Chapter 34: Under the Universe
I sheathed my hunting knife and extended my hand toward the student. “Return it to me.”
“I’ll hold onto it for you, Professor. You’re limping, and since I know what’s inside, I can quickly find whatever you need. Wouldn’t that be more efficient?”
Her ulterior motives were transparent. After that one peek inside my bag, she’d become captivated by the dangerous items within. By now, I had her fairly well figured out. She resembled Arthur Frank quite remarkably. The only difference was their mental age—hers seemed slightly more advanced.
“Then don’t ever open it unless I specifically request something.” I admonished her.
I wasn’t particularly thrilled about the arrangement, but I did need her assistance. As demonstrated moments ago, I was already burdened carrying a rifle and cane—there was no possibility I could rummage through my bag quickly during an emergency.
In the end, I succumbed to her little ploy. She had likely calculated this outcome when she insisted.
Looking rather pleased with herself, she stooped to pick something up from the floor. An eyeball. Though blood clung to one end, its form remained largely intact. When she attempted to slip it into her coat pocket, I recoiled in disgust and reprimanded her.
“What possible reason could you have for keeping such a ghastly thing? Dispose of it.”
After my scolding, she muttered with disappointment. “Such a lovely color, too. I wonder why that person discarded it?”