[90] The Calm Before

After two hours of detailed measurements, material discussions, and Noel's increasingly manic excitement about experimental crystal weave patterns, Xavier and Calypso emerged from the workshop with all limbs intact and no explosions—which seemed to disappoint several students who had been hovering near the exits.

"See you next week for the first fitting!" Noel called after them. "And remember, if your skin starts tingling when you wear the prototypes, that's probably normal!"

Xavier raised a hand in acknowledgment without turning around. "Thanks for your help, Noel."

"You survived," Professor Valdez observed as they rejoined the group, her tone suggesting this outcome had been less than certain. "Everyone gather your things. We still have study hall in fifteen minutes, and I won't accept tardiness because you were distracted by shiny toys."