"It is okay," he promised when she hesitated. He gave her a reassuring smile as she finally accepted his outstretched hand. "I simply think you'd understand better if I show you the village." He tugged her hand a little and started toward the main part of the village. "Magic can do a great many things," he explained. "It can even defy time and make a crazy place in the middle of space." He sounded bonkers, but he continued. "Look at me. Notice anything different?"