The academy's bell rang, signaling the end of the day. Students poured out of their classrooms, training halls, and labs, weary from the week's relentless challenges.
But as the chime faded, a thunderous bang erupted from the holographic dome where Liam and Kaine had been sparring. No one dared to investigate—not when Instructor Kaine was involved.
Inside the now-fading dome, Liam lay sprawled on the ground, a web of cracks beneath him from the sheer force of impact. Groaning, he forced himself upright, muscles screaming in protest.
Kaine, standing over him, rolled his sleeves back down with a casual air. "Well, you survived another day. I'll give you that. You've got guts, and I'm starting to see what Seraphina finds so amusing about you."
