Students began filling the common room too quickly for Alexander to greet each individual. Not all the students displayed appreciation for the welcome either. Deciding that the effort was leading to more discomfort than good, Alexander remained quiet. Observing the students, he contemplated the various cultural attitudes around him, particularly from the mythical creatures. Various languages and methods of introduction were exhibited, but several others simply kept their own company.

From the corner of his eye, Alexander caught a glimpse of a tall woman wearing a contemptuous expression. Upon stepping inside, she ceased advancing forward and positioned herself near Alexander and the door. Perhaps, like he, this lady was reluctant to venture too far inside with so many strangers. Turning to meet her gaze, Alexander prepared a greeting, but the woman swiftly initiated discussion before he could utter a word. 

"Do they always herd you about like sheep?” 

Surprised by her outburst, Alexander's composure loosened with a quick chuckle. Though Alexander thought her tone was hostile, the woman's voice was pleasant. With a deep breath, Alexander defaulted back to his formal manner of expression. Gesturing toward the crowd, he spoke to the woman in a stately tone. 

“We are a herd, and the sheepdogs join us together for our benefit, not for the slaughter.” He turned to face the crowd, but continued addressing the woman exclusively. “If safety is your concern, than I recommend you remain close to the door and look for wolves.” Across the room a young lady with a baseball bat was glaring at Alexander's companion as an bear looks upon an intruder. Pointing to the young and seething lady, Alexander calmly stated to his companion, “I may have found a wolf, and she has a hungry look in her eyes.”

[@Cuccoruler][@Aspen Wren]