The Work Begins [Closed] [Emily, Cat, El]

[LuckyBlackCat]

At Sable's acknowledgement of how beautiful and talented Raemi was, Carmine gave his Zoran companion a gentle clap on the shoulder, in part to keep her steady. In her stunned silence, she seemed ready to keel over at any moment. "You see? I'm not the only one who calls you that." His cheeks and eyes drew up in a grin. "Consider it confirmed." Knowing Raemi, it would only do so much to ease her self-doubts, but perhaps hearing it from someone other than a close friend would help.

He craned his neck ever so slightly as Sable mentioned her father's profession. "Oh? That's really cool, who is he? Anyone I'd have heard of?" Intrigued as he was, that spike of anxiety sharpened. Sable had to have high standards, knowing the ins and outs of music. His skin prickled, the feathers on his neck and chest beginning to fluff up. He took a surreptitious deep breath. "Nerves? What nerves? I'm telling you, I've got this! Thanks for the encouragement though!"

No matter the self-assured front he put up, it was Raemi who seemed the more assertive one in that momment. The next thing he knew, tendrilled arms and flowing membranes engulfed him. He staggered, leaning into Raemi's embrace, wrapping his wings aroud her and nuzzling her head fin with his beak. The feel of her smooth scales, her blanket-soft fins, her facial frills tickling his shoulder, set off an odd fluttering in his stomach. His face grew warm once more, in a pleasant way this time.

"Let's go eat then!"

Honestly, he could stay like this for a while longer, but if Raemi wanted to eat... "Mmmmmfffffhhhh!" was all he could reply at first. It was only once they pulled apart that he could form a coherent sentence. "Yep, let's make a start!"


Taking a seat and helping herself to a generous serving of pumpkin curry, Alyson stifled a laugh at Ryla's glances towards VaVas' plate. Although the Goron ambassador never followed through with their teasing, VaVas snarled and hissed as if he thought himself a miniature Gleeok. "Y'know, I've always wondered what bugs taste like," she joked, eyeing the tray. In truth, insects weren't the least bit appetising to her, but she couldn't turn down the chance to join Ryla in their deliberate irking of the mini-dragon.

Her attention shifted to Dgin as he explained his and VaVas' specialities. "Practicality? Not something to undervalue," she replied. "It is, after all, what Hudson Construction focuses on, in conjunction with the Zonai Survey Team." She of all people knew that just because just because the threats to the kingdom had ended, that didn't fix its aftereffects.

And neither would all the restoration efforts in the world. Not for those who hadn't made it.

The nigh-perpetual cheer she exuded flickered like a struggling flame, her smile wavering for a fraction of a second. "And yep there certainly is!" Her expression resumed its habitual brightness. "As well as being useful for exploration, transport brings us together. And we've gotta work together to build a more resilient Hyrule than ever before. This very town's proof of that!" Although she didn't know what the old Castle Town had been like, it likely hadn't had as many people from wildly different communities intermingling as it did now.

"Do you work at least in part on transport then?" she asked. "Or is it mostly tools for everyday tasks? Either way..." She glanced from Dgin and VaVas to Florimel. "I can see how your fields must mesh! I take it the three of you will be working together for more than just teaching?"

She took a mouthful of sweet, creamy curry before continuing. The food here was quite something, and she'd be more than glad to eat like this on a regular basis. "Speaking of such, Professor Florimel! Your item enchantment, how does it work?"


As soon as VaVas began hoarding the candied petals from under Florimel's nose, that settled it. There'd be none left if she didn't make a move right away. Descending in a streak of light and tearing a chunk from one of the snacks, she took her place and nibbled at it, reminding herself that Queen Zelda's conservation effort had been successful. Of course, there was still mitigation of adverse effects on wilderness from the upcoming changes to Hyrule to consider... as well as any other potential complications. Ones the realm already knew of too well.

"If you insist on these contraptions becoming part of everyday life," she grumbled to Dgin, "I do hope you're planning on implementing security measures of some sort." Even if the Demon King truly was gone for good - and who knew for certain - the risk of other malicious entities turning the kingdom's technology against it remained too great to ignore.

"Anyway. As for your question." She faced Alyson, wings flaring as she rose several inches above the table in a display of pride. "I'll have you know that item enchantment is a vastly distinct field from engineering. It enhances pre-existing properties. While it may not sound like much, it often makes all the difference, especially when it comes to enhancing alchemical ingredients and spell components." The thought of working on unpredictable machinery with Dgin and VaVas nearly made her scoff, but she kept quiet on the matter. It wouldn't do to let the gaps in her knowledge show, particularly not on her first day.

However, if she was going to semi-comfortably teach alongside Dgin and VaVas, she'd need to learn what the whole deal with them was. "And now for my question," she reminded them, "about the bottle."

[Emily]

"Y'know, I've always wondered what bugs taste like," Ryla grinned across the table at Alyson. One part of their job they took the most seriously was building relationships and seeing open paths of communication flourish between people of different cultures. While VaVas would likely never forgive Ryla for the slight of protection, and Ryla was more than happy to play the silly elder relative role in his life, they understood the need for the great and powerful VaVas to have more playful relationships. They liked Alyson already.

Dgin stroked his little ghostly beard, considering. "Hmmm... so what was the first question, again?" For the moment, as the spectre of their old friend floated atop the stool and considered, Ryla hesitated over a bite. A slight concern entered their eyes before the professor lit up, returning them to eating the rock roast. "Right! Our specialisms!"

"Alls them."

"Well, he is not entirely wrong. We take an interest in a great deal of applications of artificery, Miss Alyson. Though if we had to give our specialism a name, it'd be based in practicality. There has been more than enough war and strife in this kingdom, and many capable heroes and weapons to assist in their valiant efforts: VaVas and I focus instead on assisting the average fellow in their daily lives."

Despite their clearly practised and considered neutral expression, one could see in Ryla a great deal of pride. Behind locked doors, where their reputation as an infinitely-friendly but ultimately shallow being could not be sullied by such things as ideology, they had delivered a treatise to Yunobo and Bludo, and had been rewarded with the ambassador position first with the Gerudo and now with the Hylians. The foundation of the Goron spirit, of the Goron people, was not smithing. It wasn't mining. It wasn't machines and fire and punching. It was cooperation. It was community. It was solidarity.

Not everyone was on board, of course. "Bigs of talks but then dumb of ambitionsss."

"A Kingdom is nothing without its people. What use is there in saving the world if there's no comfort or joy to be had in everyone's regular lives. I apologise if that is disappointing to hear, Miss Alyson."

The Hylians, Gerudo, and Zora were preoccupied with pride. Their histories were full of hero worship for the warrior, a shared martial history that, in the case of the Hylians and Zora, also extended into a shared courtly history. The Gorons, meanwhile, idolised great builders and leaders, those who brought people together. And Ryla held this position without any hatred in their heart for those other races. It was an outpouring of love and pride for their brothers that brought them to this place. The Gorons would be the people to build and rebuild those things most important to Hyrule as a whole. They would connect the people together and lift everyone as one.

They shot Alyson a glance, curious to see how she would respond. Their experience with Bolson and then Hudson's people had been overwhelmingly positive. Something about those who create and build had a tendency to also instil a sense of social cohesion and the seed of proletarian ideological consciousness.

