The late snowfall dusted the ground in a bright, white powder. It made the usually boring and dull scenery almost serene now, just by adding cold ice to everything. Trees dipped down from the added weight, threatening to drop their branches onto the already snowy roads. I looked out of my window, noting the snow and ice that formed and clustered on the outside. A raven stared at me with big, beady eyes from a nearby tree. It carried a tiny leather messenger bag under one wing. The red, embroidered humanoid head with fox ears told me it was one of hers. With a bit of excitement in my heart, I began my usual procedure. I unlatched my third floor apartment window and the creature flew over, landing on a rod that had been installed outside. The cold wind blew in, bringing the morning’s frigid chill with it. I shivered but smiled softly at the large bird, “Already eat, Reginald?” I asked as I offered the bird a bit of jerky that I kept by the window. He was quick to snatch it up, gobbling it down as I undid the button on the bag and pulled out a folded up, blue colored paper that was sealed with a splotch of red wax that depicted a fox. I closed the window quickly and watched Reginald fly away, back into the winter fog with silvery sparkling dust falling off of him. 
	I popped the wax seal and read through the message and came to realize, well, it was more like a list. A shopping list. The second page was directions.

	Seek out my mark upon the old oak, the one we played under so many years ago. Your guides will be waiting for you. I require Frimbrong Stools. Dwarven bred mushrooms. They are mushrooms that grow within caves and logs, you will smell them before you see them. Musty and sweet, they make a fine brew– or so I am told, but my cauldron needs them for another purpose. Pick it up first. Groceries and materials can be done in any order. Oh, if the sweets I like are on discount, please pick some up! And remember to treat yourself this time.

	-Madame S 

	I nodded to myself and pocketed the directions. This was just like her. No mention of her return until the day of. Now I was fetching things for her again. I opened a drawer at my desk, unfurled a scroll, and saw it had already marked out my route to the oak. I didn’t need it. That place was etched upon my mind so I knew the way. I collected my things slowly, a hoodie under a thicker coat, a small, silver hilted wand with a straight cherry wood shaft that tapered off at the end, my phone, the map, and a short sword that I hung from my belt. I picked up my shoulder bag and headed out of my small, one room apartment. 

	The cold streets meant few people were out. Most sane people stayed indoors. Those that went out rode on horseback or in carts as they hurried to the warmth of their jobs. Only the mayor had a car. The town proper was quite packed together with most everything you need being found at the smallish central mall or one of the two grocery stores on the opposite ends of town. Outside of town, on the north, south, and west sides was all woodland where logging operations took place. More than a few people lived out there, we were a logging town afterall. Logwash. Dwarven founded and dwarven governed still. A shame about their nearby keep and cursed past. I pulled my scarf up my face as a cold wind blew through me. I needed to hurry. Snow was falling more and more and my unwisely picked running shoes would soon fill with slush. I paused as I passed the center of town, past the two fancy restaurants and a coffee shop for the snobbish folk. A car, silver and long, was parked out front of town hall. A rare sight all the way out here. I gawked at it, almost missing as a chauffeur, a small gnomish man, stepped from it wearing a black and gold embroidered uniform. He even had matching gold epaulets as if he were some sort of military bigwig or captain of a ship. I couldn't help but stare now at such an outfit. He opened the back, passenger door of the vehicle and a tall woman cloaked with hawk-like wings stepped from it. Her hawkish features turned to me, as if easily sensing my peering at them. Her intense stare sent shivers down my back and I decided to move on, not knowing if she was upset or not and not willing to find out.

	My hurried paces brought me into the woods. My hands were chilly and almost numb now. The curses under my breath were directed at myself. I moved with purpose past the tall trees, looking for a particularly tall and ancient one. I could hear howling. I was close. My feet trudged through the powder, each one having to be pulled out before I could make another long stride. My guides found me first. Four silver, glistening wolves approached me, “Rufus, Kyle, Jamie, Penelope,” I greeted them as I squatted down, stroking their warm, soft fur. There were a few strands of black across their otherwise silver fur. It was some of my hair, I knew this to be true. The largest, Rufus, licked my face as Penelope pulled open the drawstring bag he wore and brought out a pair of warm gloves for me. I sighed and slipped them over my digits, “Sorry I’m late. Saw someone peculiar. Let’s get going,” The wolves barked at me and began to trek through the snow. I did my best to keep pace with the canines, but they quickly fell into formation with two behind, one at my side, and the largest in front. I stopped as we passed by the familiar oak. Ornamental wooden carvings hung from it, each one accumulating a little of the week's frost. Magic was seeping into it, even a very novice caster such as I could feel how much it held. The wild elves of years past had placed it here along with others. It protected our town, or so I was told. The forest folk were friendly enough in our few encounters. A tribe lived near here, with brown-ashen skin, all black eyes, and animalistic ears and horns. They didn’t speak much English, but they imparted magic unto me at her master’s request. I didn’t get it. On the oak I found her mark, a fox. I was excited to see her again today.
