>>149963815
>Her thoughts raced with every pounding step. Dad’s training, every competition, every bruise I’ve taken… it all comes down to this moment. I don’t care if I win or lose. I just need them to see me. To respect me. To know I belong here.
>Closer. Closer. Roma’s grin sharpened as she braced herself. This was it—the climax, the inevitable clash—
>BWAAAAAH!
>A piercing siren ripped through the air.
>The sound rattled across the training field, bouncing off every wall of the Academy. Seconds later, the crisp voice of the academy’s announcer blared over the loudspeakers:
>“Attention all staff: Report to the meeting hall immediately. Students are to remain in their designated classes until further notice.”
>The energy on the field shattered in an instant.
>Willow froze mid-step, her chest still rising and falling with adrenaline. The classmates broke into whispers and startled glances. Gwendolyn’s ears twitched nervously; Norm furrowed his brow; Aya looked confused and groggy.
>Coach Alan and Mrs. Mavis exchanged a loaded look—half worry, half recognition. Then, together, they turned to Roma.
>Roma’s jaw was tight, her fists clenched. She looked like a gladiator denied her final strike. Her fiery eyes burned with frustration before she exhaled sharply through her nose. “…Tch. Of all the times.”
>Her head turned back toward Willow, her expression softening into something more controlled. She forced a smile, even though the tension in her stance betrayed her irritation.
>“I guess we’ll have to pause our little match, Filbert,” she said, her voice steady but tinged with restrained fire. “But make no mistake—you did really, really good. Stand proud.”
>Willow, though disappointed, couldn’t help but beam. She bowed deeply in respect. “Thank you, Coach.”