"They stick their fingers in the University a lot, and I am the most famous contemporary non-State alchemist."

"Is that a good thing? That the State does that."

"Depends on if you like the State. But I'm generally in favor of academic freedom. Leads to better results."

"They say the State wants to keep the war going. But that hurts people."

"Yes. Wars always do. And they often benefit those above, at the expense of those below."

"I wanna help. So they don't hurt. Or heal them when they do."

"A very noble ambition. Remember that, as you become powerful."

"Don't want power. Not like that."

"Healing people is a power all of itself. People will respect you because of what you can do."

"Will it help me?"

"People with respect can make bigger changes, yes. If everyone respects you, they might listen when you tell them to be kinder, or to take their children to the physician."

Skye nods and rolls it over in her mind.

"My parents say that word a lot. I think it has a different meaning to them."

"It does to many people."

Skye nods.

"Why do you want an apprentice?"

"A general desire to pass on my techniques. Also apprentices are convenient for tedious work."

She doesn't know what 'tedious' means, but she can guess.

"I want to be your apprentice."

"Then you shall be. Will your parents be more likely to agree if I ask them, or if I inform them that you are now my apprentice?"

Skye giggles a little.

"They might have demands if you ask them."

"Then I won't."

"I'll take you there now?"

"That'd be appreciated." And then: "What's your preferred name, and what's your parents' names?"

This stops her short.

"Parents are Peter and Olivia Moran."

"Alright. And 'apprentice' works for now as a name."

Skye nods and starts leading the way. The route they take is strange and they seem to be going down strange paths.

They don't run into anyone though. Which is unusual since it's the middle of the day and the town is pretty well populated.

The child's likely avoiding people. Cautious. Clever. Good memory, good eye for analysis and rhythm.

She doesn't comment on the strangeness.