	The wolves led me further into the woods. I clambered over fallen logs, ducked under drooping branches, and lost my footing in a particularly icy patch. The trek led us to a mossy and rotted downed log. The wolves pawed at it, urging me to collect the mushrooms. She was right, I could smell them already and it turned my stomach a little. Choosing to ignore my whining belly, I did as needed, laying myself down in the snow. I used my wand to cast a small lime-green light upon the log with a basic spell. Reaching within I was easily able to pluck a dozen of the mushrooms and place them in a sack that Kyle held out for me. I shivered, brushing the snow off my form with one hand. The wolves cuddled up to me, warming me up quickly with their bodies. I leaned on Penelope and hugged her, “You’re such a sweet girl,” I mused aloud as I tried to pet all four canines equally. I stayed like that for too long, admittedly. I couldn’t help myself. She’d understand, I hoped.

	A quick trip to the mall and grocery store later, I was done with my shopping list. Penelope accompanied me. Not many people turned to stare at the two of us anymore. The magic wolf walked with her body against my hip. When I stopped, so did she, just like a service dog. I didn’t understand the connection very well, but it was as if I was giving silent commands, or so she told me. That’s why some of my hair was infused in their casting.
	I went to the north part of town, towards the woods again. Just off the road at the edge of town was a path leading further north. Penelope nudged me to keep going. I nodded. I was a little anxious, my heart thumped a little painfully now. It was the same rhythm, but said anxiety made it itch with pain. I hadn’t seen her in some time. She had been away on business, ‘witch business,’ and had left me ‘in charge.’ I shook my head as we started up the snowy path. The frigid ground crunched beneath my soggy shoes. Trees lined the path, ones that once frightened me, but now seemed inviting despite their worn visages and dead bark. Up the hill I went with Penelope excitedly leading me. A raven circled overhead, its dark feathers looking sparkling silver in the little late-morning light that streamed through the clouds overhead. Soon enough, I spotted the last marker, another red fox etched into a tree.
	I had arrived.
	Within the hilltop clearing, I saw the familiar cottage with sandy yellow sidings, a crimson red roof, and a dark stone tower built into it on one side. The light inside the cottage was inviting, flickering and dancing, its implied fiery warmth beckoning me. I sighed and looked at the now frozen flower beds around it, knowing those whisperingbells I planted last week week had not survived. Old world flowers that softly rang in the wind like wind chimes. I swallowed my anxiety as the raven, Reginald, landed on my shoulder. I took hold of the door handle and pushed it open.
	Three figures were already here in the living room turned workspace. The couch, dusty and green was pushed against the wall, the coffee table had been replaced with a tall and long table covered in parchments, books, and bottles. Messy bookshelves lined the walls with chests and lower shelves before the windows. Next to the front door was a set of spiral stairs to the second floor where the three bedrooms were.
	I hefted the groceries and raven as I started across the room, none of the three were aware of me, as always. The first was a dwarf, bald, short and with a reddened face, “He’s lying! Lying, I tell you!” He was in a wrinkled two piece suit, something he only wore to these kinds of meetings. 
	Next to him was a halfling man in a green cloak and no shoes. I made a note to sweep the floor. The curly-haired soft-foot looked like he was going to cry, “I am right! I saw it! The unicorn’s grove is right in the path of Master Goldfrey’s logging operation! He cannot be allowed to continue!” I passed the living room into what was once a dining room, now an alchemy and enchanting center. Beakers, bottles, fluids, salts, and other materials boiled, burned, and bubbled. A slate of magical stone inlaid with gems, precious metals, and inscribed with runes, “I have seen and heard no such thing!” The dwarf roared, “Lopper wants me to cease my operation to impress some harlot! A hippy! Show me the unicorn and I will cease!” 
	I was now in the kitchen and putting away groceries. It was clean and much more organized than the rest of the house. Because I cleaned it. A fridge, pantry, plenty of dark granite counter space, an oven, microwave, and a small oil fryer. In a tiny room past this was the washer, dryer, and some storage. Last was a door leading to the tower, a place I scarcely ventured. The cold and frozen foods were first followed by everything that went in the pantry. 
