Mika and Shreya returned to the room. Mika placed the tray on the table, handed drinks to Sanju and Mahi, then looked straight at Jun.
"What's going on?" she asked directly. "Why are they here?"
Sanju didn't wait,"Mika, didn't Jun tell you yesterday? We're coming along with you."
Mika's eyes locked onto Jun. Jun hesitated for a second… then reluctantly nodded. Mika said nothing. She simply turned to Mahi and suggested,"Why don't we go to my room? You can practice there. Sanju will practice here."
Mahi glanced at Sanju. Sanju gave a slight tilt of his neck.
"Why not," Mahi replied calmly. And she left with Mika. Shreya picked up her bag,"Big brother, I'm going to school. From there, I'll head to Mom. You meet Dad later."
Jun nodded. Shreya said goodbye to everyone and left. The room was quiet again, with only Jun and Sanju remaining. Days passed in the Training Phase. Everyone practiced in their own chambers.
Gravity levels gradually increased:
• Jun — 2.96x
• Sanju — 2.68x
• Mahi — 2.98x
• Mika — 2.87x
Jun's body was visibly adapting. Sanju was stable he struggled, but never gave up. Mahi was surprisingly steady. Mika remained disciplined.
The month ended and the departure time drew near. One night, while everyone was practicing in their chambers Jun's phone vibrated.
He shut down the gravity chamber and stepped outside. Answering the call, he said, "Hello?"
A familiar voice came through,"Jun, my boy… how are you? How's the training going?"
Jun smiled faintly,"Uncle Frank, I'm fine. How's your research?"
Frank's tone was casual,"All good. I called to remind you that tomorrow morning you all leave for Icolis. You remember, right?"
Jun replied firmly,"Yes, Uncle. We're ready. We'll set the coordinates on time."
There was a brief silence. Then Frank asked,"Jun… are you alone right now?"
Jun frowned slightly,"Yes, Uncle, I'm alone. Why?"
Frank's tone shifted,"Turn off your phone. Come to my house. Don't tell anyone."
Jun's expression grew serious,"What happened, Uncle? Please explain."
Frank spoke softly,"Do as I say. Come now."
The call ended. Silence filled the room. Jun stood there, phone in hand, wondering tomorrow is departure. So why an emergency call tonight?