What's that in your mouth, Terence? asks Katherine.
Nothing, says Terence.
Which is not strictly true.
Is it a marshmallow? asks Gaius.
Did you take one when I wasn't looking? asks Katherine.
Yes, says Terence. I didn't want to pause Freddy's song.
You paused it lots of times, says Freddy.
But not that time, says Terence.
If you choke, it will be your own fault, says Gaius.
If you stop talking, I'll stop talking says Terence. And nothing will happen.
It's Gaius's turn to sing, says Nerida.
Is it? asks Gaius. Did I mention a title?
Gaudeamus igitur, says Katherine. Have you forgotten?
No, no, says Gaius. Has anyone any objections?
I've already voiced my objections, says Katherine.
Anyone else? asks Gaius.
Isn't it in Latin? asks Nerida.
It is, says Gaius. It's a student drinking song, in Latin.
Elitist waffle, says Katherine.
I thought you objected to the ending, says Gaius.
Not as such, says Katherine. Only as to its suitability for this singalong.
Surely we can have a bit of fun about the fact that we're all going to die? says Gaius.
If you say so, says Katherine.
Am I going to die? asks Terence.
No, says Nerida. Because you're a statue.
Lucky you, says the Kroombit tinker.
Gaius starts singing, in order to end the debate.
Gaudeamus igitur, iuvenes dum sumus, post iucundam iuvetutem...
Tootem-tootem! sings the pobblebonk.
Gaius acknowledges the pobblebonk.
It's good that he wants to join in.
Post molestam senectutem....
Tootem-tootem! sings the pobblebonk.
Nos habe-bit humus! Nos habeeeeee-biiit huuuum-us! sings Gaius.
That was really cool, says Nerida. Is humus the earth?
Indeed, says Gaius. The earth will have us in the end, life is short, let us enjoy life while we're young.
Except you're not young, says Nerida.
And while we are old, adds Gaius. Assuming we have the means to enjoy it.
You're in a good mood, says Katherine.
I am, says Gaius. The Gaudeamus always lifts my spirits.
Terence sneaks a hand into the marshmallow packet.
Why not? He's the one who can't die.
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