22: Amber's Reward from Underland

In turmoil and fright, Amber whipped open the door and fled down the walkway toward the gates. She had no destination in mind but the second she exited the gate, only one place came to her mind.

Hence, her running feet led her straight to the dock at Isis's waterfront. Given the location of Isis's home, no one was in sight. She grabbed stones from the ground and threw them into the river as though she was throwing them directly at someone.

“Come out and talk to me” she cried in her desperation and helplessness. As she threw the stones, she was speaking constantly. “You said you have extended your hand of friendship to me Mermaid and I know that you’re in there and you hear me.”

Amber paused, panting from all the throwing even as there was no sign of Mermaid.

“What kind of a friend are you?” she asked, allowing tears to roll down her face. “I am in trouble. Always in trouble. I need money. You know what I need it for.”

Following the silence, Amber grabbed more stones. As she was