Page 13 of Blinding Light

They followed a path toward the other side of campus when Archer’s ring started vibrating. The silver seemed to swirl on his finger, lighting it up. “My friends.” He gave Cyprian a sheepish look. “They’re already waiting for us in the canteen. Do you mind if we visit the art department after coffee? We can go home through the park after that. It’s right behind your building.”

The canteen was spacious, with countless tables and chairs. Empty, for the most part, since classes hadn’t officially started yet. The introductions were awkward, the names easily forgotten. There were two girls and a guy who seemed to be a close friend with Archer. He introduced himself as Enzo.

After listening to the group's small talk about class schedules, one of the girls turned. “What about you?”

Cyprian startled. “What about me?”

Her smile widened. “You weren’t listening, were you? I wasasking if you intend to enroll in any of the side activities the Academy offers. They can get you extra points.”

“I haven’t thought of it,” he replied truthfully.

“Of course you haven’t. You’ve only just arrived.” Archer smiled his way. “But, if you’re interested, they have science of art classes that might be up your alley.”

“Or you can come join the Luminary,” Enzo wiggled his brows.

“Luminary?”

“Enzo…” Archer warned.

Enzo shrugged. “Why not? That will give plenty of extra points. Not to mention a better house rating for my family.” He turned Cyprian’s way. “The Luminary operate as security for the Imperials.”

Cyprian felt his cheeks heat. “I see.” He forced a smile. “Thanks, but I think I’ll go for those science of art classes.”

“Or you can try kuda. It’s a Helion sport.” One of the girls said.

Enzo shivered. “Kuda is for girls. Whatever you do, don’t let yourself be talked into that.”

“That’s not true, we also have guys attending. Okay, one.”

The sound of their laughter faded when the light suddenly changed in the canteen. It was as if there was a blip in their surroundings, and Cyprian blinked in surprise. He wanted to ask if the others had felt it, too. Then, one of the girls abruptly stood.

“It was lovely meeting you, Xander, but we have to go.” She pulled on her friend’s arm. “Come on.”

“Shall we go and check out your building, Xander?” Archer’s smile felt forced. “Perhaps check out the park you found so fascinating? Today, it's perfect weather.”

“They’re coming our way,” someone muttered.

Enzo straightened his shoulders and looked up. “Vandor, hi. Can I help you with something?”

Two students appeared, dressed in black pants and a tank top. On their chest, they wore a golden broach.

“It appears so,” one of them said. With a single circle of his finger, everybody got out of their chairs.

“Let’s go.”

But before Cyprian could follow his new roommate, a warm hand pressed onto his shoulder, putting him back in his seat.

“Not you.”

“Everyone else, out,” Vandor sneered.

With one final apologetic look, Archer left with his friends, leaving Cyprian alone with these strangers. Except for one.

Moargan Zephyranth went around the table and plopped into the seat right across from him. He was no longer wearing the white cloak. Today, he wore a pair of tight, black, leather pants. His black shirt left a few buttons open, revealing a smooth, sculpted chest. His blond hair was trimmed on the sides, showing off his pierced ears, leaving plenty of muss strands on the top. “Hello again, Xander Devers.”

Cyprian stared at him, frozen. His mind rattled. Had security flagged his presence? Had Captain Delaine leaked the missing person’s file?

Moargan let out a tssk. “Manners, manners.” Some of the other guys snickered. “You clearly lacked a firm hand raising you.’ His mouth twitched despite the sharp words. They stung Cyprian, just like the truth did. He couldn’t have been further from the truth. “Perhaps you need a good?—”

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