It was a clear dismissal, delivered with the kind of authority that made arguing unthinkable. Elliot, Diana, Lily, and Evelyn all offered respectful farewells and filed out.
Rex followed, casting one last glance back at Valentina, who had already turned to speak with Helena in low tones.
The door shut behind them, leaving Rex in the hallway alongside the younger Starlights.
Elliot said, "So," with a smile.
"Well, I guess this is your official welcome as a new student to the Academy, and what's even cooler is that you're already an honorable student."
"Grandmother doesn't give gifts like that for free." Diana added, "She must really appreciate what you did for us."
Lily said, "I'm just happy you'll be around more," and she put her arm through Rex's, which was becoming a habit.
"Having you close by will be nice."
Rex smiled and let them take him back down the grand staircase. His mind was already racing with what all of this meant.
