Natasia was on edge for the rest of the weekend until she could see Niya again. The moonstone she had given Niya alerted her every time the effects were activated. And the stone had gone off several times from the moment Niya had returned home. Opus Dae morning came and Natasia was on the balcony of her office watching the front gates intently for Niya’s arrival. As per usual, an hour before classes start, Niya slowly makes her way through the front gates. Natasia watched her enter the school’s big double doors and then started her journey to the teachers’ lounge. Niya was getting her tea together in that same sweater she usually wears. Natasia came in quietly with some of the other teachers in the corners mingling softly.

Natasia: Good morning, Niya. *She came close to Niya but didn’t touch her.* Tea per usual before class and meetings?

Niya: Hehe it’s Professor Lyonel at work Dean Haile~. Wouldn’t want others to talk~ hehehe~.

Natasia smiled: Of course Professor Lyonel. How was your weekend?

Niya: -she sighs quietly- It was…long. I’m happy to be here to have some reprieve…I was going to head to Professor Ame’s office once I made my tea. How are you?

Natasia sits down with her tea: It was quiet, I think…a little someone actually missed your presence even though you weren’t there as long. Heh. I don’t know how someone can have so much finesse such as yourself. Also, with Professor Ame, he will be in after lunch. He informed me that he had another meeting he needed to attend to.

Niya: Oh okay…I won’t be bothering his day if I see him during lunch will it? -she sits next to her and keeps her voice just loud enough for Natasia to hear- And what about our lunch plans?

Natasia puts her hand next to Niya’s thigh, not touching her but pointing at her: We will have time, but I know he’s also staying after to look at some plans for the next school year. So I think catching him after school would be a little better and it won’t disturb anyone. How are you physically though? And mentally?

Niya: -she sips on her tea- Your stone has helped greatly…my bruises are even healing for once. Mentally?..I have hope for the first time in a long time.

Natasia wants to get closer and lean on her but doesn’t. She just smiles and puts a pinky to Niya’s thigh and looks at her: We will find a solution, I’m sure of it. Did you want me to come with you when you visit Professor Ame?

Niya: If you have the time I wouldn’t mind your company, but if you have meetings then I’m fine going on my own.

Natasia pulls her tablet out and drapes her arm on the back of Niya but lets it hang off the side: Let’s see…*She doesn’t have meetings in the afternoon so home free.* So from what I see, I am free. I would be happy to accompany you, but for this, I would rather you do the explaining since you know your situation more than I. I’m sure he can find some sort of solution.

Niya: -she hides her smile behind her tea cup- Very well. We can have our lunch plans and then we can see Professor Ame after school. It’ll have to be fast though…I don’t want to push Braxton more…

Natasia nods and whispers: If I end him, will that be your end as well?

Niya: As long as I’m still binded to him like this, yes… So long as my heart beats so does his..and vice versa.

Natasia rolls her eyes and scowls: That is a revolting contract and your King definitely needs to do something or change that policy because it puts his creations, your race, at such a disadvantage but that’s neither here nor there.

Niya: I’ll admit in situations like this it is rather…difficult…but when done correctly, a proper mating, it is a deeper vow than a simple marriage and it can be beautiful…

Natasia gets close and whispers: How do you feel about…mating in general?

Niya: I… -she looks up at her- I think I wouldn’t mind the idea again…if it were for the right person..and done the right way.

Natasia looks at her from the side for a while: I see…well then. Professor Lyonel, *She stands up with a subtle smile.* I’ll see you at lunch. Of course if you need anything, my office is usually open. *She takes her tea and puts it with the service bot who takes it away happily.* I’ll see you later, Professor.

Niya: -she giggles quietly- Of course. Enjoy your morning, Dean Haile.

Natasia smiles and leaves to go to her first meeting of the morning, quiet excitement brewing for seeing Niya later.