With her question slowly being answered, the tone shifted into something more serious once more. Kieran was slow to explain what was going on and why she was needed, it was her healing. There was a war, of course, and her attributes could be useful. She wasn't sure if she could trust his words, knowing there was a war. War did things to people. And it was hard to tell which side you were really on. She didn't suddenly distrust the man but she was more concerned to know of a large conflict. Lives were at stake.

Knowing this now, didn't necessarily bind her to the cause. As they drove, he mentioned that the other side could approach her just as he had. She really wasn't sure what to do in her current position. Should she fight? In her mind though, it wasn't her battle. But her blood suggested otherwise. To her, wars were trivial things that happened overseas. War and conflict was something that made Anabelle quite uneasy. She wasn't sure how to approach Kieran now, knowing that he needed her help. Was it wrong of her to wonder what she could have in exchange for her help?

If she gave it of course. She loved to help those in need but having just been told about magic and now a war, it was a lot to consider and she couldn't blindly offer aid as she would in a normal situation. Normalcy had gone out the window. When they pulled up in front of her work, she found her head spinning. She had thought she could work the rest of her shift but now she wasn't so sure. Ana took the number from Kieran and looked at it. Deep down, she knew it would be foolish to go into things deeper. Her head was already under enough water to drown her. But still, Ana knew what she would do, regardless of logic.

She knew she'd help him and whoever else needed it. The cause was very much unknown but she knew she couldn't reject who she was, even if she wasn't sure who it was exactly. "I um...I don't know." She took a deep breath and glanced out the window. Unbuckling her seat, she began to get out but then paused, her instinct was to help, regardless of knowledge or skill, she already knew what her answer would be, as stupid as it was. "I think...I do want to...help." She said. "I don't know what that entails...but something inside me is insisting I help, or at the least, not discount all of this so suddenly..."

- - -

The walking didn't bother him much and he had learned how to ration water and supplies but it seemed Rhys was new to travel and as such, had already run out of water. His eye twitched at the mention of being called a shorty but he didn't say anything as they headed for the stream. He didn't mind taking a break but he knew that if they lingered for too long, someone dangerous might happen upon them. So far he hadn't sensed anything dangerous but the enemy could easily use someone like himself to hide their movements. It was rare but not impossible.

They reached the stream thanks to Rhys' directions. He took a seat on a rock and filled up his own container though he still had three fourths of it left but it meant he could now be more thirsty without the danger of being foolish. He glanced over when she asked if he was hungry. "A little bit, sure." He smiled to her. "Since we're here, we could do some foraging, see if any nuts or berries are growing near by." Devon advised. Foraging while on the move was useful but it could distract weary travelers and use up too much energy if the results didn't yield anything useful. After sharing a small bite to eat, his new female companion asked about the fighting.

That was a tough question to answer. "It's hard to say." He said and stretched his arms above his head, his body enjoying a little downtime. "In more densely populated areas, some people have gathered and formed large clans, then they go out and roam, looking for anyone with magic. Fear has a funny way of alienating people but also bringing the worst sort together. Humans are scared of things which they do not understand, fear is infectious and breeds violence." He paused. "I've seen groups storm through towns and burn buildings to the ground because they're convinced they're the grater good..." He paused. "When in reality, they're the ones people should fear, not those with magical talents." He glanced to Rhys. It seemed she was more sheltered, in some ways. He wasn't sure if he pitied that or envied it. Probably a little bit of both.

"Innocent people are caught in the middle of a war which shouldn't even exist. Rather than focus on the blood that's been spilled, I'm hoping to help be a part of the solution to end all of this." He smiled, wanting to change the topic. It wasn't too motivational to keep worrying about fighting but he knew she was uneasy about it, which was better than being naive. "When the time comes to fight though, things may become more clear for you." He assured her. People made quick choices in battle and she'd learn how to fight and defend, not just herself, but others. "I've had to watch people die, only able to save so many, hopefully with you, the scales will tilt in our favor." He continued to smile and got to his feet. "Ready to keep going? Do some foraging?"

Kieran wasn’t surprised when she agreed to help. He nodded, trying to be confident when she was hesitant. “I am glad that you are not going to simply leave and forget about this. Even if you don’t want all in, you need to learn how to control what you can do. I can help you with that…Or I can part the veil and bring you all in. But if you want that… you will need a day or two off. We will be traveling. Give me a call and let me know what you decide. Thank you Anabelle.” Kieran let the girl depart, finally, and then pulled away and began to drive back to his house.

He hadn’t wanted to scare her, but a healer who was untrained could cause major chaos. In addition to healing, a healer could suck the life out of a person, or even unleash a plague on humanity. She might choose later not to join the fight, but she needed to understand what she could do. Kieran could help her some of the way, but he hoped to find another healer who could help guide her, someone who knew what they were doing. Kieran would certainly talk about focusing energy, but it might not work for her.

He went back to his own house, and organized a few things, debating whether he should go home, or stay here for a while. He ended up going back to his world for the afternoon, for a few hours, checking his letters at that house. Kieran sent a few messages, coded some of his plans and sent messages to his comrades in different areas. Some were working undercover, some needed aid, and to be set up with contacts. Kieran helped negotiate things when he could, but right now, his mind was preoccupied with Anabelle. It was evening, was she off of her shift now? Was she already home, confronting her mother about the deception? Perhaps he should be in the other world, in case she called. Kieran made himself some dinner, and then went back to Anabelle’s world, hoping to receive a message from her. He rarely slept here as an adult, but he did tonight. As he slept, he had visions.

Kieran stood on the side of a mountain, looking over the forest and the small towns off in the distance. There were fires, some still going, and others having just been stopped. One of them had spread to the trees. Kieran turned to the side, where Devon stood, pointing his finger out towards the horizon. Beside Devon, there always stood another woman. Kieran had never seen her face before, but this time… she had a face, and it was one he recognized. Anabelle stood there, with a look of concern, following Devon’s pointed finger. Kieran tried to turn the other direction, to see the other face that accompanied them. He could feel that there were four of them, he knew it, but the vision changed and became muddled before he could see the final person.

-.-
What Devon had seen and experienced in terms of fighting surprised Rhys a little. She was naïve because she chose to be. He had seen groups burn buildings to the ground. She had heard rumors about that sort of thing in the taverns, but she hadn’t seen it, apart from an accident in her own childhood. Devon changed the subject a little, saying that he wanted to be a part of the solution. Rhys gave a small nod, but she wasn’t sure just how this fighting could be simply ended. To her, there was no end in sight. It was just going to get worse and worse until everyone killed each other. Perhaps she needed a friend who had visions of the future, so that she had something to give her hope.

“Yea, let’s forage.” Rhys agreed. She filled her water once more and began to walk along the river a short ways, knowing that berries would grow well near a source of water for their roots. Rhys took out one of the spare garments in her bag, and clustered the dark fabric in the shape of a bowl to hold the berries she found.

“When I was a child, I used to forage with my sister and brother.” Rhys said. Her brother had taught her which berries were good to eat. She remembered him teasing her when she had approached him with some berries she found without him.

”Elijah! I found berries, all by myself!” Rhys told him. She couldn’t have been older than six years old at the time, but the memory was still fresh in her mind.

”Oh. Rhys-ee…” Elijah began, shaking his head. “You can’t eat these.” He protested. Rhys asked him why not, a huge look of sadness and disappointment on his face. Elijah looked more closely at the berries, and then picked one up. “Rhys…these are poison.” He said, and popped one in his mouth.

”No! Elijah!” Rhys yelled, reaching out to stop her brother, but he ate the berry, and then fell to the ground. She began to cry, but a crackle of thunder on the otherwise sunny day made him jump.

”Jeeze, Rhysee… I was just playing.” He said. “You don’t have to cry.” He sat up, and reached for the other berries she had gathered, which were now in a pile on the ground. “I should probably have another, though, just to make sure that they are good.” He said, taking a handful and eating it quickly.

Rhys relaxed and began to gather the berries once more, eating a few as Elijah said that they needed to return home before the storm came. Fortunately, whatever storm had been approaching missed them entirely. Unfortunately, that meant they had to help hang up the laundry. With their mother caring for their infant sister, Elijah and Rhys tried to help make things easier for their mother by doing whatever chores they could manage.

After they gathered berries, Rhys shared what she had procured with Devon, and then continued to walk until night fall. She could see a town on the horizon as the sun set, only another mile or two away. She preferred to camp in the woods, even with the possibility of bandits, but it wasn’t just her choice. “Do you want to camp here? Or try to find a place in that town?” Rhys asked, gesturing to the path in front of them.

After getting out and watching him drive off, she moved to sit down on the nearby bench, paying no mind to the wetness seeping through her pants. Magic was real. And it was involved in a war in some far away world. Anabelle had no idea what to think, her mind had just stopped working. One of her coworkers found her outside and asked if she was alright. Ana answered honestly and said that she wasn't and that she needed to take a couple days off to feel better. The woman took a cab home and surprised her mother with an early arrival. "Darling, you're wet. What happened?" She asked.

"A boy came to me...and we talked."

"Oh, a boy." Mahea smiled. "What was he like?"

"He can do magic. Like me." Ana said flatly and sat on the couch, pulling a blanket around herself to warm her up and also as a means to feel a bit safe. She was sure a fight would ensue and neither women enjoyed such things. Her mother turned pale and the two then began a back and forth about lies and deception. It grew heated but Ana soon got up to confront her mother who had remained standing during the argument. "I can do things for people, good things, mother. Why can't you let me embrace it?" She glared. Her mother insisted that she was inexperienced and therefore dangerous but Anabelle didn't want to hear about it. "I was terrified of myself for the longest time, you made me feel ashamed and crazy!"

"I did it to protect you and our life here!"

"There's some war going on and I could help!"

"You could die!" Her mother retorted.

"Shut up, just shut up! I'm old enough to make my own choices, I'm tired of being tucked away in the corner, not living a real life!" Ana said and suddenly her mother began to cough violently. Mahea began to shake and she fell to her knees. Suddenly blood burst from the older woman's mouth as she continued to cough up blood. "Mom!" Ana knelt down with her. "I'm so sorry!" She wasn't sure what she did or how to help now. Mahea raised a hand and began to tap her collar bone. Suddenly the pain stopped and she wiped the blood away with the back of her hand. "You can...heal too." Ana got to her feet.

