Jacques' POV The streets looked barren. Although the sun was up high, the air felt damp and dark. I could feel giant beads of sweat in my brows forming behind my fogged monocles. I could hear the sound of myself breathing and smell the aromatic herbs stuffed in the mask I just bought. I pulled out my list and began counting the corpses laid in the cold cobblestone pathway.

Jacques’ POV"I see. That is a wild claim my friend but you know what, how about you and Jacques have a conversation yourselves, yes?""That's quite the point why we're here, WHERE IS HE?!" The guard bellowed."Say, do you know the muffin man?" Victor told them."The muffin man?" They said in unison."Yes, the muffin man. The one who lives on the Dury Lane." Victor told them with a suspicious tone in his voice. I couldn't help but cover my mouth and fought the urge to laugh."What's the muffin man got to do with all this?!""Why is he involved? Why, because Jacques just bid us to do some business there. He was looking very shady when he left which made me wonder what he'll do to the muffin man." He continued before the looming guards immediately

Jacques’ POV“I have no idea where we’re going,” I muttered to myself. Apple, the name I gave to the horse I stole, neighed in response.It’s been days since we have traveled from my town, living off wild fruits and boiled water from rivers. I shake my bottle abruptly at the thought and realize I have to stock up soon.I spent hours back building tools that I might use and I relinquish memories that flooded my thoughts.I remembered those times with my mother showing me colorful explosions and different hues of fire using liquids and powder, almost like magic.“It’s called chemistry, my sweet Jacques.” She would always tell me about that behind closed doors, in the basement.“We should share this with the town, mama,” I beamed at her who smiled weakly.“People fear what they don’t understand, Jacques. It’s better if we make this our own little secret,”