Quote:
Originally Posted by
XanaSnape
Kazimeriz eyed the younger professor. He was still leaning against the pillar, working to calm his breath and regain some strength to journey on. But he certainly didn't want Truebridge to realize he was winded, or be seen as weak.
Ah, pride.
"I am... ensuring the safety of... my students. It would... not do... to have... left anyone behind." He spoke slowly, teeth chattering, trying not to show how labored his breath was. His blood boiled at the sight of Truebridge, which was in a queer way a blessing- at least it warmed him slightly.
"I suggest that you ... go.. to the Great H-hall. I must ch-check the Slytherin common room and you d-don't want to find yourself in over your head, Mr. Truebridge." He fixed Truebridge with a gaze only slightly colder than the rising lake water.
"I have checked all of this area AND the Slytherin Common room AND Dorm rooms." Ethan told the old man through gritted teeth. "And it is
Professor Truebridge as you well know." The cat miaowed questioningly and snuggled against him, far warmer and far drier than either man was at that moment. "There is no need to check, we both need to leave."