"Practicality? Not something to undervalue," she replied. "It is, after all, what Hudson Construction focuses on, in conjunction with the Zonai Survey Team."

Ryla nodded, leaning back and taking another bite of the rock roast.

"Though we would be thrilled to assist in your mechanical ambitions should you have us! Transport is as important a business as any, now that Hyrule has begun to settle and its people long-starved of vital connection. There is much to be gained therein!"

"And yep there certainly is! As well as being useful for exploration, transport brings us together. And we've gotta work together to build a more resilient Hyrule than ever before. This very town's proof of that!"

"Hear hear!" Ryla chuckled before continuing with their own food.

"Do you work at least in part on transport then? Or is it mostly tools for everyday tasks? Either way... I can see how your fields must mesh! I take it the three of you will be working together for more than just teaching?"

"If you insist on these contraptions becoming part of everyday life, I do hope you're planning on implementing security measures of some sort."

It was at this point that Ryla seemed to distance themself from the conversation, more content to listen quietly. Their interest was in the practical, and their curiosities, whatever those might be, seemed to be sated.

Though she would tone down the visual aspects of her performance, Sable glittered with pride as she saw the effect her words had on Raemi. She was, beneath everything else, a performer, whether that be a performer of alchemy, bartending, enchantment, or on very rare occasion taking the air out of a room. And if Raemi truly felt the way about her she had vocalised, why shouldn't Sable play into that?

Her efforts were rewarded. Carmine took the opportunity to smoothly weave in his own compliments. "You see? I'm not the only one who calls you that. Consider it confirmed." Unaware that they weren't already a couple, and having come right up to the line of flirting herself, Sable softened at the sight. It seemed things were going a lot better here than her own experiences. While Raemi was still struggling to speak, Carmine continued, catching her mention of her father, sparking a moment of chilled regret behind the smile in her eyes. "Oh? That's really cool, who is he? Anyone I'd have heard of?"

"Oh, I hope not," she waved a wing dismissively. "He was terrible."

He went on to dismiss the idea of nerves, something she chose to let sit because why bring further attention to something unpleasant if it was unnecessary. Not to mention that was the moment Raemi seemed to find her breath again, blurting out a response before immediately wincing as if she was ashamed of her words. "I would rather hope you do continue 'getting in our way'."

And then she bowed. Not in the way of the family heads of Clock Town, aggression temporarily tempered by an understanding that she was their new queen, nor in the sarcastic dismissive nature he had done as he gradually wormed his way deeper into her subconscious. It was a proper, courtly bow that allowed all of her accentuating features and items to perform their duties, creating a visual and auditory shimmer exceptionally pleasant to experience. Despite the separation of this from her previous experiences, Sable still found herself puffed up a bit, eyes flashing with satisfaction at the gesture. "It would be my greatest honour to accept your invitation, Professor Sable. Thank you."

"The pleasure is all mine, truly."

It was at that moment that Raemi seemed to regress into the puddle she had been before, smothering her much shorter paramour in an embrace. "Let's go eat then!"

Once he was released, "Yep, let's make a start!"

They walked through the halls together, some collaboration of common sense and luck directing them ultimately to the correct location. It wasn't that the academy was a particularly massive or labyrinthine building once one got their bearings, but it was an unfamiliar space. And she was happy that the sound of clinking glassware and metal were eventually audible down the hall from their spot.

As they entered the space, Sable's attention was piqued by a series of relevant words. "Anyway. As for your question. I'll have you know that item enchantment is a vastly distinct field from engineering. It enhances pre-existing properties. While it may not sound like much, it often makes all the difference, especially when it comes to enhancing alchemical ingredients and spell components."

She reflected back on her experience with Master Rakzhou. Rakzhou had originally been a tinkerer of sorts. Long before the Calamity had ended, he worked on various clockwork mechanisms and enchanted tech. His shop had been separated into two sections, all manner of heavy metal equipment on one side and gems on the other. Piped all throughout was effulgent liquid enchanted to glow as brightly as sunlight, to keep the place lit perfectly to his specifications. It's like we ground you up, boiled you down, and put your essence in the pipes. He had always put forward the idea that engineering and enchantment had loads of potential overlap, especially when it came to enchanting everyday items for public use. She thought she should really go back to Hateno sometime soon and see how he was doing. The introduction of Zonai equipment had no doubt done wonders for his research.

Sable looked over to the table, even as she approached the buffet spread. A fairy- hopefully her foray into that fairy tonic once hadn't become publicly known-, a Goron spectre, a lizard, a strange looking Goron in clothing, and... Alyson! She smiled, resolving to go and greet her friend later, when it wasn't an inappropriate moment. For the time being, she flashed her own temporary-issue ID and picked a small combination of fish and rice and a slice of a meringue pie of some sort. She turned to Carmine and Raemi, flashing another wave of sparkles before taking her leave. "I see the headmaster now. I have to speak with him for a bit, but I'll find you both later so we can go to the Roost together, okay?"

[El]

The electricity in her veins tickled too the pits of her stomach. Raemi was a bundle of indecision, trapped between a buoyant delight that threatened to have her prancing in glides down the corridor and the heavy chains of nerves which instead bound her ankles. To be weightless, or tense? What a wonderful dilemma to have!

The slender arm she'd wound around Carmie's wing was perhaps a little too tight in its grip. It only took a cursory, peripheral glance to realise it was entirely unintentional however: Raemi's adoring eyes barely ever left Sable! Her idol was leading the way and even from behind she glittered and glistened and glowed, her stride sure and elegant and bold! Plus, from this angle she could better admire her spectacular tailfeathers and their hypnotising sway.

Raemi's heart turned to goo.

So goo was she that when the trio finally made it to the dining hall, she startled - a giddy giggle coughed up into a strangled squeak. Raemi had no idea what she'd already placed on her plate and even less that they had company until she was addressed directly:

"I see the headmaster now. I have to speak with him for a bit, but I'll find you both later so we can go to the Roost together, okay?"

The immediate heartbreak in the Zora's eyes was tangible. Crestfallen, her once flared membranes drooped into a heavy drag. She would not pout however - that'd be incredibly unbecoming! - so instead Raemi forced a small, strained smile and nodded in understanding. It would not serve her well to be greedy. She'd already enjoyed plenty more of Sable's company than she'd ever dreamed.

"I'm looking forward to it, Professor Sable."  Contrary to the blatant betrayal of her physiology, Raemi's voice was elegant and composed - of perfect, gentle pitch. Yet, as the Rito left she took Raemi's breath with her, a blush staining the pearlescent cheeks something hot and fierce.

Then suddenly, she became aware.

VERY aware.

Where she was. What she was doing. The lights and bustle and scents and chatter and the warm plumage squeezed in her grasp. Paling, with a voiceless gasp Raemi immediately released Carmine, pretending she needed the second hand to grab a salad utensil.

She was feeling nauseous though. With Sable's spell shattered a sickness uncoiled in her gut, rearing its ugly, persistent head with a sinister settling she should've been accustomed to by now. Something cold raced down her spine and a tension gripped her shoulders. Eyes. So many eyes. People. Strangers. Crowds. The noises and the whispers and the unknown voices and hidden thoughts, the expressions on their shadows and the judgements on their tongues. Around her the mass swirled. Heat. Discord.

