Alice stands before an eager audience in the workshop, her sanctuary of creativity transformed into a stage for her first demonstration. The rustic charm of the room, with its low-hanging beams and amber glow, contrasts sharply with the sterile environments of her past academic pursuits. As she begins, her voice falters upon noticing her ex-professor, a figure tied to painful memories of criticism and doubt, among the spectators.

Despite the initial shock, Alice finds her stride, weaving the history of colour discovery with personal anecdotes of foraging adventures. Her demonstration becomes not just a showcase of techniques but a narrative of her journey, intertwining the ancient with the personal. The presence of her ex-professor looms in the background, his reasons for attendance a puzzle that adds tension to her already fraught nerves.

Alice's presentation delves into the art of pigment extraction, demonstrating the transformation of raw earth into vibrant colours. Her hands, once shaking with nervousness, now move with confidence, illustrating the profound connection between artist and nature. The audience, captivated by her skill and the stories behind each hue, watches in admiration, save for the ex-professor, whose unreadable expressions hint at a complex mix of emotions.

As she progresses, Alice's demonstration transcends its initial purpose, becoming a testament to her growth under Thomas's mentorship. She invites the audience to participate, turning the event into an interactive experience that demystifies the art of pigment-making. The transformation of gum Arabic into a binder for the pigments serves as a metaphor for her own development—from raw potential to refined artist.

The demonstration concludes with Alice's successful engagement with her audience, her initial fears overshadowed by her passion and expertise. However, the applause is interrupted by the dissonant clapping of her ex-professor, whose ambiguous remarks leave Alice and Thomas questioning his true intentions. The exchange between Alice and the professor hints at unresolved tensions and a potential shift in their relationship.

As Thomas and the professor step outside for a private conversation, Alice is left to ponder the significance of the day's events. The demonstration has not only marked her emergence as a confident artist but has also reopened old wounds and presented new challenges. The chapter closes on a note of anticipation, with Alice ready to confront whatever comes next, armed with the knowledge and skills she has honed in the workshop.

This condensed version of Chapter 12 captures the essence of Alice's demonstration, highlighting her personal growth, the impact of her past on her present, and the unresolved dynamics with her ex-professor. The chapter reflects a turning point in Alice's journey, where her past and future converge in a moment of triumph and uncertainty.