Chapter 45: [45] Point One Percent
Phantom gestured for the class to gather in a circle, his white mask betraying no emotion as he surveyed the fifteen students of Class 1-D. Xavier positioned himself between Calypso and Sayuri, still processing his interaction with Ashley. His muscles ached pleasantly from the exercise, the sensation of his meter building and fading now more familiar.
"So," Phantom said, "what did you learn today? And why does it matter?" He pointed at Alexander Shepard. "You first, Mr. Tall and Serious."
Alexander stood straighter, his black hair falling across his forehead as he addressed the class.
"I learned that Essentia sensing is as important as Essentia projection," he said. "In combat, detecting an opponent or monsters energy signature could provide crucial seconds of warning before a physical attack manifests."
Phantom nodded. "Good. Practical application. And you?" He pointed at Calypso.
"I learned that Essentia signatures are like fingerprints. Each person’s energy feels different—some warm, some cold, some sharp, some diffuse." She glanced at Xavier. "Understanding these differences helps predict how someone might fight."
"Interesting observation," Phantom said. "Though I suspect you knew that already." He moved on quickly. "You there, with the calculator. What’s your takeaway?"
Naomi Phillips looked up from her phone, which indeed showed a calculator app.
"Cost-benefit analysis," she said without hesitation. "Sensing Essentia requires less energy than activating your own abilities, making it efficient for reconnaissance. In financial terms, it’s a high-return, low-investment strategy."
Phantom tilted his head. "Mercenary but accurate." He pointed at Luka. "The Russian giant. Your thoughts?"
Luka’s face split into an enthusiastic grin. "Is EXCELLENT lesson! In Russia, we say knowing enemy’s strength before battle is half of victory already! Sensing tells us when to fight and when to bring more friends!" He slapped Xavier on the back hard enough to make him stumble forward a step.