The hologram shimmered once in the air above her desk, forming in perfect resolution.
Astron's face appeared.
Unruffled.
Unemotional.
A blank slate.
His hair was slightly tousled, like he'd just come from a walk or a quiet reading session, but his eyes held the same sharp clarity she'd come to expect. Cold, thoughtful. Alert.
'Classic as usual.'
"Miss Reina," he said simply.
Reina allowed herself a small exhale. No need for pleasantries—he wasn't the type to expect them. Still, habit held.
"Astron," she greeted, her tone level but not unfriendly. "I trust the connection found you without delay."
He gave a short nod. "It did."
She tilted her head slightly, studying him. "You're off-grid from the academy for the week. I assume that means your mid-terms are finished."
"They are."
"And?" she asked, raising an eyebrow just slightly. "How did they go?"
Astron blinked once, as if the question needed no elaboration.
"They were satisfactory."
