“The distortions create challenges.”

That was telling that a construct who could be anywhere and everywhere had trouble with this locale. I still need to know…

“I’m going.”

“As the goddess wishes,” Eleanor said after bowing.

This was new behaviour for Clara and admittedly did not like it. While she was a goddess, she preferred her allies to treat her as an equal.

“Stop that,” Clara said.

Eleanor did not appear to be bothered by that order. Nevertheless, Clara smiled warmly before moving in to hug the angel.

Her choice at showing a measure of affection was soon awkward. Eleanor did not return the hug and might as well have been carved from granite. When Clara pulled away her smile was crooked, parted just enough to see a solid row of perfect teeth.

Clara chuckled as she saw where this was going. They both had insecurities, because this was still new for the both of them… We have yet to set our boundaries…

“See,” Evelyn said. “You get it now…”

“But?” Clara guessed from the way her voice faded off.

“However,” Evelyn said. “Why introduce me to them at all?”

That was a great question, one she had yet to flesh out. She knew the choice was instinctual instead of one based on logic or emotion.

“I guess I want a better understanding of what I’m dealing with,” Clara said.