“How did you get to Z-Corp?”

“Oh, they had a job fair, and I am good at seeing what people respond to, so I got into their advertising department.”

“Did you go from college to Z-Corp?”

“No. I cleaned houses and did at-home business accounting. A friend told me to go to the job faire.”

“And you did.”

“And I did.”

“Who is your friend?”

“Her name is Ylara. She recently got married.”

“Oh, is he nice?”

“Um, I didn’t meet him.”

“Weren’t you invited to the wedding?”

“I was, but I am not really suited for large groups of people.”

Im-bar looked at her hunched shoulders and tired expression. “You are perfect for this place. It is very secure, and no one will mind if you make their skin prickle.”

Cadence smiled. “You have been around an active like me before.”

“I have. Your kind are always seeking harmony with the world around them.”

“So, you know I am not a sonic talent.”

“I know. You are a harmonic. The vibrations come from your core and ripple through the world.”

“My core is currently occupied.”

Im-bar laughed. “Yes. That is true. Just a warning, if the child is harmonic, it will grow a little faster now that you are here, where your signal can expand.”

“What?”

“The energy you are constantly wasting by fighting your clothing will go into developing the embryo. That’s why you feel better. You simply have more energy. It is yours to use and not to waste.”

“Would it be possible to get underwear made of the same fabric?”

Im-bar blinked and only then realized that her brother ran around commando. “Yes, Cadence. Of course. Now, we have found you a personal trainer who will train you on the grounds. The images will be taken by the photographer, who happens to be your trainer. His name is Rake.”

“Oh. Is he here?”

“He’s been travelling and is resting. You will meet him for dinner.”

Cadence smiled. “Great. Um, can I wait on the training for a few days?”

“Yes. Get settled and find your centre. When you feel the energy building and need to burn it off, let us know. I think it will only take a few days.”

“Okay. Can I go outside again?”

“Of course. Take your water bottle. If you need more, come to me. I want to keep your system balanced.”

Cadence smiled. “Thank you.”