They were all staring at Luca before their gazes shifted, like synchronized sensors, to the student who had shouted out the all-out duel.
That false bravado that filled his chest deflated faster than a popped balloon.
He hadn't meant for that to be traced back to him. He just thought he'd throw out a taunt. A spark. Not to become the bonfire.
But everyone knew. They all knew.
His knees clanked together, the sound oddly loud in the hush that followed.
And just when he thought he might pass out—
DING-DONG! DING-DONG!
The Academy's bell chimed across the training field, a surprisingly cheerful sound that clashed with the demolished wall and the heavy silence around it.
Saved by the bell.
Instructor Falco, who really needed to take medication for this, cleared his throat.
"That's lunch. You're dismissed. We reconvene for piloting classes after the break."
