Witches in Training (#2 in the Witches Trilogy) [rewrites ongoing]

Chapter Twenty-Five: On the Phone with Parker

VINNI

I have to admit the submarine ride down the river was thrilling. I mean, if you don't count the twenty-near collisions the fifty-six we're going to be spotted/killed moments, and the eight are you sure you know what you're doing moments. Other than all that, it was like the most fantastic underwater rollercoaster. Ever.

We've managed to sort out the sleeping arrangements by splitting four bunk beds, a couch and six sleeping bags. Like Mel said, there's more than enough food for all of us. We should be safe and we're travelling fast-my only question is, how are we going to stop? Where does this river end?

Right now, we're seated around the main room, discussing plans. Mel won't disclose the exact location of the elves' kingdom and keeps saying "we'll get there when we get there, Vinni!" Okay, so maybe I've been pestering her a little.

"How do we get in, after we get there?" Liz asks, sipping her coke.

"Aunt Janine." Abby says promptly, munching on a brownie we made out of instant mix. "My aunt." She clarifies. "An elf on the Elven Council. At least, she was a few years ago. Not sure if she's still on it, but she's influential."

Once again, I feel a twinge of uselessness. First Sarah with the fairies, then Mel with the giants, and now Abby with the elves. I need to get better connections, stat. "You're sure they'll help us?"

Abby shrugs. "The elves are pretty neutral... they won't side with anyone in particular unless they see fit."

"So... not likely they'll be with Parker?" I guess.

"Highly unlikely." Abby confirms.

"McAvoy has connections, though." Sarah muses. "From what you've told us, he's pretty pally with the gorgons. Or as pally as you can get with gorgons, anyway."

"Parker's a scheming weasel." Mel agrees. "But I rather think the elves have slightly better judgement than the gorgons. They are the most gifted Seers and scholars, after all." We have to concede to her point. The vampire glances out the window, making sure we're still going smoothly. Water rushes over our heads and all around us.

"All right-so, we just ask for your aunt and they'll let us in?"

"Er-not sure about that. Hey, these brownies are pretty good, you know. I'll buy this brand next time."

"So if that doesn't work, then..."

"Offer them brownies," suggests Wein, grinning and lifting the plate.

"This is serious, Wein." De mutters with an unusual lack of patience and humour. According to Mel we're less than a day away from our destination. "We need the elves' information and you know it. We can't afford this meeting to go astray."

Wein glances at Deanne. "I know." She says curtly, also with uncharacteristic sharpness. "Lighten up."

Deanne purses her lips together but doesn't say anything. "Aunt Janine should be able to get us in no problem." Abby says uneasily, picking up on the tension. "It's just finding the realm that's the issue."

"No problem, either." Mel declares with another sideways gaze out into the water. "I know exactly where it is." Even she sounds a little offended, irritated even.

"We're not doubting you guys, it's just..." I bite my lip for a phrase. "We're anxious."

Mel sighs. "Yeah, I know." Abby shrugs.

The awkward silence is broken by a shrill ringing. It takes me a while to place what it is. "Is that a phone ringing?" Sri asks in amazement. "How is there a signal?"