Chapter 32

Soot stains the small windows in streaking lines that look like the house itself was crying. There was an assortment of wind chimes near the door, and it won’t be until we get closer that the men will be able to realise they’re actually bones clattering together—a warning bell of sorts.

Almera will take care of these interfering men. She’ll help me; I just know it. Pearl thought to herself.

She was actually one of her favourite people. She was the only other alchemist she had ever met who was crazy enough to want to be her friend. She was crazy as hell, but she would let these guys figure that out for themselves.

Pearl doesn't hesitate as they start to lag, their steps seemingly becoming more and more uncertain with each new detail their eyes land on. She heard Finn gasp, and the comical smugness he had faded; she even heard him growl.

Well, surprise, surprise!

Pearl passed them a sly but pleasant smile as her knuckles rapped gently against the rotting door. "