"I can." Mahea said horsey and went into the kitchen to make them some tea to calm the waters. "Call this boy of yours, I need to talk to him and you together." She said. Ana nodded and pulled out the number she had been given. It was a bit late but she figured he'd want a call sooner rather than later from her. She accepted the cup of tea from her mother and waited for Kieran to answer, it seemed he was sleeping since she had to leave a message. The girl gave him her number and address and mentioned her fight with her mother and how something weird happened but that things were okay and that she wanted to talk to them. She then hung up and remained rather quiet as her mother sat beside her in the living room of their small apartment.

- - -

He too had fond memories of foraging with family in the past. Of course those days seemed so long ago and people might mistake the faded memories for fantasies but they were real. Devon wasn't about to question the validity of his past. It would not end well for him. "Like hunting for food, gathering simple herbs and berries is a task generations use to bond." He smiled to her. He began to collect a few handfuls of things that caught his own eye. A few herbs and leaves which he knew could be useful for healing or cooking. The dark haired boy sighed as he noticed that Rhys had become rather engrossed in their activity.

Rather than bother her, he went about making sure the area was safe. Even if no humans were around them, animals could still pose a threat. And if caught, they could have a great meal. Sadly, no such luck was granted and they finished and went back on the main road to continue walking through the forest. After several hours of walking, making idle chit chat, they seemed to be approaching a town. He could tell with all the faint thoughts and clamor entering his head. He glanced to Rhys when she asked where they should camp. Where they were, or in the town up ahead.

He had been to it several times and had good fortune there. It was the town he and Kieran had agreed to meet at. It was welcoming to people with magical talents. It was like a cozy second home and a refuge for others like him and Rhys. "Normally I would prefer to camp here like you but this is what we've been looking for. We can stay here for a few days and maybe Kieran will pop up." He told her and continued to walk, rather glad it hadn't taken too long to reach the town. He wasn't sure of Rhys and her abilities but so far she was keeping up and he was impressed with that. "I guess time moves a little faster when you have good company." He smiled to her as they walked.

When they approached the town, there were tall brick walls around it and people were guarding it with torches. "Friends!" He raised an arm at the gate.

"Devon, it's been too long. Who is with you? Is that a girl? I'm not too surprised there." One of the guards joked and opened the gate. Devon shook his head and motioned for Rhys to go ahead of him.

"Have you seen or heard from Kieran?" He asked as they entered the city. It was made of grey stone and had torches lit, lighting many of the streets and alleys. "This is a safe heaven for magicians, we even have a library of information maybe we'll find someone to help you." He mentioned to Rhys.

"I believe we got word from someone in the other world that he had found a healer." An elderly man approached them. "Hello. I'm Edbris, I foresee everything in this, the Town of Yarlow." He said and bowed to Rhys and looked back to Devon who seemed intrigued by the idea of a healer. They were rare. "He may be arriving any day now." Edbris said, stroking his long curly white beard thoughtfully. "The best portal between two worlds is inside our city, at the center. It isn't the only means someone can use but it is quite good." He said to Rhys with a proud nod. "We all take pride in our magical skills and people who don't have them are still welcome to live here in harmony. When everyone works together, the world is a much better place." He said. Devon sensed a long old story coming on and put an arm around Rhys' shoulders.

"We'll just go get something to eat, it's been a long day for us." Devon said and bowed his head before quickly leading her down another street towards a selection of taverns and other restaurants.

Kieran still wasn’t in the habit of checking his phone often. He hadn’t been asleep yet when she called, but he had simply been distracted. After he had woken from the vision, however, he immediately checked his phone and saw the missed call and message. Anabelle had been in his vision, and Kieran was confident now that he needed to bring her to his world. Kieran checked the message, hearing her address given. Something big must have happened. He jumped out of the bed and grabbed some clothing out of the dresser as he listened to the message. When it ended, he put on jeans and a t-shirt, and then called her back. “Anabelle, I am on my way right now.” He said. It wasn’t just the words in the message, it was the tone. He could feel that there had been something bad, and he wasn’t going to make her go through this alone.

Kieran got to her house about a half-an-hour later, thrusting his phone into his pocket as he walked up to the door. Before he even knocked on the door, he could feel the energy inside. Her mother was a magic-user too, something that he had already suspected. The energy felt a lot like Anabelle’s though, and he had a strong suspicion that she was also a healer. On the one hand, he felt like he might have found two healers to help their cause. At the same time, he was worried that the mother had convinced Anabelle not to help him, so that they could continue to hide in peace. He knocked on the door before he could spend too long debating the different things that could happen once he got inside. He wouldn’t know until he went in and actually spoke to the pair.

The door was answered promptly by a woman who looked like she could have been Anabelle’s sister. Since he knew that Anabelle was an only child, however, this had to be the girl’s mother. “You must be Anabelle’s mother. My name is Kieran.” He held out his right hand to shake hers, trying to be friendly. He had never lied to Anabelle, and he hoped that they would both be open-minded.

-.-

Rhys was surprised that this town was magic-friendly, but she trusted Devon…at least mostly. Rhys stayed quiet as Devon greeted the guards, who let him in happily. “Yea, maybe…” Rhys said, nodding to Devon at the prospect of finding someone to help her. She imagined, at the least, that if she lost control of her abilities, all of the mages around could at least stop her from destroying too much.

As they continued into the town, she learned that Devon’s friend had even found a healer, which would be quite a talent indeed. Even with the veil she put over her own eyes, Rhys knew that finding a healer was an amazing feat. Rhys greeted the older man politely—he seemed a bit like a grandfather, not that Rhys had ever met hers, but in that he was very nurturing, and seemed interested in talking to Rhys quite a bit. “That… is very nice to hear. Thank you.” She said to the man. She jumped a little when Devon put his arm around her, but nodded in agreement with him when he said that they needed to get something to day. “It was a pleasure to meet you.” Rhys said, and turned to follow Devon away.

“I feel as if I am still in disbelief that a place like this exists.” Rhys admitted to him. They walked by a few restaurants, and Rhys wracked her brain for a few moments trying to recall how much money she had. “Devon, I am not sure if we have enough money for a restaurant…but I contribute what I have.” She offered, pulling her bag off of her shoulder.

The air in the tiny room was tense and while Ana knew she had a right to be upset, it didn't feel good to hold onto negative feelings, especially toward her own mother. Ana finished her second cup of tea by the time a knock was heard. She remained seated and Mahea got up and answered it. "Hello." She replied, her mood a bit frosty. Still, she shook the boy's hand and stepped aside to let him in. "My name is Mahea." She said as Kieran headed inside. Mahea locked the door behind him after checking the hallway. No one else was around but she couldn't be too sure.

Anabelle glanced over at Kieran and offered a small wave to him. She wasn't sure what to make of everything. It had been made clear to her that healing powers weren't always good. On one hand, she was hurt that her mother would withhold such information that was vital to her life. But on the other, she could sort of understand why her mother would be protective about such matters. It was a tough line to walk and she knew it was better to focus on the present, rather than worry about the past since it couldn't change. "Thanks for coming over so late." She said and waited for him to sit down.

Mahea looked between the two of them and went to go refill the teapot. She came back and sat back down, looking to Kieran. "You know I'm very uncomfortable with the information you gave my daughter this afternoon, it was not your place to explain such things for your own personal gain." While she knew it wasn't an entirely selfish act on the boy's part, she still knew his motives were to help the war in the other world. She still kept tabs on everything, she knew how valuable a healer was in any situation. "I wanted her to grow up without the war, without the prejudice." She said. "Without people from any side, trying to use her." Mahea stressed.

- - -

Since Rhys didn't seem too interested or confident in finding someone for her, Devon decided to drop the topic. He could only suggest so much but it was her power and her responsibility. He just didn't want to travel with a liability. As they walked off, he removed his arm from her and kept walking. "Hm? Oh this town doesn't take any money, we tend to barter with goods or skills." He told her. "Don't worry." He said as they wandered into a small tavern. It had candles around the walls, held up by small wooden shelves. He had been here once before but always liked to try something new.

For now though, he thought this place would suit their needs and he could always find a different place to try another day. Devon set his pack on one of the benches and walked over to the bar. A man and woman were behind it and they seemed to be having a discussion when he walked up. "Evening." He waved to them. "We'll take whatever is left over." He told them, figuring it was more polite to ask for what they had laying around, rather than want something fresh. He knew food shouldn't go to waste and it may come at a less taxing cost.

The couple nodded and he headed back over to Rhys. "Generally we barter after we eat, this town is pretty trusting, which is hard to believe I know...but...these people are good people." He told her. "Since this town is such an accomplishment, many people are pretty respectful and honest, they've fought off several attacks and are still standing today." He said as a tray was brought over to them. A jug of water, two wooden cups, and a stone platter with bread, fruit and cured meat. It wasn't the freshest but it was by no means rotten or old. "Thank you." He said and poured them some water before he dug in.

Kieran had expected this on some level, and let the woman voice her concerns. “I can understand why you would want her to be free from the war, but keeping her in the dark about her existence is not a blessing. You said that I told her such things for my own personal gain, but that is not the case. I didn’t ask her to join my side. I told her what she was so she could make the decision for herself, because like it or not, your daughter is an adult.” Kieran accepted the tea, and took a sip before he continued.

“Yes, my side would benefit from Anabelle’s help, but there is a lot more than that at play. She needs to understand what she can do, so that she can control it. Even if she does not use her gift for the war, she should understand it well enough to help those here, and to keep her abilities under her control rather than living in fear and doubt of what she can do. I offered her information, and help with learning her abilities. But of course, I don’t know healing as well as you do, Madea. Had I known that you were the same, I would have suggested that she turn to you as a mentor. Because letting her go around with no control will get her discovered by authorities here, or leave her open to attack by those involved in the war.”

“Finally… if our enemies came here and found her…I don’t care how long you have been hiding in this world, I am sure you understand as well as I do that she would be taken. There would be no question as to whether she would help their cause. She would be taken by force, and you would never see her again, probably never even know where she had gone.” Kieran lowered the tea to the table once more. “She might be able to fend them off, but once she was found, it would only be a matter of time before they came back with more forces. Then she would be thrust into the war with little understanding of her own abilities, and cause much more harm than good.” Kieran didn’t like speaking about Anabelle as if she wasn’t in the room, but he had to relieve Madea’s concerns as well. Surely the woman understood the gravity of the situation, and that she couldn’t continue to have her daughter hide out as if she was completely normal.

