Chapter 214 Control and Connection
Aleshia sat for a long time, adjusting to the changes in herself. She couldn't remember what had caused her to black out. As she puzzled over this, she tried to acclimate her body, moving and tensing different muscles to regain a sense of control and connection.
As Aleshia took in the strange appliances and scattered conjurations, she started to wonder what their purpose was now that some of her confusion had cleared. From her observations of the scribblings on the boards, she guessed that the board was something the kids would write on and that the crystals, if she had to guess, were similar to writing implements.
Lucia patiently watched as Aleshia analyzed the room from start to finish, mentally considering adjustments to the curriculum and Aleshia's rehabilitation. It wasn't until much later that Aleshia's thoughts shifted to Lucia. As soon as that happened, she asked, "How long was I out this time?" and "What caused this?"
Lucia responded immediately, a hint of panic in her voice. "It should have been about two days. And if I had to guess regarding the last question..." She paused, appearing to think it over before adding, "It must be the advanced spells you've been using on the cursed." Lucia then reiterated the explanation she had prepared for the situation.
After hearing her explanation, Aleshia realized the gravity of her situation. She started to plan how to space out the days she would be curing to avoid fainting. "I hope I didn't worry you too much by passing out," Aleshia said, her voice sounding uneasy.
"No, it's alright. There's nothing for you to be ashamed of," Lucia replied, a hint of guilt seeping into her telepathic voice.
Aleshia didn't pick up on the odd tone in Lucia's voice and asked, "Can you fill me in on what has happened over the last few days?" She shook off the anxiety of having missed so much.
"Oh, of course," Lucia replied without hesitation and immediately began retelling the events of the past few days. Although there weren't many events, and they weren't all exciting, she told her.
When Lucia informed Aleshia about the deal that Daniel was considering, Aleshia paused to reflect on her condition. She said, "Although I'm interested in seeing more of the outside, I doubt that I'll be able to meet his demands in my current condition. However, I wouldn't mind asking Daniel to finalize the deal you discussed."
Aleshia shakily stood up. After great effort, she slowly ambled her way across the room and toward the door. Witnessing this distressing scene, Lucia compassionately offered to help her.
Aleshia glanced up at Lucia and expressed her gratitude, saying, "Yes."
Lucia nodded and helped Aleshia as they left the room. It took her a moment to adjust to sharing control of the body. Eventually, they arrived in the living room, where they encountered Ren, the first person they had met in the city.