Fear.

With a slight tremble Raemi added a bundle of seasoned seaweed onto her plate, lips sealing firm against the tides which made the colours swim across her vision. As she drew in a muted breath she slipped on a mask: made pretend. All emotion left her face, drained to a polite, superficial warmth. Rigid and puppeteered.

She missed that night - the Beaumont Ball. What a relief it'd been to have a set role, a structured purpose, and a mask under which to hide from it all.

How was that Sheikah...? Raemi idly wondered. But the fantasy was banished as quickly as it'd bloomed, dashed by a harsh reality.

"Thank you for coming with me, Carmine."  The dancer re-iterated. Her tone was genuine, but she didn't meet his eyes - not quite yet - her hands busied in useless motions of indecision. She shouldn't eat - not really. She'd gained far too much weight and it was unbecoming and she was feeling too queasy now anyway. Her brother would be disappointed in her lack of self-discipline. But it was only polite to at least pretend to trouble over the vast selection of food: what she was forced to eat she'd just throw up later. "I'll make it up to you tonight.

"Oh look! One of your favourites! Wildberry compote!" 

—

You could see Dgin bloom, his phantasmal glow intensifying with visible delight as Alyson responded not only with assurance but genuine praise. The Goron had played humble but he had meant his every word. Hearing the youngling subvert his expectations of imminent disappointment warmed him deeply. His bejewelled grin was practically blinding.

VaVas would've scoffed at such a blatant display of swelling ego, but instead he was scoffing down his plate. What rotten luck he had! To be seated with not one food thief but TWO!!! Hurriedly he devoured the most precious parts of his meal, a gaggle of hairy legs chomped and crunched in an overextended maw. Was he even swallowing? Vavas NEED not swallow! Swallowing was for the lessers! Dragons had no time to waste on swallowing!

"Transport is absolutely an avid interest of mine, Miss Alyson!"  Dgin boomed with eagerness. "It is - unfortunately - a field that requires not only vast wealth but an even greater wealth of resources, so I have yet to do anything with it, but I am rather besotted with the idea of connecting Hyrule via rail! You should see our people's mining infrastructure - if you haven't already! A true wonder of engineering and beautifully practical. I dare say its efficiency is unparalleled.

"Though I will admit the Hudson efforts in Tarrey Town are a sight to behold themselves. A little on the rickety side but many great things are in their infancy! You iron out the flaws as you go - often WITH more iron, HAAA!!!"

His laughter shook the whole table.

"IN THE DOORS, VOICESSSS!!"  VaVas hissed, panicked hands flailing to keep the contents of his plate contained - and not splattered on the floor. "We ins the doors! Shsssssshhhssssh." 

"I do hope you're planning on implementing security measures of some sort." Chimed in the fairy, immediately dampening Dgin's humour like ice water on a stove. The spectral Goron froze mid-guffaw, a flicker of discomfort turning his grin into a grimace.

"Indeed,"  He acquiesced. His swollen form deflated, the gluttonous brawn slimming in a sad wither of a sigh. "There is that to consider as well, with my great railroad plan." 

The lizard scoffed. "Naahp. As ifsss. Unless the 'Dworf fanciesss he a retiring, no evil will play with trains. Our chug-chugsss come not with lasers... yet." 

A forked tongue slapped then around a crispy petal only to immediately grimace with distaste. Was this poison? It tasted like soap, and soap was poison. VaVas's bulging belly warbled with anxiety, recalling every horrid memory to date. Eating soap never ended well. "...Ercck." 

For the first time in this whole meal, he shared. With surprisingly disgusted delicacy he plucked out the remaining florals with his tappy, clinky talons and placed them in front of Florimel. "You should eats more to grows your brain."  The look the lizard shot her then was brimming with heartfelt sympathy: no wonder she was so huffy, eating things like this.

"And now for my question," Florimel continued. "about the bottle."

Ah.

At that both Dgin and VaVas stilled, their expressions a perfect mirror of the other. They exchanged a sidewards look, turning awkward and fidgety. Mustaches suddenly required grooming and fluffy eyebrows had to be adjusted.

VaVas conveniently remembered he was a lizard and shouldn't be capable of speech. Quietly - visibly cowed - he bent low against his plate and nibbled on a fried spider.

"...It's a flawed prototype."  Came Dgin's eventual, wistful sigh. Looking down at the harness buckled around VaVas's nimble frame, he frowned as if admiring a spurned love letter. There was romance - adoration - in his glowing gaze, but how damp it gleamed, sobered by the harsh reality of his failure. "I wanted to create the Glass Bottle of myth: ones capable of capturing all and any in its vast, nigh-endless dimensions.

"Imagine,"  Rambled on the Goron, voice taking on a deep rumble of gentle desire. "A Kingdom in which a travelling merchant could contain the entirety of his inventory - a whole warehouse! - and ride with ease across regions. Or nay, perhaps a family on vacation who still feared the wilds, their anxieties now set at ease by the security of their Glass Bottle: one fell swoop and it could contain a mighty Lynel!" 

A loud CRUNCH echoed from VaVas's jaws. He coughed. Spluttered. ...And awkwardly resumed chewing.

"...Instead it captured me, ha! Though rest assured,"  Dgin turned a determined stare upon all his present company. "I have not given up quite yet! Everything mighty and worthwhile hits a few bumps along the road."   

[LuckyBlackCat]

For all the confidence in his stride, Carmine held back a grimace as he followed Sable, regretting the question about her father. He'd rashly assumed him a role model, much like Kass to his children, but such was far from the truth. His thoughts drifted to his own father, the constant disapproving glares, the doting on his brothers for their accomplishments instead. Not a family situation he'd wish on anyone.

At his side, the grip of the arm curled around his was far tighter than usual, the tension Raemi exuded far outweighing his own. Her mesmerised gaze remained fixed on Sable the entire way along pillar-lined corridors. Once the initial star-struck phase wore off, Carmine wondered, would Sable's encouragements grant Raemi faith in her abilities? Or would she just hold herself to higher standards in the presence of her idol?

So overcome with adoration was she that as they entered the dining hall, she didn't even seem to notice the gathering at first - probably a good thing, given the tendency for even small crowds to set off her nerves. And what a remarkable gathering it was. A vaguely familiar dark-haired, coppery-skinned Hylian sporting goggles and an oversized toolbelt conversed animatedly with a spectre of a Goron shrouded in wispy flames, as well as... a talking lizard? Close by them, a winged orb of leaf-green light hovered - a fairy - and a second Goron sat, clad in a vivid red cloak that matched the gems growing above their eyes. Quite the unconventional group, although what else could Carmine have expected when it came to the arcane?


Alyson's laughter couldn't match Dgin's table-shaking guffaw, but it rose from deep in her belly, the Goron professor's enthusiasm infectious. "Absolutely!" she replied to his comment about Tarrey Town and its technological developments. "Our cable car's come a long way over the past few years. It still swings around a fair amount, but that's the fun of it! And I've heard a little about the mines, I'd love to see them some day! Is it true there's a challenge course involving mine carts?"

