The sun hangs low as I approach the Valerian Porter’s new warehouse. I made up some time on my journey back because I took the path Sil recommended. Without that tip I wouldn’t have been able to make it here in time for moving day. It was important to me that I was here to christen the Warehouse with the other Valerian Porters. I even made sure to grab a bottle of 585 pinot noir from the Jokeri Vineyards for the occasion.

Felix had let me take on deliveries through last Forum. Mostly working odd jobs—messenger, light hauling. Nothing that had anything to do with Magic. I hadn’t felt like myself since that seemingly mundane letter delivery that went sideways. Like most problems in my life, throwing myself into my work is how I got through it. I find it easy to undervalue the weight of my interactions when not focused on them. What may seem like a simple letter delivery, could actually be a confession of love that remains secret unless we deliver. That light package could be the stuffed animal a newborn cherishes through their youth. The path to excellence is paved through consistency. The better I can accomplish these tasks in the manner promised, the better I become. I allowed myself to be consumed in that effort and the next thing I knew an entire season had past. “Yet ‘neath the snow, a promise glimmers bright” is what I would say if I had Gil’s pen.

I continue to close the gap between myself and the warehouse, allowing myself to appreciate my comrade’s handiwork. Honestly, the more I look at the warehouse, the more it reminds me a bit of the old fort. Almost as if they repurposed the stones. Some of the Porters look to be moving the rye. I would have kept it near the entrance, easier for offloading to the mess. Felix is probably being cautious about thieves. Actually, Felix and Gil look to be moving out front now, I should catch up with them first.

Better yet, I should get in some practice for Peace Day and see if I can sneak up on them. I take a wide berth of the entrance and start creeping up behind Gil. The anticipation brings a smile to my face. This however was quickly wiped away when I see the look of recognition in Felix’s eyes. He doesn’t sell me out though, so I tune in to the conversation. Felix prompts an opening for me and as I reach out to place my hand on Gil’s shoulder I join in the conversation “Making himself useful. That’s how things get done.”