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[ruinsprofessor]

--"Raine Sage. I can't reach the console right now. If it's an emergency, don't wait to get a hold of me, keep moving. I'm sure I'll hear about it soon. If not, leave a message and I'll contact you when I can."

Comments

[ruinsprofessor]

[No. She couldn't either. Raine nods, solemnly.]

I'm a little concerned about the costs to you, as well, given what you said about the first instance. That's why I want to investigate this in a controlled setting.

[But he already agreed to that, he's just reluctant. Raine gives him something of a reassuring smile, reaches over to pat his hand. It's a carefully made gesture, but meant well. There, there.]

Let me know what day is convenient for us to begin.

[insertdadjoke]

[ At the concern, Cain merely raises a brow. That part, at the least, isn't something he's worried about. His own well-being has long since stopped being an issue. Danger still exists and he'd rather not be put into stupid situations but... overall he's relatively fine with the only thing thus far being a physical drain. That sort of thing is easily fixed with a good night's sleep.

Her hand pats his, and he smiled for the motion. ]

I'll definitely contact you. Don't worry, I won't run away or anything.

[ruinsprofessor]

[Raine exhales a little laugh.]

I didn't think you would.

[There aren't many places to go. But she is, still, a little worried, and she's watching Cain with something of it in her eyes.]

[insertdadjoke]

[ Cain sees it. He isn't sure what to do with it, because there's no real option but to go through with this. ]

What?

[ruinsprofessor]

[A little wry; she knows she's not subtle.]

Are you all right?

[insertdadjoke]

[ He smiles, dips his head, somewhat abashed that the question has to be asked. ]

I'm fine. Realistically, this doesn't change much. Not while we're here. It's just... [ He narrows his eyes thoughtfully. ] ... my brain won't accept that just yet. That's all.

[ruinsprofessor]

[It's one of Raine's most common questions, to be fair. But in this case, she thinks it was more than warranted.]

I understand. It will take time.

[But they will figure it out, together. Raine lapses into silence.]

[insertdadjoke]

[ It definitely is. It's just one most people learn not to ask Cain, as he generally doesn't have much choice other than to be fine. Either now or later. ]

That's something I've always had in spades.

[ He exhales, not quite a sigh, and moves to lean his back against the tree before looking sidelong at Raine. ]

You should probably get home. I didn't mean to call you out so late, anyway.

[ruinsprofessor]

[Raine nods agreement. Of course he does. In a moment she gets to her feet, though she doesn't make to leave right away, instead leaning on her staff and looking down at him.]

It's fine. I'm glad you thought to call me.

You don't plan to stay here all night, do you?

[She knows he hardly has to worry, but it doesn't seem right to leave Cain in the park alone, either.]

[insertdadjoke]

[ He looks up at her, chuckles for the question. ]

No. Don't worry, I'm done with sleeping on the ground if I can help it. Just thought I'd take a breather while I'm here.

[ruinsprofessor]

[Raine considers, then... sits back down.]

All right.

[insertdadjoke]

Feeling a bit tired yourself all of a sudden?

[ruinsprofessor]

[She shakes her head.]

No, I'm fine. I can wait with you a little while, however.

I'm aware you can take care of yourself, but I'd prefer to.

[insertdadjoke]

[ That just prompts a smile from Cain and he settles back to something that looks more comfortable. ]

That's fine. I've dealt with enough stubborn children to understand the feeling.

[ruinsprofessor]

[A little laugh.]

I'll be here as long as you are.

[...which will hopefully encourage him not to take a long nap in the park, but either way, Raine's sticking it out.]