Professor Florimel, rather less keen on the idea, immediately pointed out a potential issue - that of security. Alyson stilled, her spoon halfway to her lips, the aftertaste of curry turning sour. Images of corrupted Guardians lurking in the distance, like giant spiders in wait for prey, flickered through her mind. As did ones of the ruins.

"Indeed." It was in a much more subdued voice that Dgin replied, his bulky spectral form hunched in on itself, his passion doused. "There is that to consider as well, with my great railroad plan."

Although VaVas piped up to disagree, Alyson chewed the inside of her lip, Dgin's stance resonating the most with her. "Eheh, well... Like you said, it's all in its infancy! There's gotta be something we can figure out. Some members of the Zonai Survey Team mentioned tech in the Depths - Lightroots - with locking systems. They work a little too well, cos almost nobody in this day and age knows how to unlock them, but I'm sure we'll be able to reverse engineer something of the sort soon enough!"

Just then, three newcomers made their entrance - two of whom Alyson recognised right away. "Sable! I had no idea you'd taken on a job here!" She hadn't mentioned her educational plans to Sable, out of concern that her friend would fear she'd overwork herself, a worry that others had already expressed. That they'd meet here was likely just as much of a surprise to both.

Sadly, a mere few seconds after her arrival, Sable announced her need to leave and speak with the headmaster, but not without mention of heading to the pub later. "See ya!" Alyson called, waving to her friend as she departed in a shimmer of plumage. "And I'll come along if that's all good!"

She turned her grin on the Zora, whose distinctive flowing membranes and wing-like facial fins she'd recognise anywhere. Yet despite the vivid multi-sensory illusions she'd woven on Eventide, that must be the envy of many a mage, Raemi shuddered in the presence of so many people, iridescent scales flushing red across her impassive features. "Hey Raemi! Nice to run into you again! In a non life-or-death scenario, no less. Just wait till everyone here sees what you're capable of! It'll earn you top grades for sure!"


Casting a friendly smile towards the crowd, Carmine took his place next to Raemi, who only emerged from her daze when Sable announced her departure. Right away she seemed to shrink in on herself, fins sagging, her self-consciousness palpable as she let go of his arm and began scooping salad onto her plate with trembling hands.

"Thank you for coming with me, Carmine. I'll make it up to you tonight."

Carmine chuckled. "Nothing to make up for! We'll both have some real wow factor by the end of this course. Well, you already do, but that's all the more reason to build on it!" In truth, his thankfulness for her presence matched hers for his. The mere thought of judgement from so many master mages, of possibly falling behind his peers as he'd done in the past, set his stomach turning. Yet he squared his shoulders, sitting up as tall as he could in his seat.

"Oh look! One of your favourites! Wildberry compote!"

Although wildberries were one of the few things he missed about Hebra, his worries dampened his appetite. Nonetheless, he spooned some of the stewed fruit into a bowl. Performing on an empty stomach wouldn't be the best of ideas. Besides, Raemi was struggling worse right now, prodding at the shredded kelp on her plate but not taking so much as a bite. "Speaking of favourites," he pointed out, gesturing to a tray of stripe-skinned raw fish chunks on wooden sticks, "are those porgy skewers?"

She really should eat something. Difficult as doing so was while nervous, hunger would only stress her out more.

He bristled when the peppy handywoman ignored him in favour of the others - had he not made enough of a mark at the Beaumont Ball? - yet he reminded himself they had yet to actually speak with each other. By contrast, she seemed to have had an entire adventure alongside Raemi. A life-or-death scenario? "Oh?" He tilted his head towards Raemi, partly out of concern, partly out of curiosity. The thought of Raemi being in any kind of danger made his skin prickle, but whatever had happened, she'd made it. More than made it - she'd accomplished a feat of heroism. "Do you have an epic tale to tell?"


Between Raemi's shyness and Dgin's sudden lapse in confidence, the situation had already grown awkward enough, yet the Goron engineer's palpable unease at Florimel's comment was nothing compared to his reaction to her next one. Even VaVas fell just as silent as the phantom he carried around, both fidgeting and tweaking at their facial hair. Alyson winced along with them, hoping the fairy would acknowledge that whatever the deal was with the bottle, they'd rather not talk about it right now.

But no. After a long pause, Dgin resigned himself to replying. A flawed prototype... of the legendary Glass Bottle.

"Imagine." Some of his ardor rekindled like stoked embers. "A Kingdom in which a travelling merchant could contain the entirety of his inventory - a whole warehouse! - and ride with ease across regions. Or nay, perhaps a family on vacation who still feared the wilds, their anxieties now set at ease by the security of their Glass Bottle: one fell swoop and it could contain a mighty Lynel!"

Although the results hadn't quite turned out as intended, Alyson leaned in, eyes practically agleam at the possibilities. "I can see why you wanted to create such a marvel! It'd revolutionise travel, business, all of society! Especially combined with new transport methods! Dinraal's teeth, though, that must have been one horrific experience. But... you say it's reversible?" He'd mentioned getting his body back, sure that such was not just within the realm of possibility but guaranteed to happen.

Was it something the Zonai Survey Team could help with?


What a time for new students and staff to arrive. Well, Florimel knew she hadn't helped there, her question having prompted the sudden hush, but it still needed an answer. And no matter said answer, it wouldn't be one she'd like by any means. The longer Dgin and VaVas maintained a silence that spoke volumes, the further she edged away from both of them.

"...It's a flawed prototype," Dgin finally admitted in a sigh of defeat. The bottle's flaws were already obvious given its warped shape, but Florimel hadn't expected to hear what he went on to explain - that he'd been the one to create such an unreliable contraption. And here he was, passing on his so-called expertise to future generations. Goddess help them. Furthermore, not even death had been enough to deter him?

"Well that certainly takes perseverence to a new level..." she muttered, her acerbic tone making it clear this was no compliment. As if his endeavours hadn't carried additional risks. Even if they'd gone smoothly, how could he have guaranteed nobody would use a dimensional device to rob a store, or kidnap people, or poach rare wildlife? Just as he couldn't guarantee nobody would extrapolate on his designs to create weapons, despite his own lack of interest in them. History had a tendency to repeat itself.

Clutching the shreds of sugared petal, she gave a soft sigh. Voicing this right now, faced with the new students - one of whom shivered with social anxiety - wouldn't be appropriate. Besides, did Great Fairies and powerful Koroks not share space-distorting magic with those who earned their trust, allowing them to carry more items on their person? Albeit with emphasis on "those who earned their trust"...

"I already have a big enough brain, thank you very much," she huffed at VaVas, ignoring the irony of his superior bulk, and that the surrounding giants were a different matter altogether. "But anyway." She fluttered closer to the new arrivals. The Rito appeared as prideful and puffed-up as Dgin and VaVas, but at least he looked out for his Zoran companion, whose timidity contrasted his bravado. "Welcome, both of you."

[Emily]

"Sable! I had no idea you'd taken on a job here!" Alyson had seen her after all! Sable hadn't wanted to interrupt her friend, who had been deep in conversation with the other artificers. That being said, any surprise she had once felt at being spotted despite unintrusive ambitions was long past her. She turned around and gave a little extra sparkle for Alyson. "I am nothing if not well-employed, darling."

