Thomas managed not to look completely lost as Estelle goes on, but only just. When she finished, he took a deep breath. "A children's story? Oh, I very much doubt it, Miss Heurassein. That is -- Well. It sounds nothing like the magic I know."

In fact, if he wanted to make convenient excuses, it almost sounded like aer was used the same as electricity, or steam, or any number of power sources Thomas was used to. True, it was used for things that were clearly not logical -- enhancing abilities, etc. etc. -- but thinking about it that way was somewhat calming.

"Thank you for explaining how your world works, though; it is very... intriguing. I --" He laughed. "I don't think I should like to visit it -- no offense to you, Miss Heurassein. It sounds quite dangerous!"