Matar led Tomioka and Batu through narrow, winding alleys, finally stopping in front of a simple small house.
"We'll... stay here for now."
Matar pushed open the wooden door, looking a bit embarrassed.
The house was almost empty, with only some miscellaneous items and a few bags that looked like grain piled in a corner. As soon as they entered the house, Matar became somewhat anxious. He kept rubbing his hands, his gaze flitting between Tomioka and the bags of goods.
["Interpersonal Communication Manual (Trial Version)"]
["Subject: Matar"]
["Status: Anxious, embarrassed, guilty"]
["Interests: Batu, Alabasta"]
["Suggestion: Just let the old man do his own thing"]
"Um..."
Matar finally couldn't help but speak, his tone faster than before, "How about Batu takes you to explore Alubarna? He's been here a few times and knows his way around very well."
"I... I need to hurry to the market to sell these goods and get some money, so... so I won't be able to accompany you for a while."
Upon hearing this, Batu immediately ran to Tomioka's side, his face beaming with enthusiasm, "Yes, yes! Big brother, I'll take you around! I know so many places!"
Tomioka looked at the child's bright eyes, was silent for a moment, then stated his name for the first time:
"Mhm, my name is Giyu Tomioka."
"Oh, oh!! Alright!! Big Brother Tomioka!!" Batu was so happy he almost jumped.
Matar, seeing this, seemed relieved, but also as if a heavier burden had been placed on him.
He dared not look at Tomioka and his grandson again, mumbled, "I'll be back as soon as possible," and then hurried out the door, pulling the camel and disappearing into the intricate alleys once more.
Only Tomioka and Batu remained in the house.
"Let's go, Big Brother Tomioka!" Batu grabbed the sleeve of Tomioka's black robe and began tugging him out.
"Alright."
The two walked out of the small house and back onto the streets of Alubarna. Batu, like a tour guide, excitedly pointed everywhere: "Look over there, Big Brother Tomioka! That's the biggest market in the city! But things are really expensive..."
He chattered away, leading Tomioka through the streets and alleys of the royal capital.
Tomioka just listened and followed Batu's pace, his gaze scanning his surroundings. Finding Igaram could only be done in two ways: either he found where Igaram was hidden, or... he had to wait for the other party to come looking for him again.