Ash Pierce did not smile, nor did he blink--let alone flinch. "I learned about him during my training to become a member of my Order. Our whisperers informed me he is likely in Washington a few days ago. No offense meant, but I assessed your group to be, frankly, not enough of a threat to warrant his notice. I'm still not sure you are; he very well could have been using all of you to get to her. That might explain the afore mentioned spotters; it might not. Just as possible he meant that trap for each of you, separate from the Slayer. For your sakes I genuinely hope not."

The man's back slid back into the back of the chair, as his eyes addressed Danny for a moment in silence. Then he shrugged, in answer, his face cold. "As some of you have indicated, you would be fighting this fight with or without me. Your fates are yours to own. I believe my culpability absolved by breaking with my Order's traditions and engaging all of you this morning. I have said my peace, what each of you does with it is your choice. Go back out, or don't. Seek out the Slayer, or don't. Believe her a monster, or don't. Take heed from my warning, or don't."

The tension, and silence, shattered at the sound of the electronic bell sounding from the school's general PA speaker in the room; First Period was over. Ash Pierce stood, tucked in his chair, and smiled casually. "On to your second periods, then." He turned on his leather loafered heel, and walked out, leaving the door open in his wake as the library outside the room stirred with motion and activity.