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Nodding, Elle rose from her chair...grateful that Maggie was so helpful. "I would like him with me, but I would also like him to experience the other paths available. I will speak to...Jabir? About both the room and the portal, if possible. I have a bit saved up, I'm more than willing to pay what expenses I can."

The HQ sounded like a wonderful place, and the pictures were certainly attractive. Elle knew she had plenty of Aki's children to care for as well, so there might be some days when Kudzu was more comfortable here than in her crowded home.

Suddenly, she realized how happy she was...both for herself and for the child. In a single day, their lives had come together! Kudzu seemed content as well, gumming gently on the hem of her cloak.

"Thank you for your help. Truly. I am ready, if this is a good time."

Holding Kudzu close as she offered a gentle bow, Elle watched Maggie depart. She was excited, not only to meed Jabir, but also to explore the options available to her young charge. The idea of a group he could call friends brought her more than happiness.

Moving quietly through the door, keeping her eyes open for Jabir, Elle wondered just how unusual his appearance could possibly be. After all, most of her closest friends were unique in one way or another. Shifting Kudzu so he could have a better view, Elle took a look just as the babe began to gurgle in interest.

A willowy form, not far off, caught her attention as surely as it had caught Kudzu's. Slender limbs, pale colors...the air of something entirely unreal. Elle inclined her head with respect, careful not to gaze for too long. Her first thought was not of Jabir, but of Kudzu. Will he grow to be as unique?!

Considering the miracle that created him, she had no answer for that question. "I am Elle, and this is Kudzu. Are you...Jabir?" Her mind was spinning through all the tales she'd ever learned, but no where could she conjure an image of anything like their guide.

Elle was a storyteller at heart, and questions settled themselves by the dozens on her tongue. None of them escaped, however, she simply nodded and fell into step as best she could. The answers would reveal themselves eventually, as the tale unfolded.

"Thank you for your hospitality. Until Kudzu can manage chores on his own, I'd like to contribute myself if there is anything the Mansion needs." She didn't think twice about the fact that Kudzu would be doing chores once he was older....all of the children she watched over had chores, even the youngest! If you could consider putting wooden blocks back in the bucket a chore.

"Brewing, cooking, stories in the evening...I'm a decent seamstress, when I'm not rushed!" She gave Kudzu's simple jammies a tug and laughed. Obviously, she'd been in a rush. "Whatever I can do, please don't hesitate to ask."

Keeping one eye on the surroundings as they walked, Elle tried to remember the way they'd come. The place was huge! Suddenly, she felt rather small and barefoot among so many doors and halls.

Listening respectfully, Elle nodded....trying her best to remember the locations. She also took into account the fact that the children weren't obligated to do chores. That was sweet, but she certainly hoped they were given some structure. The fact that there were apparently teachers was enough, though.

Smiling suddenly, Elle realized she felt like a new mother shopping for a Kindergarten. Giving Kudzu a squeeze, giggling as he squeaked out a spit bubble. "Your room! What do you think?"

Kudzu raised a hand, but withdrew it slowly...never quite touching the dead wood. Eyes wide, he simply stared...head bobbling a bit on his young neck.

Tilting her head as Jabir mentioned areas that were off limits, Elle raised a brow. "Are these areas...clearly marked on the map? Should I ask why they are off limits?" She didn't question his warning, simply pondered being curious.

Nodding silently, Elle put the key in Kudzu's hand...enfolding her own fingers around his tiny hand. Bending forward, holding him close against her chest with her other arm, Elle inserted the key and turned their hands slowly.

It opened easily, and she pressed her cheek against his verdant hair with a smile. "Good job, little one!" Nodding up to Jabir, Elle stepped inside.

While Elle appreciated simplicity, she agreed that the room could use a touch of home. Already planning a few additions for Kudzu, Elle turned in a full circle before nodding. "It'll be perfect, thank you! And yes, a portal would be very helpful."

Stepping a bit out of the way, not sure how the process was done, Elle bounced Kudzu upon her hip to give her arm a rest. He was certainly the heaviest baby she'd ever held!

"Also, is there a babysitter or guardian on staff that can watch the children when needed, or should I be present at all times?" She certainly didn't wish to leave the boy's side, but part of making his own choice would be walking his own path. If she was constantly here, hovering over him, he wouldn't have a chance to find that out on his own.

One hand sliding to the ring of keys on her corded belt, Elle tugged off the antique key that went to the nursery in the Villa. "This leads to the right door...and this blanket is from the same nursery! Will they do?"

She left Kudzu sink to the floor as he wiggled, smiling down at the lad as he rested against her ankle. The crystals at his edges scratched against her skin, but she ignored the discomfort as best she could.

"And thank you for all the information, Jabir. I'm sorry I have so many questions!"