-.-

“That’s…interesting.” Rhys admitted, though she liked the bartering idea much more than she vocalized at the moment. This town…honestly it sounded like a place she might want to stay. She hadn’t interacted with many of the people yet, but she felt like…if it was everything that Devon seemed to make it out to be, she might be able to let her guard down a little, and actually relax. Devon took care of the ordering, and she followed him over to the bench, sitting across from him at the table. She was surprised by how much there was provided. “Thank you.” Rhys chimed in as well.

She ate mostly in silence, enjoying the variety of food that was provided. When it was finished the man from behind the bar came up to gather the tray, asking if there was anything else that they needed. It was a subtle, and polite way of also asking how they planned to square this away. Rhys answered first this time, getting up the courage to actually speak, which was tough for her. “It was lovely, thank you very much. I don’t need anything else, and I was wondering if there any dishes that needed to be washed, or other tidying that I could do?” She questioned, her voice wavering a little. Somehow, she imagined that he would demand something less wholesome in exchange for the food, and it took a little while to remind herself that this town was not necessarily like that.

The man nodded, accepting her offer. “Yea, we’ve got some dishes in the back sink, soaking already, but they could use a good scrub and dry. And if you could get your dishes as well…” He requested of the girl before turning to Devon. Rhys didn’t mind if he helped her in the back—it was really whatever they agreed upon. She stood up with the tray, though, and went through the door that led to a kitchen. The dishes weren’t that bad, and she assumed that this was likely a common way for people to pay for the meals that they took. There were some cooking pots and cutting boards, and she slipped in the dishes they had eaten off of before rolling up her sleeves and getting started. The dishes wouldn’t take more than 15 minutes to wash, and she let them all air dry until she had finished the washing, that way part of her work was done, and she didn’t have to go back and forth with washing and drying.

The woman from the counter came into the back and helped her put things away at the end, so that they were all in their proper place later. When the dishes were away, the woman thanked her, and told her to have a good evening, releasing Rhys from the debt. It felt weird to Rhys, for the meal to have simply been covered by something she could do and she liked it a lot. When she left and encountered Devon once more, she was actually smiling. “I think I like this town.” She admitted.

While Mahea knew of the dangers, she didn't quite enjoy a stranger barging his way into their lives to point out the obvious. Yes, Ana was an adult and should practice her skills but Mahea detested the idea of war or conflict. In her mind, she had hoped that downplaying everything would somehow benefit Anabelle and keep her safe and out of harm's way, without clouding her mind with problems that weren't her own. He was right in worrying about the other side, that people might come after her, if they found out a healer with up for grabs. Of course the mother wouldn't let such a thing happen, it was those sorts of ideas that kept her up at night and she hoped to keep Anabelle at bay, neutral, for as long as possible.

Ana had looked between Kieran and her mother as they spoke about her and topic. It was annoying to be talked about when she was in the room but she knew her opinions didn't hold much weight since she knew so little about what they were talking about. Even so, she was able to get an idea of the situation at hand. "You're right." Mahea considered after he finished his speech. She looked toward her daughter who had kept quiet during this time, which wasn't a surprise. Anabelle did enjoy standing in the background and observing before she made any quick remarks, it was a favorable trait in a healer to enjoy peace and inner insight without causing a fuss. "However what she does now is up to her, I know I can't hold her hand any longer..."

"I am thankful for you protecting me. I'm sure it wasn't easy to keep such a big secret from me, you wanted me to have a normal life." Anabelle said, her temper finally cooling down. "I am so grateful for the risks you took on my behalf, I really am, mother." She said. "But there is a part of me I still don't know yet, a part of me that can do magic and help people in a way no one else can." She looked to Kieran. "I would like to know more about healing and everything else, I don't know if I'm ready for whatever is going on in a war..." She admitted. "But...I don't condone fighting and if I can help put an end to it, I'll try. I can't turn my back on people who need me, even if they don't know or care who I am." Anabelle sighed.

Mahea smiled softly, knowing her daughter wouldn't turn away from the war so easily. "I have only ventured back home once but I would love to go back, if my daughter is going." She spoke up. "I may be too old to fight but I can be of help and heal and protect elsewhere, while I let you young people handle the change that has to come." She wasn't eager to go but she did want to stay close to her daughter. It would be more beneficial for them both. And both worlds, in the end.

"Really?" Ana smiled a bit more, relieved to know she wouldn't be abandoning her mother. "Is that okay?" She asked Kieran.

- - -

As Devon ate, he thought about Kieran and what he could be up to. Finding a healer was a great feat, though they now had to take stock of everyone and everything that had. Even so, with the progress they were making, they still had a long way to go. He wondered if he could see further into Kieran's mind or if it would still be muddled. Devon probably had the best handle on his own skills, and then Kieran, but the other two pieces of their puzzle were probably less experienced and that was something that had to be taken into consideration. He wasn't fond of the idea of sending two people with little experience, in his mind, training would be needed.

Then again, he and Kieran couldn't assume leadership roles, they needed to all become a team, if they were the right people from Kieran's vision. After the food was consumed, they were approached as anyone would be, and asked if things had been good. He nodded and Rhys spoke up, offering her services. "I'd be happy to sweep up out here and wash up the tables if you'd like." He offered. It was something he usually offered, on one funny occasion, he was asked to babysit some kids for an hour. That had been an interesting trade but he didn't mind looking after the kids. But terms were usually negotiable, if he really hadn't felt comfortable, he could have been able to help out some other way.

As he moved around, he dusted around the tables and got everything cleaned up. Then he tended to the tables, washing and drying them off. It wasn't a lot to do but he often felt useful afterwards. He finished within ten minutes and didn't have to wait too long before he was joined by Rhys who finished in the back. "Hey." He said. "That's good. I've liked it too." Devon smiled. "We can check out more of the town and then find a place to stay, by the way, we'll have to pull our weight wherever we go so I'm glad you don't mind getting your hands a little dirty." He grinned and headed out. The city was decorated with red brick walls, grey cobblestone streets and wooden torches around the area. Most buildings weren't taller than three flights of stairs and many people were still out and about, despite the moon rising in the dark sky. "We can check out the library tomorrow." He said.

"Well I mean...if you want, you can check out some places on your own, of course." Devon corrected himself. "I should show you this before anything else though." He hurried back toward where they came from and headed for the center. The city was a square shape and surrounding the walls were green, golden, brown and red trees but inside the city, it seemed only white ones grew, gathering leaves from the other trees outside, it was odd but beautiful. And one of those famous white hybrids was at the center of the town.

Up above, they were covered by a collage of red, gold, green and brown leaves. "This is where power can really be boosted, we're studying why but for now...it's a funny mystery." He said.

The turn in the conversation was not something that Kieran could have predicted, even with his talents. Madea decided to hand the decision over to her daughter, as it rightfully should have, and both of them turned their attention to Anabelle. She took it…much better than Kieran thought he would have, but her temperament was obviously a lot more forgiving and kind-natured than most. She wanted to learn about healing, but she wasn’t ready for a war, and Kieran agreed completely. For a complete turn of events, though, Madea then said that she wanted to help as well. Kieran couldn’t help but grin at that. He had gained not one healer, but two.

“That… would be wonderful.” Kieran said. “There is a town that we will go to first, named Yarlow. It has been a safe haven for magic users for some time now. It has many people with a variety of talents, and a wealth of knowledge about different magic as well. I think it would be a good place to go to learn more and there is transport in the town in case you need to return quickly.” Kieran explained. “How about we leave in the early afternoon, tomorrow. That will give you some time to rest, and get something to eat as well. Do that sound amenable?” He waited for affirmation before nodding, a smile upon his face. “That is wonderful. I am very happy that both of you want to at least see the world and give it a chance.”

Kieran stood up and reached out to shake Madea’s hand. When she accepted it, though, he placed his other hand on the outside of hers, a handshake that was more traditional from his home. “If you have anything that Anabelle could wear that is more appropriate, that would be very helpful. Yarlow is fine with travelers, and accepting of magic, but if something doesn’t go as expected, it is known by the other side that those who travel between worlds use magic.” Kieran had never ended up in the wrong place when he traveled, but there could always be a first time. He liked to be prepared in some fashion.

Usually, he traveled only between his homes in each world. However, he didn’t want to risk travelling with the pair and potentially being assaulted before he was able to hold up his end of the deal, namely that he would be trying to get Anabelle more information. Yarlow was the best place for that to happen. Besides that, he was supposed to be meeting Devon in Yarlow sometime soon, and his friend was likely already there. He would be able to take care of both matters at once, and hopefully avoid putting the two healers in too much danger right away. “Why don’t I come by at about eleven? I will pick you both up, and then we can go back to my place and head out?” He asked. Madea agreed, and Kieran nodded once more to the pair.

“Thank you both for giving this a try. I will see you in the morning.” He left the house, holding back a yawn. It had been an exciting night, but he had to stay awake until he got home. Kieran managed the task, and returned to the house in the morning as he had promised, pulling up at promptly eleven am. He had already changed into the clothes he would wear at home, a simple pair of brown trousers, a white tunic, and a light blue vest. His bag with rations and supplies was at home, sitting by the machine. He hoped that both of them looked appropriate, but he could certainly lend Anabelle something that would be large and a bit ill-fitting if he had to.

-.-

Following Devon through the town was easy, despite the large amount of people still wandering around that evening. It wasn’t terribly crowded, and Rhys, though tired, was still able to walk well enough. He suggested that they see more of the town, and Rhys nodded. “Yea, that would be nice, though I am a bit tired, so perhaps we can save some of the tour for tomorrow?” She questioned.

He began to suggest the library, and then back-tracked and gave her the option. Rhys chuckled a little, and as Devon led the way to the center of the town, she spoke again. “I would love to see the library. I don’t want to bore you with having to stick around, so if you would prefer, you can just point me in the direction.” She offered. In truth, she would have preferred that he at least help her understand the organization of the building’s books, but she was sure that she could figure it out all the same.

The tree seemed to be white, and yet it wore a cloak of leaves that looked more normal, being colorful leaves. Rhys walked up to the tree and looked up at the array of leaves. It was beautiful, and strange. She had almost touched the tree, when Devon said that power could be boosted here. They rang through her mind, twisting and changing because of the fear that she had of her gifts. You’re going to kill everyone here. Rhys stepped back quickly, withdrawing her hand before she touched the tree. A gust of wind blew through the square, causing a few of the branches to rattle and hit each other. “It’s very beautiful.” She said softly, having moved behind Devon, clasping her hands in front of her. “Perhaps tomorrow I can sit and draw it.” She said, having taken the opportunity on their journey already to capture some of the clearings and rivers they had rested beside.