At the added wish, she winked. "You're welcome anytime. And that goes for everyone, we've got a special night. Wish me luck."

And with that, she spun once more and crossed the room to a table where the headmaster, a portly but intelligent looking elder Sheikah, sat in front of a small plate of greens and a glass of some manner of sparkling magenta juice. Pomegranate, if she had to hazard a guess, which was quite impressive, as the fruit only grew in the arid plateau between Faron's western edge and the mountains surrounding Gerudo Desert. It had great mythological significance to the Gerudo; she was able to procure it as an ingredient while working for Furosa, but not once she had opened her own pub in the city.

The man quickly stood up on her approach and held out a hand. She placed her food on the table opposite him, and then gave a firm, but not terribly forward, shake with her wing. She would never lose her fascination with the Rito wing in this world. Its ability to grip and hold things was visible to those without them, but she was theoretically one of very few people who knew the feeling of it contrasted against fingers. But it could certainly conduct a passable handshake. "Madam, it is a great delight to meet you in person."

"Please," she laughed, taking a seat as he also did. A glimmer of gold passed through her feathers as the light hit her just so. "The pleasure is all mine."

He responded with a polite laugh, then took a small sip of his juice, gesturing for her to eat. "I saw you are already familiar with some of our students, which is a beneficial starting point. Is that an effect of being based in the city, or do you know them from earlier?"

"I'm certain that some of the adults who will be attending the school will have stopped by the Roost. In this case specifically, Alyson is a close friend of the family, while Raemi and I worked together during the soiree held a few weeks ago at the Beaumont Estate here in the city." She paused here herself to take a drink of her own glass- plain water for now. Her night job was dehydrating enough.

"How wonderful! I had the pleasure of meeting miss Kael earlier today."

"Isn't she delightful?"

"Utterly, though I didn't have the opportunity to speak with her at much length just yet. My attention was required with another member of the staff. Tell me, do you have any experience with deep sea Zora?"

The smile in her eyes froze for a moment. She reached out, instinctively, a quick scan of her surroundings. Aside from the people in the room with her, she picked up on a few people elsewhere in the facility, and a strange, alien presence below them. When her subconscious ping passed over, the being seemed to grab onto it, tracing it back so quickly Sable didn't even have time to be startled.

It probed her mind, and Sable received a rapid series of images in her mind. First, several images of Zora that looked very much like Raemi but not her specifically, and then flashes of how to approach what appeared to be a massive vial of water in a classroom. In the span of less than a second, she had received instructions, and then the presence had retreated entirely from her mind.

"Like Raemi?" she asked, loosening the grip of her feathers on the delicate glass and somehow succeeding at keeping her composure. A deep sea Zora that could invade her mind before she could throw up her defences. It certainly warranted further investigation.

"No," the headmaster didn't seem to catch any of her panicking. Eyes bright with excitement, he continued. "I was approached by an emissary of a deep sea Zora who was interested in joining the academy as an instructor for the elemental arts. She is of the most fascinating biology, more akin to a Biri in the way that other Zora resemble other aquatic lifeforms. She is a telepath, and cannot stand in our gravity for long, as she has lived her entire life until now in the depths of our oceans!"

Sable relaxed. "That's incredible," she responded, meaning it. "Between her, the spectre, the lizard, the fairy, and the crystal Goron, you've got quite the collection of instructors here. What exactly has interested you in me?"

"You're far too modest, Miss Atelia! You came on the greatest recommendations, and from all corners of the realm. Master Beisahir in Hateno specifically wrote me a letter, practically demanding that I seek you out. Riju of the Gerudo also mentioned you had been of great assistance to her people. Even beyond direct recommendations, you're a known person in the alchemy and enchanting fields. In your interview in the Lucky Clover Gazette, I quite enjoyed when you said, uh... I forget the exact quote."

"I throw things in a cup and magic comes out?"

He snapped. "That's it exactly! I could see in that moment that you possess the right level of modesty about your craft that allows someone to teach. You see, it is my philosophy on education that while you always aim for the best- and I've been overwhelmingly lucky in this regard- but more important even than skill is self-awareness. One cannot teach properly if they are too self-absorbed, they create a cloud of unattainability and complexity to their crafts that can prevent students from gaining a true appreciation or interest in that craft."

She nodded.

"This academy will be the premier location for students of all magical studies. I will not settle for anything less than total success in this. And I assure you, I am accomplishing that through the major skill I bring to the table: seeing the potential of others. And so," he paused, took a breath, "if you would be so kind, I would love to offer you a position as professor of alchemy and enchanting. I understand that you are quite busy, and I have set up tiers depending on the time each of my professors has. You would be richly compensated, of course, but you could teach as many courses as you feel you are capable of taking on, whether that's one or four at a time."

"Headmaster," she smiled and took a small bite of her meringue pie. "I would be delighted to accept. If it isn't too much trouble, would I be able to start with one course, and perhaps grow that number later on, should time permit?"

"For you, Miss Atelia?" He smiled, the most winning smile of anyone Sable had ever met. "Anything."

[El]

A-Alyson?!

Fins flared in fright at the call of her name, her eyes only widening further when she verified the owner of that signature chirp. Raemi wanted to smile, but it was a struggle. Her heart was doing something funny in her chest, an irregular rhythm throbbing a lump right up into her throat. In the absence of her voice she bowed her head instead, docile and hesitant. When her lips finally moved the curls were shallow and evidently forced.

Hopefully Alyson wouldn't take it the wrong way. It was nothing personal, given the adorable bubble of determination she was: who wouldn't adore her? Though it seemed she was enraptured by her original company anyway, swiftly falling back into conversation with the most bizarre collection of individuals Raemi had seen in a long while. It appeared the engineer even knew Sable...?! Intimately, apparently! Their interaction demonstrated an easy comfort that couldn't possibly come from anything but friendship. A long-lived one at that.

That was-...

A sharp tooth nipped at her tongue. While she was relieved that each of those interactions soon absorbed themselves elsewhere instead - leaving her free from their clutches - her mind still churned as she spun tangles of kelp. Delicately she made sure the fork didn't scrape the plate. She'd already forgotten about the mention of porgy skewers.

"Oh? Do you have an epic tale to tell?"

Raemi acknowledged the concern in Carmie's eyes with a guilty grimace of a smile. He was quick to fluff himself up and twist the scenario into something that could make for lighter conversation but-... No. She couldn't stomach the thought of that. Gaze downcast again, a small laugh weakly dropped from her lips. "Nothing like that,"  She clarified, voice fragile. "I just happened to be there, since after the-..."  Oh. She hadn't told him about that incident either.

Her lips pursed then. But a few beats later she sighed, expelling some great weight off of her chest. "But... I can tell you more about it later, if you'd like?"  With timid reluctance she looked back up at her feathered companion, trying her best to school her expression into one he'd recognise well - complicated composure. "Sorry. For keeping it from you. But it's not-... not something I feel comfortable talking about - honestly. Not now. And not... here."  Even though they'd seated themselves, the security at having seized a designated spot amongst the crowd was still taking its time to ease the tension in her shoulders. It'd come. Eventually.

