Page 44 of Bound By Honey

Rachel nodded in understanding. "Your magic is weak, and yet you are here. It is a testament to your courage. I know it may seem strange to you, but if you are here, you must have something to offer. May I ask what brings you to us?"

"You can tell all that about me already? We just met."

"You don't get to be the leader of a guild such as this without some unique skills. Being able to read people's magical ability is one of mine."

"Is there anything else you read off me?"

"Only a little. You don't have an affinity for any particular magic, but if you trained correctly, you would be able to read the magic of others in a similar way that I do. I can teach you if you would like."

"That would be fantastic!" Sage said with a clap of her hands.

"What's fantastic?" Michael asked as he placed two plates full of roasted vegetables and crusty bread on the table. One in front of himself and one in front of Sage.

"Your friend here appears to have a similar ability to read magic as I do."

Michael's smile made his eyes twinkle. "That is fantastic! Very few people can do that."

All the attention was making Sage squirm a bit. She picked up a piece of bread and took a bite. It was soft and still warm. Her stomach growled as if it were offering its approval and encouragement for more.

"So tell us, why did you seek us out?"

Sage brushed crumbs from the corner of her mouth. "I'm looking for a treatment for several friends. I know of none and saw mention of your guild in a book. I was hoping you may have something or at least would be willing to work with me to try and figure one out."

"Just what are we trying to heal?" Michael asked.

"Gargoyles."

Rachel leaned forward on her elbows. "Just what do you know about gargoyles? It's not a topic that is spoken of lightly."

"I agree. A ... a friend of mine has the affliction. Late set, while another is in the early stages. Have you ever treated one?"

The corner of Rachel's mouth twitched. "No, but I do love a good challenge. Tell me everything you know."

As they ate, Sage shared everything she had learned so far.

Michael and Rachel listened intently, only interrupting to ask clarifying questions.

Once she finished, Rachel leaned back in her chair, her brow furrowed in thought.

"It sounds like you have a strong grasp on what's happening with these two, but I'm not sure there is a cure. We may be able to slow down the progression, but there is no guarantee."

Michael nodded. "The good news is that we are Nectars Embrace. We specialize in creating and finding cures in ways that no one else would think of. We'll do all we can to help."

Sage felt hope fill her. "Thank you both so much."

"No need to thank us. We're happy to help," Rachel said, smiling. First, let's get you settled somewhere for the night, and we can get a fresh start in the morning. Rosey's place is still empty. You are welcome to stay there if you would like."

"That sounds perfect."

Michael picked up their plates and motioned for her to follow him. After depositing them on a table at the back of the room with other dirty dishes, he guided her out to the streets.

"You can get all your meals in the dining hall. Breakfast at sunrise and dinner at sunset. Usually, there's some sort of fresh snack that you can grab during the day if you need something else."

"That's good to know. Thank you," Sage replied.

Soon they stood at the heavy wooden door of a small cobblestone cottage. Michael reached above the frame and pulled down a small key before using it to unlock the door. He turned around, placed the key in her hand, and motioned for her to enter.

"We don't really have problems with crime in our little community, but if you have any concerns feel free to lock up. Candles are in the kitchen cabinets, blankets, and linens in the chest at the foot of each bed, and you can find firewood and the well behind your house. Do you need anything else? Rosey left just about everything behind. Said it was full of memories she couldn't bear to take with her."

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