Professor Layton and the Angel's Prophecy

So Long, Not Goodbye

-Fourteen Months Earlier-

There was a stillness in the air, a calm before the storm as the car pulled to a stop in front of the Triton's new residence. Hershel noted it was a large and splendid house, with palm trees and bright greens outside complimenting the smooth stone walls of the house. A little water fountain trickled in the garden, and that was one of many minor details. Distractions really. He held his breath. This was it; he was going to see his apprentice again.

Brenda led them to the front door and as they stepped inside, she halted in the doorway and called out.

"Luke dear, we have a visitor."

There was a pause before the young boy answered, and Hershel held his breath.

"Coming, mum!"

The patter of running feet, and then Luke turned the corner, drawing to a halt as he laid eyes upon the 'visitor'. Time halted, and both Hershel and Luke remained locked in disbelief. And then tears sprang to Luke's eyes.

"Professor!" he sobbed, breaking the spell and making a dash for the Professor. Within seconds, the distance had been crossed and Luke flew into Herhsel's arms. Hershel laughed with delight, but then coughed politely.

"Now, Luke. What did I say? A true gentleman never makes a scene."

"You..." Luke panted. "You said a true gentleman... never makes a scene in public! This is my home, and in my home I can hug my friend!"

Hershel closed his eyes, a warm grin painted on his face. The bond they shared was special, different than any he had shared with past apprentices. Only Luke was a constant friend, pure of heart and always inquisitive. That's how Hershel knew Luke would make for a fine gentleman, and a wonderful person.

Brenda watched with a look of pure joy, having to wipe away a tear. This is more than she could have hoped for. This Luke. This Luke was her son. The Professor was exactly who they needed.

Eventually the two broke off, Brenda having to pry the desperate Luke from the Professor, and then the trio proceeded to move off into the living room. As they entered, Hershel took in all the exquisite items around, from luxurious furniture, to rare bones and archaeological finds displayed on the walls, in glass cases, and on the bookshelves. He was pleased to see some familiar items, but also new ones. It seemed as though the Triton family had found quite the fortunate position over here. The job really did pay more.

"Look at this, Professor!" Luke exclaimed, grabbing the Professor's hand and dragging him over to the mantelpiece. He pointed at a ornate little eyepiece sitting in the case. "Dad says this is a looking device from a society even older than the Azran! And this!"

He dragged Layton to the left then, and pointed at a large tapestry on the wall.

"This was a gift from the Chief Officer of the Archaeological board over here for my dad's service. Apparently it is a replica of a tapestry woven by the Jilsot people."

Luke continued in the same fashion, very much the young excited boy he always was. Well, times ten. Hershel only grinned and allowed himself to be led about the place, looking at items both ancient and fascinating. Brenda coughed after a little while and asked if the Professor and Luke wanted some tea.

"I know we only just had some tea, Professor, but I'm sure you wouldn't be adverse to some more?"

"Of course not. Thank you."

"I'll definitely have some!" Luke cried. "It's been forever since I had a cup of tea with the Professor!"

Brenda chuckled then as she moved off to the kitchen. She called out teasingly as she disappeared beyond the doorway.