Lazarus had been thinking about what he was experiencing at this very moment. Another strand had turned black. He tucked it away. He needed answers. But for now, he needed to act natural. The new girl Riye had returned downstairs. He took a deep breath and lumbered forward. She looked young, so this should be easy. Any young wizard would recognize him the weekly sorcerer. He grumbled, but spoke softly. "You." He held out a hand. Being a famous wizard in magazines came in handy at times like this. "Lazarus Rex, you may have heard of me. Welcome to phoenix wing. Maybe we can do a job together sometime. I'm sure my partner Sasha would love you to join us sometime." He smiled falsely. He was pulling off the act, but he knew he was dead inside right now. What he had learned in the last 3 months away couldn't get out. He needed the master's help.