	“Master Goldfrey,” The third person spoke in a firm tone, “You have children, no?” She asked.
	“Y-yes? Why?”
	“A unicorn will not appear to a person who has sullied themself with the carnal pleasures of the flesh,” She wore a long crimson peacoat with a collar embroidered with shimmering silver flames, two rows of black buttons down the chest, and a silver, magical sash that was tied into a large bow on her lower back. Underneath that was a long, orange tail with a white tip, fluffy and fox-like that swished irritably. Atop her head was a crimson, short, pointed and conical wizard cap with a wide, twisting brim and a silver tassel hanging from it. It was akin to a fancy dress hat a woman might wear. Two pointed, orange furred ears poked through the brim and sides of the hat full of cute, white fluff and lined with black on the tips, “I will check the site that Lopper has told of. My assistant and I will go look sometime this week. I have important duties to attend to this morning and tomorrow.”
	I just nodded as I put her reagents on the table. Assistant? What happened to being her apprentice? I had been called her aide once, too. Three separate jobs, all handled by one person.
	“Aye. Fine,” The dwarf rolled his eyes, “And if it's real?”
	“The town will buy that land,” She firmly said. There was a fury in her sharp, red eyes. Such a hard expression on her otherwise gentle and very pretty, lightly freckled face. Her eyes were soft and round, usually, but at that moment they could pierce armor. I suspected she had honed that look for people like Master Goldfrey, “And the logging will stop in that area. If Lopper is right, the unicorn is in need of protection. It protects us in return, the same as the elder trees that are also off limits,” She pursed her full lips, a subtle scarlet lipstick neatly dabbed onto them. 
	“Thank you, thank you,” Lopper sighed heavily and happily. 
	Master Goldfrey huffed and tightened his golden tie, “Aye. So be it. I know Mayor Buruz-Brakborn will take your side.”
	The two turned and left as the woman waved her hand to dismiss them. The door slammed behind the dwarf and the woman sighed and nearly collapsed into a chair, “Goodness me,” She rubbed her face and removed her silky hat to reveal her long, curly locks of orange hair with a single white streak in it, “Where are you, Chris?”
	I put a jar down loudly, “Hi, Madame Scarlet,” I took my coats off and hung them on a chair next to me.
	“Oh!” She jolted up and dashed to the kitchen. I was surprised as she lunged at me, pulling me into a hug with her black, furred, and paw-like hands, “How I missed you, my friend!”
	I hugged her back, watching her tail swish back and forth gleefully as she leaned into me. I sighed and nodded, “I’m glad to see you too, Robin.”
	“You know what you’re supposed to call me while on the job, Mister Cooper.”
	“Aye, I know, Madame Scarlet,” I rubbed my face, “Any more clients today?”
	“We shall see,” She stepped back and looked at me with a frown, “Where is your uniform?”
	“Not warm enough for this weather,” I apologetically gestured out the window, “Thank you for sending the gloves.”
	“Well, I can conjure you a wool lined cloak later. An apprentice wizard needs to look the part!” She grinned at me, clasping her hands together, “Did you study while I was away?”
	“A bit,” I scratched my head, “I-I had a lot to do. Tending to your summons, re-etching runes, checking wards and seals. I had to settle a dispute between the dwarven bankers and some hero over a slightly magic sword,” I groaned.
	Robin giggled, “I am proud of you, Chris. I trust you settled it with a level head?”
	“Level enough,” I scoffed, hiding the fact I used dice rolls to decide, “Oh, but how was your conference? How was your trip? You went to Fairgarland Academy, right?”
	She nodded wearily, “Yes, yes. I was amongst people of my craft and some of the best in the fields of magicks. Masters and Grandmasters, even. I learned much and brought yet more knowledge with me!” She gestured to some of the books on her table, “Perhaps I’ll become a master!”
	I smiled at the fox beast-woman, “Sure, maybe you can.”
	Reginald screeched at us.
	“Oh! Our duties! Yes, we have much to do,” Robin picked up her hat and dusted it off, “The mushrooms, give them here,” She put out a hand.
	I gingerly put the bag in her palm. She pulled the string tie open and nodded slowly, “Are they satisfactory?”