As if the fairy sensed a dire need of some extra magic to ease her spirit, over fluttered a telltale sparkle illuminating Raemi's eyes with admiration. "Welcome, both of you." Came the very professional introduction. With a little flutter of her own, the Zora's eyebrows perked with curiosity. Was she-... a professor here too?

She hadn't actually left her own table though, so perhaps it was just a passing courtesy of a greeting. All the more reason to respond the same. "Thank you, Miss." Raemi eloquently returned, tendrils and colourful membranes curling in an elegant, deferential gesture. "Clearly we made a great choice in coming today if a wise fairy like yourself is also present."  Sweet was Raemi's smile, though it was no less genuine for it.

—-

"But... you say it's reversible?"

"Ha! Why wouldn't it be?" Without missing a beat Dgin guffawed once more, ego gleaming bright across all his pearly-... not-so-whites. "Just because a solution hasn't been found yet, doesn't mean there isn't one! We've just got to keep trying, is all."

VaVas nodded in sagely agreement, jaws still chewing mouthfuls of crunch and goop. In mild distraction he watched Florimel converse with an odd pair at the neighbouring table. Had she interrupted them on purpose? The air about them had certainly been serious - heavy, even. "We havesuthss an ideas tho." The lizard muttered. With a sniff and one last whiplash lick, finally he reclined back in his highchair, talons folding upon his bulging belly. It warbled, briefly, before unleashing in a ghastly burp. "-More of the re searchings is needed everhows."

"Indeed, but it's promising!"

"...And muchss works." VaVas grumbled, fiddling then with the curl of his lengthy moustache. It felt like it needed a refreshing groom however, so then his talons went digging in his tiny waistcoat pockets for the comb.

"I must say though, Miss Alyson, that idea about the locking mechanism on the Lightroots...? That's a fantastic thought!" The phantom had leaned forwards, resting a transparent elbow upon the table as he beamed at the young woman and her magnificent brain. "You're going to go far! I can sense it!

"Though I really should look more seriously into the whole transport business if I want to get anywhere with it, eh. How do you think our brothers will take to it, Ryla?" Dgin looked then to their quiet companion. He didn't need to worry about whether they'd caught all of what had been discussed however: they'd always been the observant sort. Sharp too. ...It was a bit unnerving sometimes really, the way they saw and noticed things even Dgin himself hadn't - even if they were about himself! "I'd love to recruit some of them for the endeavour, but given how the mining industry - and tourism! -  is booming in recent years I'm not certain they even have the goropower to spare."

[LuckyBlackCat]

Alyson leaned in at the artificer duo's assertions. "What kind of idea, if you're ok saying?" For all VaVas' grouchiness at the prospect of how much work it would require, he exuded as much certainty as his more optimistic companion that they'd discover a solution. Was their research similar to that of the Zonai Survey Team regarding a certain device? If so, their help could prove valuable, but she wouldn't leap to tout it as a surefire boon until she knew more about the professors' plan.

She'd already overstepped with Raemi. Despite the Zora's considerable talent for putting on a show, she shied from the spotlight, gaze shifting to her plate as she stammered her reluctance to recount her achievements, even with her Rito friend intrigued. So much for trying to boost her confidence. "It's all good!" Alyson gave an apologetic rictus of a smile. "Just saying though, with a skill like that, you're gonna make quite an impression!"

Sable in particular would appreciate the vividness and intricacy of those illusions, having more than a knack for such herself.

A flattered warmth spread through Alyson as Dgin, his brilliant bejewelled grin widening, displayed as much faith in her as she did in Raemi. "Aw thanks! There's still little we know about the Lightroots, much less their exact workings. Even so, they're proof that safety systems are possible!"

The ghostly Goron began musing to Ryla on how to put his ambitions into practice, staffing being one concern with other projects keeping their brothers occupied. "Y'know," Alyson pitched in, "I'm sure Hudson Construction will be happy to help out. We're a little busy right now of course, but we have a few goals in common!"


Florimel's greeting appeared to bring some comfort to the Zora, a slight smile brightening that pearlescent-scaled face, her speech free of stutters and pauses. "Thank you in turn. Raemi, is it?" Florimel continued, shifting the colour of her light to a warmer, more springlike yellow-green. "And what would your name be?" she asked the robin-like Rito at her side.

Those accessories carved from coral... They differed from the silver jewellery the Zora of the Domain typically wore. Was Raemi from another pod, either a reclusive one or part of a separate realm altogether? Was she new to the wider kingdom, feeling out of place despite having made a firm friend? Even if Florimel had a few pointed words for the more... eccentric people present, part of her job was to help nervous newcomers settle in. "As for me, I'm Professor Florimel of Item Enchantment."

Said eccentrics, at least, had turned to discussing security measures for the contraptions they planned to inflict on the world. It seemed they needed those pointed words from time to time.


As Alyson - one of the prize-winners at the Beaumont Ball, Carmine recognised, just without the copious amounts of glitter - backed off from coaxing the story out of Raemi, so did he. Voice softening, he nodded. "As much as I'm always up for chronicles of heroic deeds, tell me if and when you're ready, ok?" Life or death... Unless Alyson had been exaggerating, putting up that theatrical manner she'd displayed at the Ball, that had to be a harrowing experience, no matter Raemi's accomplishments throughout it.

The approach of another professor caused Raemi to perk up, even after the fairy's little moment of friction with the others. Whereas Raemi curled her fins inwards in a formal, humble gesture, Carmine held his head high at Professor Florimel's request for introductions. "It's Carmine. A name you can count on the whole kingdom knowing some day!"

This earned a drawn-out groan from Florimel, whose orb flickered. "Make sure it's for the right reasons."

Something squirmed in the pit of Carmine's belly, but he forced a laugh from his beak, one that came out far more fluttery and stifled than he intended. "Oh you bet I will. And I'm sure it'll be the same for Raemi here, Alyson isn't kidding about her talent." He looked to his companion once more, a twinkle of assurance in his eyes.

[Emily]

They spent a few more moments discussing the specifics of her contract. Sable would be allowed to teach as many classes per year as she wished, contingent on a submitted lesson plan passing the headmaster's standards. Professors like the spectre- Dgin- and the lizard- VaVas- were employed on a full-time salary within the university's superstructure, and had more leniency to teach the things they specifically wished due to their research and academic functions. If she were ever to become a full-time professor and researcher in either of her specialities, Sable would be afforded the same benefits.

On the upside, even as a part-time professor, she had access to the alchemical and gem stores of the alchemy and enchantment departments, as well as any other ingredients she might require for non-alcoholic functions. She could also eat for free- probably not something she would use, but she would never turn down a professionally-prepared pastry or pie.

The most surprising revelation, of course, was- "I've known Rakzhou and Ouji for many years, you know."

"Is that so?" Sable had nearly finished her food by this point, and took a sip from her glass of water.

"Oh yes," the headmaster responded, "I grew up in Kakariko, my parents having fled there during the Calamity, but moved to Hateno maybe 50 years ago. Beautiful village. I taught the schoolchildren there, but retired back to Kakariko before Queen Zelda and Link ended the Calamity. Symin took up the mantle and the queen funded a proper schoolhouse- it's quite magnificent, I must say. But I remember vividly when Rakzhou moved into the city. If you'll pardon my language, he was a bit of a dickhead," he paused as Sable cracked into an uncontrolled laugh. "But my word he was a brilliant enchanter even then, at such a young age. I've maintained contact with him throughout the years, attended his wedding. They are two of a small group of people I consider my friends.

