Through Seeds and Beyond

Day 5

The long-awaited day had finally arrived. Alfred woke up early at 7 AM, feeling a sense of anticipation that made him unusually alert. The air was crisp and fresh, and the streets were still relatively quiet as the city slowly came to life. After completing his morning routine, he was ready for what was perhaps the most crucial step in his journey. His destination was not far—just a few meters of walking would take him to the Desiree Library. It was a short distance, but in Alfred’s mind, it felt like a significant walk, leading him closer to the answers he had been searching for.

As he approached the library, a feeling of excitement surged within him. However, upon reaching the entrance, he realized that it was still closed. The heavy wooden doors stood firmly shut, and there was no sign of anyone nearby. Alfred let out a sigh and decided to make use of the waiting time. He spotted a small restaurant nearby and decided to have breakfast there.

Inside the restaurant, the warm smell of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee filled the air. Alfred ordered a light meal and took a seat near the window. As he ate, he overheard a conversation between two elderly men discussing the library. Curiosity sparked within him, and he politely joined their conversation, asking about the library and its current management. That was when he learned that Mr. Marsh was no longer the librarian. The man who had once been in charge of Desiree Library had retired and now lived about six kilometers away.

Alfred realized that this was an important detail. Mr. Marsh was the one person who might hold the key to the mystery Alfred was trying to solve. If he was no longer at the library, then Alfred had no choice but to go to him directly. He asked around and discovered that the first bus to Mr. Marsh’s location would arrive at 9 AM. There was nothing more to do but wait. He spent the time finishing his meal and preparing himself mentally for the encounter ahead.

Finally, the bus arrived, and Alfred boarded it. The ride felt longer than it actually was. The bus passed through quiet streets, and Alfred stared outside, lost in thought. His heart pounded slightly faster as he neared his destination.

When he got off the bus, he found himself in a peaceful neighborhood. It was far from the bustling streets of the city. The air was calm, and there were only a few people walking by. He approached a small stall and asked about Mr. Marsh’s residence. An elderly vendor pointed him toward a house not too far away.

Alfred walked toward the house, feeling an increasing sense of anticipation. As he reached the gate, he paused for a brief moment to collect himself before finally stepping forward.

Sitting on the veranda was an old man with deep-set eyes and a thoughtful expression. He observed Alfred keenly as if trying to recognize him. Alfred took a deep breath and introduced himself, explaining that he had come all the way from England for an important matter.

At first, Mr. Marsh remained silent, his face unreadable. Then, with a slight smirk, he gestured for Alfred to come closer. Alfred took the opportunity to explain further—he told Mr. Marsh that he was Michael’s grandson.

The name did not immediately spark recognition in Mr. Marsh’s eyes. He seemed to be searching through the layers of his memory. But after a few moments, something clicked. His expression shifted slightly, as if he had found a vague recollection of the name Alfred had mentioned.

Seeing this, Alfred knew he had to push further. He took out the small bag he had carried and revealed the old seeds and the map he had found in his grandfather’s cabinet. He explained that his journey had led him here because he believed Mr. Marsh was the only person who could shed light on this mystery.

Upon seeing the items, Mr. Marsh’s demeanor changed. He suddenly stood up and walked inside the house, leaving Alfred momentarily confused. But Alfred did not hesitate—he followed him inside.

The room was dimly lit, with old books stacked in various corners. Mr. Marsh sat down in a chair in the middle of the hall, his hands resting on his knees. He looked tense, as if debating whether or not to speak. For a long moment, he remained silent.

Alfred felt a pang of disappointment. Was this another dead end? He pleaded with Mr. Marsh, asking him to say something—anything—that could help him understand.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Mr. Marsh sighed deeply. His eyes held a serious, almost warning look.

“What I am about to tell you,” he said slowly, “may change everything you think you know.”