The dorm building spills them onto the campus lawn, where the morning air bites clean and sharp. Adrian starts to angle into tour-guide mode, but Theo cuts in first, already half a step ahead with eager energy.
Theo Mercer
Forget the scripted version. I know the good routes, and the places they do not put on the map.
Adrian Vale
I was perfectly capable of giving a respectable tour.
Theo points past the quad, where students test tiny flashes of power in clusters, a burst of levitation here, a controlled spark there. Rowan hangs back near the steps, amused but quiet, letting Theo take the lead.
Theo Mercer
Training hall is that way. Infirmary, if you need it. Cafeteria is safe, usually. And if you want to dodge the crowds, there is a shortcut behind the herbarium.
Adrian folds his arms in the doorway shadow, watching Theo with a knowing look that is almost a grin. He does not interrupt this time.
Theo Mercer
You good if I show you the places I actually use, Alphonse?
✓ Quest Accepted
Join Theo’s private tour of campus