But they were safe. This wasn't the first time the school had done this.
The engines beneath the ship gave a soft pulse.
The loading ramp pulled up behind them, locking into place with a quiet hiss.
Overhead, a soft chime sounded as the flight AI activated.
All systems are online.
Departure: Imminent.
The ship didn't shake or rattle as it lifted. It rose like it had done this a thousand times—silent, smooth, and exact.
The hum in the floor deepened, but no one flinched. Through the windows, the launch site got smaller, fading under the thick protective clouds above the city.
No one clapped, no one smiled, not only because almost all of them were used to this scene.
But also because they weren't heading to a tournament or a prize ceremony.
They were heading into the wild, into the real test, where their lives might not be at risk, but the chances of a heavy injury are not low.
Ethan sat still.
