Chapter 7

Running into wolves


If she could move or speak up her mind, she would have done that within twenty seconds. Parsley is angry – mildly so. She is also confused of how to approach any of her current problems. The old mage's words make it hard to think with your own brains.

Sphynx, in her mind, Parsley calls for her friend, who seems to have abandoned her. He is still in the same hallway between the front door and the kitchen, but he hasn't said anything yet. She can only wonder why.

"M-COP; Magical Concealer of Protection. During my time back in our world, I was led to believe that it was for everyone's own safety to have one on their person. It didn't matter, if someone didn't want to have a mark on them, for they would gladly accept this one. It is a human nature to survive, after all. Nobody wanted to die in the most painful way possible – neither did I. So, I sucked on every lie they had, but that is exactly what our government wanted at the very beginning of our history. Despite the marks preventing us from using easier ways to wield magic, everyone used their own magic from within. But, as a result, many could have lost their lives doing that and magician became a less favorable profession. Over the years, many refused to become one, knowing what risks they would need to face. Tell me cat, how many magicians are left in the world?"

"From the whole population of the Magic and human world, there are only twenty-five-point seventy-nine percent," is the immediate, accurate answer.

Parsley feels immediate sense of further betrayal and wants to bite her tongue in frustration. She doesn't understand how her friend can be so accepting about all of this. These lies are making her stomach hurt and she nearly wants to cry out helplessly. She is so afraid. The skin on her lower back is tender with the brush of the dress's shirt part brushing against it – it serves as a reminder what previously had been there.

The mage continues speaking after a pause. "Hmph! When I left, it was higher. Around forty-seven percent, I think? Anyway, as I was saying, the mark does nothing, but block magician's connection with nature itself. As you probably know from history, people with magical abilities were once connected with all the forest folk in the world. But eventually, that too was put aside. The spell was planned to root itself deeply inside newborns magic-core and block any kind of ability to use the magical energy that anyone could get from the air. That way, peace could be maintained."

Peace? What is she talking about?

"I can see from ya expression that ya don't get it. Well, nobody who still knows about this is allowed to teach it to the newest generation – Back in the eighteenth century, the world was in chaos. Witch hunts were ending, but that didn't wipe away the anger our kin held for the ordinary folk. So many were lost during those times. So-called "witches" were burned, tortured and looked down upon by everyone. They were feared, rightfully so. Who could even understand magic, when many didn't even possess such powers! Even back then the number of magicians was so small, that our numbers could have shrank in a matter of few years! That is exactly when the fear that our kin had held turned into anger. So much hate was spread amongst the magicians, that many started to come out of hiding and harm others. Though, it is easy to guess what the end result was – another annihilation occurred. This time, though, magicians were the ones leading it. But, ya know what separates the magicians from yar time and yar ancestors?"

There is a dramatic pause and Parsley's stomach drops. She doesn't like where this talk is going. The old mage woman is smiling lightly, but it is a mean one. She seems to like seeing the young woman look uncomfortable while still under her spell and unable to speak and move.

"Yar ancestors were all mages," she says it lightly, but sees something flash in the hazel eyes and her smirk widens. She has definitely said something, that riles Parsley up. "Down to the tips of their toes, they were all mages and more connected with magic than mere magicians could ever be. They didn't have any limitations back then! None! That is why some higherups became so worried about their people. The mages went out into the world; killed hundreds of normal folk all around the place with their powers; tore down villages and towns one after another. It was a time period that was so gruesome in our history, that it was erased – for what would happen in the magician society, if everyone were to find out they could be more powerful without risking their lives? Chaos, terrorism, wars, destruction, all of those will be the result. That is what happened back then and that is why M-COP was invented. To make us fear magic – something that we should be proud of – and to make sure our numbers will be lessened and kept in check."

As soon as she is finished talking, the spell around Parsley is broken and she nearly stumbles down to the ground. Her heartbeat has risen and is currently drumming her eardrums at tremendous pace. Sweat covers her hands that she balls into tight fists along with the rest of her body. It feels very strange but relieving to have the control of her own body back. Though, it does nothing to wipe away her unease, instead, she feels more like a trapped mouse than a winner.

Shakily, Parsley looks up into green eyes and swallows thickly. Before directing her gaze down to the feline on the ground. Sphynx looks between the two women but noticing his owner's attention is on him he focuses only on her. She is certain he can sense her distress and read the silent question in her eyes. Why didn't you help me?

Gritting her teeth together, she tears her eyes away from the cat and looks at the mage. "You are lying."

Parsley isn't sure, what the old woman had been expecting her reaction to be like. But whatever it had been, it is definitely crushed, and wrinkly hands rise up in exasperation. "For God's sake! How much of a stubborn lass are ya!? I have done my research! Have I wasted my breath for naught!?"

Parsley almost takes a step back, when she receives the angry tone. Is she going to freeze me again? The mage looks slightly tired and irritated and slams her staff against the ground to prove a point. She is acting like she has any right to be the angry one in this situation and it irks Parsley. First, she hears these ridiculous stories of history and now she has to listen while being yelled at?

Being dragged around an unfamiliar town, getting a mark forcefully ripped off and then being under a spell more than once are starting to take their toll on her poor nerves.

"I didn't ask for a history lesson nor to get my M-COP removed! How – how could you do that!?"

"What is with yar tone, lass? Parents never taught ya how to speak to an elder?"

"I never asked to get it off! I can't use magic without it!" Parsley runs her sweaty hands through her hair wildly, eyes flying across the floor. She feels restless and starts pacing in the hallway without caring about the mage who is obviously watching. "Oh, my gosh. Oh, my gosh! I-I am going to die! I am going to die in here! Sphynx!" She turns to glare at her familiar through tear blurred eyes. "Why didn't you stop her!? She is g-going to kill me!"

He flinches by the sheer volume of her panic filled voice. The words of accuse, though, probably hurt more. "She isn't going to harm us, Parsley. I have already told you."

"How can you say that!? Did – Were you even listening a word she said? This is stupid! The government of the Magic World would not do something like this! And we are supposed to focus on getting back home and not this gibberish! Do you have any idea what mother and father might be thinking right now? They might think we are kidnapped or dead somewhere! This place is scary enough and I want to go home! Can't you understand that!?"

Thump!

"Ah!" Sharp pain on top of the head makes Parsley jolt and reach out to rub the sore spot. It aches and is tender under the soft touch.

However, when she looks up, she wishes she had not done something so stupid. Right in front of her, the mage is glaring at her harshly, staff raised threateningly. "Are ya even listening what ya are saying, lass? The one who should understand things around here is ya and only ya. Only crying and complaining… Sure ya will be dead as a rock on the ground, if ya continue acting like a small infant! Whining and blaming yar cat who ya should trust more than anyone, when he has done his everything to keep ya safe. That is what his kind are for, but it is clear that ya are too thickskulled to realize it."

The anger Parsley feels dims from the icy cold tone. Her shoulders get stiffer from every word, hitting her like a boulder – like they are supposed to make her feel guilty or apologetic for something. They do have their impact, alright. The young woman feels even younger, back to the time when her mother scolded her smaller self from breaking something with magic.

