[There's a flash of anger in her eyes, but she's yet to act upon it and has forced down the urge for trembling fury to show in her fingers. Her voice is barely above the level of pure ice as she replies to the dean.]

Waving away the problem sounds most convenient, but I did not work my way through this career path by avoiding inconvenience. Or in this case, turning a blind eye to it. Get to your point, Dr. Raphael.

[Dr. Raphael sets down his glass shaking his head, his expression remaining smugly placid.]

"Brevity it is then. Here's the situation, Professor."

[He leans forward elbows resting on the table, fingers intertwined and making eye contact with her.]

"Our student in question comes from a distinguished family from the upper echelons of Baldur's Gate. You know the kind, yes? Old money, titled, well-established. Generous contributors to several departments including your own. They wouldn't be happy to hear that one of their own has been reprimanded so harshly. In fact, someone would have to answer for it."

[Amelia is staring at Raphael in disbelief.]

Are you implying what I think you're implying?

[A brow of his raises up imperiously.]

"Someone here is the weakest link and I think you know who it is."

[Oh, she's mad now, mad enough to forget that Gale was there to witness this discussion and she stands up, slamming her hands on the table which attracts some attention from the other customers. Dr. Raphael, hardly looks taken aback. In fact, he looks pleased for this turn in events as Professor Steinbeck hisses back.]

You would dare wouldn't you? Do you think I was going to fold? I don't care about old money, connections, and the like. I don't respect meddlers and you can be damn certain that I will rain down repercussions. Consequences be damned, I am not going down without rightfully dragging down the rest of you.

"No need to make a scene, my dear. And is that a threat? On that grounds I could—"