benthic_university | Correspondence Scholarship, Class Six [Tuesday Morning, July 15]

Though still moderately charred, the classroom door this week bore no suspicious marks. Students could be forgiven for muttering to themselves as they entered the class, but thankfully, all letters and sounds were free to speak.

The Ex-Disgraced Academic was at the lectern, having completed preparing several diagrams on the blackboards behind them.

“Let’s begin a crucial part of crafting proper Correspondence symbols: layering. You may have noticed two weeks ago, the way that the simple greeting was composed of the radicals for the pronoun “You,” as well as the verb “to like.” It does in fact translate as the base reassurance “you are liked.” Not a bad way to greet someone. It is, however, very formal. You see how the two radicals don’t touch? In the improper context, it could possibly be read as ‘The idea of “you” and “being liked” don’t belong within five-thousand light-years of each other.’ Hm. Not half as nice. A more casual way would look like this…” and here, they crossed the tip of To Like through the tail of You, “…there. A gentle light approaches. The meaning of this symbol will change, as the two bisect each other more closely.” The Academic wrote one across the other. “Beloved.” They raised an eyebrow. “No doubt several of you have your hearts aflutter, ready to stamp this on your next note to your latest beau. But might I offer a moment of pause before you attempt it on paper…”

The Academic erased the board. “To explain, let us turn our attention to the use of adjectives. Similarly to the prior example, the position of the adjective will denote the relationship of the adjective to the noun. An adjective which does not touch a noun can be inferred to have a weak, or even negative meaning.” The Academic pulled down a blank board, inscribed the symbol for fire, then encircled it with an odd shape. “The adjective for great, mighty. With no lines touching or intersecting, the meaning could be translated as: A fire lacking in fortitude or greatness.”

Next, The Academic picked up an atomizer, and next to the first symbol, inscribed a similar one. This time, the circle crossed through all four lines in fire. The chalk had scarcely completed its revolution, whereupon the lines blazed, and smoke billowed up from the stone.

Almost bored, The Academic doused the offending symbol, and turned back toward the class. “As you have seen, the nearer and adjective draws to a noun- here even overlapping the center of it- the more it indicates a strong correlation. A conflagration of devastating proportions/The thunderclap death of the mighty.” They gave the board another spray from over their shoulder, for good measure. “Adjectives are where we begin to cross from statements of relatively objective fact into the world of opinion, passion, and coercion. This is how it becomes a weapon.”

“Perception shapes reality, and language is a means of communicating that reality. It’s also a means of making a case that your perceived reality is the true one. And when enough people agree with you, it’s not impossible to say that reality itself can change.”

“The Correspondence is a means of arguing your case with the laws of physics itself. You’re shining a dim light into your own perspective, and allowing others to see it. Other opinions are capable of making a much stronger argument, especially those who are more fluent in the Correspondence. Eloquent folks are like that. And your only option is to become more learned and eloquent.”

“Today you will be practicing how to write the symbol for A small but merry warmth. This symbol is difficult, and can be found somewhere between the two extremes I’ve demonstrated on the board today.” The Academic went to the lectern, flipped open their own notebook, wrote something, and then placed their teacup atop it. “If you do it correctly, it will be sufficient to keep a cup of tea warm for several hours. The eternal tragedy of forgetting your cup until long after it’s gone cold? A thing of the past, if you can pull this off.” The Academic dipped from their cup, pleased with the results. “I haven’t given you a perfect example, because I want you to be careful. Mis-writing this symbol will have immediate consequences, as will most unnecessary hyperbole. Be judicious in the emphasis you place on your thoughts in The Correspondence. Be…” The Academic thought for a beat, then snapped their claws, “…temperate.”

“Allez.”

