Fenrick saved me a seat. That should have warned me before I put the tray down.
The Great Hall was crowded after the midday classes. Several students had joined two tables to make room for a late group. Someone was carrying a stool through a gap that had been wide enough before everyone began eating. I wanted food and half an hour without a form.
Fenrick moved his folded cloak from the empty place beside him.
"Cedric."
"Valeson."
He looked at the tray, then at the glove on my right hand.
"A quieter day?"
"So far."
The words were barely out before I noticed the students across from him watching the far end of the hall. Liora was coming toward us.
Her red hair was tied back unevenly, with a loose strand caught against the collar. She carried a meal in one hand and a practice record in the other. Neither left much room for a conversation she hadn't expected to have.
