Work Text:
Sania was just finishing her analysis of the slime glands of the red frogs captured last month compared to that of the previous year when she was startled out of her concentration by the arrival of her latest scientific assistant.
“Sorry it took so long,” Talcott said with a sheepish smile as he placed a small box on the worktable, “but I’ve found the frogs you’ve requested, Dr. Yeagre.”
“You did it!” Sania exclaimed, as she rushed over to examine her new specimens. “You found the Rainbow frogs! Do you know what this means?”
“...That the water conditions have improved?” Talcott suggested hesitantly.
“You’re thinking too small,” Sania chided. “The resurgence of the Rainbow frogs signals the beginning of a complete renewal of the overall ecosystem!”
Talcott smiled. “That’s great news Dr. Yeagre! Ignis will be really happy to hear that when I pass on your report. Is there anything else I can do to help you before I head back to the city?”
“I still don’t understand why you won’t join me full-time,” Sania complained. “You have a gift, and a thirst for science.”
Talcott chuckled, “It’s more like I have a thirst for knowledge in general. I’m more than happy to help you out and learn in the process, but I also love history, and literature, and the whole spectrum of topics there are to learn.
Sania sighed in disappointment. “A more academic approach, I see. It's a shame, given your obvious potential, but I can’t fault you for taking the path that’s right for you. Come by next month and I’ll have the findings on the renewed ecosystem and how close we’re getting to pre-scourge levels.”
“Okay, thanks Dr. Yeagre!” Talcott said with a wave as he departed.
It was a darn shame that the boy wouldn’t commit himself to science full-time but she didn’t have time to waste dwelling on it when there was work to be done. Sania rolled up her sleeves and smiled as she reached into the box and pulled out a beautiful, healthy Rainbow frog. After all, a scientific breakthrough was on the horizon and she was finally about to discover it.