He tried to catch my eye and extended a hand out towards me. Nestled in his palm was a thick golden chain and a heavy gold ring. Perhaps he thought I had lost them?

“How much?” he said, with an urgent tone.

“I’m sorry, I don’t have any cash I’m afraid.”

The ring shone in the pale winter sun, I had to have it. I reached into my jacket for my wallet, sadly thin for I am but a poor student.

“All I have is £10, will that be enough?”

He took my hand, and poured the chain and ring into it, curling my fingers over the top.

“Freely offered, freely taken.” He said with a sigh.

A voice sprang up in the back of my head. “What is your wish O wise and powerful master?”

I started, catching my wits in time to grab the man’s sleeve as he walked away.

“Who are you? What is this?”

“My name is Allah Al Din, I am sorry for my deception, I hope you find pleasure in the wishes, before they become as much a curse for you as they have for me.”

He smiled sadly, shook off my hand and walked away.