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

From:

leviathanlovely

images

Before anyone got in it seemed as though someone was having fun, drawing on the teachers chalkboard, having a gaff; It seems The Ex-Disgraced Academic was drawn... Is this a mockery or a praise on their professors teaching? Who knows, art is subjective-- It certainly wasn't The Undistinguished Pupil who drew it and a handful of other messy doodles however, how could it be, by the time anyone comes in they're already in their seat setting out their supplies for the day.

From:

theexdisgracedacademic

Upon entering the room, The Academic's attention locked in on the doodle. For a full five minutes, they scrutinized the illustration. Their expression was sharp, lips pursed in either thought, or extreme disapproval.

Then, they picked up their chalk, drew a border around the picture, wrote Not to be erased under threat of expulsion (from a high window), and returned to preparing for class.

From:

theanachronistictailor

On sight of the doodle, with its tidy frame and explicit warning, the Tailor's mouth quirked in a funny way, almost a smile but suppressed. A glance around the room, to assume the culprit. Would the Professor do something so brazen? No, likely not. And they may have heard the Socialite say their teacher was aesthetically pleasing, but they didn't get the sense Mori would do such a risky act.

And the teacher had kept it on the board...

Of course. They smiled at the Pupil in their row. What couldn't the fellow get away with?

From:

leviathanlovely

Puzzled by the bordering of their chalky handywork, The Pupil blank. Maybe The Emissary was just that proud of themselves that any resemblance was to be taken with glee. Their eyes flick to the hat set aside on their desk space and before considering similarities they were met by the stare of Belladonna as if saying "Don't you Dare"

Luckily The Tailor's entrance caught The Pupil's line of thinking, sending it back to a previous one; If They Had To Pin someone In Class; they twice considered the individual, looking them over with an assessing glance. Maybe? Surely not, definitely not.

Nonetheless they politely waved and smiled.

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

In her usual rounds of saying hello to all her fellow students, Maven approached Tailor, "Hello Tailor, how are you this morning?"

From:

theanachronistictailor

Some very small trace of tension entered the Tailor's frame on the Maven's greeting, but it was just as quickly gone as they forced a relaxed posture. They smiled, eyes flicking from here to the Devil not far, but focusing back to the Maven.

"Better than last class, I think. Now that we've all our vowels again." A finger tapped very quietly on the table. "Er, Maven, may I speak to you after class? When we have a moment without others, if that's alright."

Their tone was subdued, but then they added, "That's not to say we can't speak now, I only mean I have something to discuss later." They shook their head. "I'm getting ahead of myself, sorry. How are you faring today?"

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

Maven was briefly concerned at the tension she saw in the Tailor, but merely let them finish their words before she responded, "I am good today, thank you for asking! And yes, I'm very glad we aren't bound by the restrictions of the previous class." The last part was said with a good-natured laugh, then she continued, "And yes, we can speak after class if you'd like. Is it something serious?"

From:

theanachronistictailor

"Not terribly," the Tailor said, trying for nonchalant, "but I did want to address some points we should have discussed probably much earlier. I don't want you to worry about it, really. I just prefer privacy."

They tried not to fidget, but there was another moment's hesitation before they asked, "How's the orphanage? The kids?"

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

Maven was surprised to hear Tailor mention the orphanage, considering how uncomfortable they seemed to get about it before. Nevertheless, she smiled as she said, "Everyone is doing well! Robert's interest in cooking and baking has really grown, he said sometime he'd like to make dinner for everyone. Cecilia is still frequently coming and going, but I think she is becoming more comfortable with the place." She listen a few updates on the children, trying to be brief but informative (if Tailor had further questions they could always ask)

"And Jackson-" Maven seemed to hesitate for a moment, unsure if she should continue before deciding to do so, "Jackson has developed an interest in clothing, how it's made and all."

From:

theanachronistictailor

The smile the Tailor displayed as the Maven described the children was small, and it was real but it was a little bittersweet if you were looking for it. They prodded very lightly, small noises of affirmation as a few familiar names popped up (Cece, she'd always been a fierce heart).