	“More than satisfactory. You did well,” She reached up and patted my head, tussling my hair, “Do you require more praise?” She teased as my face turned red. If it had been from anyone else, it might have felt condescending. It was full of genuine appreciation and affection. She was only two years older than me and tended to act as if I was her little brother. I shook my head, wishing I had a wide brimmed hat of my own to hide under. Robin grinned impishly and turned to her kitchen. I watched her fluffy fox tail swish to and fro elatedly, her ears twitched as she pulled her hat off once more and shed her coat. She was in a warm looking red dress above a cream orange body stocking that went down just above her fur covered thighs that led down to her more animalistic, backwards legs and paw feet that had a heel strapped to them. She opened the door to her tower and put on a very simple and baggy black cloak before stepping in. I watched her from the kitchen as she stood over the bubbling cauldron, her back to me. A few of the mushrooms were crunched up in her hands before being added to the mixture. It hissed and popped while turning brown and a sweet stench filled the air. Robin clasped her furred hands together excitedly, “It is working! We must allow it to simmer, my apprentice,” She explained as she added another piece of wood to the fire beneath it, “Make a note to chop more wood later, aide.”
	“Aye aye,” I nodded, “Anything else?”
	“We must be off. The snow must be braved and our protective wards must be renewed,” She put on her regular coat-cloak and hat. The stench from the black cloak carried on her until I cast a simple freshening spell on her. Another of my duties.
	“I don’t know if I’ll make it far in these,” I gestured to my soggy shoes.
	 “Shall I conjure a horse? No! I have something better now!” She gleefully took me by the wrist and pulled me outside and into the cold. First, she raised a hand in the air and summoned her staff. A long, white staff with a circular end that held a floating blue chunk of stone. Tassels of silver hung in the air as if unaffected by gravity. Secondly, she waved it towards my torso, summoning a thick, red cloak for me of wool and sherpa within. Third was a single wave at my feet, transmuting my old shoes into newer leather boots in a flash. My feet were thankfully warm and dry. Last, but not least, Robin the witch cast a circular summoning gate made of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows in the air before her as she recanted the magic words. The snow kicked up around us, the wind howled, and the air crackled with magical power. Trees swayed and cracked as if in pain. The wolves and birds tried to protect themselves from the sudden snowstorm, but I stood my ground, having seen this numerous times. From her pocket, she brought out a bundle and cast it into the magical runes that splayed across the dirt ground. I watched as a beast rose from the earth, covered in silver with small black streaks. The hood was blown off my cloak as the beast roared and the earth shook. I stood still as the summoning ended with the creature clawing its way out of the ground. It stood on its rear legs, towering above me and the witch whose face gleamed with pride.
	“A bear?” I cocked my head as it landed with a thud and looked between us.
	“A polar bear!” Robin corrected as she patted the top of its head, “Is it not a more majestic creature than a horse? And cute! She is very pretty, hm?”
	“I… Suppose so,” I put my hand out and the bear put its chin in my palm. It was huge. Eight feet long and five feet high when on all fours, “More frightening, at the least,” Even as I said that, I could see how adorable this creature was, “Do we ride on its back?”
	“No, no,” Robin raised her arms. It was a much simpler spell this time, inanimate objects always were. She had conjured a polar bear sized leather harness and a wooden sleigh that floated an inch above the ground. She stepped onto it, took a seat, and held the reins, “Ready?”
	I sighed and nodded, climbing into the vehicle and sitting next to her. With the addition of my weight, the sleigh rocked slightly. The bear shook itself, “What’s her name gonna be?” I wondered. 
	“Iris,” Robin quickly decided. She smiled at me next to her, “Do you like the sound of that?”
	“No complaints here.”
	“Then come, Iris!” She tugged the reins, “The rest of you,” She looked to her four wolf and three raven summons, “Stay here and tell visitors I will return soon,” With another tug, Iris began to lumber down the hill and back into town.

	It was a smooth ride in the conjured sleigh. Iris was surprisingly fast as she ran through the streets of Logwash. Heads turned and showed shock, then relief as people saw the crimson witch that was driving the beast. I couldn’t help but smile again.
	“Did your Mark act up while I was gone?” Madame Scarlet inquired as Iris came to a stop.
	I looked up as the snow fell around us. I pulled the hood back up, “N-no.”
	“Chris– Mister Cooper?” Concern flashed on my childhood friend’s face, “You know this curse isn’t to be taken lightly…”
	“I know,” I sighed as my hand clutched the cloak over my chest. The cloak was warm and I focused on that sensation, “I’ve been staying as calm as possible.”
