#ffviii;

  Her clinic shift started in the evening and lasted until the early hours; she’d brought her research work in with her, scribbling notes in the margins of library books she’d have to pay for, probably. Students rarely came in at this time, but somebody needed to be on duty in case of emergencies. Usually, she could go all night without her concentration being broken, sitting at the desk under the light of the lamp by the computer.

  It took her a moment or two to realise someone was in the doorway; without looking up, she waved them in.

  The girl behind the armoury kiosk leaned forward on her elbows, watching the stranger who had just entered. A pink bubble expanded from her lips and popped, and she chewed it back into her mouth with the manners (or lack of) of a seven year old.

  Did it look strange, inviting him here, when she shared a space with other graduates? Possibly... they were all out tonight, though. Working, most likely. She and her room-mates seemed to have placed in a containment unit for workaholics. She barely remembered their names, much less felt concern for their opinions of her, but she it did seem a little over familiar. Having said that, she’d hardly do something like this in the clinic, empty or not - if she was caught, she knew she could lose her job, she’d made peace with it months ago, but she didn’t want to extend that chance to him as well. 

  She’d already set out everything she needed. The one recorder across from her on the desk and the case beside her. 

  As far as work placements went, this one could have been less awkward.

  “I’m sorry, Miss... Fleuret?” 

   Which part is her surname?! How do you go your entire Garden-based career and not know the surname of the Duchess of Dollet?! Alright, Meri. Don’t panic. I’m sure it’s not the first time someone’s messed her name up. Ugh...

  “It may seem unnecessary, but it’s standard procedure for anyone requiring... the item we’ve prepared for you... to undergo a short psychiatric evaluation. I’m a graduate researcher, from Balamb Garden. If you’d rather someone else did it, please, just let me know.