{Melisa}
Zephyra stood in the cottage's common area, wearing what could generously be called "research attire." Or maybe what could be described as "slutty researcher cosplay". A silk robe that barely covered anything and somehow made her look even more scandalous than her usual outfits.
"Today we begin actual work," Zephyra announced. "Essence detection. One of the most useful skills a mage can develop, and criminally undertaught at most academies."
Melisa sat on the floor, cross-legged, trying not to stare at how much cleavage the robe revealed.
Zephyra settled onto a cushion, arranging herself with practiced elegance.
"I'm going to be teaching you to read essence like a book. To understand its quality, signature, flow. When mastered, you'll be able to identify who's nearby without even seeing them. Detect emotional states. Even predict someone's magical capabilities before they cast a single spell."
[Okay, that actually sounds useful.]
"How does it work?"
