Chapter 29: [29] Sugar Rush Ride
The cafeteria was like an upscale food court, bustling with students from all classes. Floor-to-ceiling windows lined one wall, offering views of the academy grounds and the distant skyline of Metro City across the water.
"Impressive setup for a school."
"It’s not just a school," Calypso reminded him, her eyes widening at the selection. "It’s Catalyst Academy. Only the best for humanity’s monster hunters."
Multiple different food stations lined the perimeter, each with its own theme: International Cuisine, Traditional Japanese, Protein-Focused, Vegetarian Options, Build-Your-Own, and—Calypso gasped audibly—an extensive Dessert Bar.
She grabbed Xavier’s arm, pulling him toward the sweet-laden counter. "Look at all this! They have chocolate lava cake! And is that crème brûlée?"
"We should probably get actual food first," Xavier said, though his eyes lingered on a display of freshly baked cookies.
Calypso pouted. "I’m technically 2,847 years old. I think I can decide what to eat."
"And yet you’re stuck in the body of an eighteen-year-old student who needs proper nutrition." Xavier steered her toward the Protein station. "Food first, then dessert Grandma."
Ten minutes later, they navigated through the crowded tables with their trays. Xavier had loaded his with chicken tenders, fries, and a bottle of water, plus a slice of chocolate cake he’d added after Calypso’s insistent badgering. Calypso’s tray, meanwhile, held an alarming assortment of sweets—two slices of cake, a crème brûlée, and a bowl of pudding topped with whipped cream.
"This is the best part of being mortal," Calypso declared as they found an empty round table near the center of the room. She dropped into a chair and immediately attacked her chocolate cake, closing her eyes in bliss. "Oh my gods, this is divine. No pun intended."
Xavier took the seat beside her. "You’re going to crash hard in about an hour."