Of course, slowly – very slowly – Parsley realizes what she has said and glances down at her cat. He is staring up at her like any normal cat would, not revealing emotions. She hates to admit it, but she has crossed a line. Sphynx really does get how bad their situation is. Parsley is simply the only one out of the two of them who has been panicking every chance she has gotten. Sphynx has never truly wanted to hurt her – expect a day or two ago, when he scratched her leg.

However, she doesn't get to think further past incomprehension, when the old woman limps past her. But before she can get too far away, the mage pushes a book harshly against Parsley's chest. It appears out of nowhere, so the air escapes from her lungs from both surprise and the impact.

"Study this and try out the first two spells tomorrow morning," are the only instructions she gives, before retiring into the safety of her own room.

Parsley is left standing motionless with Sphynx right by her side. She looks down at the book in her hands after a few seconds have passed and her eyes widen from the title – "Spells for beginners".


"Parsley are you alright?" Sphynx asks, but cringes once he realizes that might not have been the best question to ask from her.

The twitch is obvious from the corner of her hazel eyes, and yet, she doesn't look at him. Her attention is solely focused on the open page before her, though, her eyelids are starting to get too heavy. It is night already, but she is still up with candle lights brightening up the text. It feels so strange to use them, because usually there is a lamp on her desk back at home. And electricity, tv, computer… Parsley almost lets out a sigh from the thought of the comforts. It seems this place is entirely run by magic and nothing close to modern time technology.

The thought of those objects back at the apartment start to make Parsley's eyes sting. She rubs them and tries to focus back on the task at hand. She can sleep after finishing the second chapter.

She starts rubbing the area between her brows in concentration and frustration. The words look like they are mixing together and the tenseness on her shoulders remind Parsley of the time when she was reading to the exams. It had been a hell. But, now she is – in a way – doing it all again. In even worse conditions as well.

I must do this! She bites down on her lower lip, for the hundredth time. The slight taste of iron and stinging on the side tells that there is a cut on it already. Her head has already started hurting from the amount of thinking, reading and trying to remember formulas and commands. Not to mention the emotional drain she has experienced a lot. I have to learn, I must to get out of here. Obeying that old lady seems to be the only option I have.

Though, her stomach twitches from the thought of actually trying any of these spells tomorrow. Many things could go wrong – she is currently thinking about those ways where she will end up as a corpse. If Sphynx wasn't in the same room, she would try to feel where the M-COP used to be and look through a mirror at it. She doesn't trust the mage enough to feel reassured that she won't die. How could she? When all this time she has been told something different.

The chapter is nearly finished, but Parsley finds herself drifting deeper into her own thoughts rather than into the text. She is lying. It is all to confuse me… But, could it be true, after all? Is the mark really why we can't push ourselves over the limits?

Not wanting to ponder this alone anymore, she opens her mouth. "Sphynx, do you think what she said is true?"

He perks up from finally being spoken to. "I think she has been honest with us this whole time."

"How can you be so sure?" She closes the book and blows out the candles. The room turns dark immediately, but the light of the moonlight comes through the window and lightens up the whole place. "And… how could you let her rip my mark off?"

She doesn't feel angry anymore. Although, slightly irritated and hurt, Parsley remains calm and walks towards the bed with slow pace. She feels extremely tired all of sudden.

"I didn't know that she was going to do it," Sphynx admits and follows her. His own steps are much quieter, despite using four limbs – two more than what she has – to walk.

He isn't going to apologize. It is a statement, one that doesn't bother Parsley as much as she thought it would. In fact, a small voice keeps telling him to get angry at her. She is the one who should bow down and beg for forgiveness in this situation after all. She is the one who yelled and doubted her familiar and close friend – not him.

"I am sorry," is what she says, as soon as she lays down to the bed and Sphynx jumps next to her. His large eyes turn towards her and golden orbs glow in the dark. "For doubting you. You have helped me so much and I have been… like…"

"Like a spoiled brat?" He asks bluntly, and she winces. He doesn't say it with humor, so it means that he is slightly displeased. However, he soon cuddles closer and settles his head near her neck.

Parsley relaxes, feeling the cold wet nose touch the skin there lightly with whiskers. Her right hand reaches out and curls around the cat gently. This is how they mostly sleep, in each other's company like from the time, when they were both very young. Though, back then Parsley slept more restlessly than nowadays and even kicked him off many times. As a result, he had to use sleeping spells to make her cease moving sometimes. The memory brings a fond smile to her lips and she hugs him closer. In return, he lets her, despite not being cat who enjoys hugging.

I have to… do something. She closes her eyes tiredly and relaxes against the soft covers and pillows. Tomorrow, she has to give it her all. But I am so scared.

"You are forgiven," Sphynx mutters while yawning and then shifts a little, before relaxing again.

Parsley doesn't dare to tighten her hold for the second time – that would crush her cat – but wishes she could. And if she wasn't currently so tired, then she would let a faint smile curve her lips up.

However, the night would not be peaceful one – none of the very few nights in this house have been so far. No doubt Sphynx would need to wake up for another nightly terrors.


She is back in that dark room. People wearing black coats are all surrounding her and form a half-circle at the same time. However, Parsley doesn't look up and keeps her gaze at their feet.

The curtains of her hair shade the bruises across the cheeks and bare neck which throb warmly. Parsley pants, sweat and tears fall down to the dirty ground under her tie-up feet. The ropes feel like they are starting to tighten around her form, successfully squeezing the air out and making the bones groan painfully under the pressure. She can still breathe, but the air gets hotter from tension with each second. And the figures around her seem like they are getting closer as well.

All at once, panic strikes, but Parsley's entire body feels numb. Her movements are sluggish, no matter how much she tries to trash around. The ropes do not ease their hold but tighten instead. If possible, Parsley thinks they are starting to sink down into her skin – they would soon reach the bone. She closes her eyes and opens them again like it could be any help. This is a dream.

A knife shines ominously in the dark and many others soon join it. The amount of the people increases and by now they look like enormous shadows looming over the shaking woman.

She can't struggle anymore and only starts to shake her head. "N-no! Stop! L-let me go!"

"Parsley," in the dark – between the dark forms of the cloaks – Sphynx appears. His eyes are like two bright gold coins and both orbs stare straight at her.

In turn from receiving such a call, Parsley's hazel eyes widen, and she opens her mouth wide.

Why is he here!? Couldn't he see the danger before him? These people are pointing knives at her and he will be next!

As if sensing what her worst fear and worry was, the figures do exactly that and disband from around her. It is like watching dark smoke cloud being moved by the wind, and Parsley's heart screams for that wind to start blowing towards the opposite direction from where it is now.

"Sphynx! Run!"

She can feel that same fear that she felt during the first hours – maybe even days – in this room. Watching and being helpless to stop the torture she went through. The memories are twisting the reality and soon there is that same wooden table before her. It is piled with iron rods and knives.