	“Did the medicine help?” She meekly asked. I slowly shook my head and Iris started to trot as the light turned green, “I am sorry…” She took her hat off again. Her fox tail drooped pitifully, “I am beginning to doubt my ability as a Thaumaturge, Chris.”
	“Madame Scarlet,” I put my hand on her shoulder, “You’ve taken good care of me and the few others that have had this affliction. Thanks to you and your master, I’m alive,” I rubbed my chest. A sash was tied around my chest that held a small bundle over my heart. I didn’t like looking at the black splotch on my skin that it covered– that part wasn’t Robin’s fault.
	“I wish this never happened. I wish the elder trees did their job and prevented this.”
	“I slipped through the cracks,” I shrugged, finally taking my mind off the Mark, “Just like little Gregory did this year. But your treatment did wonders for him.”
	“That soft-foot child? Yes, his smile brightened my day,” Robin handed the reins to me and started to flip through a little book that she kept within her silky dress, “Duties for today… Oh! I could have sent you for this already. We must check the elder trees. The ice may damage them, but we must examine the magic within as well.”
	“Got it,” I turned Iris down main street and steered clear of a group of horse riders on the side of the road. I spotted that luxury car again at the base of the town hall, “Saw a griffonite hop out of that thing,” I nodded at it.
	“Hm. Not many of them in the north west,” She was more interested in the race of the individual than the car, “Oh, Kynalia needs treatment today. It has been three months. We should pay her a visit.”
	“Anything else?”
	“Deliver the mayor her… medicine,” Robin shivered. I grinned at her expense, “We will do that last. Other than that, work on your training. I need to be sure my apprentice has not become too lax in my absence.”
	I nodded dutifully, “Eh. Only a little.”

	We moved on foot deeper into the woods. Iris came with us, easily clambering over every obstacle. Robin was quite nimble and dextrous as she navigated around bushes, over rocks, and past trees. I had a hard time in my big, thick cloak. I was comfortable at least. I stumbled over a log and was picked up by Iris biting the back of my cloak and lifting me up. With a huff, I stepped into a small clearing surrounding a tall decorated tree. Small stones etched with magic runes and chunks of crystal hung from its branches. I looked at a few humanoid effigies before brushing the powdery snow from them. Robin looked it up and down. From a pouch within her coat, she retrieved another chunk of crystal. It glowed green and pulsated as the fox-witch held it toward me. With a nod, she fastened a brass twine to it and stuck a little hook into the tree, “There. The ward is working well already,” She explained. With the wave of her staff, she brought a yellowed crystal down and shook her head, “This one absorbed something nasty.”
	I held out my hands, taking it from her. The yellowed, cloudy stone had flecks of purple and brown within its form. It was colder than the snow around me as I put my hands upon it. Robin retrieved her staff and recanted the magical incantation to send the crystal away. She nodded and I wiped my hands off, “I hate it.”
	“I know. This is all that keeps calamity from us.”
	“Our own Sundering,” I shivered as I thought of the destruction of the old world. It had been quite a long time since magic and wizards, druids, sorcerers, and witches came to this world. Robin was a thaumaturge herself, born here just like me. Both of us had grown up in this cursed town, “Everyone dropping like flies. One after the other,” The stories came to mind, the before times, when the local dwarves were nearly wiped out. I started to feel pangs and shakes of anxiety across my body. I couldn’t stop thinking about the potential end of this town, not to mention the world as even the Calamity of years long past entered my consciousness. The thought of everyone in town dying to this curse should the wards fail filled my head. The spiral of horrible stress induced deaths as they dropped one after the other. I had always feared it and that terror was making me shake. It clutched my heart and my head felt cloudy. I shivered and fell to one knee. It hurt. It hurt horribly.
	“Shh…” Robin was at my side in an instant. Her furry hand caressed my cheek, “Look at me, Chris. Sol Eater is dead. We are safe here. These wards will not break as long as I am court wizard of Logwash,” I whimpered and leaned into her, letting her pull my head onto her shoulder as she stroked the back of my scalp, “There is nothing to fear. Your best friend is here to care for you. Breathe, Chris. Nice and slow.”
	Iris hugged us both gently, covering us in its warmth and dense fur. I nodded and sighed heavily, “Sorry…” I breathed slowly and heavily, just as instructed.
	“Nothing to be sorry about,” Robin held me still, gently petting my head as worry seeped into her voice, “You cannot allow yourself to get so worked up, Chris. It's bad for your heart.”
	“That’s a light way of saying it could kill me.”
