In the swirling chaos of the cafeteria.
Alden cracked his neck and gave a slow exhale expression bimming with rage. "You guys all had your fun," he said, rolling his shoulders and glaring at Ian and Maximus. "Now I need someone to beat up."
Ian and Maximus immediately got a very bad feeling. That kind of feeling where your stomach drops, your heart skips a beat, and you regret every life choice since birth.
Alden took a step forward, and Charlotte graciously released the gravity field.
The moment the weight disappeared, Ian and Maximus rolled up, panting, free at last. But this time—they didn't run.
They were second-year seniors, after all. One year ahead in training, top of their class in combat assessments. Sure, Alden was strong, but he was still just a first-year… right?
"We can take him," Maximus whispered.
Ian nodded. "Together."
Alden grinned, unsheathing his sword in a slow, deliberate motion. "Excellent."
