The reality of Marcaille's response was perhaps more biting than Ariel's. Sabine pinched one of her fingers in front of herself and took a pause for a second thought.

"I will speak with her," Sabine said, discouraged.

Ariel leaned to one side to place a hand on Sabine's arm. "Another thing to consider, Sabine. If you end up losing contact with Marcaille before improving your skills of conjuration enough, Ahnasha might be willing to teach you what she has learned in the meantime."

Sabine did not look up. "Mmn," she hummed.

[hr]
The tour continued on a short while after the short meeting with Marcaille. Sabine did not dwell on Marcaille's offer too much after they left. She wore a smile as she showed Ariel the rest of the scholar's compound.

The day ended after a meal and getting settled into Sabine's room for the night. There were no shortage of bedrolls to make use of, but Ariel and Rukeewei still had enough anxiety about this new place that they held each other tightly enough to use just one throughout the night.

Marcaille had predicted correctly. Sabine gently shook Ariel awake early in the morning to usher them to a meeting with Meesei. It was difficult to wake up without natural light, but stepping outside to bask in the light of the orb above the silent city was a close enough substitute.

Sabine sourced fresh clothing for Ariel and Rukeewei before guiding them to the council chambers. Ariel walked in bracing herself for a lot of sitting and talking.