	The witch released me and looked at my ghostly pale face, “You should have told me you needed treatment again.”
	“You just got home, I didn’t–”
	“That is of no concern,” She put on the same firm and stern face. She folded her arms as my head hung low, “You are more important than that. If I lost you…” She couldn’t keep the stern act going as she got watery eyed, “Please be open with me, Chris. You know I care greatly for you.”
	I nodded slowly as the two of us got to our feet, “I’m just a burden. I hate this so much. I can’t even leave,” I stomped my foot, kicking up some snow.
	“Those with the Mark are cursed to stay. That is how the dwarves were wiped out. Only after the wild elves put these sacred trees in place did the Mark stop en masse,” She reminded me.
	“And the court wizards save those who are still marked. As long as they can,” I added.
	“Just as my master did. My master’s master, and so on. I pray one day I can conjure or formulate a cure for good,” Robin looked downtrodden and depressed again.
	I shrugged, “I live. That’s all that matters. I curse the druids every day I live. I ask the Lord to strike down the rest of those pagans every night.”
	“Chris!” 
	I shook my head, “I know.”
	We both stood awkwardly. Iris whined, making us both change our focus. Robin stroked the bear under the chin, “Iris wishes she could help you.”
	“I wish she could fit in my apartment,” I jested quietly, “Maybe you can conjure up something to keep me company,” I stood, stretched and adjusted my robes, “Does this tree need my magic?”
	Robin tilted her head, “Unnecessary. But. I want you to prove you did not grow lax, apprentice. Give it your magic.”
	I nodded. The same druidic magic I cursed was at my disposal. I stood with my feet spread wide. I took hold of my wand and began to speak the druidic tongue. I commanded the forces of nature to heal the ancient tree and give their strength to the sacred oak. My fingers contorted and the trees all bowed to my will, gladly giving up their life force for this special tree. In a minute, it was done. It was nothing as flashy as Robin’s magic, but I did my part– even if she knew the incantation for this spell, “Done,” I mumbled.
	“Your latent power is showing. I knew my master made the right call when he asked the wild elves to aid you,” Robin had a pride filled smile on her face. It made my heart flutter. It was a nice pain. Iris nudged me again.
	I nodded sadly as I thought about them, “I wish it had healed me like he had hoped.”
	“Stop. You need not whine this much. Think of something else,” Her staff was sent away in a shower of sparkling silver dust, “You have done well boy,” She praised me again and put her hand on my head as she gently rubbed my scalp. In that moment I stared into her red eyes, right into her beautiful smiling face. The snow fell upon her form and stuck in her hair and robes, almost illuminating and outlining her beauty, “I am proud of you.”
 	I grunted and put a hand on my aching heart, looking down at the snow between us I nodded slowly, “Thank you.”
	Unconvinced, my master made a ‘hmph’ noise. She was deep in thought. With a hand on her chin, Madame Scarlet’s lips contorted into a mischievous smile, “Magus of the West?” I perked up, making her smile widen, “I know you want that board game.”
	“Yeah, I do! I have for like, two months now!” 
	“Then be good. Perhaps I can be persuaded to indulge you. I’ll even take time to play it with you,” She grinned, “Come. We have a few more trees to check.”
	I followed diligently. I had to wonder if I was more excited about the promise of a board game, or that she added she would play it with me. Robin? Relaxing? A very rare occurrence.

	“Go home, Iris. We’ll be back soon,” I scratched the bear behind the ears. She whined but nodded slowly. I watched her trudge away through the woods. Robin watched me expectantly, but not impatiently. We were on the east end of town where the smaller houses were in a big neighborhood. The houses were all samey with blue or cream colored walls and dark gray roofs. Rather than a garage, most had small sheds on the side and a stable and big backyard for a horse and maybe a farm animal or two. The house we approached had two horses taking shelter from the snow in their stable. I looked at Robin and gave her a nod as I pulled my hood down.
	The witch went to the front door and with the flick of her wrist, loudly used the knocker upon the front door with a magical force. It took a few moments, but the door was pulled open by a short, young man with big, round ears, not much older than me or Madame Scarlet. He smiled when he saw the crimson witch, “Are you here for Kynalia, Madame Scarlet?” He asked. He wore jeans and a green tunic. His hair was curly and blonde and he was about four feet tall which was normal for a halfling.
	“Yes, Mister Swiftfoot. Is she in? It has been three months since I performed a checkup,” She replied with a small smile.
