Page 140 of Return of the Nine

Lerinian cleared his throat. “We are still working out the details. However, on to the other portion of your reason for being here, I have volunteered to assist your search.”

S’rin made a strange noise before murmuring, “As have I.”

Ziggy took Vida’s hand, and the strangest thing happened. An upload of the mating habits of the Nine bloomed in Vida’s skull.

It could be summed up in one thought. The noise S’rin made wasn’t good, but hostilities amongst the Balance were not common.

Ula smiled, “I am going to have a bunch of suits made up for you while you go through this change and until you finish your search.”

“Good. Where can I get a robe so I don’t feel like I am flashing my butt to all and sundry?”

Ziggy laughed. “I will take you and get you fitted out. Are you up to some shopping?”

Vida realised that Ziggy had basically told everyone that the meeting was over. Even Ula grinned and waved as she headedout of the room.

The doctor remained in conversation with the two members of the Balance while Ziggy and Vida headed to the door.

“What is going on between the researchers? Oh. I got your message. It hurt like hell though.” Vida rubbed her forehead.

“Sorry about that. Downloading information is harder than acquiring it. I thought you might want to know that what I saw, I interpreted as those guys facing down and trying to wrestle for contact with you.”

“It seemed very polite.”

“Well, they are the Balance. They do everything a little differently.” Ziggy grinned.

“I am certainly getting that idea. Now, shopping?”

“I think I owe you breakfast first. I know just the place.”

At the mention of food, her stomach roared. “Good. I think we have ten minutes before my stomach goes critical.”

“We can be there in five.”

Vida had no idea what she had eaten, but her stomach didn’t care. It was happily going to work on her meal.

“Where are we going to shop? Come to think of it, I should have gotten a robe before I stuffed myself.”

“Not an issue. You aren’t shopping for anything form fitting.” Ziggy smiled at the server and swiped her chit across the payment screen.

“Thank you, Potential. Have a good day.” The young man flicked his wings and bowed.

Vida got to her feet with a groan and followed Ziggy across the walkway.

The shop was peculiar and Ziggy was speaking with a shadow.

“The Potential tells me that you need a robe to go with that amazing suit.”

Vida extended her arms slightly. “Something a little moresubdued if possible.”

“Black then?”

“You tell me. I just want this covered up.”

The shadow moved around her and hemmed and hawed. Suddenly, he retracted and disappeared behind the counter.

Vida asked her friend. “Is this normal?”

“It is part of his process. He has analysed your hair, eye and clothing colour. I briefed him on your physical activities, so this is going to be interesting.”

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