But there was a little twinge in the performance they gave when she mentioned Jackson's new interest. Their eyes flickered away, and they had to look for the right words to continue.

"Has he? That's interesting. That's... I'm happy to hear it. It's an expansive field, I know I always--say so. A lot of directions for him to go if he pursues it, if it's not just a passing fancy."

They were struggling to continue, but it wouldn't do to show it, to show any sign that would make the Maven concerned, or feel hurt, or question it. (She probably knew already, didn't she? If she hadn't suspected already, the Devil was the type who told his partner everything. He had made the oath to them, sworn he wouldn't, so that was unlikely, but before that--no, they were trying to trust him. But either way, they still needed that plausible deniability.) So they tried for a more expansive and slightly apologetic smile.

"Maybe one evening I'll stop by. After the semester's over and I have the time."

Edited Date: 2025-07-19 05:12 am (UTC)

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

Maven had hoped that it was okay for her to mention it. She knew Tailor was still sensitive about anything to do with the orphanage or urchins, but since they brought it up themselves she thought it might be okay.

So when Tailor said the last part, she couldn't help but smile. It was a suggestion that implied quite a lot when compared to their reaction to the idea at the beginning of the course.

"I think that would be nice, I think Jackson would appreciate getting any insight he could from someone more knowledgeable about the field."

From:

theanachronistictailor

To be honest, they didn't know if they could do it. They didn't want to make a promise they couldn't keep. But if they looked at this feeling, they would be angry at their own cowardice, allowing hurt to control them like this.

"I'll think about it," they finally said. "We'll see if work allows for it, if my time allows for it. If-"

If the kids would even want to see them. No. Enough. Stop. They sighed. Changed the subject gently.

"How goes your project, then?"

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

Maven understood; she was honestly surprised at all that Tailor had even offered in the first place. If it ended up being too much for them she would understand.

She allowed the change in subject, shifting to talk about the project, "Still in the early stages! I don't think I've told you what I'm doing, but I want to see if I can use Batbiorangilogical Studies to make certain plants more adept at thriving in the Neath, particularly some Surface plants. I'm starting with just some herbs like basil and cilantro, something small and manageable while I figure out the best way to go about this. I had some seeds recently imported and part of my lab set up with artificial lighting so I can better grow them for the experiment. I think if I can splice some aspects of fungi into them, it might make it easier for some of them to thrive in darkness, but I suppose we'll see."

"What about you? How is your project going?" As if Devil hadn't spent a good portion of the time after the brawl telling Maven about Tailor asking him to be a model, wondering what he should be asking for, what 'his outfit should say or whatever', and just be not only relieved that Tailor didn't hate him but obsessed over the fact that Tailor had asked this of him.

From:

theanachronistictailor

The smile this time was easier to find. "I'm interested in seeing what you can manage. I've only had those spices dry, I think, but they're pricey down here as you can imagine. Take care you don't attract any unwarranted attention," they joked very lightly. "Your success might make a Master jealous. Or try to buy your work."

It was not a likely matter, just a little Neathian humor about trade down here. They doubted the Masters cared that much about the little innovations of the people.

They patted their lacy (and pink?) notebook with a hand. "I think it's going well. I was a little aimless in direction at first, but I imagine you know I have a more clear focus now. Speaking of, I'll need to set aside a time to see your beau. I can't tonight, sadly, I'm headed to the Foreign Office to meet with an old friend, but if you have time this week, I'd like to come over? I have some ideas already, but I want to know what he wants of course, that take priority."

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

Maven laughed at that, "Hopefully it won't cause too much of an issue!" Though with the Masters, you never know. If there was one thing she had learned about them, is that they can be very petty and controlling. She did not vocalize that though and simply added, "I can also set some herbs aside for you to try yourself if you're at all interested. In my person opinion, fresh basil is miles better than dried basil."

"And yes, that would be important to set up!" She turned in the direction of The Brash Devil and when she caught his eye waved for him to come over. When he got up from his seat to come over she continued, "Tailor was just talking about how you both need to set up a time to talk more about the project."

