The private study room in Phillips Academy's library held the particular silence of concentrated work. Books on advanced theoretical physics shared space with classical literature and political treatises as Caspian reviewed differential equations. Across the antique oak table, Tony Stark dismantled what appeared to be a miniature particle accelerator.
"The energy containment field is stabilizing," Tony muttered, making microscopic adjustments. "But the quantum variance is still off by 0.03 percent."
"Check the magnetic alignment," Caspian suggested, his enhanced vision analyzing the device's internal structure. "The field geometry shows subtle distortion in the secondary coils."
The door opened with careful precision, admitting David Webb. The scholarship student carried himself with the controlled awareness that had first drawn Caspian's attention - something in his movement patterns suggested military training well beyond standard JROTC programs.
"You missed combat training," David noted, setting his books down. "Lieutenant Colonel Phillips asked about you."
"Family obligations required attention." Caspian made a precise notation in his physics text. "I'll make up the session tomorrow."
Tony glanced up from his work. "Still don't get why you two bother with all that military stuff. We've got robots for fighting now."
"Says the guy building weapons in his spare time," David replied dryly.
"This isn't a weapon. It's a perfectly legitimate scientific instrument that happens to manipulate fundamental forces of reality."
"Which could theoretically be weaponized," Caspian observed.
"Everything's a weapon if you're creative enough." Tony paused. "Actually, that came out darker than intended."
David began organizing his study materials with military precision. "Speaking of dark, you hear about the situation with Marcus Wells?"
"His father's banking concerns have been resolved," Caspian replied simply.
"Right." David's tone suggested he understood exactly what wasn't being said. "Guess some problems solve themselves."
The library's ancient heating system clicked softly, pushing warm air through Victorian vents. Outside, autumn painted the campus in shades of gold and crimson. Tony returned to his device adjustments while David reviewed tactical analysis texts that went well beyond standard curriculum.
The quiet work session continued, each young man pursuing his particular expertise - Tony's brilliant innovations, David's tactical precision, Caspian's careful balance of multiple disciplines. Three distinct approaches to excellence, converging in a private study room at America's most prestigious prep school.