Ariana Merdin sat near the quieter end of the dining area, her meal resting in her lap.
She was exhausted.
Her shoulders ached from hours spent leaning over calculations and monitoring equipment, and she suspected that if anyone placed another complicated formula in front of her tonight, she might simply stare at it until morning.
But she was happy.
The reservoir was functioning.
The central structure was illuminated.
And the students she had worked alongside all day were finally enjoying the results of their efforts.
Ariana looked toward the glowing windows with quiet satisfaction.
'We actually did it.'
Several classmates had congratulated her earlier. She appreciated their kindness, though she had been quick to remind them that the restoration had been a collective achievement.
For now, she was simply grateful to have a warm meal and somewhere comfortable to sit.
Then she noticed Liam.
