Thalorin glanced at the three of them, lingering on Cassian and Luneth for a moment longer than necessary.
"…You're actually taking them with you?"
Lindarion crossed his arms. "I was serious yesterday."
Thalorin sighed through his nose but didn't argue.
"Very well," he said. "Then listen carefully."
Lindarion, Cassian, and Luneth straightened as the Headmaster continued.
"House Valciel is not a house that asks for aid lightly. Be mindful of their customs, and more importantly—be wary of what they aren't telling you."
Lindarion frowned. "You think they're hiding something?"
Thalorin gave him a pointed look as he chuckled. "Everyone is hiding something."
Luneth nodded slightly, as if she already agreed. Cassian just sighed. "Great. This is already sounding ominous, Headmaster."
Thalorin ignored him. He reached into his coat and handed Lindarion a small silver insignia.
"This will verify your authority as an Academy representative," he explained. "Use it wisely."
