"That is irrelevant to the issue at hand, isn't it?" Courtney's voice came from the back seat.
Both River and I jumped and turned quickly around to look behind us.
"Mom?" my voice squeaked out.
"Hello, kids. Yes, Sage, Mommy dearest is back... for the moment. I believe your grandmother taught you and River both a counterspell and you used it last night, didn't you, Sage?" Courtney said with a smirk.
River turned his attention to me and raised his eyebrows before turning back to my birth mother.
"Sage wouldn't have done the spell if she didn't feel there was a need to do it," River responded.
"Oh, there was a need to do it. But, in doing so, she's unlocked part of who she is. Think, River. Has Sage exhibited more of her fiery spirit?" Courtney inquired, her eyes sparkling.
"Judging b
