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front and shut it off. He clapped his hands together and turned around to glance at Jamie and Lil simultaneously. “Everyone out.”
    The heavy wooden door swung open to the mansion, and Lil let out an anxious breath. She unlocked the car door and stepped outside onto the gravel. Her eyes surveyed the cream-yellow building. It looked exquisite. “What is an eternal suit? How is it going to help us find Bray?”
    “And Willow,” Jamie said, not wanting anyone to forget his sister. He climbed out of the car and grabbed his bag, shutting it behind him.
    Rawlie walked toward the open door. “Do you trust me?”
    She ignored his question. Lil didn't entirely trust him, but she knew Bray was in danger, and Rawlie and her were both invested in finding their friends. Lil glanced around, wondering who had opened the door, or if it had opened itself upon Rawlie's presence. “How did we get in this place?” Lil asked, glancing at Rawlie's hand with a sudden curiosity.
    “Magical blood,” Jamie said from behind Lil, as they followed Rawlie up the front porch steps.
    “He's kidding, sort of.” Rawlie smiled. “Family blood is the only way inside the mansion. My aunt built the sanctuary.” He showed Lil his hand. The slightest scar marked his left hand. “There's a tiny glass disc inside. If you mix it with my blood, it allows access to the building and the grounds.”
    “And if someone removes your hand or the disc?” Lil asked with curious eyes.
    “Once it's exposed to air, it's no longer of use, and without my will or consent it won't work. Come along.” He led Lil and Jamie farther into the house. The door swung shut behind them and the lights flickered on in the hall. “Home, sweet home.”
    “This is where you're from?” Lil doubted that was the case, considering the accent.
    “Hardly. I came to visit my aunt when I was ten. I suppose this is a second home, since mine down under is gone.” Rawlie snapped his fingers, and a corridor to the left lit up.
    “How did he do that?” Lil asked, watching as modern torches with electricity lit the pathway.
    Jamie laughed. “I bet it's with that disc in his palm.”
    Rawlie glanced back at Lil and Jamie. “It's an intricate piece of technology fused with my blood, so I have control of the sanctuary when the others aren't home. It also provides complete protection. Only those who are honorable have access to certain parts of the building. It also keeps intruders out.”
    Lil grinned, trying to make sense of what he was telling her. “You have a remote control in your hand.”
    Rawlie grumbled beneath his breath and gestured for them to follow him. “This way, come on.”
    Lil trailed behind Rawlie as they passed down a corridor. The brick walls had been painted with giant symbols she didn't recognize, let alone comprehend. “What are those?”
    “Safeguards in place. Nothing you should worry about, considering . . . ” He didn't finish his words as they reached the end of the hallway and approached a set of heavy double doors. With a groan, Rawlie pushed the doors aside. “Hurry.” He closed the doors behind them.
    “Where are you taking us?” Jamie asked. “And what do you mean safeguards? Is it protection from Eilith?”
    Lil was surprised Jamie had been kept in the dark. At least she wasn't the only one confused. Lil continued to follow behind Rawlie as he led them to a back staircase and escorted them up to the third floor to two spare bedrooms. “Hold tight and don't go anywhere. I need a few minutes, and then we'll get started.” With that, he shut them in their rooms and disappeared down the hall.
    Walking farther into the bedroom, Lil glanced at the furniture and at the bed. She had no intention of staying here. She had come to find her best friend and to figure out what was going on. This was a waste of time. On the dresser sat a globe. She spun the sphere and slowed it, staring at the land masses. The world looked identical to hers, at least