"Let's go test it then!" Nolan declared, slamming a palm on the nearest desk.
Inside, he grinned darkly. Not the usual smug grin, but something deeper, almost demonic. His thoughts churned like a conniving villain in the middle of a grand scheme. Test it, yes. Let's burn their confidence to the ground. And maybe, just maybe, make some Mana Crystals off the ashes.
But the students weren't shaken.
"No way!" Emily snapped, stepping back with her arms crossed. "You just want our Mana Crystals again!"
Sophia leaned forward, fire in her eyes. "Yeah! You're not really here to teach us!"
James slammed his desk, echoing their protest. "You're trying to trick us into your stupid illusions again!"
"And we know what you're like," Liam added, pointing an accusing finger. "Professor Granfire told us everything about you!"
That name hit Nolan like a thrown rock. His left eye twitched.
Several other students chimed in, like a dam had been broken.
"He said you were always like this!"