Now, more anxious than before, Parsley looks up from the mass of violent objects towards Sphynx. He has not moved yet and does not look like he will any time soon. His whole composure stays calm, even as the shadows keep on approaching.

Sphynx, a cat who can sense the hidden intents and smell every small scent on a person, does not sense the danger.

The snake-like ropes are starting to drag Parsley down. It doesn't feel like she is sitting on a chair anymore, but she still has a clear view across the table's surface and its weapons to her motionless friend. He just keeps staring at her.

Like the ropes want to give her a chance, the young woman's right hand manages to tear itself away from their reach and reach out towards the cat. One pointy ear does a twitch from the gesture, but that is all there is to it.

"Sphynx!"

He tilts his head and flicks his tail. "What are you sitting there for?"

No! What are you sitting there for!?

She is about to scream for him again but is stopped. Not from seeing him being attacked, but from feeling sharp tips lunge into the deepest parts of her muscles and all the way to the bone. The knives have made their way to her without the young woman even noticing.

Sphynx is gone, though Parsley can't see through tightly closed eyelids. She screams, instead and feels blood pooling out of her body. iT hUrTs. Metallic scent overwhelms her senses and the next thing Parsley knows, is that more knifes are pointed at her face. pAiN. bLoOd. PaIn. BlOoD. pAiN. bLoOd.

The faces – both masked and unmasked ones – of those who had tormented her, literally appear at every second Parsley lets out a scream.

The harsh rod of iron starts to hit her. Pain blossoms on every part of her body as she keeps staring up at the familiar and terrifyingly blank faces.


"Eeeeep!" Parsley is sent back by a strong blow and falls onto her back. The hard ground collides with her head as well, making stars dance across her vision painfully brightly. Her heart – which almost jumped out of the ribcage from the blast – drums inside her ears for a while, even when she is starting to get up and look at the damage.

Her hazel eyes nearly bulge out of their sockets, when they inspect what was once a desk and a glass bowl is now pieces of broken planks and shards of glass on the ground. Luckily, she is outside and not inside the house. If she had tried this between four walls, no doubt some of the furniture would have been broken. Splatters of water have soaked both the grass and wood.

I… I didn't die. She looks down at herself for confirmation. Sure enough, she has not changed in any way and somehow the fact sends a jolt of disappointment throughout her shaken and aching body. What she had been expecting didn't happen and it has left a bitter taste into her mouth. All those words that the old woman had said yesterday come back and Parsley fights an urge to look at her. She spoke the truth. Her stomach twists uncomfortably from the inner statement. But then she frowns, visibly showing her dislike towards the very thought. No. It doesn't mean that it is the fault of the M-COP. Maybe she didn't rip it off and only decided to scare me? That must be it, considering how she has now failed to form a spell.

From somewhere behind, the young woman can feel the gazes of the mage and her cat boring into the scene before them. It isn't like this is the first time that she has messed up a spell, but heat gathers into her cheeks, and she lowers her gaze in embarrassment.

"How on earth did ya manage to make an explosion out of water?" The mage finally asks after an awkward silence.

Parsley looks between the destruction and her hands meekly. "I… I don't know."

Sphynx hurries next to her and leans closer. "Kind of like back in your seventh grade."

Her face turns even redder, if possible. She feels uncomfortable twitch in the bottom of her stomach from the memory and hisses: "Don't bring it up with her around!"

Obviously not hearing a thing they have said; the said woman starts speaking again. "When ya use water element in yar magic, to cause an explosion it should require packing up a lot of heat magic as well… Seriously, yar mark is destroyed and all, but – Wait. Maybe ya remembered the orders wrong?"

Her words start to be meant more to herself than to Parsley who would rather close off her hearing. This reminds her all too much of the days, when she had to stay with one of the teachers after the rest of the class was dismissed. Of course, they began as talks of concern, but always ended up with them suggesting that she would quit using magic. Those words had been blows of shame and they nearly crushed her entirely. And even now, the mage is about to repeat the same pattern repeatedly.

I don't want this anymore. Hazel eyes become glassier and tears sting them. Parsley bites her tongue and starts to stand up shakily, a wave of dizziness making her movements sluggish. Some small part of her really wished that the M-COP could have been the reason to all of her failures, but now she has proven to be a lost case. I shouldn't have raised my hopes. Because this is what she has always gotten. Deep painful disappointment. What made her think that this one would be any different anyway? Stupid.

Her hands sting – the fall had caused the ground to scrape them. She looks down to see small patches of old skin up and newer ones showing. Luckily, there is no blood. Though, she thinks she would deserve that for trying to even believe achieving something today. Not to mention she performed the spell knowing well enough that there was a risk of dying – she is so desperate that it is pathetic. Wow. Since when have I been this negative?

"Hey, lass. Try again."

She frowns and crosses her arms, but then almost wobbles to the side. The spell must have taken more energy than she thought. "B-but… the table is destroyed."

"Tch! Excuses," the old woman mutters under her breath and waves her wand once.

In a blink of an eye, the wood starts to gather up together with the glass and mix together. The mass takes a shape, twirling and twisting in the air as a transparent and brown liquid, but then starts to form the outline of a square. The firm surface of the table that was few minutes ago destroyed into pieces is becoming visible and lowers itself to the ground together with the clear glass bowl.

Parsley stares and stares some more. Honestly, she had hoped her excuse would have been enough, but she almost forgot that there is another person capable enough to use magic better than she in the area.

"Now, do it again. And don't ya dare to channel yar inner magic into it! Use the magic that courses around ya – For goodness sake, yar face is white and blue. How much of yar magic did ya use?"

She frowns, but then decides to sit back down. It helps slightly to ease the dizziness, but other than that she is starting to realize how weak she truly feels. "I… I d-don't know. A half, maybe?"

"Definitely more!" The old woman all but yells and marches to her with brisk pace. Her hand slams down to her shoulder and starts shaking it a little too roughly. The sudden and unfamiliar contact makes Parsley stiffen, but the owner of the hand isn't noticing it. "As soon as ya can stand up, do it again. And don't ya dare come back inside until ya have got it!"

"W-what!?" Bewildered, Parsley's jaw goes up and down, but nothing else comes out. She hadn't really expected to get this kind of order and it honestly terrifies her. I-is she serious?

"If ya get hungry or tired," the mage shrugs, "tough luck."

Sphynx walks to her, as soon as she heads for the house. "Isn't that a bit too much? Her health-"

"Would improve, if she quit being so picky about the food!" Green eyes whirl around to see the amber-brown haired woman flinch. The words were said loudly on purpose. "I make ya two a healthy breakfast with enough nutrition to stablish your starved state, but what do ya do? Take a bite out of an apple and leave it at that! Bah! I am going to bed, but don't let me catch ya slacking! If the table gets destroyed again, then fix it yourself."

"W-wait!" The magician reaches out, but the only answer she gets to her plea is a door closing shut. The sound echoes in the vast environment and sounds hollow to Parsley's ears. She remains on the ground, stiff and staring at the wooden door like it would open any time soon.

