Umar nodded. "I will be careful with it, then," he said. "She is young enough, and small. If I can get her to come another way, I will."

"It doesn't matter, so long as she comes back again. Anything that happens between times will heal." Her small face distorted with pain. "I wish I could come with you."

"I know you do," Umar assured her warmly. The calm reassurance seemed out of place coming from what appeared to be such a young child. "No one questions that, Morgana. It will be all right." He smiled at her. "Anything else before I go?"

She shook her head. "Just keep safe. I . . . I have to agree with Mother on that one--I don't think she's the one in any sort of danger in there, but you might be."

"I agree, as well," Umar answered. "Fortunately, there is very little danger that can harm me." He gave the woman a warm nod, and ducked under the table-- much easier at his present size.