Aldric went to greet his friend, but locked up when he saw Zasia standing just behind Kedrin. When he caught her eye, her mask of impassivity slipped just enough to give him a micro glare. Then she turned her attention to the students in the room, his existence dismissed and forgotten.

They hadn’t spoken since their fight over a month ago. Not for lack of trying, at least on Aldric’s part. Anytime he’d tried to get a word in, she suddenly had something far more important to deal with. Other times she’d just ghosted him, walking away like he didn’t exist. Aldric had been in the doghouse with Zasia on more than one occasion, but never quite to this degree. Even Kedrin hadn’t seemed to make any headway in cooling her temper, which made her presence here confusing. Kedrin was still her boss, so she would have to go where he told her to if it was pertaining to the academy, but why would he bring her here?

“Apologies, Professor, but do you have a quick moment? I’m sure the students can occupy themselves while we discuss things in your office,” Kedrin asked. To the students, it sounded innocent enough. To Aldric, and probably Zasia, it wasn’t really a question. More of a very polite command.

“Just keep doing what you were doing,” Aldric said off handedly to his students, hoping his worry didn’t show in his tone. Indicating his office door, Aldric stepped through first. It was going to be cramped, but they would probably want privacy for this.

Kedrin stepped aside and politely indicated Zasia forward with a smile. Zasia looked like she wanted to object, but did as she was asked. Kedrin followed in behind her. Aldric sat behind his small desk facing the door, trying not to make it obvious that he was half hiding behind it. Zasia entered the office and took a simple chair in the corner, as far from Aldric as was possible.

“So, what did you want to—?” Aldric started, but was cut off by the door slamming shut. Aldric was about to tell Kedrin to take it easy on his door, but then realized that Kedrin wasn’t in the room with them.

“Excuse me, my dear, do you mind if I borrow that?” he heard his friend’s voice ask from the other side of the door.

“O-Of course not?” Nadrina’s voice answered, sounding equal parts confused and nervous. Aldric was already up and moving to the door, but the sound of a metal catch clicking shut on the other side told him it was too late.