[asdfasdf] (Story One)

A Baroque Graduation

The soft custard light contrasted with the harsh white light of the streetlights outside, and sweet yet sour aromas fought for dominance in the senses. Teachers and students mingled, each waiting for the ceremony to begin, some formal and some casual. All were wearing the outfits required, but all the attitudes were different. I entered the Wing, surprised at the sheer amount of effort spent into creating the space for the graduation. The once flat ceilings had somehow been painted to resemble a vaulted ceiling, and detailed paintings littered the room. Pillars had been situated around the room, every 25 metres or so. Each looked as if it was hand carved with the intricate depictions spiraling around each. The entire room, now that the door was closed, was awash in a lush gold.

As I stared in awe at the grandiose architecture that had been manufactured in such little time, I felt someone's presence behind me. "Magnificent isn't it?" Although I was expecting it, I couldn't help but jump a little bit. Professor Calia stood right behind me in a suit, staring up at the ceiling. I spoke, "Yes, although I don't know how they could have constructed it in such a short time... I mean I was just here yesterday and-"

"Yes, yes," He cut me off, "Although not everything you see here is reality." I stared at him, confused. He simply stroked his graying beard, watching the ceiling. "Ah! There it goes again!" he said. I followed his gaze, only to see nothing. "Erm, not to be rude Professor, but what exactly were you watching?"

"Nothing, nothing."

"But you were saying something?"

"I told you, it was nothing." His playful gaze turned serious in an instant, once again becoming the cold steel I was accustomed to. "Okay," I backed down. "Anyways," he said, "Where's Micah?"
"What do you mean?"

"I don't believe I've seen you two separated since you started Altediatriba, always looking out for each other and whatnot." Interestingly enough, his eyes had turned back into the soft silver of kindness. I guess the eyes are really the window into the soul. "I... I-I don't know what you mean. I met Micah yesterday at the mall!" Professor Calia stared at me. "You don't really mean that, do you?" He sounded concerned. "You're joking, correct?"

"No. I literally met him yesterday. How were we supposed to look out for each other much less greet each other if I didn't even know who he was today." I peered into his eyes again. Now they looked to be gray wool, softer than silver and concerned. I stood there awkwardly as Professor Calia, for probably what was the fourth or fifth time, stared into space again. "Um, Professor are you okay? You seem to be spacing out a lot recently."

"Ah... yes I'm okay. I need to just... go meet with Micah. Yes. Enjoy the pre-graduation," he mumbled. His eye twitched as he walked away, mumbling to himself. When he was almost out of my line of sight, I saw him turning off his headset and disabling his implant. Isn't that illegal? "No matter," I mumbled to myself. It wasn't my job to spy on all the teachers and give all of their information to the teachers. Realizing I had been standing near the entrance the entire time, I started to walk further into the room, observing every small detail around me. No matter how much I shaded my eyes, the gold overcast was still present. It was as if someone had dunked my entire vision in gold custard.

There were food platters splayed on the many tables that ringed the chairs in front of the stage, filled with international delights like lobster, crab, and shitake mushrooms. I honestly didn't expect this much of a preparation. Maybe the fancy architecture, yes, but not so much food. I doubt we would even be able to finish it all. As I fought my way through the crowds, I felt like there was something missing again. Like I was supposed to be traveling with somebody... a student... a friend. I ignored the empty, yet filled presence beside me and worked on getting to my seat. The Biology Wing was basically the highway at rush hour, with everyone going everywhere every which way and any given moment. I finally reached my seat, which, to my surprise, was located near the very front. Mark's friend, Micah, was already there as I took my seat on the lavish pillow. "Guess you're graduating early too, huh?"

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Memory loss clear now? IDK? I guess? Welp, hope you guys enjoyed! Stay toasty my broskis!