Meanwhile, back in the training center, Mr. Halden made sure all the students left before looking at Lucas, who was still in the illusion.
The boy stood in the center of the arena, drenched in sweat, his arms still swinging at invisible enemies.
His face was red from the effort, jaw clenched tight. Every few seconds, he muttered something under his breath, lips moving rapidly like he was in the middle of a fight only he could see.
Mr. Halden walked slowly around the arena, keeping a bit of distance just in case Lucas tried something unpredictable.
It was hard to watch—a student so completely trapped inside his own head, acting like the hero of a battle that never happened.
Then, with a tired sigh, the teacher pulled out his holo phone and quickly dialed a number.
The call connected after a few rings.
"Mr. Grayson," Halden said, keeping his tone polite but neutral. "Are you available to talk for a moment?"
A loud laugh echoed through the line.
