James was shocked to see his reflection in a large mirror opposite. even though he was back to his usual size that he was still basically a raccoon, but in clothing. This might be even worse than before, but at least he could blend in with the attraction of the circus as some kind of aberration of nature. How were people going to react to this? At least he could talk again and that was a good thing, but this was still a disaster. why had he let that stupid witch practice her magic on him?
"I'm very sorry for the inconvenience here James. you see, what my daughter did to you was unexcusable, but she must learn to correct the consequences of her own actions. I hope you can understand on where i'm going with this?" the wizard offered in a way of an apology.
"so, basically i'm stuck like this?" James replied angrily. "I mean, why should I be left like this just so some spoiled little girl could be taught a lesson. It feels like i'm also the one being punished for her misbehaviour. Besides, I had no confidence that her next spell would work any better than her last one." he was almost comforted that her father would turn him back to normal immediately if he wanted to. so why wouldn't he?
"Look kid, I know this may sound a little selfish of me, but there is another reason why I would like to have you like that for a while." the wizard stroked his goatee beard as he was deep in his thought. James knew that there was more to this then punishing Kayla.
"You see here my furry friend, our circus has been struggling recently that we need a star attraction to get us back on our feet financially." he explained "you see, normally I would never use magic to our advantage in a situation like this, but in this this case that the damage has already been done as it is completely unethical. by not using any further magic that we may be able to make use of you in your current form. Besides, as far as I am aware that it was you who said it was ok and give my daughter permission to cast her spells on you, even if you did undoubtedly misunderstand the nature of her request."
"well, yeah. I did agree to her about it, but..." James protested
"I'm sorry, but I've made up my mind about it!" the wizard, who somehow seemed to understand Jame's reaction with a sigh. "lesion, If you can spend a week with us as part of the circus attraction in our show, them maybe I will restore you to your old self and reward you for your patience."
"and what happens if I don't?" James asked worried.
"then I'm afraid that I will have no choice, but to leave as what you are. though obviously I will not be able to leave you with the mind you have now." the wizard answered bluntly. "so with that, I think it would be wise for all of us for you to agree on this offer. I give you my word if you do as I say."