"That is to say, his single-minded recommendation of you and nobody else carries a lot of weight in my heart. And in meeting you now, I wonder if you remembered me."

Sable placed the glass back onto the table, sighed. She sat straight-backed, made purposeful eye contact. The smile, the effortless good humour, had all left her eyes. "If I'm to be perfectly honest, I had hoped you wouldn't remember me. Not only for the implication of playing favourites, but because I am finding Hyrule to be a tragically small world. Most people from Hateno that I 'meet' now have no memory of me, but I suppose they also don't have a direct line of contact with my dads. I fear those two sometimes take a few too many steps in trying to help me."

The headmaster made a small, dismissive gesture. "It's no matter, Miss Atelia."

She relaxed a little, let out a small scoff. "Come now, Mr. Crenshaw, like Alyson you're a friend of the family. You should call me Sable." Her eyes glittered with a bit of mischief.

"I hope you know I take that as a distinct honour, Sable. As I was getting to, however, I thought it would be best to let you know that I know you and I acknowledge I taught you in primary school, but that our previous relationship had no bearing in my offering you a position at this school. You were trained by one of the greatest artificers I've ever met, and have gained significant honours on your own merit. We needn't stand on history, and it never has to come up again."

Sable paused. She thought for a moment, catching a slight upwelling of emotion and stifling it, then nodded. "Thank you."

His eyes sparkled with humour of their own. "Think nothing of it. Now! We have eaten, and I believe we had a very productive discussion. You are a professor effective today, and I hope to see you teaching classes soon. Let me know if there's anything you need from me, alright?"

"Very well, headmaster," she gave a beaming smile. "If you don't mind, I believe I will be borrowing one of these students- your telepath requested her presence."

"Oh dear," the headmaster responded. "I hope that wasn't too uncomfortable an experience for you."

"Though I really should look more seriously into the whole transport business if I want to get anywhere with it, eh. How do you think our brothers will take to it, Ryla? I'd love to recruit some of them for the endeavour, but given how the mining industry - and tourism! - is booming in recent years I'm not certain they even have the goropower to spare."

Ryla grinned, their multi-faceted and colourful teeth catching some of the light. "I think it's a fascinating idea, and if I think that, I can assure you our brothers will think it as well. I must admit, I'm not as knowledgeable when it comes to the technicalities of what would need to be done. We have plenty of our own in Gorondia and the surrounding depths, however, and I'm certain they'll have been studying the lightroots. We'll have plenty of volunteers ready to work on any project. I'll be sure to write back to the boss as soon as I return to the consulate.

"Speaking of," they pushed out slightly from the table. "I appreciate the meal and the company, but I had another meeting scheduled that I must be getting to." As they stood up, they smiled at everyone assembled at the table. "Dgin, VaVas, my brothers, it was wonderful catching up. Now that we're all in the city, I hope you don't mind terribly if I occasionally come to visit. Alyson, you are a beacon in the darkness, I am humbled by your brilliance and fully agree with Dgin regarding your prospects. Professor Florimel, it's been a pleasure. And I apologise I couldn't speak more at length with you, Carmine and Raemi. If any of you ever need anything, anything at all, please don't hesitate to stop by the Goron Consulate in the administrative district. Farewell!"

And with that, the emissary of the Gorons exited, humming to themself and dodging around chairs, tables, and people with effortless grace. As they exited, Sable placed a wing on Raemi's shoulder, leaning in to speak in a low voice. "Sorry to interrupt, but when you've got a moment, there's another professor here who is interested in speaking with you. I'd be happy to accompany you if it's not too much trouble."

It seemed like Raemi wasn't in the best of spirits, so Sable hadn't felt quite so bad about interrupting. Perhaps her presence and a quieter setting would do some good for the poor soul.

At that moment, a Gerudo approached the dining hall. She was quite tall, and from a distance it as difficult to see what she was wearing, besides a wide-sleeved and open-front coat that hung to the back of her knees. It was a dark brown with red down the opening at the front. The interior of the coat, visible within the sleeves and around the bottom, was a menagerie of bright, colourful designs in teals, reds, greens, whites, and blues. From the edges of the sleeves, golden charms hung, weighing down the wide openings with extra decoration. Her bright red hair was unbound, hanging loose and messy. Her proud amber eyes surveyed the room, briefly fixed on the crystalline Goron as the two stopped on opposite sides of the same doorway, laughed and greeted one another amicably, and then passed one another by. She returned to her search before settling her gaze upon the headmaster. With a direct sense of purpose, she entered the dining hall properly.

She grabbed a plate, a few pieces of various foods from an equally various destinations in Hyrule, and approached the headmaster, her voice low and difficult to make out from any distance other than where she was about to sit. "pspspsps psps ps pspsps" The headmaster offered her a seat, and they began to chat.

[El]

"Make sure it's for the right reasons."

Raemi's heart convulsed, but she bit back the bubbling of an impassioned retort. She was well-accustomed to authority figures like Florimel: bold words would only serve to damage impressions - it was action that mattered. Action she knew Carmie himself would someday soon demonstrate. This was not her place to intervene, even as she sensed him falter - for just a flinch of a second - beside her. She felt she'd been struck herself.

Yet, lips pursed in a perfect smile, Raemi made an important mental note to preen over Carmine's abilities in private later. So focused on that future task was she, that barely did his own praise register. The soothing sounds of his voice did not form words, merely syllables, their meaning drowned out by a fretting twist of protective fury which she was still forcing - with great effort - into the pits of her belly.

Even Alyson's praise had been reflected with a submissive cordiality: acknowledging, yes, but wordless. The only reason the brilliant engineer saw her as anything exceptional was simply because she hadn't yet been exposed to the rest of her people, surely. Raemi could barely pass as average. But, be that as it may, it was still praise of her beautiful Apsaran community, so the Zora accepted it with a gentle grace. Indeed, for nothing else but their pride she should make sure to keep her chin high. A wilting wallflower of a squid was not how her people should be remembered.

"Item enchantment sounds fascinating."  Raemi mused, the sincerity of her statement thankfully braiding the last of her fraying ends back together. "I've begun dabbling in the myriad of materials here in Hyrule, but it quickly became evident I was very much out of my depth-... both literally and metaphorically." She giggled. "I'd love to see what they're truly capable of!

"Do you enhance their innate properties? Or imbue them with entirely new ones?"

Then a wing settled upon her shoulder. Raemi would've startled into screech had she known its owner, but the gesture was one she was so accustomed to she only realised the gravity of that touch when the feathers gleamed a very different hue, and their texture proved more silken in their quality. Wide-eyed the rest of her words choked in her throat, immediately dying. The delayed realisation rendered her mute rather than deafening - a small blessing for all, no doubt.

"Sorry to interrupt, but when you've got a moment, there's another professor here who is interested in speaking with you. I'd be happy to accompany you if it's not too much trouble."

...Who? ...HER?! Why?! Surely she was mistaken, no?!

N-not that it was Raemi's place - at all! - to question Sable's judgement, or even risk a remark on her mistaken assessment. The Zora's face flushed crimson while a chill seized her gut, strangled of all its prior warmth.

