As Vereesa whispered in Shane's ear, Kel'Thuzad approached. He wore a black robe from head to toe, a book in one hand and a black-faced, white-bodied kitten tucked under the other arm. The black cat was pinned against his waist, its limbs stretched taut and its fur standing straight up as though charged with static, as if it were saying, "Master, you're hurting me." Yet it did not struggle, its lively eyes watching the passersby.
Kel'Thuzad walked at an unhurried pace, dragging his shadow behind him. His gaze met Shane's for an instant before drifting away, and they passed one another as if neither cared. He had returned to Dalaran a few days ago and was handing over his work at Violet Academy. It would be difficult for them to meet again after this. The biting chill around him had now been restrained, at least no longer spreading unconsciously.
"Is that the friend you mentioned? Why didn't you go say hello?"
"Listen, sometimes there's this thing called unspoken understanding between men," Shane explained at Vereesa's puzzled question. "Respecting a friend's pride and self-respect is far more important, and more considerate, than exchanging a few words."
"You men are so strange! I don't understand male friendship, but I do know that anyone who lends a hand in a crisis is a true friend, even without saying a word." Vereesa smiled gently. She was relieved that Shane had made male friends; she had always worried he would be lonely in Dalaran, but now she could finally rest easy.
By noon, more and more students had gathered in the square, and more and more people were staring at them as well. Being envied felt nice, but being watched by a crowd was somewhat uncomfortable. Shane and Vereesa walked back to his residence hand