Xander Gray leaned against a stone pillar beneath the library's arched entrance, his immaculate student council uniform untouched by the bustle around him.
His silver stylus turned between his fingers, and his expression carried the familiar, effortless amusement that made it difficult to determine whether he was joking or gathering information.
Lucian stood beside him with his arms crossed.
Warren lingered a few paces behind them, his broad shoulders relaxed, though his eyes moved attentively across the crowded courtyard.
Morgan slowly approached them.
"Give me time, Xander. I've only just discovered that walking in a straight line is still permitted."
"How fortunate. We were beginning to fear you'd returned with a philosophical objection to ordinary movement."
"I considered it."
"And?"
"Ordinary movement won."
Xander placed a hand over his heart.
"Your restraint inspires me."
"Then I suggest you try some."
"That sounds terribly inconvenient."
Warren laughed.
