Whilst Emma helped herself to some of the cookies on a round plate which had been on the tray, she noted the plain necklace with a blue center which was dangling from Zipfarah’s hand. Was that a protection charm? She thought, before translating the question to Prescott telepathically.

The squirrel was in the same boat with her. He had no idea what it was, or what it was used for.

“Here, have this…Emma. Give it to Derek. You can tell him, ‘it is a birthday present.’” She said, and Emma exchanged glances with the squirrel first. An act which didn’t go unnoticed by Zipfarah.

“What is it for?” Emma asked,...