That's So Wizard

Chapter 17 - Sentimental Sandwiches

"I suppose you're wondering why I gathered you together here today," Eldrian said.

"I'm wondering why you're still using my house," replied Deena.

The two of them sat within the girl's living room, as they often seemed to do. They were further joined by Kevin and Daveon. It was quiet. The only sound made through any silence was the soft clicking of the clock hanging on her wall.

Eldrian crossed his arms. "It's a safe meeting place."

"Is it because you know who's trying to kill us?" Kevin asked.

"Well, no."

Daveon raised his hand. "You found out who stole the Elixir of Strength?"

"Not exactly. See, we've been getting attacked off and on for days. I feel partly responsible. This is why I propose an idea. The four of us are clearly going to be hanging around either other quite often, especially since most of us are wizards. Those are hard to discover. But I feel like we don't know each other quite enough. So I thought we'd go somewhere far away and have a picnic!"

The other three looked between each other.

"I think that's a good idea," Daveon said with an agreeing nod. "We have no leads to go on anyway. Can I bring the food?"

Eldrian raised his eyebrows. "Of course you can. That was a surprise to hear. Also, do you have an anchor point set back in Peru? That would be a nice place. That field we met at."

Daveon nodded yet again.

"My class tomorrow is early. We can go in the later afternoon, right?" Kevin asked.

"That sounds like a plan, Kev," stated Eldrian triumphantly. "Are you in, Deena?"

The witch let out a quiet exhale with arms crossed over her chest. Her back leaned against the sofa she was sitting upon, and though her face was straight, it was obvious gears were turning behind her ruby gaze. She was thinking. Finally, she shrugged.

"Fine," she mumbled.

"Then it's settled. Tomorrow, we'll meet up and portal to Peru for a picnic."

***

A thick trunk sat hidden within a forest of trees. Not a single human soul existed at least an hour in any direction, so nobody could appreciate the majesty of such a huge landmark of earthen beauty. Upon the bark, however, drew an arch. The shape itself was made of wood, but it was wrapped in wreath of flowers and vines, and a line drew vertically down the center. It was soon apparent that the shape was a rounded double door. Both sides pushed upon, and four figures stepped outside.

The sun was on its way towards the horizon, but by a glance, it seemed as if it would remain for a few hours longer. Deena, Kevin, and Eldrian followed along with their guide for a couple moments before entering a clearing.

A small glade opened up. It was far from prying eyes, deep within an area of trees—emerald grass with a single stump resting in the middle. The view was quaint, but serene and calming.

"I came here often, just to relax," spoke Daveon softly. "It helped me think. I could speak with the animals. They kept me company while I lost myself within my own thoughts. I feel the most at home when I'm surrounded by the sound of wind blowing branches and leaves."

He placed down a wicker basket upon the stump. After sitting, the others saw to do the same, and soon, all four were resting around it like a natural table.

"It sounds weird, but," Kevin began,"Do you have a house?"

Daveon shook his head. "I sleep with nature. I often shift into an animal shape, like a bear, and rest in the woods or in the plains. I prefer it this way, I suppose."