She would simply have to stay a good distance away, keep everyone safe from her. It’s safest if you stay away. She thought bitterly, and brought up the subject of sleep once more to change the subject. “I am actually very tired at the moment. Do you think that we could find a place to turn in, and continue seeing the town tomorrow?” She requested. Of course, the inn at which they stayed would ask for something in return, and Rhys was happy to clean a few of the rooms, or help with laundering some of the sheets. They were able to get two rooms, and she had a night to herself, getting the privacy that she had lacked on the journey. Rhys bathed herself properly, taking her time and trying to relax so she didn’t do anything stupid. In the morning, she cleaned her room and another, and dropped off the sheets for someone else to launder, and then wandered outside to watch the people milling about during the sunny day.

To know that there was a town they could go to, gave Mahea reassurance. Though the depth of the situation, of a whole new world, had yet to really hit Anabelle so she didn't have much to say on the matter. Kieran decided they could leave tomorrow afternoon. It would give Anabelle time to call work and try to explain why she needed to quit or at least take a sudden leave of absence. And Mahea would probably want to bring some kind of provisions too. There was a lot that needed to be done but the sooner they left, the better. Mahea got up when it was time to go, since everything had been decided. "That sounds fair, I never thought I'd have a homecoming quite like this." She said and looked to Anabelle, hoping Anabelle would be alright with the changes that were about to happen.

Mahea shook his hand, not too surprised to have him give a more traditional handshake. It had been so long since she had one that held any real meaning. The woman returned it by placing her other hand beside his. It was soon dropped and she nodded to the boy. He was right, they had to be careful about what they wore and what was brought into the other world. Time travel wasn't necessarily uncommon but it could be tricky. The last thing magic needed was to deal with the issues of jeans or zippers or worse, cell phones or guns. "That sounds good, we'll be ready to go, waiting outside." She assured him and ushered Anabelle to get up as well. Anabelle wasn't sure what to make of the plans but she needed to move forward and not backward.

"Bye." Anabelle waved to Kieran as he then left. She shut the door as her mother began to straighten up around the small apartment. "So we're leaving? I mean...going to this other world?" She was still in disbelief. Her mother said nothing and went off to begin packing. Ana sat back down and thought about what she was leaving behind. But then she began to think about what she might be looking forward to. Magic in another world, with other people and places. It was so fantastical and hard to fathom. The girl eventually ended up going back to her room to pack. She found a dress and some other clothes which were more organic and casual, and less modern. When the two finally got in bed, it was around two in the morning, but neither got a lot of rest, as they should have.

When they got up at eight, there was little spoken between them as they were focused on their own tasks. Ana had packed some clothes which would have to do. Currently, she had on a tan pair of slacks and a cream colored top which was made out of a light fabric and mimicked the shape of a kimono. Mahea had on a dark blue tunic dress and a brown rope belt. They were old clothes from her past but they fit well enough now. It would be hard going back to the old ways but she would adjust all the same. The mother packed some safe medical supplies, bandages and other things and the two headed outside after locking up. Ana had left a message at work, saying a family emergency came up and she had to leave for a week.

A week seemed like a safe bet, though Ana wasn't entirely certain as to how long she'd be gone. Their belongings were both hauled over their shoulders in leather packs. As Anabelle looked at the street, watching the cars pass back and forth, she found herself becoming very nervous. It was one thing to talk about magic and another world but her brain was telling her that it would be something else to go and actually defy all logic and reason. It was hard to believe from her point of view but books and stories and tv shows had helped her find some solace. She couldn't imagine it being the other way around, that her mother and Kieran could come and adjust to someplace so different. Ana had left her cell phone in her room so she had no idea what time it was, though that wasn't a problem any longer when Kieran drove up in front of them.

"Morning." Mahea said and got in the back and Ana joined her, their bags resting on their laps.

"All I had was cereal, I didn't think I'd get it where we're going." Anna smiled a little nervously.

"I've brought along some basic rations and medical supplies that I'm sure will be appropriate." Mahea mentioned. "Tell me more about this town we're going to. How was such a thing established and able to thwart off intruders?" She wondered, very curious and a little ambivalent. She had been around when the fighting broke out and had seen her share of death, she could only assume it was still as bad as she remembered it. "This trip shouldn't be a long one, Ana will need to get over the culture shock." She reminded Kieran, her daughter would still be her first priority. Ana looked up and saw they were taking a left turn, she had a feeling they were close to his house.

"How are we getting there anyway? How did you come here?" Ana looked from Kieran to her mother, who just smiled.

"That is a long story, meant to be told around a campfire another time, my dear."

- - -

He had hoped that showing her the tree would somehow help inspire her to take control of her powers and life.

Devon could feel his own body surging with more power. It wasn't massive or wild. In fact, the tree often gave him reassurance and courage, rather than a raw new-found ability of mind reading or moving things. He was still trying to work on telekinesis but for now, he would enjoy being somewhat skilled with mind reading. He couldn't risk overwhelming himself with too much pressure. Some people could go crazy that way and snap, killing everyone around them or even themselves. Magic was dangerous as well as beautiful and mysterious. He was sure the same could be said for the opposite sex. Of course that was another thought for another night. He caught a small whisper from Rhys' mind as she retreated her hand from the white wood.

Politely remaining silent, he stayed still as the girl moved behind him after a wind had blown through. It was safe to assume it was her and not nature itself. "Yes it is, it's a great meeting spot for many people here. Of course it doesn't stop people from making up silly tales or myths about how it came to be. No one really knows. I guess someone has to have seen it grow." He considered, tilting his head. She then mentioned getting to draw it and he smiled. "That would be cool, I'd like to see it when you're done." Devon told her. Though he knew some artists could be protective of their work, which he could understand. He wouldn't press the matter with her, still trying to figure out the best way to interact with her.

In a way, they were still strangers, despite chit chatting on and off and discussing their history with magic and family matters. Then he heard another hushed whisper of her warning those around her, or just perhaps him. He didn't think her method of isolation was wise, in fact it was short sided and childish but she needed to have trial and error and figure out how her powers could work for her and not against her. He shook his head a little and turned around when she vocally mentioned getting some rest. "Of course." He nodded. He took them to one of the two inns around the town. They each got a room for themselves and were left to their own devices.

Since it had been a while since he had someone to chat with, he was still adjusting to the issue of company so having some space was welcomed.

When morning came, he did some cleaning around the inn and was given the okay to head on out and do whatever it was he wanted. He left most of his provisions back in his room, knowing they'd be safe. He wandered around, enjoying the warmth on his face, feeling much safer now. He was home, in a way. And if he could, he would show his parents and siblings such a place. But even with its walls and skilled magicians making patrols and sometimes offering their skills to defenseless villages, he was never sure how safe Yarlow really was. Since he could read minds, he had learned to be more cautious, not matter people said up front. The boy stopped by a small cafe and got a nice strong cup of tea and a small plate of eggs and toast. It was filling and gave him the boost he was looking for.

In exchange, he jogged back to the inn and came back with a handful of berries for the cafe to use as they pleased. Once his breakfast was done and over with, he decided go to the library as he had planned. While on his way, he was stopped by a few locals who had he grown close to. Many of them asked about how the world was and his answers were honest but hopeful. "You and your friends must come by for tea." One of the elderly woman said, putting a hand on his shoulder. He agreed that he would make an effort to see her. He had saved her a couple months ago from an attack. He and Kieran had saved her and her husband from an attack while they traveling. And from then on, he and Kieran escorted the elderly couple to Yarlow and since then, the couple has been very generous to the two boys.

Devon knew by reading their minds, that they had lost their family to the wars but he didn't want to pry any further. "Goodbye." He waved to the woman and continued to the library. He had spent a good deal of his time there. He wanted to gather as much knowledge as he could. Sometimes it was effective to cozy up to the young librarian who had taken over the job from her mother who had left the town a few years ago. It was aggravating to have a younger person overseeing the library since her knowledge was limited, but she was a Mind magician like himself, so they had that connection. As he was flipping through a red leather bound book, she walked over to him. They tended to communicate through thoughts, as a way to hone their skills and to make light of a serious situation. 'You know I'm busy right now, Urkwia.' He thought to her as she used her mental powers to lift another book and put it back in its proper place on a nearby shelf. The library was two stories high and was filled with high shelves of books and leather stools.

'No, you're not really absorbing what you're reading, you're distracted.' Urkwia thought gently and moved next to him as he stood by a window. 'You came here with a girl, should I be jealous?' She flirted playfully, always happy to enjoy his charms, even if they were mutually meaningless to one another.

'You've been training since I last saw you, I'm the one who's jealous.' Devon thought and closed the book, since he really wasn't paying as much attention to its contents as he wanted to.

Kieran could sense the tension and nerves of the two as they entered his car. Neither of them sat up front, but it didn’t particularly bother him. “Good morning.” He replied, putting the car in gear once their seatbelts were fashioned. “No, you probably wouldn’t. Poptarts are usually my guilty processed pleasure here.” He looked in the rearview mirror and grinned. “My uncle introduced me to them when I was young, and I have never gotten over how amazing they taste, and yet so utterly useless for providing nutrition and good energy.” Kieran laughed lightly. Though the food in the other world was very different, it was arguably better for people than the majority of the food in this world. He found a few times when he was younger that when he came to the Ana’s world, he gained a bit of weight, and lost a fair amount of energy. The change in diet, and also in activities, could take its toll easily upon his body.

“Yarlow has been around for a while, but it has more recently built walls to help keep the area from being infiltrated. It has been found by people with harmful intentions, but there are people on duty who ensure that they forget that they found such a place. It is a haven for mages to learn, and to rest when they are weary. It is also a place that families have begun to use as a meeting point. In case they get separated, or attacked, they should make their way to Yarlow.” Kieran didn’t know all of the history of the town, but there were people there who could answer more of her questions.

“Yes, I think it will be a bit strange for Ana. That is why we are going directly to Yarlow, rather than to my home in the other world, and then traveling by horse. I think that being around people who are open and accepting is the best introduction.” Kieran’s answer led straight into Ana’s next question, and her mother said that her own story was for another time.