	“Wonderful!” He gave her a smile and wrung his hands nervously, “She totally forgot! I even mentioned you this morning, somehow you always appear when I invoke your name!” Mister Swiftfoot laughed, “Come in, come in, both of you,” I graciously entered the halfling’s home behind Madame Scarlet. I wiped my boots on the door mat, and looked around the home I had been in a handful of times. Family photos and a clock adorned the walls in the small entryway. We were led through the tiny foyer to a living room. To the right was a dining room and kitchen, to the left were a few bedrooms. A small, metal spiral staircase led up to a second floor where a small attic room was, “Dear, the court wizard is here,” Mister Swiftfoot called.
	Lounging on a couch was another beastwoman, this one being a cat woman. Unlike Madame Scarlet she had no fur on her limbs to speak of. She did however have big, pointed ears that came off the sides of her head where a human’s ears would be and shot straight up. Her eyes were an icy blue with slit pupils like a cat in the sun and she wore a simple t-shirt and sweats. She put her book down, something about the Ancient Greeks, and smiled at Madame Scarlet, “Ah, friend,” Her raspy voice purred, “What does Kynalia owe the honor?”
	“Mark checkup,” Madame Scarlet explained, “You know the drill.”
	The cat woman’s tail drooped, “Yes, yes… Kynalia understands. Husband, my love? Can you get these two some tea?"
	The halfling nodded and stepped into the kitchen. Kynalia removed her shirt and laid on the floor, pulling up the bag of magical materials that she wore over her heart, just like I did. I tried not to look, I hated it very much. But I had to peer at my master’s work. Upon Kynalia’s skin was a dark, twisting Mark above her heart. It seemed to wriggle and writhe like a mass of worms or snakes. It was the same one I had. As she stretched out, I could see how tall she was, easily six inches taller than me. Her curly blonde hair had a few white and black stripes in it showing her tiger-like bloodline. She purred as Madame Scarlet ran a single finger over the drawn on runes. The mark had a ring of magical sigils around it and a half circle crescent around that. I had four rings of them on my chest. It always made me uncomfortable to see them. I hated this part of Madame Scarlet’s duties. I looked away as my master procured a silver plated ink pen and conjured a silvery inkwell. 
	“Your sigils are looking good, Kynalia,” Madame scarlet smiled as she touched up some of the runes with the argentum ink. It seeped into the skin as the witch expertly drew them.
	The cat woman looked proud, “Yes, Kynalia has stopped scratching them after the last scare. Has Christopher’s Mark been well?”
	“Almost collapsed today,” I admitted with a sad frown.
	“No need for Christopher to look so glum,” The woman purred as the witch whispered a magical incantation, “Christopher has one of the worst Marks in town. Kynalia is glad Christopher is so strong for Madame Scarlet’s sake.”
	“Yeah,” I shrugged, “Me and Zarik both got it bad. I’m not even a dwarf like him, what did I do?” I jested.
	“Mayor Buruz-Brakborn’s boy does not deserve it,” The cat woman scowled, “Mayor does. Should have been born with Mark, not Zarik.”
	“She is my friend’s mom,” I sighed, “I can’t hate her too much. Dinner at her house was always wonderful. Hey, maybe you’ll get your run as mayor soon.”
	“Oh, Christopher is always so sweet,” She cooed, “Making this woman’s Mark hurt with his grand ideas of Kynalia’s glory.”
	Mister Swiftfoot cleared his throat as he appeared with kettle and teacups. He placed them on the coffee table before pouring four cups, “Did my wife tell you she’s been having pains?”
	A sigh came from Madame Scarlet’s lips, “No. Kynalia did not.”
	The cat woman frowned and turned away, “Kynalia is fine.”
	“Honey,” The halfling’s voice was suddenly full of worry, “I’m terrified you won’t survive when you…” He trailed off. Neither of the two could find the words.
	“When you go into labor?” Madame Scarlet shared his worry as she finished his sentence. The couple nodded, “I thought I sensed something whilst looking you over. Firstly, congratulations to you two. Secondly, I am going to finish this second ring, Kynalia. When you do go into labor, I may need to be there. You know what the stress could do to you.”
	Kynalia looked up at my master, “Kynalia is scared, Robin,” She curled up into a pitiful fetal position.
	“I will continue my research. A cure is out there. I just came back from a prestigious magic college. I am searching the texts I obtained for more information. A few masters of magic listened to our pleas for aid and we may yet receive it,” Her smile was soft and full of confidence, “I am but a Thaumaturge, but I will do everything in my power to aid you. Please let me add runes to your mark.”