Although, wishing for this to be a nightmare is simply her own wishful thinking once again. Still, her limbs feel paralyzed and heavy from both shock and the loss of magical energy. She… she is serious? I have to stay out – outside until I can do it?

Almost fearfully that her hearing is right, Parsley slowly turns to look at Sphynx. He probably can sense the uneasy air and turns his own head at the same time she does. Their eyes lock, and for a moment they send silent messages to each other.

"We have to stay out here?"

"Unless you can do the spell, it seems so," as soon as those words come out of the feline's mouth, his owner covers her face.

Parsley feels like ready to cry. "We will be here all night."

"Now, now. Let's not get negative," the cat scolds playfully and starts to groom himself without a care.

Weakly, the human looks at the feline again. "How can you be so relaxed – Oh, never mind." She finishes lamely and averts her gaze. He has always been like this.

Parsley stays sitting on the ground, occasionally drifting her gaze off from the table to the environment around her cautiously. She recalls the face of the young boy who had shown her the way back here and her muscles tense from the thought of him stepping out between the trees. He could be watching them at this very moment, for all she knows. No doubt he would be amused by the sight of her creating an explosion and falling down to her rear, as well. Really, Parsley wouldn't be surprised, if that little boy is watching. This whole forest has already proven to be the strangest place possible. Though, it had been less so, when the mage had been leading the way through it to the town and back. No doubt about it. She probably controls this place.

Slowly, but surely, the strength starts to return into her. The dizziness is completely gone, but there is still that hint of faint weakness coming from her muscles. She should try and stand up now… if she wanted that is. Parsley would rather spend her day on the ground, than get blown away repeatedly. The mage had even dared to suggest using the same method her kind did with magic and the magician could not even bare to step down to such a level. Taking magic from nature is forbidden by the law. There is no way she will become a criminal, another world or not!

The sun is shining and suddenly a weight lands on her shoulder. She cracks her eyes open – she doesn't recall when she had closed them – and stares at the slit golden eyes.

"Rise and shine. You have rested enough," he states, ears twitching. "Like she said, remember to use the magic around you this time."

Parsley frowns. "Are you serious? Do you want me to break the law?"

"Law has deceived us," he says boldly and narrows his eyes. "It is nothing more than a leash to keep magicians in order."

Parsley resists an urge to roll her eyes from his poetry words. "Do not tell me that you believed everything that woman said," it isn't a question and it isn't said lightly.

He doesn't seem bothered by her tone. "She told us the truth."

Parsley's frown deepens. "And how could you tell, whether a person is lying or not?"

"You know how great of a judge-of-a-character I am."

She purses her lips in annoyance and looks away from the cat's intense gaze. She knows as well as he does how true that is. Though, like a child, Parsley denies it silently in her mind. From the beginning, it was easy to see that the old mage is trustworthy, but the young woman keeps on denying it. She doesn't like to admit it, but the moment she had been touched by her earlier, a cold chill had gone down her spine. The thin fingers had been skeleton-like.

"But, even if I can do the spell, what then?" She finally asks and kicks some grass in frustration. "What good would learning this do?"

"We could go out to the world by ourselves."

Parsley huffs and shakes her head. However, deep inside, cold ice has started to spread from her heart to the lungs. "No. I am not going out there… Not after what we went through."

"We would be safe, if we had more power," Sphynx says, full of confidence. "You do not expect us to find out the ones – or whatever it had been – that brought us here?"

She bites down on her tongue and closes her eyes tiredly. "I just…"

'I just' what? I just want to go home? To get out of this house? To have even one night of peaceful sleep? The bags under her eyes feel like they throb. They are the marks of the nights she has been trying to get a wink of sleep. She reaches out with her left hand and rubs them tiredly.

"I just want to…" she pauses again and glances at Sphynx. He is looking back patiently, which is kind of reassuring. "I guess going home would be the best option. But… How exactly are we going to explain my missing M-COP? And what about my sudden disappearance to my parents or even the police? Nobody is going to believe us! And I still haven't decided what kind of career I want after this – I mean. Mama has to have some suggestions, but I doubt they will be helpful, when I haven't studied almost anything else, but magic for the past years. Not to mention I keep on waking up during the night from nightmares – we have to explain that one as well. Waking up almost screaming is not normal. Also, haven't you noticed that it is kind of weird that my grandma owned a book with a spell that brought us here? I find that very strange. Though, this whole situation is very strange to begin with. Also-"

"Parsley, you're blabbering," Sphynx cuts in before she can continue any further. The moment he does, he can hear Parsley stop breathing for a second. "I know that we both have many questions that need to be answered, but we should really just focus on getting back home. That is the most important thing and what we should keep as our main goal. Alright?"

She looks at him and he returns that gaze. There isn't a perfect silence surrounding the two of them, because the birds keep on chirping. But both the human and the cat don't seem to hear them. They both only have their complete focus on each other. This is a staring contest. The first one to waver will have to submit.

Parsley isn't convinced. You can easily see that from her expression – the very picture of uneasiness and stubbornness. More than that, she is startled that for a moment, she actually thought of listening to her familiar and starting to try casting a spell, again. An impossible task, that is what it is and always will be. But now they are locked out of the house – she will check that lock later – with no shelter and no further explanation from the mage. That is the thing I need in the first place. An explanation, more reason to this absurd situation. She doesn't even know why those weird people kept her and Sphynx as prisoners or what the mage is called. It makes Parsley wonder, if the old woman even has a name. How is she supposed to trust her, without even knowing that basic information?

The skin on the lower half of her back isn't tender anymore. Frankly, she has never even noticed the mark being there, but now that it is really gone it is like there is emptiness there. After what that mage did to it, was she supposed to trust that kind of unexpected person? She has simply lifted her shirt and done whatever she had wanted without telling Parsley a thing. It had scared the magician.

Also, that old woman had instructed her to perform magic with a forbidden way. Not only is that dangerous and a crime, but it could definitely do more damage. Didn't anyone – Sphynx should have more than the mage – even noticed how badly my last attempt went with magic? Parsley remembers that the old woman also hadn't explained further, when she had pushed that book of spells to her. But… I still read it… for myself and for Sphynx's sake.

Parsley bites down on her lower lip and breaks an eye contact. She could still try the spell while using her own magic. She would only need to concentrate enough and remember the steps correctly this time.

"Fine."


Sweat is starting to soak the dress's shirt. Parsley can smell her own sweat from the lack of deodorant bites down on her lip – it has started to sting. Still, she tries her best to keep her attention on the few water drops floating above her two hands. Just a little more… Don't blow this up, again.

Carefully channeling the magic all across her arms and to her palm, Parsley bites down on her lower lip and inhales deeply. Now, she would only need to place it down to the bowl and leave it at that. She can actually do this.

Suddenly, a wave of dizziness hits the young magician and she falters, her balance swaying dangerously. The magic courses through her veins to the concentration on her palms and more small drops start to form out of thin air. It sends a jolt all over Parsley's body and she tenses up. Her heartbeat picks up pace and dark spots start to dance across her vision. I… I can't.

"Parsley!"