“There are portals.” Kieran answered. “They require a fair amount of magic to erect, and to use. My uncles helped to create a few, and built one in their home, so they could conveniently return home. They passed both properties on to me, and so at the moment, we are going to my home.” A few minutes later, they pulled in front of a modest-looking home. The lawn was a bit overgrown, and it hadn’t been landscaped in years, but Kieran wasn’t here very often. He knew that it wasn’t quite as pretty as the other houses, but he didn’t have the time to maintain two residences and live his life. Looking at it as he pulled into the driveway made him miss his uncles a little. “I apologize—I am not here often enough to make this look as it should.” He said. The house wasn’t in horrible disrepair, however, it just looked like the owner was away, which was the truth.

Kieran parked the car and got out, inviting the pair inside. The home’s interior was much better maintained than the exterior, and they all looked quite out of place in it. The furniture was a sort of contemporary modern, though there was nothing that had been bought in the last ten years or so. “You can go ahead up both sets of stairs. It’s the only room up there. I gotta grab something from the kitchen.” Kieran said. He was only a few moments behind, though, as he took a few water skins he had and filled them up with cool water before bringing them along as well. “I didn’t think you all would have these, and I keep a few extra.” He said, handing one to each of them before slinging his over his shoulder. He picked up his bag and walked over to the large platform in the center of the room. There were some rune-like markings on the inside of the circle, and a panel that rose up off the floor. It didn’t look like much, which had been important to a lot of people in building them. “If you could both step into the circle….”

Kieran had enough energy on his own to start the machine, and so he didn’t ask for Madea or Ana’s. “Are you sure that you are ready?” He questioned, placing his hands upon the panel. This was the last chance for working plumbing for some time. When he was sure that they were ready, he closed his eyes, and fed enough energy into the portal for them to traverse between the worlds. It only took a few moments for them to arrive, standing in what was clearly a town square. The road was paved with dirt, and the buildings on the side all screamed da sort of medieval setting from tv shows and movies. Kieran relaxed a little, feeling much more comfortable, though he knew the opposite was true of the other two. A few passerbys turned to gaze at the group, recognizing Kieran, or the energy of the healers. “Welcome to Yarlow.” Kieran said, turning to Ana and Madea.

-.-

If Devon was able to read Rhys’ thoughts, he made no indication of it, saying only that it was an important place in town. “Sure.” Rhys agreed to show him her art when it was done. She never promised to be amazing, but she wasn’t self-conscious about her art in the way that she was her magic. Magic was something that made her stand out from others. Drawing was something anyone could do, if they set their minds to it.

Unlike Devon, Rhys was always ready to run. She kept her bag with her after spending the night at the inn, and wandered outside, looking at a few different people before taking the opportunity to walk around the town. She saw a few different shops, and the general hustle of the town. It seemed like a pleasant place still, but she hadn’t come across Devon. He had likely gotten bored or annoyed by her, or met up with his friend. She decided that instead of going into the various buildings to try to find a library, she would enjoy the weather outside instead.

There were quite a few more people at the strange-looking tree that day, children playing under the branches, and an adolescent with his father, learning how to sense the energy in the tree. Rhys sat a bit further away from the tree itself, watching everyone, and the tree. She pulled out her journal, and flipped to a new blank page. She unwrapped the charcoal from its cloth, and began to sketch the base of the tree, working her way up to the leaves. It would be difficult to capture the juxtaposition between the colors and the white, and she decided on a few different shading methods for the leaves. If she had tried to cover the whole outside with shading, then the entire tree would look dark and average, when in fact it was nothing but. She added a couple of only outlined leaves to the ground, falling from the tree, and a few with the cross-hatching were seeming to come in on a gust of wind to land upon the tree. It might have been a confusing image, but the idea of trying to dry it intrigued her.

While she drew, the child who was trying to sense energy seemed to do a bit better. He was an elemental, which was perhaps one of the reasons that she tuned in to the conversation. The child spoke about the earth, and the roots of this tree that he could feel running beneath where he sat. Rhys looked down at the grass and dirt, wondering if she could learn to sense the roots. Watching the pair interact, she was finally beginning to see what Devon was talking about when he suggested finding someone to help her learn about what she could do. But who would be willing to teach a stranger, and how would she even find them? It was nearing lunch time, and most of the people left the tree to go and get food, while a few others brought food and began to eat it picnic style. Rhys flipped the page once more, and began to draw one of the leaves that had fallen to the ground near her. She had never been good at focusing on such details, but she was willing to try now, since she was feeling a bit more relaxed than usual.

It was a little funny to think his indulgence were poptarts, Ana would have thought something better would have caught his eye but they could be a guilty pleasure to some, so she left it at that. The two women listened as he talked briefly about their destination and then how it would be safer to go there directly, rather than go to his home in the other world, and travel to it by horse. Ana still wasn't sure who made portals, she assumed people with Kieran's power could and then if sustained, others could use them. It was a curious idea. The ride was uneventful and they arrived at his house in a normal suburb outside the city. It looked unkempt but it didn't seem to faze the two as they got out and followed him inside.

At his instructions, they headed up to the second floor, him following behind. "Thanks." Ana took one and put it away, as did her mother. Anabelle looked around, still weary of this whole idea. "Umm okay sure." She glanced to her mother and moved into the circle. For support, Mahea reached out for Ana's hand, able to sense her daughter's flurry of emotions. Ana wasn't fond of theme parks or roller coasters and she had a sinking feeling this might be like facing a similar fear of heights or speed, something out of her control. Ana looked to her mother when Kieran started up the device and asked if they were ready, Ana wasn't sure what to say so she just gave a nervous nod.

Before she could blink, the trio was whisked away and when she could finally breathe, she realized she was in a different world. Ana let go of her mother's hand and slowly stepped out from under the tree. "Well I'll be damned..." Mahea looked to Kieran. Ana was finally able to begin to believe what he was telling her. The young woman felt suddenly weak though she wasn't sure why. Many reasons could be cause of her sudden need to sit down. Her mother quickly held her up and looked to Kieran. "Perhaps we should find someplace to sit so Ana can gather herself." Mahea suggested as she looked around the area. It was home. She was home. And she knew the dangers that came with being in such a place. For now, she would continue to trust Kieran.

As Devon and Urkwia began to catch up in the library a familiar voice reached both their minds. It was Kieran, he was back. "Excuse me." Devon excused himself and hurried outside. He hadn't expected Kieran to show up so suddenly but in his mind, the timing couldn't have been better! He was able, after some concentration, to sense two new people who were close to Kieran. 'Who could they be?' He wondered as he jogged along the various streets until he reached the courtyard in the middle of Yarlow. He spotted Rhys off to the side, doing drawing as she had mentioned the night before. It was all quite interesting to see their paths crossing at a very funny point. He waved to Kieran, "Hey! Long time no see, Kieran!" He greeted.

When he reached the trio, he glanced to Rhys and then back to his friend. "I heard you were planning on coming back soon, I didn't think it would be this soon, and you've brought two healers with you! That's incredible." Devon smiled brightly and looked to the older one who seemed to be glowing with experience and wisdom, while the other seemed rather dazed. Since he had never ventured to the other world, he could only assume how difficult it must be for one person to suddenly switch homes. Though he had little kindness for cowards who did run and hide. "My name is Devon and funnily enough, I've found an Elemental named Rhys, that's her." He pointed to her. 'Truthfully, she's very rough around the edges but she may be the one I saw in your vision. She needs training or she'll endanger not just herself but us and everyone around her...she's a tough nut to crack but she has a lot of potential.' He said telepathically to just Kieran.

"It's good to meet you." Mahea said. "I'm Mahea and this is my daughter, Anabelle."

"How about we find a place to rest and catch up?" Devon suggested, opening his arms in a welcoming gesture.

Ana lifted her head as she began to snap out of her trance, finding her energy slowly being restored. "Uhm. That would be great." She said and shook her mother off of her as she rubbed her face.

"When I went to our world, I was sick for days afterward, I think each person reacts differently." Mahea said to Ana and looked to everyone else. "An Elemental, how very useful...and dangerous." Mahea noted to Rhys, thinking back to the many battles she fought in and witnessed. Many of the wreckage was caused by Elementals. "It is good to hear there are Elementals who still have their morals, hold on tight to them." She hummed thoughtfully.

When they reached Kieran’s world, he turned his attention to Ana quickly. This was no doubt overwhelming. He remembered when he had first gone to her world. It had been terrifying. “Of course.” Kieran said. He began to walk with them over to some benches near the courtyard. He felt his friend’s energy before he turned the other way to see him. “Devon!” Kieran greeted happily when he heard his name called out. He nodded to Anabelle and Mahea for a moment and then took a step to the side to address his friend.

“I did.” Kieran said. Devon introduced himself, and then gave another message to Kieran. It was interesting that Devon had run into an Elemental. Kieran turned his gaze to the girl as Devon told him that she was rough around the edges and needed training. When she straightened, Kieran recognized her immediately. The woman had never been clear in his dreams, but she was clear now. “Yes. That is her. Good find, my friend.” Kieran replied. The healer is from my vision. The young one. She doesn’t remember this place, and I am not sure if she was even born here… He said. Her green-ness was quite evident to both of the men. For his vision to come into reality, they would have a good deal of work on their plates. Neither of the women were ready to be completely involved in the war effort.

Rhys saw Devon leave a building and call out to the man who had just arrived, with two others. When Devon gestured to her, she quickly closed her book and got to her feet. She had been sitting for perhaps a little too long, and she stretched her legs as she walked over to the group, arriving as Mahea introduced herself and her daughter. Rhys nodded politely to the group, and Kieran introduced himself to the woman.

“I know.” Rhys said. “Devon talked about you during our journey here.” She said. The girl seemed polite, but Kieran could see her energy. She was on the verge, despite the apparent calm, it was like she could literally explode at any moment.

Mahea turned to Rhys, and said seemed kind, but in the same breath used the word dangerous to describe Rhys. Her energy flared, and the smile fell from her face. Rhys looked down, breathing slowly to keep herself calm. Kieran could sense her discomfort, and interrupted before Mahea made Rhys start a storm. “Much has changed in the time you have been gone, Mahea.” Kieran said. “Come, let’s go.” He said. “Thank you, Rhys, for joining us.”

Kieran spoke to Devon for a moment, confirming that one of the gardens he liked was still in bloom and safely within the walls. It was a nice garden, and it was hidden from the main flow of traffic through the town, which made it ideal for conversing. There were no benches, but trees that had been cut to make the buildings had provided stumps in clusters, and the ground was covered in smooth grass as well. Kieran gestured to one of the clusters, and brought over another stump so there was seating for all of them. “Ana, you should drink some water. It might help you feel a little better.” He said.

