! I was about to fall asleep and this happened. Do you know of any injuries that get worse in the summoner realm? I didn't even know it was possible to feel pain here.”