Chapter 51: Emporium

I pulled the truck into the small parking lot. The store looked like one of those hippy bong stores. I jumped out then stuffed my wallet in my back pocket. Remi walked with me to the door.

As soon as we entered, the strong smell of herbs and other plants overwhelmed my nostrils. Remi split away from me as I browsed the numerous shelves. They were laden with glass apparatus, herbs, plants, crystals, gems, chicken feet, and a host of other items. It was the biggest magical supply emporium in the west. I was sure it had something to do with being so close to a major nexus point.

I wandered through the cramped maze of shelves. One man stood staring at a shelf right next to the dragon's tongue. I moved in closer. The man looked up at me. He was short with purple skin and rounded mousey ears on top of his head. I tried not to stare, but I caught him looking at my left arm.

I reached over to get the dragon's tongue. He stared hard at the red spiral on my arm. His mouth gaped. I realized he