Sphynx's voice snaps her back. The magical energy halts and her muscles turn into slack noodles. The familiar cat is by her side the minute she drops down to her knees, shoulders heaving heavily up and down. The water formed in the middle of the air comes crashing down like rain, half splattering into the glass container and the rest going over across the table and over its edges.

Hazel eyes – unfocused and blurry – raise themselves to look at the failed spell and then drop back down to their owner's lap. A very familiar heaviness settles into Parsley's chest and she lets out and equally heavy sigh. Once again, she has let her hopes get too high.

However, she manages to give out a shaky laugh and looks down at her friend with a small smile. "At least I got it into the container this time."

He nods, tail swaying. "Quick improvement."

Parsley laughs again – hearing genuine compliment from Sphynx on her magic skills lifts some of the weight – but then grimaces and lays down on her back. "Ugh! I feel sick."

"You used too much of your magic at the end of the spell," the cat states the obvious and walks closer to his owner's face, golden eyes meeting half-open hazel ones.

Parsley purses her lips and tilts her head slightly to get a better look at the furry face. "Do… do you think that she will be satisfied," she gestures at the table and the splatters of water, "with this?"

Sphynx's nose twitches and he looks at the half-full bowl with criticizing eyes. "Hmm…"

"I do not like that tone," Parsley drawls out, narrowing her eyes and frowns.

"I haven't even said anything, yet."

"Yes, you have. You said 'hmm'."

"That is not even a word, Parsley."

She shrugs and mutters: "You hesitated. That is already saying something."

He can obviously hear her with his cat ears but doesn't say anything to her comment. Instead, both he and her settle on a comfortable silence and watch the result of her magic.

The real purpose of this simple water spell was to create water from thin air – in a more proper way of saying, it is a condensation spell. Parsley can recall times in her first years of magic study that this was one of the basic things she had been taught. She also recalls having some trouble with it at the beginning, but eventually got a hold of it with the assistance of her father… Though, it appears as she has already forgotten how to perform it.

Parsley looks down at her lap. Thinking back to all those lessons with her father and how patient he had been with her. A trait that she has proven to lack in many ways. She has never really understood where her father's own calmness even came from. Considering how much his youngest offspring kept on messing. According to him, Orick messed up just as much as she had back in her younger years… but at least now he has a stable job as a magician. While his sister just failed an entrance exam to one of the good universities. Honestly, the moment the rejection letter had come, parsley felt bitter, deep jealousy towards her only sibling.

And now, she misses that older brother who she forced to do dress up with her when they were little. Parsley misses Orick's quirky grin that he would throw after teasing and even the way he would ruffle her hair from time to time just to get a weird noise out of her… I am not going to start crying. Am not, am not, am not.

"Parsley, are you alright?"

Curse you, Sphynx. She sits up and forces whatever liquid is in her eyes back wherever they came from. "I miss mama and papa and Orick."

The next thing I know, the cat has placed both of his paws on my thigh and looks at me in the eyes. "It will be alright. I am here."

"I know," Parsley smiles weakly and then embraces him, bringing the feline closer. "I love you, you know that?"

He stiffens, but then relaxes, ears flattening against his head. "Yes, yes… Can I have some extra tuna when we get back home?"

"Nope."

"And you said you loved me," he mutters and then draws back. "We should probably try going inside."

Parsley nods, but then both of them freeze from a sudden laugh they hear. "Pft! Yeah, right!" It is as clear as a bell and soon it is much closer. "As if that old bat will ever give you a pass to her house with this kind of magic."

Hazel eyes widen, when they see a glowing light floating just two feet away from them. It is a form of a small girl – or a miniature woman – and one that the young magician recognizes well enough. The same pair of cold eyes blink once and it is like a trigger.

Without thinking, Parsley raises her finger and points at the fairy. "I-it's you!"

The sharp eyes narrow and the small creature flies closer, looking anything but pleased. "What is with that tone? Not even a 'thank you'?"

"O-oh, right. Sorry," Parsley stumbles, getting a strange cold chill down her spine from the small fairy's gaze. Frankly, it makes her a bit uncomfortable and she can't stop from tightening her hold on Sphynx. "Thank you, for saving us and leading us here, as well. We are both truly grateful."

"Hmph! I didn't do it for you, human, " the tiny creature sneers and then looks down at the cat in Parsley's arms. The message is clear. "But, on a serious note, you can't seriously expect that she will accept this level of magic with this kind of results."

"She did say that I will need to get the spell done… And I did," Parsley finishes lamely and sends a doubting look towards the table. Who am I kidding? I almost blew it all up again, literally.

The fairy has obviously seen the look the human has on and snorts. "I can't believe that someone like you even tries to use magic."

That sends a sting like no other across Parsley's heart. There is a distant echo in her mind, reminding her of the words she is used to hearing all of her life. She already knows what kind of hopeless case she is. But, why does everyone keep on rubbing big chunks of salt into her wounds like it is nothing? Even this fairy – who has shown clear dislike towards humans and even a magician – acknowledges it so openly.

However, it is only because she is so used to hearing things like this, that Parsley doesn't react. She merely keeps her mouth firmly shut and averts her gaze awkwardly. She can't believe that she is receiving this kind of mockery from a fairy, a "mythical" creature.

Taking in a calming breath, Parsley thinks her next words carefully. Actually, she is surprised that Sphynx hasn't snapped at the small fairy, yet. It didn't look like he would like anyone with an attitude like hers. When his owner glances down at him, she sees that he is merely gazing to the side, looking somewhat bored. Though, she can feel how his nails are flexing under his paws that are against her legs. Huh. So, he does dislike her, then. That brought a small relief to Parsley, but she also feels a bit confused. She thought that he would be ecstatic to have another magical creature beside him around the area. She must have done something to piss him off at one point.

"Well, I don't really have any other options, do I?" She finally asks. "I mean… If I want to find a way back, I should be at least able to protect myself. That is at least what the mage told me."

The fairy snorts again, sounding cynical while talking afterwards. "No other options? You humans certainly give up easily. Though, that is not surprising," the fairy shrugs and flies back a foot. "After all, you place curses on one another, suppress your powers and use other means to lower others to your will. It is no wonder that you were manipulated by your kin throughout your life."

"You were eavesdropping on our conversation," Sphynx hisses and Parsley stiffens. His claws are actually starting to hurt, and she doesn't like his tone or the way his fur poofs. He is clearly ready to snap.

The fairy returns his heated glare with a cooler one. "This is my forest, our home, we can be anywhere and hear everything. Though, I would prefer not to hear about humans more than necessary. First, we have one in our midst and now another one who can't even wield magic properly," she spits the last words out, eyes darting to Parsley for a second, before back to the cat. "Are you certain that you do not wish to leave this-"

"If I did, I would have done so ages ago," Sphynx cuts her off. "Now, why don't you take your leave and let us continue my master's-"

Parsley almost blanches from that. He has never once called her like that. It makes her gut twitch uneasily and she looks down at her friend with obvious wide eyes.

"-training," he finishes and then jumps off from the human's lap. Parsley is still watching him, stupefied. "What are you even doing here to begin with? I thought you disliked the old mage."