The Brash Devil nodded, looking at Tailor, "Does any time this weekend work for you?"

From:

theanachronistictailor

"That should be just fine. I'll come over with my notebooks and my measuring tape, and all I'll need is for you to be comfortable. And to perhaps be prepared to show me your usual wardrobe, if that's acceptable."

They smiled a little crookedly. "I'll try to not overwhelm. As for the spices," they began, turning back to the Maven, "it would be appreciated, but I wouldn't have the faintest idea on how to prepare any dishes with them. If you have some recipes, or ideas on preparation, it would be very helpful with the herbs. But don't put yourself out on my behalf, of course."

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven - Date: 2025-07-21 04:29 am (UTC) - Expand

From:

themorbidsocialite

The Morbid Socialite paused on the way to his seat and glanced at the drawing, circle around it and all. He cocked his head with an amused smile and glanced at those that had already entered.

The Academic's contribution was clear, but who could have done the deed of the stylized visage? The Professor didn't seem the sort. Marking the rather whimsical portrayal alongside the fanciful, youthful appearance of the Pupil, the answer became clear.

A soft, affectionate chuckle was given and the Socialite proceeded.

From:

ticktopis_observatorium

The Professor's entrance to the classroom was temporarily halted by the sight of the work of art waiting at the chalkboard. Interest picked they stepped right in front of it to admire, and that way the rest of the class won't see the way they're forcing their face not to laugh. So adorable! Truly captured the Academic's very essence. Now they only can hope they consider it as such as well...

The obvious infractor would be so difficult to point at were not only two people in the class, one already knowing themself innocent. So turning towards the incarnate innocence of the Pupil, an inespecific bow is bestowed.

From:

leviathanlovely

A full fingered wave was returned, alongside a so-innocent smile. The obvious perpetrator was ready to frame and lie if this actually got them into trouble... But oh, who to stick it onto? The Tailor would make an easy patsy perhaps, but then who would they get their future fine silks from? Maven might offer to take the blame... But that seemed too cruel to accept. The Pupil figured (surely) they would figure it out as they need to.

From:

theliedpiper

The Piper laughed brightly at the drawing, appreciating both the gall and the artistry involved.

(If someone wanted to pin the blame on them, they would be nothing but honored.)

From:

leviathanlovely

Ah yes, there went one of the obvious trouble-makers...

The Pupil would develop a wide and dark grin as they waved to The Piper in a contrasting innocent greeting. That Piper; lively, and surely their truths sounded unlikely. Surely. Yes, that would do just fine if they couldn't pin something carefully on their rival; The Socialite.

"Good Morning Pied Piper!~" The Pupil called cheerfully.

From:

theliedpiper

"Good morning!" The Piper called back, not correcting their classmate. If they didn't remember the Lied Piper's adjective, that was probably for the best. Especially considering the Piper did not remember them at all.

But they seemed happy to see the Piper, so they put on their best grin and hoped they could pass the interaction without their lack of memory becoming apparent.

From:

leviathanlovely

((Ooc; oops typo, WELL WE ROLL WITH IT!!))

The Pupil's greeting passed, getting a lively enough response that did not illicit much further thought -- But wait, did they say the wrong name? Perhaps Lied Piper just hadn't heard them properly it was early enough after all and likely half the class had been getting questionable sleep.

Yes, such an awkward situation could be avoided - Neither would need to confront the other but free would the reward be if there was no risk?

The Pupil ducked their head back down, checking notes and holding out hope that the Pipers head wouldn't correct what was heard.

From:

the_soft_hearted_maven

When Maven spotted the art, she couldn't help but laugh. Oh that is delightful! Feeling a bit cheeky at the sight, she went to the board and drew a few flowers beneath the drawing, as if to suggest the Academic was standing in a field of flowers. She had a smile on her face that wouldn't be out of place on her devil lover.