Sienna's humble and kind nature provided me with some solace. I had felt completely alone in my life, and Mr. Canton's sudden disappearance left me in a state of uncertainty. Each time I glimpsed the photo album Sienna carried, I had an urge to look through it and try to remember if we had indeed met before, as she had told me. Sleep eluded me as I nurtured my curiosity to uncover the truth. After hours of contemplation, I decided that I would ask her about it once we met Franklin Porter.
As I crossed the avenue and stood near the coffee shop, a man called out to me. He appeared elderly, with a large beard and a hat.
"Are you Mr. Johnny Carpenter? Am I correct?" he asked.
"Yes, but why did you call me? Do I know you?" I replied.
"Of course, I am Mr. Franklin Porter, the one who sent a message to Sienna to help you," he said.
"You know, my uncle was attacked and taken prisoner in Darius' Castle. How can I save him?" I asked urgently.
Franklin Porter stroked his chin and handed me a cylindrical bottle with a milky, white substance inside. With just two puffs, I felt a strange and powerful sensation coursing through me. My hunger, sweat, and fatigue seemed to dissipate. I smiled, realizing that he had something to offer.
"Eh, I can help you. Did you know that your uncle, Canton, was my disciple during his teenage years? He learned martial arts from me," Franklin said.
"He never mentioned that to me! So it means you know him quite well," I said, shocked by the revelation.
"You never know, Sienna might have more knowledge about you than you think," Franklin responded cryptically.
"Sienna knows me?! And yet she treated me as a stranger. Why?" I asked, confused.
"When the time is right, she will reveal herself. Don't worry about it. Have you not sought help from the police?" Franklin reassured me.
"It seems unlikely that they would believe what we tell them, so I came to you instead. Sienna has shown me great kindness and promised to help at any cost. And as for the police, their assistance seems futile," I explained.
"I understand your reluctance to seek their help. I can assist you. You see, Sienna and I have certain metaphysical abilities that we rarely utilize. However, in your case, I believe it is necessary for you to employ them without hesitation," Franklin said.
"Invisible? Me? How is that possible?" I asked, astounded.
"We live in a realm of secrecy, practicing an art that is unique to us. We possess metaphysical abilities that allow us to become substantial and powerful, but we wield them with caution. I am one of those few individuals. Mr. Canton is a dedicated and enthusiastic person, and it is my duty to support him," Franklin explained.
"I asked sceptically, as you mentioned, I need to become invisible. But how?"
Mr. Franklin nodded with a knowing smile. "I'll give you the address of Suleiman Haider. He's also trustworthy. Go to him, mention my name, and ask for an imperceptible hat. But don't put it on just yet," he advised. "Go back home and witness the magic."
"I can't believe it'll be safe," I replied, grateful for his assistance nonetheless. "I'll see you again," I added, although to my astonishment, Franklin Porter suddenly vanished, leaving me startled enough to accidentally hit a lady in the groin.
"Oh! I'm so sorry," I apologized to the disoriented and frightened woman.
"Don't worry about it. I know it was unintentional. Can you please help me? I don't have any money to get home," she pleaded, her face concealed by a black cloth.
"Well, I can't really help you either. I'm in the same situation. I only have ten dollars," I explained. "Sorry, I can't."
"Alright, I guess I'll just remain unlucky," the lady sighed. As she turned around, her bag fell, and I picked it up. To my surprise, I noticed a picture of Mr. Canton inside. I called out to her and inquired about it. She introduced herself as Jasmine, mentioning she worked at the Seven Marble office. Her purse had been stolen, and she needed money to go home. Out of kindness, I decided to give her my money, opting to walk on foot. As much as I wanted to tell her about Sienna, someone like her, I made sure I would visit Suleiman Haider alone.
"If you face any difficulties, give me a call. I have to meet my parents first, and once I find Mr. Canton, I'll let you know. Thank you for helping me. Bye," Jasmine said before heading home.
I was taken aback that she was Sienna, leaving me all alone. Why did she do that? I pondered for a moment, realizing that she might be taking my place in the test. With that thought in mind, I resolved to go to Suleiman's residence. Knowing that Sienna was only an assistant, she believed it would be best if I confronted my uncle on my own. I felt a slight tinge of fear, anticipating the challenges that might await Mr. Canton. With Suleiman Haider's address in my possession, I hurriedly made my way there. I also had a picture of the store, contemplating whether or not I should inquire about it. However, Mr. Franklin Porter had warned me against asking, deeming it confidential. Additionally, I stumbled upon a narrow lane bordered by dilapidated houses on both sides. The lane stretched on for what seemed like an eternity, taking me ten minutes to traverse. Eventually, I came to a halt, realizing that nothing resembled the image in the photograph. But just as I glanced at it again, the wall shifted, revealing a square hole. Curiosity getting the better of me, I entered the darkness, feeling a surge of fear. As I continued further, a voice demanded that I halt.
"Show me the palms of your hands," the voice commanded.
Nervous and bewildered, I complied. "I won't make any move without your order," I assured him, taking a deep breath as my eyes fell upon the skeletal remains hanging from above, with crocodiles lurking below, occasionally raising their heads and baring their sharp teeth.
"Please forgive me. I'll do as you ask," I stammered, my trembling hand held out to show my compliance. "Now, lead the way up the stairs."