The Sea Just Within Reach

The Submerged Tunnel is finally done! What an undertaking...

Let's see what it says: "Through its transparent design and holographic projections, the Submerged Tunnel offers travelers a breathtaking visual journey..."

And speaking of holograms... I have the coolest idea, Rover!

Since the whole view is just a projection... whaddya say we project something even cooler?

Like, change the schools of fish into Dragons of Dirge, or turn the water into fire and make the whole tunnel a Path of the Inferno!

I know!

Isn't Mornye some big scientist at the Research Institute? She can help us with this!

Alright, alright...

Mornye is still on sick leave. I'll send her a message.

Mornye, Abby has a... strange question.

Can the Submerged Tunnel project different types of holograms?

Like, say… a swarm of Dragons of Dirge? Or make the entire length of the tunnel a Path of the Inferno?

(?)

I wasn't part of the Submerged Tunnel project. To answer accurately would require a site survey and access to blueprints, construction logs, operational data…

I recall that the tunnel runs from Bjartr Woods to Sundermere. I'm near Bjartr Woods now. I could come help you if you need it.

Aren't you on sick leave??

...On an expedition. For a project.

Don't worry. Dr. Herssen says my post-Overclocking symptoms are mostly recovered. Now, I just need to stay in a good mood.

And… making research progress puts me in a very good mood.

(Confused Abby)

What you need right now is rest.

Once your expedition is complete, meet me by the tunnel. We need to talk.

(Fierce)

(Puppy dog eyes)

...All right.

Sorry to keep you waiting, Mentor.

Before coming here, I did a remote search through the Institute's database.

The projections can be changed, but to get the effects you're describing, you'd have to consider the optic engine architecture, lens quality, display chip specs…

If you want, I could—

Don't you think you ought to be resting in your condition?

But it's about keeping a good mood...

You're going to love it, I'm sure of it.

...I see.

Okay. I will endeavor to focus on enjoying this trip with you.

I remember that before the Submerged Tunnel was closed, it was just an ordinary tunnel. I can't believe you managed to turn it into this.

It's like going through the ocean in a submarine.

A fish's vision covers 360 degrees. I don't think a human could experience the scenery quite the way they do.

Do you prefer to imagine yourself as a fish? Let me try. Maybe I can look in both directions at once...

Wow, look, Mentor! Jellyfish!

They glow like stars in the ocean.

I wonder if the real ones are even prettier.

You know… even though I know so much about it, I've never actually seen the real ocean.

Even though I was born in the New Federation, I never traveled because of my condition. And after coming to Lahai-Roi, I never left because of confidentiality requirements.

I bet you've been to all sorts of places. Can you tell me what the ocean really looks like?

A blue sparkling with faith, myth, and celebration.

It sounds... Beautiful. Serene.

Even though this isn't the real ocean, it's still a sight to see.

And the best kind of scenery is the kind I get to see with you.

Thank you for showing me this, Mentor. I feel... really happy.

It's like you said. Taking in the scenery really does help you keep a positive attitude.

Oh, we're near the Research Institute now. I should get back to work.

Hehe... I'm only joking, Mentor.

I'll rest up until my sick leave is over, just like you said.

And after you go back to work.

Of course.

So, um... The next time I want to take a break, can I invite you? Like we did today?

Great.

Then I'd like to reserve a spot in your schedule.

I hope one day I'll get to see the real ocean with you.