{open; main level}

[kingslain]

[Rasler's no stranger to what's said on his acceptance letter in hand, although he is somewhat surprised at Balamb's use of sponsors. That's definitely new to him, he doesn't recall Galbadia ever doing things that way. He's already paused at the directory to get a feel for where the dorms and the cafeteria and training area all are, and so he's

Comments

[waylights]

[ He does indeed look like a new student, so Elika doesn't hesitate to wander up behind him. Spotting the jacket, she pauses, recognizing the stitched-in logo. ]

Excuse me--are you a new transfer?

[kingslain]

[Rasler looks up from his course book and turns slightly to look over.] Yes, I am. From Galbadia Garden.

[waylights]

I saw your jacket. I hope you find Balamb comfortable. My name is Elika, and I am an instructor here. [ The more she speaks, the more he might recognize that familiar voice. If it weren't for Elika's accent, she'd be a dead ringer for Ashe. ] Should you have any questions, I hope you won't hesitate to let myself or another member of staff know.

[kingslain]

[Whoever this woman was, this Elika, she reminded him of a Viera first and foremost. There was an exotic sort of appearance to her features, her dark skin enhancing them. She was definitely like a Viera but minus the ears and claws.]

Thank you. Elika. [Sounds her name out. Even that has an exotic ring to it.] I will be sure to keep it in mind.

[Then he hesitates before continuing, before he's about to give his name in return and explain that he's not here to enroll in classes but to take his field exam. Her voice, it's almost... familiar to him.]

[waylights]

I hope so.

[ At his bemused expression and lack of introduction, she hesitates. He'd seemed quite confident up until then... ]

I apologize, is something the matter?

[kingslain]

I... I must apologize. I did not mean to stare or- or become lost in thought. Forgive my lack of manners in properly introducing myself as one should.

[Old habits die hard-- Rasler dips his head briefly.]

My name is Rasler.

[waylights]

Unintentional...? [ She laughs, lightly. ] I don't often think of myself as distracting, but I'll take the compliment.

[ She sees the tilt, and her own habits kick in--she returns it. ] A pleasure, Rasler. May I ask what made you decide to transfer?

[kingslain]

[There's a pause before he speaks. He's only ever known anyone of noble and royal birth to return the short bow of ones head in such a respectful gesture. He watches her for a moment longer, studying her, and then blinks, realizing she had asked him something.

Still her voice is what bothers him, so familiar...]

I have completed the training required of me at Galbadia Garden. I was instructed to make the journey here to Balamb Garden in order to complete the field examination.

[waylights]

[ Oh! The field exam! Elika's eyes widen with interest. She tries not to comment on how distracted he seems. ]

I see! Good luck--it's challenging, but nothing anyone isn't ready for if they've been paying intention in their classes.

[kingslain]

Life would not be so enjoyable were there no challenges present to challenge us. But I thank you, the instructors at Galbadia seemed convinced that the exam itself would be fairly difficult.

[waylights]

Well, as instructors, it's something of a moral responsibility to strike fear into the hearts of our students. It inspires them to endeavor.

[kingslain]

That it does.