He chuckled softly as he pushed himself away from the frame and walked slowly into the room.

"My apologies, Issa. Didn't mean to startle you. Though your surprise is quite... lively."

Issa quickly bent to pick up her book.

"It's fine," she said, even though her voice was still shaky. She stood up, clutching the book to her chest. Her eyes narrowed.

"But how did you even get in here? This area is guarded. And... You shouldn't be here."

Thorne simply shrugged. His smile widened.

"Oh, I always ...