Rhys let the others start to sit, and sat afterwards, feeling a bit out of place. Clearly Devon and Kieran were friends, and Kieran seemed to be close with the other women as well. Devon probably didn’t feel uncomfortable around anyone, so it was likely only Rhys who struggled with interacting with…well, just about everyone.

Kieran began the conversation, addressing Rhys so that she could hopefully relax a little. “So Rhys, what bet did you lose to have to travel with Devon?” He asked, chuckling a little.

“I was working at a tavern, and Devon kept me from losing my cool. I didn’t have anything better to do, and traveling with another is always better and safer than traveling alone.” Rhys said. She avoided looking at the older woman, and while she didn’t say much about the details of their meeting, her point was made.

Kieran took it lightly, though, and nodded. “Well at a tavern, I can imagine you were faced with quite a challenge. Were you in Dunlil?” He asked, thinking about what towns were close. Dunlil was a large trading center, and their taverns were frequently known as places where fights broke out daily. He had never seen a table that didn’t rock there, or a chair that hadn’t been patched back together once more.

Rhys smiled, a surprising sight, and shook her head. “Nothing that bad. I was in Eromy. Staggering Knight Alehouse.” She paused for a moment, wondering if it would be better to name the brothel that sat beside it, but Kieran narrowed his eyes a little, seeming to make the connection on his own. “That’s next to the uh—“

“Yes.” Rhys answered quickly, keeping Kieran from having to blush, or having to finish his thought aloud.

“Very nice. Well, I am glad that you joined Devon, and I hope you like Yarlow.”

“I do. It has been wonderful for the last day. People are much less….judging.” Her gaze flickered to Mahea, and then back to Kieran, who pretended not to notice.

“I understand what you mean. I hope that we can bring that sort of understanding to the rest of the world as well.” Kieran finished tactfully, before turning his attention to Ana once more to ask how she was holding up.

It was quite a relief to see Kieran safe and sound. Though he had no idea what dangers the other, more alien world contained. 'Interesting, well I'm glad I found the right one then.' He thought to Kieran. 'It looks like we have to find masters for the two ladies, they're both in need of training and it can't be put off any longer.' Devon then looked around. The group had suddenly increased in size. He was amazed to see two healers though at this point, he only counted the older woman as one. The young one was not really a healer, not yet. He could tell Rhys was trying to adjust to the others but now that it had been confirmed that she was the one, she'd have to get used to it. He wouldn't let her walk away and ruin whatever chance he had of saving the world.

As they walked, the fresh air gave Ana some means to collect herself. Mahea was surveying her surroundings and the area they were in. It was a very profound setting. It seemed to have an air of safety and protection that she hadn't felt in such a long time. As they settled in a lush area, Kieran began to chat with the girl, Rhys which left the others to make their own small talk. "This must be some shock for you." Devon leaned over to Anabelle who smiled wearily and took a deep breath before letting out. "I can read minds and move things with my mind." He told her and tapped his left temple. "I don't need to read yours to know you're overwhelmed." He smiled.

"That's incredible." Ana said and bit her lower lip. It seemed his power was useful, like something out of a comic book. "Can you turn off the power? It must be hard to hear everyone else's thoughts except your own." Ana considered, an empathic healer as always. She already saw the downsides to his skill, "I'm sure most of the time it's pretty handy though."

"Most of the time." He smirked and shrugged. "If I invade someone's privacy without meaning to, it can get a little weird. I've heard some crazy thoughts from the most unsuspecting folks."

Ana smile and glanced to her mother who patted her back. "She's perceptive." Mahea just smiled.

"I can see that." Devon grinned and glanced over at Kieran and Rhys who were still exchanging snippets. 'At least he's hitting it off with her.' He thought, purposefully keeping his thought to the mother and daughter. 'I don't think Rhys likes me very much, which is weird. Women usually love me.'

'I think she's upset about I said earlier but it was the truth and the sooner she accepts it and embraces it, the sooner she can change. She's sheltered and doesn't know the trouble that's truly befallen this world. I left for a reason and she needs to take her talent seriously or no one else will. If she's unpredictable, I'm taking Ana and myself back home.' Mahea thought angrily. Anabelle looked between the two and looked back over at the girl who looked around her age. Ana didn't feel like she could properly weigh in on the situation. She didn't know the dangers of fighting either. And she didn't know Rhys. And she certainly didn't know about the loss and hardships. 'Just be careful around her, Ana. If a comment can set her off, it's hard to tell what she's capable of...'

'I don't sense malice in her heart or her head, it's just the simple task of keeping her calm and making her more aware of her actions and reactions. We need her, and in a way she needs us to help...just like Ana needs our help and yours, Mahea. Sure, Rhys might be difficult and we might not all get along but the big picture is what we need to focus on and Rhys and Anabelle can make up their own minds as to whether or not they'll stick around and help us.' He thought directly to Mahea now, keeping Ana's head vacant of the rest of the conversation now. Ana was left to her own thoughts when she saw Kieran looking at her. She wasn't sure what he wanted but she figured they should get moving.

"So um weren't we going to walk around or get something to eat?" Ana spoke up, still feeling weird about everything. She had vague ideas about her circumstances and felt as though she had been dropped in the deep end of a pool without any help at all. "I'm here to just learn and figure out what I can do and that's it." She held up a hand. "I can't jump on board yet, I hope you guys understand. if I can help, I will try but I can't do anything without a teacher." She looked to her mother.

"I don't think it should be me, darling. It should be someone who you can yell at and relate to, but not someone who loves you like a mother. I hope you understand." Mahea said. "It could compromise training I think."

"Do you think there's someone I could talk to?" Ana asked Kieran.

"There is a library, a great one. I was just there and I'm sure we have texts on healing. I can show you around." Devon smiled and looked to Mahea who quickly said she would do some wandering of her own. "So are we all going off on our own or...?" He began to ask, not sure what Rhys and Kieran felt like doing, now that everyone had been introduced at least. If they were, they need to at least plan on a meeting place and general time to regroup. While Yarlow was safe, it was easy to get lost and while no crime happened, trouble could still pop up. You never know.

It was fortunate that Rhys was not in on Mahea’s negative ‘conversation’ with Devon. The woman acted like she knew Rhys’ life story, when they had both run away from their troubles. Rhys was completely unaware of their conversation, and was actually speaking politely with Kieran. Ana spoke up about walking around, and Kieran nodded quickly. “Okay. Yes, we can certainly do that. I thought that you might want to rest a bit after the traveling, but if you are feeling up to walking around, we can do that. And maybe get a bite to eat if your stomach feels settled.” Kieran offered.

Devon suggested that Ana go with him to the library to find texts on healing, and Kieran nodded in agreement that it was a good idea. He wasn’t going to have Ana go off alone with Devon—while he trusted the man, he didn’t think it was fair to pawn her off on someone else and leave. He had just brought her to this world, and he felt responsible for her. “I would love to come along. It has been some time since I have been able to peruse the library.” Kieran replied, shifting the bag on his shoulder.

“Would you like to join us?” Kieran asked, turning to Rhys. He wasn’t a mind reader, but he could sense her energy. He felt like she was not at all confident about her place, and he agreed with Devon that this woman was likely very important to fulfilling the prophecy that he had seen. Rhys needed to feel like she was a part of this group, like she had a place among other magic users.

Though Devon had asked the group if they were going to be attending, Kieran was right that Rhys needed a more explicit invitation. She hadn’t answered Devon’s initial request, but after Kieran asked, she bit her lip, and nodded. “Okay.” She said, largely because she knew that Mahea wasn’t going. “Devon told me that there was a nice library around here, but I wasn’t sure where it was.” Rhys admitted.

“We’ll show you where it is.” Kieran responded, gesturing for the rest of the group to follow. He led the way to the library, which was along one of the other main roads. Before they entered, Kieran wanted to tell Ana and Rhys a little more about the library. He opened the door to the large building, mentioning that they could read inside or outside, so long as they spoke to the librarian. “Her name is Urkwia. She is a mind reader, like Devon, and is in the know on basically everything going on, especially in Yarlow. If you have any questions, and we aren’t around, feel free to ask her.”

He knew that Ana was out of her comfort zone, so much so that she was in another world, but he felt like Rhys was as well, and didn’t want her to feel left out at all. “Urkwia! Are you around?” A small bell chimed as he opened the door, and though he could feel Urkwia’s energy, he called out more to be polite. The foyer wasn’t particularly large. The library had been built to be functional more than anything else. There was a staircase on either side, with a sign directing people towards the various topics in the library. On the main level there were books on agriculture, history, religion, and some other academic topics. On the upper level was most of the books on magic. The left staircase was energy and healing, and on the right there was mind reading and elementals. Along the back wall, the two topics met, along with books about politics and interactions between the various magic groups.

“So Ana, if we are looking for some books in healing, you will want to go up the left staircase. Rhys, books on elementals are on the right. Devon can you show her?” He asked, glancing over at his friend for confirmation that they could each play a role in helping train Rhys and Ana. Kieran thought that Ana might benefit from a brief guide on each of the topics, but he didn’t want to overwhelm her. Urkwia appeared a few moments later, finally appearing from the stacks on the floor. “We have a new healer and an elemental who need some guidance. Any books you recommend before we find them mentors?” Kieran asked.

Anabelle wouldn't have minded some alone time with Devon, he was interesting. And she would have understood Kieran wanting to get to know Rhys, since they were all mingling together, they had to get to know the people who they hadn't been already familiar with. Ana understood Kieran needed to make sure the girl Devon located was alright, just as Devon needed to make sure she and her mother were trustworthy too. Even so, she wasn't sure if all of them going to the library would be helpful or not. Forced interactions never suited the nurse. Kieran said he'd like to go and then looked to Rhys for her answer. Ana glanced to Devon and her mother. Her mother excused herself and kissed Ana's head before heading off. Ana was sure they'd find each other later without much difficulty.

The healer looked back to see Rhys had accepted the invitation. Devon almost opened his mouth to say something but stopped himself, not too invested to waste energy saying something which could make things even more tense. So he kept his mouth and mind shut as Kieran took the lead and headed for the library he had just been to. It was a bit funny, in his mind anyway. He had offered to take Rhys to the library yesterday but she declined and said she could go on her own and now she seemed fine with accepting an invitation from Kieran, who was already taking a quick shine to the girl. It seemed hell could actually freeze after all. He smirked inwardly and shook his head as they finally arrived.

