Rata Sum just isn't the same. I've been out of the infirmary for two months, and nothing feels anywhere close to "normal." The council is too scared to put me back on fieldwork, and the colleges seem less than interested in having me teach. No talks. Nothing. Past my prime, apparently. Send me straight to the retirement facility. I can't even work on Mr. Sparkles. He's scattered in pieces, all over Maguuma... I think I am, too. Taimi's come and gone... Managed to dodge her each time, at least, but I guess she's somewhere down in the Ring of Fire with the commander. Heh. Bet she's having a blast... A part of me writhes with jealousy. Perhaps...anxiety? I'm eager to get back out there, but the lingering fear at the end of those thoughts keeps me in place. I used to be stronger than this, but maybe I just never noticed my expiration date.