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I drove so fast that even with my windows rolled up, my hair likely looks tousled, but I don’t care.

Augury University is a massive campus. Besides the six large camphor trees, there’s also fields, fallen logs, and courtyards galore. I sprint my way to the History Tree, climbing up a series of stairs and ladders. Freja flies next to me, taking breaks to sit on my shoulder. I could’ve waited to be escorted up, but I don’t have the time for that. Finding Dean Bariel’s office building, a decent sized hut that sticks out of the side of the History Tree, all the way at the top. I can see him speaking to someone through the three glass window panes, and I cross my arms. I can wait. Being rude won’t help Indigo’s chances.

The elf woman leaves, and I calmly knock on the door, trying not to seem frantic. The Dean opens the door.

“Dr. Daelor, come in.” He’s tall, though not as tall as me. His body is extremely lanky, and his features are angular, bird-like.

“How has your winter vacation been so far?” I ask in an attempt to make small talk.

“It’s been quite nice. Winter Solstice is only a few days away, as you probably know.”

“I hope it’s everything you wish for,” I say. He gestures for me to sit down, and he sits behind his desk, which is a hurricane of paperwork. Freja nuzzles herself against his hand, and he gently pets the top of her colorful little head.

“Thank you. What brings you this way?”

“It’s about the job opening—”

“Oh?” His forehead creases, ocean blue eyes squinting at me.

“I think you should pick Indigo—I mean, Professor Watson.”

He crosses his arms. “Your charms adjunct? She’s an applicant, and I was considering interviewing her.”

“Choose her. She’s an amazing mage, sir. You will not regret it.”

“If she’s so amazing, why do you want her out of your department?”

I clear my throat. “She’s… she’s better at potions. She’s not a bad charms mage, that’s not what I’m saying, but I’ve seen her do potions. She created one that fixed a hole in my pants, she’s got another one that can help women sense danger; she’s truly something.”

“So why did she specialize in charms?”

“Familial pressure. It’s been great having her in my department, and she works well with Professor Hills and I, but I think she would be better suited replacing Dr. Taylor,” I say, and it is brutal honesty. She has been great, not a single student complained about her… but potions is where she belongs. It’s what brings her joy, and it’ll allow her to be with me. A fucking win-win if I’ve ever heard one.

“Can I see some of her potions? I’d like to witness this mastery myself,” he says, and I scratch the back of my neck.

“I’m not sure where she keeps them, but Dr. Taylor could probably tell you.”

“I’ll check with Alitha. I make no promises, but I will heavily consider Professor Watson. Thank you for your recommendation. It’s been a pleasure having you join our team.”

We shake hands, and Freja hops onto my shoulder. Exiting, I step out and make my way down the History Tree. I stop in my tracks when I smell Indigo.

Standing on a ladder on one of the platforms, Indigo is hanging string lights all around. Dressed in her usual-all black, she’s got billowing sleeves and tall chunky boots on. Not ideal for what she’s doing, but she looks damn good doing it. I cross towards her, even though I know I shouldn’t.

As I get closer, I realize she’s accidentally wrapped herself in the lights.

“Indie, are you okay?” I ask.

She yelps, falling off the ladder, and I dart towards her. Catching her in my arms, Indigo looks down at me with her bright violet eyes. I hold her for just a moment, not wanting to let her go.

“Hi,” she says, before wiggling. “You can put me down.”

“I know—”

“Vega,” she says sternly.

Placing her down onto the platform, I help her untangle herself from the lights. “Doing some decorating?”