The New Division

Orion sat in class, watching as students filtered in, chatting about assignments, weekend plans, and whatever else occupied their minds. For him, the day felt like any other—until Professor Callum walked in.

There was something different about him today. He carried himself with the same quiet authority as always, but there was a weight to his presence, a sense of purpose that made the room fall silent faster than usual.

Callum wasted no time.

"The Academy has decided to introduce a new division," he announced, his voice steady, measured. "One that will redefine how we approach lucid dreaming."

That got everyone's attention.

Orion straightened in his seat. A glance at Neil and Rin told him they were just as intrigued. Cas, as always, looked calm, but Orion could tell she was listening intently.

Callum tapped his screen, and the classroom display lit up with two words:

Research & Combat Division

Murmurs spread through the room.

"As you all know," Callum continued, "lucid dreaming has changed the world. But it is still an evolving science—one that requires further study. The Academy has always sought to push the boundaries of understanding, and now, we are taking it a step further."

He gestured toward the display.

"This new division will be split into three sectors: Research, Combat and Dream Exploration. Each with its own purpose, each with its own challenges."

The murmuring grew louder. Orion caught snippets of conversation.

"Combat? Are they serious?"

"They're actually letting us test this stuff?"

"Does this mean we'll get access to restricted dream studies?"

Callum let the noise settle before continuing.

"The Research sector will focus on the mechanics of lucid dreaming," he explained. "It will involve controlled experiments, dream stabilization studies, and the development of new techniques to enhance dream control."

Orion immediately thought of Cas. This was exactly the kind of thing she'd be interested in. And sure enough, he saw the faintest spark of interest in her expression.

Then Callum's gaze sharpened.

"The Combat sector," he said, "is for those who seek to train their abilities in high-intensity scenarios. This will not be theoretical. It will involve real simulations, controlled dream battles, and practical application of lucid techniques."

"And, lastly," in a subtle tone, "the third sector, Dream Exploration, is made for those who seek to push beyond the known limits of lucid dreaming. it requires adaptability, intuition, and a willingness to face the unpredictable.

Orion blinked.

That was new.

Controlled dream battles? That wasn't something they had ever been officially taught. Sure, everyone knew that lucid dreams could be manipulated, but an actual structured training program? That was another level entirely.

Callum continued, "This division will not be open to everyone. Students must apply, and only those who meet the requirements will be accepted. If you choose to join, understand that this is not a casual elective. It is a commitment."

The weight of his words settled over the room.

Orion exhaled slowly. He wasn't sure how he felt about this yet.

"Applications will open soon," Callum said. "Think carefully before you decide."

And just like that, the announcement was over.

The class continued as if nothing had happened, but Orion could tell—no one was thinking about the lesson anymore.

A Lunch Without a Lunch

By the time lunch rolled around, Orion found himself wandering the halls alone.

The group had split up naturally. Cas had gone off to look into the Research sector. Neil had disappeared—probably investigating something on his own. And Rin? She was already talking to students about the Combat sector, excitement practically radiating off her.

Orion still wasn't sure what to think.

He passed by groups of students, all buzzing with the same conversation.

"You think they'll actually let us fight in dreams?"

"I heard only the best will get in…"

"What if this is their way of recruiting people for something bigger?"

Orion sighed. The rumors were already starting.

Dinner at The Haven

By evening, the group had reassembled at The Haven, their go-to spot whenever they wanted a break from Academy life.

The warm lighting and the smell of fresh coffee made the place feel separate from the weight of the day's events. But even here, the buzz of conversation revolved around only one thing—the new division.

Orion, Neil, Rin, and Cas settled into their usual booth.

"So," Rin said, leaning forward, "who's interested?"

Neil stretched, looking unimpressed. "I don't see why I'd join either."

Cas tapped her fingers against the table. "I'll probably apply for Research."

Orion raised an eyebrow. "Think they'll actually give students access to real dream studies?"

"They have to," Cas said. "Otherwise, what's the point?"

Rin grinned. "And that's why I'm going Combat."

Neil groaned. "Of course you are."

"Think about it," Rin continued, ignoring him. "We already know lucid dreams can be controlled. What if this training takes it to the next level?"

Orion stayed quiet. He wasn't against the idea, but something about Callum's phrasing earlier bothered him.

Commitment. Progression. Challenges.

It didn't sound like just another program. It sounded like a test.

Cas must have been thinking the same thing because she suddenly asked, "Do you think this is leading somewhere?"

Neil sighed. "Everything leads somewhere."

Rin shrugged. "Well, I'm applying no matter what."

Cas smirked slightly. "I figured."

Orion exhaled. "I guess we'll find out soon enough."

The conversation drifted into other topics, but the thought still lingered in Orion's mind.

This wasn't just about learning.

And whether they liked it or not, they were already part of it.