“Mama Magdaline, the Keeper of the Green, told us that the Between is very important to the health of the magic the middle worlders are dependent on,” Talei says, interrupting the old man’s musings. “So why do they treat Keepers of the Between like this? It doesn’t make sense.”

Qasim steeples his fingers and takes a breath before speaking. “You’re probably aware of or have even experienced that discrimination humans face from middle worlders. The Keepers of the Between always begin as humans, so their importance has always been debated.” He raises an eyebrow in question, and our expressions must answer him because he continues. “Plus, Mama Magdaline is but one voice, perhaps the only contradictory one on the Magic Council. From what I’ve heard, not all middle worlders believe that magic is refined in the Between. They think it a simple corridor that makes traveling convenient.”

“Eckle died a long time ago, and no other keeper has bonded to the Between in the interim. The middle worlders think nothing has changed,” Ferdinand adds.

“That’s not quite true, though, is it?” Paheli says. “The Dar, our enemy, said magic is decreasing both in quantity and power around the world. Could that not be an effect of not having a Keeper of the Between?”

Ferdinand doesn’t say anything, but the expression on his face is loud, making words unnecessary.

“Couldn’t you speak for the need of a Keeper of the Between to the Magic Council?” Paheli asks.

“The members of the Magic Council are the ones hunting the Keepers of the Between,” Qasim says. “The Dar you mentioned—he sits on the council as well.”

“We know that,” Ligaya says with an impatient sigh. “What other power can we appeal to, though?”

“Can’t you try speaking to the normal middle worlders, then? I know you are human, but perhaps if you did, some of them may surprise you and listen.” Widad is earnest.

“I can’t step out of the library,” Ferdinand replies, his voice thick with frustration. “I remain alive within the walls of the library, but if I take so much as one step out, I will turn to dust.” The old man looks at Taraana, who sits with his head bowed. “My sincerest apologies, keeper. I can offer you nothing but a haven here in this library. If the Between falls, so will we, but until then, if you need it, this can be your home.”

Taraana looks startled at the offer, but before he can say a word, Paheli speaks.

“Thank you for the kind offer, but Taraana’s home is with us,” she says. “We will keep him safe, and we will be his haven.”