Chapter 23: Justice is Due
For the first time since enrolling, Xavier could actually focus during class. The constant tension in his shoulders had vanished, replaced by an unfamiliar sense of safety. His fingers traced the edges of his academy's device as Professor Alden droned on about quantum economics, the words actually registering in his mind instead of bouncing off his anxiety.
When the dismissal chime rang, Xavier packed his bag with deliberate slowness, savoring this newfound peace. The hallway bustle didn't faze him as he made his way to the cafeteria, his steps lighter than they'd been in weeks.
The cafeteria's cavernous space hummed with the chatter of thousands of students, the air thick with the scent of synthetic protein and overpriced coffee. Xavier spotted Oliver immediately - his friend's mop of dark hair visible even in the sea of bodies.
"Hey," Oliver greeted, sliding a tray of steaming noodles across the table. "You look... better."
Xavier smirked. "First time I haven't had to watch my back in that classroom."
Oliver's expression darkened. "You shouldn't have come today. Not after yesterday."
Xavier shrugged, wincing slightly as his healing wounds pulled. "Nothing else to do. Besides, city treatment is insane. Already feeling better."
Oliver leaned in, lowering his voice. "That hospital wasn't just any hospital. It's owned by the Zorvath Collective. Their bio-regeneration tech is..."
"Alien?" Xavier interrupted with a raised eyebrow. "I did see quite a few of them there.
Oliver nodded. "Exactly. Dad pulled some serious strings to get you in there."
The food arrived - Xavier's synthetic beef bowl steaming enticingly. He took a bite, then set down his fork. "How much did it cost?"