The academy was now eerily silent, the usual bustling hallways now empty due to the trials taking place outside. Nova wandered through its sprawling stone corridors. The dim glow of enchanted torches flickered on the ancient walls, casting long, wavering shadows. Her footsteps echoed faintly, the only sound accompanying the steady thrum of her heartbeat. She called out for Ray again, her voice breaking slightly as her worry deepened.

“Ray! Where are you?” she called, her tone tinged with desperation. She had searched nearly every room, every alcove, every hidden staircase. It wasn’t like him to disappear like this, not without saying anything.

As she turned a corner, her eyes caught a faint glimmer of white at the far end of the hallway. It was him, his exosuit unmistakable even in the dim light. He was sitting on the cold stone floor, his back leaned heavily against the wall, his knees drawn up slightly. His posture was rigid, but there was something fragile about the way his head hung low, as if the weight of the world was pressing down on him.

“Ray!” Nova’s voice was filled with relief as she rushed toward him. But he didn’t move, didn’t acknowledge her presence. The faint hum of the suit’s energy was the only response she received. Undeterred, she sank to the ground beside him, her legs crossed, her eyes fixed on him with a mix of concern and determination.

“Ray…” she said softly, searching his faceplate for any sign he was listening. “Come on… you can trust me. I’m here for you.” Her voice faltered, but she quickly steadied herself. “You don’t need to hide in that suit.” Her words were quiet, carrying an almost pleading tone as she leaned forward slightly, trying to catch his gaze through the visor.

For a long moment, the silence between them stretched, heavy and suffocating. Nova glanced down at her hands, trying to think of something, anything, that might reach him. Then, finally, she saw him shift. Slowly, almost hesitantly, Ray tilted his head upward.

A faint, broken whisper escaped his lips, too quiet for her to understand. The exosuit began to hum faintly, its pristine white plates folding away in a smooth, fluid motion until it retracted completely into the cybernetic ring on his finger.

The boy beneath the armor was heartbreakingly vulnerable. Ray’s curly brown hair was disheveled, clinging to his forehead, his emerald, green eyes red and puffy from crying. His cheeks glistened with fresh tear tracks, and his lips trembled as he tried and failed to compose himself. He looked utterly lost.

“Ray-” Nova began, her voice barely above a whisper as her breath caught in her throat. She had never seen him like this. He was always the talkative, impulsive one, always brimming with energy. But now, he looked like a boy drowning in grief. “Are you okay? What did you see in there?” she asked, her voice gentle but urgent.

Ray didn’t respond at first. His face contorted, his jaw tightening as if he were physically holding back the words. Finally, his voice cracked as he spoke, so quiet it was almost inaudible.

"M-my parents… I saw my parents in there, Nova,” he admitted, his words trembling with the weight of the emotions he had been holding in. Another tear slipped down his cheek. “They spoke to me.”

Nova’s heart ached for him, her own eyes stinging with the threat of tears. She had no idea what to say. “And… what did they say?” she asked softly, her voice laced with trepidation.

Nova’s breath hitched, and she instinctively reached out to place a comforting hand on his arm, her touch gentle. She stayed quiet, knowing there was more he needed to say.

“They… the hallucinations,” Ray continued, his voice barely above a whisper, “wanted me to bring them back to life.” His gaze dropped to his hands, which rested limply in his lap, his fingers curling and uncurling as if the memory itself physically hurt. “And I rejected them.”

The silence that followed was deafening. Nova’s lips parted as if to speak, but no words came out. What could she say to that? Ray had faced an impossible choice, one no ten-year-old should ever have to face.

Nova’s chest tightened at his words. She sat in silence for a moment, watching Ray as his trembling hands curled into fists on his lap. The faint glow of the magical torches lining the hallway reflected off the tear tracks on his face, and she could see the weight he carried in every slight motion of his body.

“Ray…” Nova began, her voice soft and cautious. “You know that wasn’t really them, right? Whatever they were, they were just trying to manipulate you.”

Ray’s emerald eyes flicked up to meet hers, filled with anguish. “I know,” he whispered, his voice trembling. “But it felt so real. For a second… I almost believed it. I almost gave in.” His head dropped again, his curls falling over his face as he muttered, “What kind of son am I to reject them, even if it wasn’t real?”

Nova’s hand hesitated before she reached out, gently resting it on his shoulder. “You’re not a bad son, Ray. You’re the strongest person I know. It would have been so easy to give in, to let yourself believe in the lie. But you didn’t. You chose to protect others, to keep fighting. That’s what makes you… you.”

Ray’s lip quivered, and he shook his head slowly. “But what if I was wrong? What if… what if that tiny chance it was them… and I just walked away? What if I failed them?” His voice broke, and he pressed his palms to his eyes, hiding the fresh tears.

Nova swallowed hard, her own emotions swirling. She leaned in closer, her voice steady but full of feeling. “Ray, listen to me. Your parents wouldn’t want you to carry this guilt. If they were really there, if they could talk to you, they’d want you to live your life, to be happy. They wouldn’t want you to sacrifice everything chasing ghosts.”

Ray looked at her, his face etched with pain. “But what if I never know for sure? What if I never get to see them again, Nova? What if I’m alone forever?”

