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“Hey, Qifrey!” Olruggio beckoned with a quick raise of his hand. The gesture was over as fast as it had happened, the man not waiting for his friend to return the greeting. A breeze rustled through leaves like a gentle caress as Olruggio made his way over, footsteps pattering against soft grass. “Ay, soaking up the sun behind the atelier, are we? Can’t blame you, this is the nicest it’s been in a bit since fall took hold.”
He stopped upon the hill’s peak, as sunlight poured down upon him like a warm shower. It was the type of deep, steady warmth that slipped into the bones and nestled in the heart. With a quiet grunt due to the dull ache in his back, Olly took a seat by the closest tree. A warm palm set against the rough log, gently trailing down to feel the coarse patterns of aging wood. A soft sigh passed through his lips.
“Been a while since we’ve been able to just talk. Those apprentices of yours,” He paused for a moment, already hearing Qifrey’s voice correcting him. “Ours. Those apprentices of ours have done well to make us proud. As much as I couldn’t stand you soundlessly bringing in new apprentices like strays… You did well to teach them.”
The words resulted in a faint laugh as warm as the sun. His voice softened considerably, the way that always made Qifrey’s heart skip one too many beats. “I hear our Coco’s aiming to pass the fifth test, plans to take it in just a few months. Can you believe that? To think, it feels like just a bit ago she was struggling to cast simple spells. Agott as well, a librarian? Though I never doubted them a bit.”
For a long moment, Olruggio fell quiet to gather his thoughts.
“We’re still waiting on Tetia’s spells to get approved. It’s a matter of time- I’ve judged them myself, so I’m certain they’re suitable. Richeh’s also made quite a name for herself for her specialty in small seals. Not that she likes the attention it’s garnered- like me, that one. Although when I look at them… I think it’s pretty clear who had the most influence.”
A subtle frown tugged at Olruggio’s lips, thoughtful rather than upset. He sank his weight against the tree, weighted cloak swallowing most of his form.
“They’re determined to carry your name with them, Qifrey.”
He pressed his forehead to the firm wood of the Silverwood tree and shut his eyes.
“I wish you could’ve seen it.”