The boy was fine with letting Rhys relax around Kieran, it would probably do her some good. And in the meantime, he had no qualms with entertaining the doe eyed girl from the other world. As the explanation was finished, Kieran called out to Urkwia. The woman soon made her appearance, she was a slender blond with blue eyes. her hair was curled lightly and her skin was a dark tan, mostly due to the sun she exposed herself to when she read outside. "Hello." She smiled to them and gave them a wave. "Kieran and Devon are both wonderful, you girls are in good hands, there's no need to be so unsettled. Yarlow is a safe and accepting place, I'm sure you'll find the answers you need." Urkwia said gently. "Mentors?" She looked to Kieran next. "Well the mentors themselves would be able to recommend books better than me, I don't know the exact curriculum after all." She said. "I would guess learning the basics and history would be a good start."

"Come on, Rhys." Devon nudged her gently. "Once, she gets started on educating the masses, it's hard for her to stop." He grinned.

"Oh, Devon!" Urkwia blushed and waved the two off.

Devon looked over his shoulder at the three before he headed up with Rhys to find her some reading material. "I didn't think Kieran would arrive so soon, sorry about springing all that on you." He commented as he looked to his right and bent down to check out the lower shelves of books, before slowly rising, scanning the spines for anything eye catching. Devon pulled out two red leather books and then kept looking. "After this, I did get an invitation for tea, we should all go I think." He mentioned. "I think a book on meditation might be useful too." He said to Rhys and realized his favorite copy was probably checked out. There would be other books though. "The biggest challenge will be finding someone for you and uh Anabelle." He mentioned. "You know some magicians are working on new forms of magic that combine two skills, like Elemental and Spirit or Healing and Elemental."

"It would be cool to look into that with someone." He said as he stepped back, four books in his arms, feeling quite satisfied with what he could start her off with. Hopefully it would help.

Reading was a good way to gain knowledge, Ana considered. Of course putting it into practice was another matter all together. Urkwia soon left her and Kieran so she could get back to sorting books and transferring words from various texts. Ana looked up and saw Devon and Rhys chatting quietly and looking at books. For a moment, she could think of herself back home at the local library. But it was still mind boggling. She felt so out of place. She wasn't sure what to say or even do. Still, she headed up as Kieran had mentioned and began to check out some of the books on the shelves. Some were in other odd languages but most, thankfully, were in English. What were the odds of that? Ana knew she could preform some healing tasks but it was all spontaneous. That was worrisome.

"I hope things work out for you." She said to Kieran as she tentatively pulled out a slim book on healing, thinking it wouldn't be too hard to read about. While she hadn't seen his world yet, so far, it seemed nice, she could see why people wanted to try to save it.

“That’s alright. It is fortunate that he arrived when you were still here.” Rhys replied. She thought that Kieran was fine. He seemed a bit less invasive than Devon, though that might have been partially because of the way they met. She followed him up the staircase, and began to look over the titles alongside the mind reader. “Do you think that people in Yarlow are not interested in teaching?” Rhys asked, a little puzzled as to why it would be so tough. When Devon said that some mages were working on combining pairs of skills, Rhys raised her eyebrows in supplies. “I cannot imagine trying to master two skills. Is It something that you are trying to achieve? Like Mind and spirit?” She asked. Rhys was… more than a little oblivious to the idea that she could actually have to learn how to control two different things. She couldn’t even manage one of the elements right now.

“May I help you carry these books?” She questioned, holding out her arms. Have actual books in her hands that she didn’t have to try to sneak around and hide. She could actually sit somewhere and simply read. It was a thrilling idea, and she was actually smiling with excitement. “Thank you for helping me pick out books.” She said. “Do you have a preference for where I should start?” She asked.

“Do you think that Anabelle needs help, or should we step outside and have them meet us?” Either way, Rhys would soon find herself sitting in a comfortable place with one of the books propped up on her lap. She sat her bag by her side, and opened it briefly, pulling out her journal. She had offered to show Devon the drawing she had made of the tree. “Would you still like to see my new sketches?” She asked.

She passed him the journal when he was ready, and then opened up the first of the books he had picked out for her. She knew if she watched him looking over her sketches, she would find herself more worried about his reaction than she was thinking about the content that she needed to learn. The first passage in the book in her lap was about how the elemental magician was similar to and different from the rest of the magicians. It was an interesting read, and filled with things that she had never learned before. Though Devon hadn’t been around Rhys when she completed the most recent sketches, he might be able to tell that drawing helped her relax. Then again, so did reading. She was pretty relaxed, working her way through the first few pages before she came across a sentence she couldn’t quite decipher. “Devon, there are a few words in this sentence I don’t know… Can you tell me what this means?” She asked, interrupting the silence.

It was difficult for the girl to remain humble when she was used to being defensive, but she did her best to let her guard down a little and allow the man to help her. She pointed to the passage, rather than read it aloud, because she honestly wasn’t even sure how to pronounce the second word in the sentence. A recondite component of control of the elements is the very nature of nature; there is the cycle of the elements, as well as the cycle among the elements—accommodating cycles embedded within cycles, the pattern repeats onward and so forth through land and time.

Kieran only looked for books that were written in English, of course, and took his time browsing through the books to find one on beginning to heal. He was trying to find something that would walk her through basic meditation as well, so that she could control her ability, rather than using it on anyone who was hurt around her. He didn’t know about the small mishap with her mother before, but figured that such an event was likely with someone being untrained in their skills. He found a medium sized book that he thought would be good, and set that aside.

He found another on the history of their world, agreeing that it was good for her to see where being a healer fell in the grand scheme of magic and non-magic users. Finally, he went looking for a book on controlling energy. Though it generally fell more into the realm of a spirit mage, he knew that it would be imperative for her to learn to control her magic energy if she was going to stay here. He described each of the books and his reasoning for picking them, and then nabbed a book for himself to browse while she was reading.

“Would you like to read outside?” He asked Anabelle, having noticed that the other pair seemed to already be outside once more.

"I just think finding an Elemental might be hard but not impossible." He just replied to her. "Oh no, not one person using two forms of magic," He wasn't sure if that was possible. If it was, that person was probably dead due to stress or even due to their own overdose of power. It was a fearsome thought though. "I meant two people using their skills to create an even more intricate form of fighting together. It's hard enough to train yourself but to build a strategy around two people working so closely...it's an interesting idea." Devon shrugged. She then offered to help with the books and he gave her half of the load so they could go check them out. They headed down and Rhys asked about where she should start. "I'm not sure, I think you should start where it feels right to you." He smiled a little.

Devon looked to where the other two were and then back to Rhys. He could pick up on her being a bit more eager and possibly a bit more relaxed which was a good thing. He was sure they could either stick around do some reading at the library or go someplace else and get comfortable. "Anabelle should be fine, she's with Kieran." He said as they waited by the door. Rhys offered to show him some of her sketches which piqued his interest. "Alright, I'd love to." Devon grinned and accepted the book from her while she quickly buried her head in another book. He slowly flipped through the pages, being careful not to ripe or smudge anything. They were good, though he thought any art was good, considering he wasn't gifted with such talents.

Who was he to judge?

"I think they're great, soon you'll be drawing things from all over the world." He said and closed it as she mentioned needing help with one of the sentences. He tilted his head and looked to where she pointed to it. Devon read it twice and thought about it. "Well they could have worded it better but the general idea is that there are patterns around us, be them in a cycle or even a cycle of the elements and even within that, there could be patterns or cycles and that within many things, you can find order." He said. "At least that's what I gather from it." He hummed and glanced to her. That book could be a bit draining for anyone, he figured trying a different book which was more straightforward, might help ease her into things but whatever path she took, would be hers so he didn't want to interfere. "Repetition can be useful when training and learning new things." He commented as he handed her the sketch book back.

Ana looked down as Kieran was picking out books.

Devon and Rhys had already gone back down the stairs and were heading outside, exchanging books already. She assumed he was used to books which was why he was a bit speedier than Kieran. Ana looked back as the book picked out a few books and explained their general contents to her. She also saw he found something for himself which was good. Ana shrugged at his question, not really having an opinion on the matter. She was still taking everything in and as such, didn't think she had much weight in the world at the moment, since she was an outsider and all. "Sure, we can go outside." She finally said since it seemed like everyone else wanted to do that.

The day itself wasn't bad at all so Anabelle wouldn't mind doing some reading outside. Back home, she was sure it was foggy or overcast. She headed off with Kieran so they could catch up to where the others were. She took the books from Kieran since they were hers to read and look after. "Thanks for helping me." She said to him as they headed outside. "I wonder where that lady went, I wanted to thank her too..." She trailed off, wanting to thank her as well. 'You're welcome! Come back anytime!' Urkwia's voice entered Ana's head, making her jump in surprise. That would take some getting used to. Once they stepped outside, she calmed down and spotted the other to close by, chatting about something.

Anabelle hurried over to them and looked around their group, wondering where he mother was.

"I ran into Mrs. Sibbens today, she invited us over for tea." Devon spoke up. "I'm sure she'd love to spoil the girls too, how about we go?" He suggested. Anabelle glanced down at her books and then looked around. In her mind, she could read just about anywhere. By that weird white tree, or a cafe or even on the cobblestone ground. She didn't think reading in a stranger's house when she was a guest, would be very polite though. Even so, the idea of tea sounded very appealing to Ana but it wasn't her place to speak up, at least that's how she felt, so she hung back and waited for the boys to figure out what to do next. "Her husband might be home or away doing work, either way, she'd love the company." Devon continued.

Ana glanced to Rhys, "I do like tea..." She couldn't help but comment. "What about you...?" She asked quietly, cautiously.

Rhys had misunderstood, but when he clarified, she nodded slowly. “Ahh… I understand what you mean now.” She said. It was an interesting concept. Two different magics working together could certainly cause more chaos, but she wasn’t sure how it could help resolve a situation faster. She dropped the topic for now, as they were still selecting books.

She tried not to think too hard about the compliment Devon gave her regarding her drawing. She didn’t know if she really wanted to travel. She just wanted to sort of…hide out, and be unnoticed by anyone. Traveling the world sounded suspiciously like running, and Rhys didn’t want to have to run. Devon explained the concept better, and though he thought about Rhys picking a different book, the thought didn’t occur to her. She was given the book to learn from, and she was working on trying to understand it. “Okay. I think that makes sense.” She did start to skim a little, looking for a new heading that she could discern.

