The Uprisen

Chapter 25

December 2014.  Two weeks later.

She takes a deep breath.  We can do this, she thinks hopefully

To her right, Spencer taps her arm lightly, but she barely registers it.  She watches the family smile and laugh in their living room across the street.  Snow lightly drifts down, making a thin layer on the sidewalks and grass.  She's reminded of Christmas with the Tohers, when they would have their annual Christmas movie marathon.  She'd nearly forgotten about the tradition.

"Put your game face on," she says.

"We've got this," Spencer assures her.

We'd better, because we're running out of options.

With confidence, Mallory and Spencer walk up to the brick house and knock on their door just below their decorative wreath.  She hears someone say "They're here" as the door opens.

A kind looking blonde woman stands in the doorway, and welcomes Mallory and Spencer into their home.  "Mallory, Spencer!  Come on in!" she says happily.

Mallory and Spencer smile happily and walk into the home.  They take off their snow boots, and smile warmly to Mrs. Carrington's hospitable welcome.

"Hello, Mrs. Carrington," Spencer says happily.

"Please, call me Rachel."  She gestures for the living room on the left.  "Please, have a seat in the living room."

Mallory nods with a smile and walks to into the festively decorated living room.  A Christmas tree sits nicely decorated with ornaments, ribbon, and presents wrapped beneath it in the corner, and Christmas garland is draped on the unlit fireplace.

"Nice seeing you again," Mr. Carrington says standing from the couch to shake Mallory and Spencer's hands.

"Nice seeing you too.  You guys have a beautiful home," Spencer comments.  

"Thank you so much for inviting us into your home," Mallory says with a smile as she sits on the tan couch.  

Rachel smiles gracefully.  "Oh, it's really nothing.  We're simply glad you came.  Are you hungry?  Could I get you two anything to drink?"

"Oh no thank you," Spencer politely declines.

"I'm fine, thank you."

Mr. Carrington clears his throat and makes room on the loveseat for his wife to join him on.  "So, you called about those attacks in Topeka and Salina?"

"Yes," Mallory starts.

"We've heard about the attacks moving west.  It's just awful.  All of those families attacked and killed so violently," Rachel says shaking her head.  "You said you could give us some information?"

Spencer nods.  "You two are familiar with the kind of families that are being hunted down, right?  Elementals, usually those who volunteer at homeless shelters or take in foster children."

The Carringtons nod.

"Well that's why we contacted you.  Unfortunately, your family fits that description, as you know, and we want to help prepare you for the worst.  The people who are killing these families, they're merciless and powerful," Mallory explains.

"You've met them?" Mr. Carrington asks.

"You could say that," Spencer says.

Mallory sees the worry on Rachel's face, so she tries to say something more reassuring than scary.  "Our people have had a multiple encounters with them within the past three months alone.  We're pretty familiar with their patterns and what they're capable, and we sincerely think we can help your family if you let us."