"Hmph! Of course, I do!" The fairy says haughtily and crosses her arms across her small chest. It is somewhat of a cute side, if you ignore her crude tone and steely gaze. "However, it is impossible to stay away, when there is a human causing an uproar in the heart of our home. Even the young ones of my kin know how to create water."

The magician takes that as an insult. Though, she knows the fairy has been doing nothing but talked bitterly all the time she has spoken to them. It is clear why and who she finds so irritating to even start such a conversation. Parsley starts to feel quite uncomfortable in this magical creature's presence, now. It is like she is doing everything wrong, starting from the very fact that she is even breathing.

"Honestly," the fairy shakes her head, long locks moving softly around her from the movement, "do humans teach their offspring so poorly, that they can't even use magic properly anymore? Well, it is no wonder."

She stiffens. Parsley can't stop her mind turning blank for a second from hearing the fairy's words. The images of her own mother and father flash in her eyes and her fists start to unconsciously tighten into fists. Even Sphynx has started to flex his claws again. Still, the human magician is not sure, if he understands what she is starting to feel. She feels insulted, yes, but there is also something else starting to boil deep in her stomach.

Taking in a deep breath, Parsley places her friend – who gives her a somewhat surprised look from casting him aside – and stands up. The hem of the dress she wears is covered in grass, so she brushes the small pieces off and then walks to the table, trying to ignore whatever is happening around her. She doesn't want to get defensive against a fairy. Who knows what the response and aftermath of that would be… But she can't still help from her face heating up. She is used on taking insults for herself – years of practice has practically made her immune to them – but it is rare that anyone blames her parents for how she turned out.

She doesn't know what she is talking about, is what Parsley silently tells herself while staring into the clear water. Her face is as blank as it can be, but even she can tell that her brows are forcing themselves to knit together. My parents are great, I know they are. Her fingers curl again against the wooden table and the magician takes a deep inhale of air. She starts to raise the glass full of water, deciding it is best to show the mage that she has succeeded in something.

"Human parents have always been such and you can not even think about them improving their ways of raising. Now they are even casting spells on their flesh and blood just to keep them obedient. Ludicrous."

That is the last straw and Parsley whirls around, all reason forgotten or thrown out of her head. "My parents didn't cast spells on me!"

The fairy – even Sphynx – seem taken aback by her outburst. Her voice had been until now calm and somewhat soft. But now, it is clear she is pissed, livid, and her hands clench around the glass jar. The beating of her heart drowns any other sound inside her ears.

The small creature recovers first, her small face showing an expression of distaste. "Really? Because I beg to differ. That would explain that mark of enchantment on you."

"Even my father and brother have one," the human woman hisses. She has never been good at letting her anger out, because every time her eyes start to water. "Don't you dare make accuses based simply on what you have heard. I may be grateful that you helped us, but – but don't start insulting them! I have not even said a word about your kind, yet… yet," Parsley is struggling to find the right words without starting to scream. She doesn't remember, when was the last time she felt anger like this one. It boils, makes her see red. It was enough, when the mage had told her that ridiculous story about the M-COP, but this is crossing the line. The thought of her parents actually knowing – if what the mage said is true – brings a heavy weight into her chest. "You do not know my parents, you do not know anything about my family, so don't act like an omniscient prat!"

But what if she is right? Parsley almost shakes her head. She shouldn't be believing that nonsense about the mark blocking the magical abilities. In the end, it was all for magicians' protection, right? Using magic formed around oneself is dangerous. Even if there is an equal risk involving using the magic flowing throughout your body, at least you can feel, when enough is enough. There needs to be certain limits to the amount of power people need or have to use, right? Even if her parents knew of the affect the M-COP had on their children, surely, they would let them be to protect their own family from danger of dying an early death.

However, now, it isn't the mage telling her upsetting theories or ridiculous claims. It is a real-life fairy. One that should know everything there is to know about magic. Parsley nearly starts shaking her head from the thought. She has to remember that this fairy has shown clear dislike towards humans. She must be only pouring her bitterness and letting it blind her judgement.

Still, Parsley can't even think of forgiving or regretting her outburst and glares daggers at the small form like it is the last thing she wants to see. Her feelings must be returned, because the cold blue eyes turn murderous and for a second the fairy's form blurs. It is only for a mere second – maybe less – but Parsley's breath freezes from witnessing what she did. The fairy had looked like one of those tree spirits back at the river. The one who had tried to attack her. Ragged clothes. A snarl. Withered leaves and flowers-

"How about you leave us be, for now, fairy," Sphynx finally cuts through the thick atmosphere. His voice is much calmer than his magician's. "It is clear that you are going to do nothing but pester us further. I suggest that we stop any kind of quarreling and leave each other be."

The pair of cold blue eyes seem to shizzle. The small fragile and transparent wings flap briskly against one another, seeming to create some kind of glow around the fairy's delicate form. Were it not for the glowering and stiff look on a pixy-like face, the small creature would look more than enchanting. With her fair hair and silky clothes alongside her fair skin. She is almost like a doll. Almost.

But, suddenly, like she thought of another plan, the fairy smiles. It is not a sneer or showing any kind of mockery but looks genuine. The kind that a child would give innocently to anyone in sight. Frankly, Parsley doesn't get a good feeling from it.

"You may be right, mister familiar," she says pleasantly and then starts to slowly fly backwards. "I guess I will have to take the other human back and outside of the forest."

Her words catch their attention and both cat and human look at each other for a moment, before back at the fairy. Parsley feels confused and tilts her head, lost in her thoughts. The other human? Who is she talking about? It can't be me, right?

"You have brought another human… into the forest?" Sphynx asks, catching up more quickly.

"Why yes, indeed. They arrived just a little while ago. Of course, they are not inside our domain, so to speak," the fairy continues, her tone softening, and she nods a few times. "I thought you might be interested-"

"We aren't," Sphynx cuts her off. "Why would we even be? Those people tortured us."

"Oh?" The fairy tilts its head inoffensively and looks behind herself. "I do not think that these are the same ones, though."

Parsley starts to feel even more uneasy. Her hazel eyes dart between the flying fairy and the forest behind her. She has already been walking around there and the whole thing could be one big maze. Robin had been the only one she had met there and even he was strange enough. But, hearing that there might be other people near doesn't make the young magician feel better. She is getting nervous. Her palms are sweaty, and a cold chill has passes across her spine like a lightning.

They are coming. Her inner mind whispers warnings, telling her to retreat into the cottage with her life. The memories of the time she spent in the dungeon-like room – it was a dungeon – haunt Parsley. She recalls those cold gazes that wouldn't show her any mercy and feels her skin starting to prickle. A numbing sensation spreads all over her body in less than a second. Have they found me? That can't be. This place can't be found, right? Those… those monsters can't be here!

The fairy returns her attention back to the human and the cat. "They are not the ones that haunted you days ago. They are the same as you."

For the second time, both the magician and her familiar react by looking at each other. There is silence and Parsley can practically feel the doubting air around her friend. She, of course, knows his feelings on this matter and frowns at the small girl – or a woman.

