Chaoter 235.3 - Practical Mid-terms

Reina's gaze softened—fractionally. Just enough for Astron to notice.

But then, she leaned back, the formal steel returning to her tone like a reflex.

"That's all for now. I'll forward the encrypted transcript of the fluctuations we recorded—review it when your schedule allows."

Astron gave a slight nod.

Reina's expression remained composed, but there was something behind it. A sliver of something quieter, not spoken aloud.

"And Astron?"

He paused. "Yes?"

"Do well on your exams," she said, tone light—but firm. "Your instructors are watching. And so am I."

A beat. Then, a dry smile ghosted across her lips.

"I expect results."

The connection blinked out before he could reply. The mana-screen dissolved into particles, fading back into the stillness of his room.

Silence returned.