Dread.

While panic fluttered Raemi's gaze away, a flinch squinting in brief plucks at her flared fins, her mind raced to settle upon a logical conclusion. Sadly, what she found was not anything to be excited about. So her brow puckered as she pasted on an abiding smile and nodded. With practiced elegance she arose from her seat, bowing a contrite look at the company she was leaving behind.

"My apologies, Professor Florimel. I hope we'll have the chance to converse again, sooner rather than later."

Raemi's eyes drifted back down to Carmie. Rather than add any extra words however, she instead gave his forefeathers a reassuring squeeze as her smile grew that little bit wider. He'd only just found her and now she was leaving him again. This poor guy must feel like he spent most of his waking hours chasing after her fintails. Honestly. It was no small miracle that he'd stuck around with her for this long.

But there was no time nor space to indulge in her guilt when a scolding (or thorough dressing-down) was awaiting her. Raemi departed with Sable, leaving behind a fork-swirled plate of salad that was still entirely untouched.

—-

"Hmmm, I feel I might just keep that a secret actually." Dgin teased, trying - and failing - to hold back another guffaw. The strength of it had scrunched up tight his eyes, though now one peeped open in a lazy wink at Alyson, its illuminated gaze twinkling as he added, "For now."

"Paafhssss! As ifs truths bigsss." The lizard mocked, with a twitching slap of his curled tail. Though perhaps it would be best to keep the matter under wraps for the timebeing, considering the peculiar manner that pompous fossil of a man had reacted to the news. They'd still come away from the interview with a promised place of employment, but you'd think them both booped-in-the-head the way he regarded them after that! VaVas' face crumpled in agitated distaste. SLAP went his tail again.

The matter of their solution aside, the conversation quickly moved onto more immediate - and arguably more monumental - prospects. Not only did Alyson re-iterate that her ties to Hudson Construction could come in very useful indeed (just how high ranking an employee was she anyway?), but Ryla themselves enlightened Dgin that he was far more ignorant than he believed.

"HA!" Bellowed the phantom. "It feels good to be wrong! They've managed to start work down in Gorondia too?!! Well I'll be goro!" Pride radiated fiercely from his rotund form, the flames of his spirit blazing brighter than ever. Even if they did noticeably dampen, flickering for a few beats as the ambassador made to leave. "Please DO come visit us!" Dgin hastily encouraged, calling after them with far more volume than was necessary. Always more volume than was necessary. "You always tell the most fascinating of stories!"

"Ands bullsshizzz." Snarked VaVas, rolling his eyes in disregard.

Bittersweet though the prompt departure was, it was clear to see however the enthusiasm it'd left in its wake. Though a silence followed, it was far from empty: the expanse instead a freshly tilled field where seeds had begun to be sewn. Upon a burly bicep, bejewelled fingers thrummed, racing thoughts fighting for an outlet to flutter and fidget. The phantom was staring off into the distance with an almost frighteningly manic grin stretched wide between his sideburns. VaVas knew that look. Dgin was plotting.

But then it stopped.

"Hrm?!" Twitched that bulging gut. Mighty eyebrows furrowing in theatrical exaggeration, Dgin threw an accusation at the fairy and her new Rito. "Who have you abducted, Professor Florimel! How selfish of you! You must share!

"Come join us at our table, feathered fellow! No good sitting there alone when you can share your meal right over here, ey?"

The lizard recoiled, swallowing back a hissed shriek. He had been hoping - nay, praying - that the buffoon would continue to be wrapped up in his own world but nope. There he went, inviting a BIRD into their midst! The insensitive stupidity of the brute!

VaVas regarded the fluffed-up bard with squinting suspicion, his once recumbent lounge scrunching up into a tensed knot of defence. Beaks were never to be trusted. Especially not beaks THAT pointy! And why exactly was his chest so red? ...WAS IT RED WITH BLOODSTAINS?! A shiver of terror shook VaVas' jaw loose.

"What are you hoping to learn here, son? Any field you fancy inparticular?

—-

At least Sable's beauty was an easy distraction. It wasn't all that tough to get lost in the shimmer and gleams as they made their way through the corridor, Raemi's own stride insisting on keeping a few steps behind her idol - it was where she was most comfortable.

Their conversation was shallow at best, more wordplay and passing platitudes than anything remarkable. Raemi would kick herself for that later - a brilliant opportunity abhorrently dashed. But in truth she was struggling to form even the most basic of sentences. Her distraction was evident. Her concern growing clearer with each ignored doorway. Her ribs had become a vice, closing about her palpitating heart with increasingly shallower breaths.

An unfamiliar location. A beautiful face she barely knew. Disorientating corridors. A location foreign. An intent without elaboration. While Raemi was being guided through sun-basked structures of remarkable architecture, the warmth fell cold upon her scales: its magnificent arches and grand structures echoing hollow. Distant.

But in that void Raemi felt herself slipping into... there came also something else.

A tickle.

Something familiar and yet entirely alien. A nudged memory. A fuzzy recollection. A tale of something she'd long forgotten. At first Raemi thought it just another side-effect of her tumultuous temperament.

But then she laid a decisive hand upon the indicated door, stepped on through, and the world collapsed around her.

Oh.

A grand cylindrical tank. Water on the walls. Mirages basking the stone in streams of light and deep tides. Sunlight beamed in through an entire wall of tall windows, amplifying the complex dance of shimmering shadows. But all of that was entirely lost on Raemi as she stood, breathless beyond true comprehension at the sight that waited within the glasswork structure.

The myth was real.

It was no myth at all.

Immediately Raemi fell to her knees, collapsing into a folded bow of immense reverence. Whatever voice she thought she once had, she had instantly lost all memory of it: not that it mattered, sound was not how these revered beings communicated after all. The sudden recollection of that fact broke down every single barrier that may have been left standing, spilling wide open Raemi's mind in humbled - albeit overwhelmed - welcome.

'It is an honour.'

She sighed, feeling her breath tremble as it reflected off the floor. The tile felt cold against her forehead but she dared not lift her gaze. To do so would feel... sacrilegious? Impolite? Wrong? Whichever feeling it was, it did not sit in comfort, twisting Raemi's nerves with a terrible horror of how woefully unprepared she was for this. Though in truth, how could she ever have been?

The ethereal figure she had chanced a glance upon was the very same mythological being the Apsaran's decorated much of their culture with: dotted through the minor but no less pervasive details of their daily lives. Motifs of their graceful, swooping, fringed hoods were carved upon the pommels of their scouts' spears. Painted onto the shell charms fishermen tied up in their nets. Engraved into every fifth tile which bordered the birthing pools. Mothers sung of their protection through haunting, gentle lullabies, the melodies a salve against the vicious roar of storms raging outside. Raemi vividly recalled inscribing the opening line of her favourite verse into the first necklace her parents gifted her upon reaching puberty:

Fear not what shall always pass,
In tides you too shall ebb and flow.
Through currents carried,
Your fate is guided.
Be at ease, for all shall ebb and flow.

This professor was no simple stranger: she was an icon of revered fable. Even with the evidence blatant and irrefutable, to think they were real after all...? 'Awe' would be putting it mildly.