"The same? If… if this is a trick-"

"I can always send them away. Though, maybe I will let the other forest folk deal with them," she says easily and is about to fly away.

Without much of a thought or analyzing the signs, Parsley reaches out. "Wait!"

The fairy halts, tilts her head so that her chin is visible, before fully turning around to face the human. She isn't smiling, nor does she look displeased or arrogant. She asks, with a flat tone: "What?"

"Parsley," Sphynx starts with a silent warning in his voice. "Forget it. Lets just go inside already."

However, his words fall to deaf ears and the magician takes a step closer to the fairy. Not much is going inside her brain at the moment. Frankly, there is this strange feeling in her gut that tells her to back away, but she does the opposite. What if the fairy is telling the truth? What if there are truly people like her – from her world? This fairy couldn't be lying about something like this. Even if she has shown not to like Parsley, she had helped her and Sphynx escape and even brought her to this cottage. It may have not been the best idea to leave them with a mage, but nothing too bad has happened so far.

Fairies are mischievous. They trick, plot and can be at some point close to being cruel. Her heartbeat quickens, and the magician has to take in a deep breath. Sphynx's eyes are digging into the back of her head and the fairy's gaze has the front. But, at least they aren't cruel enough to kill. Life is sacred for them. She will not harm me directly. Besides, it isn't like Parsley will leave the protection of the forest fully. Otherwise, she doesn't believe that the mage would have survived this far without getting attacked by those strange people of this world. This forest must have some sort of spell on it.

Also, she desperately wants to see people from her world. She needs only a little bit of normalness as she can get. And who knows? Maybe they are in trouble like she had been.

"Can you show us where they are?"

Parsley swears she hears Sphynx hiss behind her and send a mental note that says: 'This is a bad idea!'


"How much longer?" The human woman asks, after she has been walking for a while.

The fairy leading the way through the thick bushes below her and tall trees all around them doesn't bother to turn around or even give a glance. She merely answers: "Soon."

Parsley bites down on her lower lip and looks around with uncertain eyes. This part of the forest feels… strange? She isn't certain, if it is merely her mind playing tricks on her. She has been here before, walking and trying to find her way out, but in the end she and her familiar had only walked circles. But now it is different. This small fairy seems to know where the three of them are heading towards to. And the trees… they feel different.

Not that kind of different that you have never seen them before – though, that is a small part of the reason – but because they look taller, their branches don't seem to let any light reach the forest floor and even the grass and bushes are thicker. They feel almost like they are purposely scratching Parsley's legs under the dress. The grass tickles her ankles and she nearly jumps every time it creates an illusion of snake wrapping around her limb. She is starting to get paranoid and looks to the sides, she can see almost nothing through the shadows of the trees nor their trunks. It is like they are purposely blocking her escape routes.

A shiver goes down her spine. She is starting to recall the tree spirit and pushes the image away from her head. It is still so haunting that she can't bear to remember. This forest is just making her skin crawl. The hairs on her body are standing up from the goosebumps spreading all over her skin. Sphynx is having similar reactions, as his own fur poofs and she feels the softness of it under her cold fingers. It is supposed to be sunny, but the further they walk the colder Parsley is starting to feel.

"How do you know, if they are like me?" She suddenly asks and feels Sphynx stiffening further in her arms.

"You are asking now?" He hisses quietly so that only she can hear him. She does wince slightly from his irritated – if not angry – tone. He isn't done yet, though. "She will be taking us god knows where!"

He is right, an ashamed consciousness whispers into Parsley's ears and she bites down on her lip. This is like listening her parents scolding her. But she is still thinking that the fairy won't harm them in any way. If she hates humans with the amount she is showing, then she certainly wouldn't drop down to their level by murdering someone. That is what the young woman keeps on thinking to herself, with little success on calming down.

"Do your people still believe in that false god of theirs?" Their guide suddenly asks, the flapping of her wings not slowing down.

It doesn't take Parsley a long time to snap from her inner thoughts back to reality and answer the question with a frown. "God? Yes. It is a large religion."

"…Why?" The fairy asks again, keeping her back towards her. "Why do you worship it? What good has it brought upon your people?"

Her frown deepens, unsure what purpose does this conversation serve in a deep dark forest, but then she realizes something. Centuries ago, humans had believed in the forest folk; fairies, dwarfs, spirits etc. had been the forces of power and mystery to every human. But then, powerful religions started to rise, and people forgot their old ways. Traditions were destroyed, vanished or even completely forgotten by the people that took on a new way of life. Sadly, because magic vanished almost fully, normal people never started to remember the magical folk again. And all because one small – others also came along – belief started to spread too wildly.

Is that why she is so irritable? Is that why she hates me? Parsley looks at the small fairy, frown smoothing. Some things are finally making sense, in a way. She doesn't want to jump to conclusions thought. But, when you look at the history, it seems painfully possible.

"I don't think I can answer that. I am not religious person to begin with," she finally says truthfully, when nothing else comes to her mind.

The fairy doesn't say anything for a while. But when she does, it is a simple: "I see," that leaves from her small lips. Then, she stops. "We are here."

Parsley's heart almost jumps out of her chest, and she stops walking. Her feet glue themselves on the ground and cease any kind of movement. Sphynx takes this opportunity to jump out of her arms and onto the ground gracefully. Both are on the alert and look around – the human being much more frantic than the cat. Still, there is no denying the tense atmosphere.

They have come to a clearing – a meadow. The grass is yellowish with few pecks of green here and there. It simply looks quite dry, so there has been no rain at least for a week with the blazing sun glaring down at the ground. However, the meadow ends quite absurdly, when a cliff cuts it off and large mountains open up to the view. The wind blows sending some trees near the edge swaying dangerously. Though, it stops, and everything settles down rather quickly. The entire nature is silent, expect when few birds start chirping.

Suddenly, Sphynx lets out an exasperated sound. "She left us. Knew that this would happen."

Everything freezes inside Parsley and she looks down at her friend. "Eh? What do you…" she starts and looks back where she had last seen the fair… only to see empty air. "Eh? Where did she go!?"

"Like I said, she left us," Sphynx repeats, sounding bored while letting his gaze wonder around the area in mild interest. "Thought, the air around here smells a bit different. It is not filled with magic anymore."

That does not make her feel any better and she crouches hastily down with sweat already starting to form on her hands. "W-what do you mean?"

He takes one look at her face and then answer with a calmer tone: "Parsley, stay calm, whatever I am about to say. Alright?"

"Depends on what you are about to say," her voice is barely stable, and her hazel pair of eyes are darting between him and the trees. "What do you mean by not filled with magic anymore?"

The cat actually looks a bit bothered, when he eyes his mistress with a flick of his tail. "I mean that we have probably removed ourselves from the forest where the mage's cottage is in. It must have been surrounded with some sort of barrier, but we are not in anymore. Now, like I said, stay calm and do not start to panic- Parsley? Hey! Calm down!"

She is making her way towards the forest, breaths coming out heavily due to the panic rising inside her ribcage. "We have to find a way back, Sphynx! Hurry! Use your nose!"