	“Yes, Robin,” She stretched out again, “Yes, Madame Scarlet. Kynalia apologizes,” She smiled. Her husband laid on the floor with her, letting her wrap an arm around him and hold the halfling closer. 
	I smiled and took a seat on the couch with a cup of tea in my hand. I took a deep breath and took my downtime to check my flip phone and my notes. Not much more to do today. I was just hoping it would be easy when we went to see Mayor Buruz-Brakborn.

	The snow overhead had stopped. We were back in the sleigh being pulled by Iris and I was holding a jar of warm, freshly brewed brown cream. The scent was sickly sweet and I did my best to hold my breath. Robin was deep in thought, like usual. We pulled onto mainstreet and the town hall came into view once more. The building itself was made of hand crafted, white stones with octagonal, dwarven made pillars of a similar, clean looking stone. It was wide and short, just like the dwarves who built it years ago. The building had a small parking lot and many spots to tie horses to for the day and a couple spots to chain bikes to. That car was still there with the chauffeur still sitting in the car. Iris pulled the sleigh into a parking spot and was magically un-harnessed by Robin. The witch made a face as we dismounted, “Will she be safe here?”
	“Everyone knows that silver means you made it now,” I assured her, “The wolves spooked people at first, but they don’t even stare when they run down the road now. Iris will be fine, but I don’t doubt kids might try to pet her.”
	“Well,” Robin smiled softly, “I think you are right, dear apprentice. Iris, be on your best behavior. I will have a meal prepared for you when we return home.”
	“Only scare the children when I’m here to see it,” I added with a mischievous grin.
	“Chris!” Robin scolded. She shook her head as I shrugged and we began to walk to town hall. The trees, bushes, and grass on the lawn were all dusted with snow just like everywhere else. A few children had been here and made a snowman which was a nice addition to the otherwise sterile looking town hall. The walkway up to the front doors had been shoveled and covered in a defrosting agent that made the ground a bit sticky. I made sure to cleanse both mine and Robin's shoes before we went inside. I opened the heavy wooden door for my master and beckoned her to enter. She gave me a small bow and made her way to the front desk. Two dwarven women with brunette hair braided down their chin as fake beards tapped away on computers, “I am here to see the Mayor. She should be expecting us for a delivery,” I presented the jar.
	One of them looked over her glasses, “Madame Scarlet? Take the elevator to the second floor, miss.”
	“Thank you,” We made our way to the small elevator and squeezed in. We took up almost half the space. I stared at the reflective metal around us as Madame Scarlet pressed the button. It made a noise and the doors slid closed. The elevator rumbled and groaned as the old pulley system did its job, almost threatening to send us falling into the basement. I clutched my chest as the anxiety crept in again, “Breathe, Mister Cooper,” My master ordered quietly, “There is nothing to fear here.”
	I nodded and did as she said. In. Out. In. Out… The elevator creaked and came to a stop. With a cheery twang, the door slid open and let us out into the second floor. There were a few offices here to the left and right, a small lounge in this landing space, and a double door leading into the main office, the mayor’s. I just wanted to get this done now. I pulled the door open for Madame Scarlet and the two of us entered. An expensive-looking rug was laid out before us leading to a wide and short wooden desk. A woman sat behind it, a dwarvish woman with tanned skin, a head of gray hair that was done up in a bun, and thick glasses resting on her nose. She wore a button up and slacks, “Just the woman I was looking for,” The dwarven woman smiled. I ungraciously put the jar on her desk and gave the younger dwarf off to the side a nod in greeting which he returned. It was Zarik, working as his mother’s scribe. His hair was black and flowing, complete with an equally flowing beard. He too wore a button up with slacks. He presented himself as tough and serious, but his eyes always looked so young and inexperienced below his furry eyebrows. Just like Madame Scarlet, he was an old friend, though one I had drifted apart with in recent times, “And this is sure to work?” The mayor asked quietly as she examined the still warm jar.
	“Of course. It was a recipe I picked up at the college of mages,” Madame Scarlet replied, “A dwarven wizard had developed it.”
	I felt a sharp sensation. Another figure in the room. My eyes turned to the dark corner of the room where I saw a set of yellow irises glaring right at me and felt the intent to do harm. I pulled Madame Scarlet behind me, putting myself between the figure and her. My hand went for my sword only for it to painfully be frozen in place with a paralysis spell. I groaned, trying to fight through it and soon I realized I couldn't move any part of my body. My heart ached painfully as I wondered what would happen to Robin.