When Kieran and Ana returned with their books, Devon brought up going out for tea. Rhys was a little surprised, as she had thought that they were supposed to be reading about their abilities. She didn’t know Ms. Sibbens either, but when Ana seemed interested, Rhys nodded in agreement. “I am certainly fond of tea, and I know that you have just arrived with your books, but I don’t think this one is a good fit for me.” She stood up and closed the books that Devon had picked up. “No offense, Devon. But I think I will return this one and try another.” She said. Rhys excused herself for a few moments to bring back the difficult book to Urkwia, pretty sure that the others would wait for her.

Urkwia knew she was there as soon as she entered, and quickly chimed in her head. Is something wrong, Rhys? She asked.

Rhys wasn’t sure exactly how to answer, aloud or in her head, though the former really took care of both. “I um… this book was a little too hard for me.” She said. “We have some others, so I am fine, but I just wanted to bring this one back since I don’t think I will really get a lot out of it.”

Urkwia told her to simply leave it on the counter by the door, and she would be by in a short while to take care of it. Don’t hesitate to come back. If Devon can’t help you find a book, I am sure that I can. She told Rhys. The elemental thanked her, and then left once more to catch up with the others.

Kieran hadn’t said much aloud when Rhys left. He knew that Ana didn’t have a lot of time to look at her books, and she was probably feeling a little overwhelmed. Instead, Kieran glanced over at Devon, giving him the look that they both knew he wanted to communicate. How is Rhys handling things? He asked, pretty confident that Devon was listening. Kieran could talk to her, if Devon thought that would help. Sometimes knowing that you were important, that you had a place in things, could provide some sort of comfort, rather than just pressure and stress.

In any case, she reappeared a short while later, and Kieran followed Devon to the older woman’s house. Mrs. Kara Simmens was a bit like everyone’s grandmother. Her own children had grown up and left the nest to go and explore the world and have their own families. One of her children was a magic user, and he came to visit pretty often. The other wasn’t a magic user, and she was a little more distant from the family. Granted, Kara wasn’t a magic user either, but her husband was, and she would go to the end of the earth to stay with her husband, still utterly in love, even after more than thirty years of marriage.

The woman’s house was in the middle of the residential area. She had seen Devon when picking up some four and items at the market in the morning, and invited him and his companions for tea. By the time he arrived with his new friends, she had delicious tea being steeped, and she had made some pastries as well. “Afternoon!” She said happily, greeting the group. “Come in!” She said, holding the door open.

“Thank you so much for inviting us over,” Kieran greeted her with a hug. “It is great to see you. This is Ana, and Rhys. There are both new to Yarlow.” He said. He didn’t mention that Ana was from the other world entirely. It wasn’t necessary to share everyone’s life story. The woman gestured for them to sit in her living room, where there was a small fireplace, and a few couches to provide a bit of seating. “I will be just a few moments.” She excused herself to get the tray with cups for tea, making sure to get five cups so that everyone could get some.

He wasn't sure why Rhys' comment would offend him but he just shrugged and turned to the others when the Elemental girl excused herself shortly. He glanced to Anabelle who seemed content to just look around since for some reason no one was really continuing the discussion since the decision had been made to go ahead and have some tea. He thought it was weird that Kieran was more concerned with someone he just met, rather than the girl he plucked from another world. 'I think she's opening up better.' He replied mentally. Rhys was difficult to really get a handle on though and he still wasn't sure if he could trust her or if she even trusted any of them. Things had moved fairly fast since he met her in the bar a few days ago. It seemed like Kieran had a better rapport with her than he did, if Kieran wanted to try helping her instead, Devon didn't mind, he figured she'd might progress better with someone she was more comfortable around since he didn't think she cared much for him.

Anabelle on the other hand was still feeling rather overwhelmed. The idea of tea was comforting. It was something that she enjoyed in her own world and maybe having tea in the new one would help calm her nerves. As they walked, thoughts of her mother and her job came to mind. She remembered what Kieran had said about their world being in trouble but from what she saw in Yarlow, there wasn't much going on. Not that she wanted to see war and death, she had enough of it back home thanks to her profession as well as the news. Ana wasn't sure what her capabilities were and she was beginning to lose faith. Back home, her skills were needed. Every day people were dying or were sick or short. But in this new world, she felt out of place, like she didn't belong.

When they arrived, Ana looked up and shifted her arms. She had been thinking so much she had forgotten what she was even carrying. Devon let her in first along with Rhys. He smiled at the woman and thanked her once more for the invitation. Ana set the books down by the nearest couch and then took a seat. It was a cozy atmosphere and it made her wish she was home. Sure, she didn't have a wild social life but what friends she did have, she began to miss. Ana looked down at the books Kieran had picked out and she wondered if she was in over her heard. She slouched back but then fixed her posture, as she didn't want to be rude. Devon came in and sat next to her. "Thank you so much." Ana said. "Your hospitality is welcomed." She smiled a little, though it was a tad forced. The woman's kindness was probably the warmest thing she had felt since coming to Yarlow.

"Your home is wonderful as always." Devon grinned and glanced to Ana. He patted her arm and excused himself to go help Kara with everything. He stepped into the kitchen and helped her finish getting the trays ready. "It's been too long since we've gotten a chance to sit down and talk. Next time I'll have to cook something for you and I won't take no for an answer." He insisted to her with a smile as he helped bring out a tray with the cups and pot for everyone to enjoy. Kara came out with the snacks and they set them down for everyone to help themselves. Devon took his seat once more and relaxed. He could sense Kara was happy to have to company and he hoped this would put everyone at ease too. He poured himself some tea and Ana did the same for herself. She glanced around for sugar and Devon pointed to a leaf, reading her thoughts. She picked it up and sniffed it. It was sweet so she slipped it into her cup and took a sip.

"Mmm." Ana hummed.

"When your husband returns, I'd love hear how he is." Devon commented, always happy to get more information about the going-ons around them. He wasn't content to stay in Yarlow much longer but when two magicians without skill or direction, he figured if he had to go, it would be by himself. Staying put wasn't his strong suit. He could hear people crying out for help every time he wanted to sleep. He could usually tune it out but without much practice lately, he was losing his touch. Ana took another drink and helped herself to a small pastry which had cherries in it.

"You're a great baker!" Ana said, now realizing how hungry she was as she tired a different one with custard.

Kieran was one of the first people to try some of the pastries that Kara had brought out. They were, in fact, delicious. Soon he and Rhys had some tea, and we sipping it as Devon and Ana made small talk. “Thank you, dear.” Kara said, nodding graciously to Ana. “We are blessed to get healthy crops, here, and everything is very fresh. The mage who tends to the fields is really quite talented.” Kara’s gaze flickered to Rhys, having already heard about their need for a tutor for the elemental girl. Kara had always been…a bit of a gossip. The old farmer was an elemental as well. He was quite in-tune with the earth, and used that understanding to determine when his crops needed more water, or more nutrition in the soil. He couldn’t control the sun, of course, and the fact that he hadn’t controlled fire in quite some time made him a bit more…calm than most of the other elementals that she had met.

Kieran caught on to Kara’s statement, and thought that they should perhaps speak with this man for Rhys. If only Kara had a solution for Ana as well, then they could stay in Yarlow and get both of the girls prepared for the trials that they would face. He looked over at Devon, and silently asked his opinion. Do you think, Devon, that we might be able to convince the farmer to give Rhys some tips? He knew that he needed to focus on Ana, that he had brought her to this world, and she was his responsibility. At the same time, Kieran was the type of person who always found solutions to the ten problems that weren’t the most pressing. When he was asked to do one thing, he could accomplish many others, and be productive, but he had a hard time focusing on just one objective and following through with it quickly. He liked to blame that on the visions, since there were often muddled and pushed him in different directions.

Outside of Yarlow, a group of men and women armed themselves with weapons. They had swords, bows, and even some chemical bombs that had been bottled. Their contact was an ally of theirs who had siblings that were magic users. He had grown up jealous, with the rest of his family capable of magic. They flaunted it, and acted superior to him, and he wanted nothing more than for everyone to be equal. He hated how mages could be, so when he learned of Yarlow, he knew it was a place that he needed to tell his companions. He sent them information about the portal, and they seized a property with another portal that they could use to transport them to the center of the town. They had others who had already tried to go in through the gates, but they had been found wandering disoriented in another nation 2 months later, completely unaware of what was going on. One of the men had forgotten about his child. It was more fuel to the fire of their anger, and now they had a way to get right to the center of the town, bypassing the guards entirely.

They were prepared for death, the twelve people who were situated on the entrance to the portal. The moment that they appeared in Yarlow, of course, they were seen and sensed by many of the mind and spirit mages. Kieran dropped his tea. Despite the distance, he could sense the responses of the magic users around the attackers, and he jumped up, apologizing. “I’m sorry, Kara, but we are in danger. Intruders are in Yarlow.” He said. “Please, secure yourself in a safe location.” He said. Kara didn’t have any magic. She couldn’t defend herself. Of course, neither could Ana and Rhys. “Can you hide the girls with you as well?” Kieran questioned. Just about everyone in Yarlow had hidden floorboards and compartments that they could hide themselves, or their children inside. Most were tiny, but since Kara had a family, Kieran hoped that it would be big enough for the three women. He wouldn’t hide, he would fight, and he was sure that Devon would do the same.

“Hide? I don’t… I can’t.” Rhys protested, shaking her head.

“Rhys, I am sorry, but we don’t have time to argue about this.” Kieran apologized. He felt a spirit suddenly cease, and knew that already one of the mages they had been trying to protect was dead. He needed to get out there and help.

Kara was already moving to the kitchen, where she had a cold cellar for preserving some foods beneath the floor. There was even a small hidden room inside of that, because just about every house already had a cellar for food and wine. She opened the door, and began to usher Ana and Rhys inside.

Rhys looked down at the hole, and then from Kieran to Devon. “No, I can’t. You don’t understand… It is a tinderbox!” She would explode down there, hidden in a compact space with other people. Screw the attackers, she would panic and kill Ana and Kara. “Please, Devon… I can’t do confined spaces with other people. I will kill them!” The fact that she was scared made her even worse at controlling herself, of course. The flames from the fireplace in the living room were leaping out of the hearth.