Concerning Magic and Science

"It's not magic. It's science. Though they do say that a sufficiently advanced science, such as that at my disposal, is indistinguishable from magic."

"Whatever," Fred said. "But I really think that it would be best if you came as you are. Though your size may frighten the common folk, it's nothing that we can't handle. In any case, it will be several days before we reach well populated parts. But we've been remiss, and have not introduced ourselves. May I present Her Royal Highness, Princess Astra of Aqualaria. The dog is Velus, actually a teenage boy enchanted into that form. And I am Lord Frederigo D'Honaire of the Duchy of Suffex in the land of Allaria."

"I am William Ewart Jefferson the Third, but you may call me Bill. But you said 'enchanted'? Are you claiming that magic actually works here?"

"It works a lot better than your so-called science does," Astra pointed out.

"My science works just fine. I increased my size, didn't I? And I know why my attempt to get smaller again didn't work. Look, I'll prove the usefulness of science to you. Stand still, and I'll clothe you."

Bill produced another device from somewhere about his person, and pointed it at Astra, pressing a button on it as he did so. She gave a yelp of alarm, and attempted to dive out of the way, but too late. She was enveloped in a green glow. When it faded, it could be seen that:

1. Nothing whatsoever had happened to her.
2. She was now clothed in appropriate attire.
3. She was now clothed in wildly inappropriate attire.
4. She was still naked, but her skin was now bright green, with her hair a darker green. "Oops!" Bill said.
5. She had vanished.

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