"That's just what the literature says about them," Vlad said. Liya looked away, flushing a bit, but still scowling. "They were also really secretive. Could've all been a big tale. And there aren't any more, as far as we know, so..."

"What happened to 'em?" Liya mumbled, returning to stare through the gap in the bookshelf. Yoshi was holding one of Shinobu's paws; Shinobu's head was lowered towards her.

"The ones in Aetheri died out," Vlad replied. "There were probably more on Earth, but who knows. It was so long ago, and there weren't many to start with. They're likely all extinct."

Liya was quiet for a moment. She jumped, though, when she suddenly realized that Shinobu was now looking directly at her--she and Yoshi had stood up and hugged, seeming to be done with their conversation. Peevishly, Shinobu flapped a paw, beckoning.

"She sees us," Liya told Vlad.

Together they emerged from behind the bookshelf, Liya slightly hunched with her hands in her pockets, and Vlad giving Shinobu a winning smile.

"Hi boss," he said. Shinobu had folded her arms.

"Honestly, you two," she said with annoyance.