I can't believe she left us here! Parsley should feel betrayed, but there isn't even a prickle of that emotion in her. In fact, she only feels angry towards the small fairy and herself. How could she have been so blind? Of course, that creature took the opportunity to trick her. There is no way that she wouldn't use a chance to get rid of a human. She must have only helped her once from pity, but that was it. And now, she is paying the price for letting that single act get into her head and make her think too naïvely towards the fairy's motives. The young human woman starts to regret the hasty decision she has made. Now, both she and Sphynx are vulnerable.

This is all my fault. The cold realization brings tears into her eyes, but she swallows them and continues walking with brisk steps deeper into the forest. No! This isn't time for crying! I must get us back! Surely the old mage –

"Parsley!"

The magician jumps from the loud call of her name and whirls around to face Sphynx. He has come to catch up with her and now stops with his ears perked up straight. While her shoulders are shaking and eyes blurring, Parsley falls down to her knees. The cat stays still, though.

"Sphynx," she whimpers and then places her palms together. "I am so, so sorry. I shouldn't have trusted her. I am stupid, I know, I know, but please don't be mad at me. I never wanted us to get into this situation and I should have known better. I-I just thought that maybe s-someone else like me is in trouble – and I wanted to a-also meet someone with similar circumstances. I am sorry! I also didn't want to face that mage and wanted to… W-well, I am n-not really sure what it w-was. But, I am still sorry! I –"

"Parsley!"

"What!?" She yells back and is ready to pull her hair off.

Sphynx stays quiet for a second. "You are starting to blabber. Take in a breath and calm. Down."

Swallowing a heavy lump in her throat, Parsley does as he says, but then cracks again by letting few tears out. She wipes them away hastily afterwards, though. Many thoughts start to weight down on her head and shoulders. "I… I am sorry."

"Stop saying that," Sphynx hisses, but not unkindly. "I am also partly to blame for not trying to stop you."

"But-"

"It is my job to guide you, Parsley," he says firmly and then looks around. "Anyhow, we have to stay calm and think what to do next."

Her hazel eyes are still watery, but slowly start to dry. The panic doesn't completely fade from her tense muscles, but she is able to breathe normally again. She keeps on looking at her friend in wonder for a little while, before also starting to think their situation. Though, there is another silent question in her mind. How can he be so calm? Shaking her thoughts off from that, Parsley stands up and dusts the dirt off from her dress. It isn't like she still likes the attire, though.

She has to admit. This forest is different compared to the one she had walked through with the fairy. The air doesn't feel as suffocating or heavy. The trees are not standing too close to one another and the magician can feel the difference. The grass or branches are not trying to make her trip nor wrap themselves around her. This forest is not enchanted. Feeling a bit better from realizing this, she starts to take steps back towards the meadow with calm pace. Sphynx follows after just as calmly.

The question remains, though. Where had that fairy left them?

Parsley doesn't stop walking, until she comes to stand near the edge of the cliff. The meadow has ended and barely any grass grows on the spot she is standing on. Her heartbeat quickens from the sight and her eyes do widen. Never before, has she seen these kinds of mountains. They are much larger and wider than the Windy Mountains back at home. Smaller mountains can be seen from between them, probably located somewhere much further away. It is easy to tell that they are not anywhere near the place where those headbanded people held the magician and the cat captive. The fact sends a wave of relief all over Parsley's body.

Until Sphynx starts hissing.

Startled, Parsley looks at him with wide eyes and jumps to the side. "Sphynx?"

"Someone is here," he starts quietly, eyes slit towards the forest on the opposite direction from the cliff, but then looks at her with urgency. "We have to run, now."

Not liking his tone at all – it sounds almost like he is scared – Parsley bolts to the side where another part of the forest rests. Her familiar follows soon after, keeping his own pace close to hers. She doesn't need to be told twice to run. If her friend says to run, she will without hesitation and with a cold chill down her spine. The bottom of her stomach keeps on turning with every step she takes.

Why? Who could be here? It mustn't be those foreign people, right? They can't be here!

As if the heavens are against her, Parsley soon trips just as she is about to make into the shadows of the trees. She doesn't know how it happens. One second, she is running with everything she has and the next her foot lands on a small hole on the ground – she didn't see it. The gravity takes a hold, when he foot doesn't move to take a next step forward. She lands harshly and can taste and smell the dust on her face. Her whole front feels like it aches from the impact, but she doesn't have hard time on trying to get up.

However, once again, the escape is paused, when she doesn't seem to get her foot from the hole. Panic rising, Parsley twists so she can see – this can't be happening – bunch of small roots twisting their way all around her ankle. No, no, no, no! Her eyes widen further, horrified. What is this!? The small lines don't loosen their hold, even when she starts tugging her leg violently and trying to tear them off. Instead, her pulls damage only her own hands. Sharp spots dig into her skin and cause the skin to tear.

"Ah!" Her face grimaces for a second, but she continues pulling. She has to run.

"Parsley!" Sphynx is by her side soon and looking at her and the roots around her right leg. He almost yells out: "What in the name of whiskers?"

Terrified to the bone from just sitting around when a threat could be approaching, Parsley nearly starts to cry. "H-help me!"

He is trying to do so even before she asks and uses his claws to tear the roots. It puzzles them both. How could this happen all of sudden. One thing is for sure, this isn't coincidence or an accident. The roots can't just all of sudden wrap themselves around one's leg like it is nothing. Even now, Parsley can feel them tightening their hold as her friend claws them to shreds. The roots are moving on their own will. Keeping her in place. Another chill goes down her spine from the notion.

Luckily, once her foot is freed, Parsley scrambles up and Sphynx drops the last piece of wood in his mouth. His owner is freed, but that does not make him look too eager to get away.

He is rigid, tail standing up and looks at his owner with sharp eyes. "Parsley, we-"

"My, my, Itachi-san."

Both the magician and her familiar freeze, the air feels like it does the same. Parsley feels like she can't breathe, and her mouth clams shut. While Sphynx starts growling and hissing, looking more feral than usual.

"Look what we have here."

Slowly, very oh so slowly, she twists her neck. Eyes wide, her limbs shaking, but her legs standing still – ready to make another attempt to run depending on the situation. For a moment, she thinks it must be a trick of the light and what she is seeing is not actually there. However, that is not the case for the color black is very obvious and bold against greenish landscape.

Please… She wants to scream, she wants to run, but the figures standing at least sixty feet away are so imposing that there is no way she will risk it. Somebody, help us! Their heads are hidden under strange hats but judging by their sizes it is easy to tell that the two of them must be male. Also, there is no way that the gruff voice from earlier could belong to a woman. The fact is even more terrifying, and it is a miracle that Parsley's legs have not turned into jellies.

Sphynx has not stopped showing his defense and Parsley does not think he will. It bothers her, and she wishes him to shut up. For his growling must be making these new figures uneasy... or even irritated.

She feels like fainting, but that does not happen. Instead, she takes a shaky step back. God above, if you exist, then help me!