Nova’s heart ached at the raw vulnerability in his voice. She shook her head firmly. “You’re not alone. You have me, you have the others. We’re your family now, Ray. We’ll always be here for you.” Her hand on his shoulder gave a small, comforting squeeze. “And even if they’re gone, your parents’ love hasn’t left you. It’s still here.” She tapped his chest lightly, right over his heart.

Ray stared at her, his tear-filled eyes wide and searching. Her words seemed to hang in the air, penetrating the fog of his despair. Slowly, his shoulders sagged as he released a shaky breath. “I don’t know if I can keep doing this, Nova,” he whispered. “I’m tired of losing people. Of feeling like this.”

Nova’s hand moved from his shoulder to grasp his hand firmly. “You don’t have to do it alone. You’re not alone, Ray. We’ll figure it out together, no matter what it takes.” Her tone was resolute, leaving no room for doubt.

The silence stretched between them, but it felt different now, less heavy, less suffocating. For the first time since entering the labyrinth, Ray felt a sliver of relief. He looked at Nova, his lip twitching into the faintest semblance of a smile. “Thanks,” he murmured, his voice still hoarse.

Nova smiled back, her grip on his hand unwavering. “Anytime. Now, let’s get out of this creepy hallway and find Connor. I don’t think He’ll last much longer without us.”

Ray exhaled a short laugh through his nose, wiping his face with his arm. He stood slowly, and Nova followed suit, her hand still on his shoulder. Together, they began walking back toward the heart of the academy, their steps lighter now, the ghost of the labyrinth left behind, at least for now.

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Connor strode through the dimly lit stone corridors of the Academy, his black training gi swaying with each step. The enchanted torches on the walls flickered faintly, casting dancing shadows that made the ancient halls feel alive. His sharp blue eyes scanned every corner, his telekinesis occasionally nudging open a door or shifting aside a loose curtain as he muttered under his breath, “Where could those two have gone?”

As he turned a corner, his focus was interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps and voices calling out his name. “Connor! Hey, Connor!” The voices echoed, growing louder until three figures burst into view.

The firs” to approach was Finnrick “Finn” Voss, a lanky boy with scruffy blonde hair, hazel eyes, and a face full of freckles. His oversized brown robe flapped wildly as he jogged, making him look even clumsier than usual. “Connor, we need your help!” he said, slightly out of breath.

Beside him was Delilah “Del” Greaves, a petite girl with long black braids and round glasses that kept sliding down her nose. Her dark brown skin glistened faintly with sweat, and she clutched a spell book to her chest like it was her lifeline. “Please, it’s urgent!” she added, her voice tinged with worry.

Trailing close behind was Torrin “Tor” Mulrow, a stocky boy with messy red hair, green eyes, and ink-stained fingers. He carried a small satchel that jingled faintly with every step. “We’ve got a situation,” he said firmly, though his flushed cheeks betrayed his nervousness.

Connor raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. “What are you three doing in here? Shouldn’t you be outside celebrating with everyone else?”

The trio exchanged glances, their expressions grim. Finnrick stepped forward, wringing his hands. “We would be, but... well... it’s Rad, Elara, and Lucio. They’re destroying everyone in the Light and Shadow Duel trial!”

Connor blinked, his expression unimpressed. “And?”

Delilah spoke up, her voice shaking slightly. “Connor, no one can beat them. They’ve been taking out everyone, everyone who tries to stand against them!”

Connor sighed, rubbing his temples. “And you’re telling me this because…?”

Torrin stepped closer, his tone urgent. “Because you, Nova, and Ray are the only ones who stand a chance! No one else can stop them!”

Connor’s disbelief was evident. “What? What about Aaliyah’s squad?” “Wiped,” the trio said in unison, their voices solemn.

Connor’s eyes widened slightly. “Diego’s squad?” “Humiliated!” they replied, again in unison.

Connor hesitated, almost afraid to ask. “Even Raphael’s?”

Finnrick threw up his hands dramatically. “Absolutely decimated! Elara used their own powers against them!”

“It’s horrible out there, Connor!” Torrin exclaimed. “We’re running out of people who can even put up a fight!”

Connor frowned, stroking his chin as he considered the situation. “Well…” he muttered, a small smirk forming on his face. “I have been looking for an excuse to get back at Lucio, for humiliating me in front of everyone a while back.”

“Please, Connor!” Delilah pleaded, stepping forward and holding out a small bag of coins. The sound of the jingling gold was tempting, and Connor’s gaze immediately locked onto the bag. His hand reached out slowly, his fingers nearly brushing the drawstring. But just before taking it, he stopped himself, inhaling deeply and letting out a dramatic exhale.

He straightened his posture and placed his hands on his hips. “Keep your coins, Delilah,” he declared heroically. “Have no fear! I will avenge our fallen comrades!”

The trio’s faces lit up with excitement, their worries momentarily forgotten. “Oh, thank you, Connor!” they exclaimed, practically bouncing in place. “You’re a hero!” they shouted as they turned and dashed off, their voices echoing down the halls.

Connor watched them go, a smug grin spreading across his face. “Kids,” he muttered to himself. He turned back to continue his search, only to freeze in place as he came face to face with Nova and Ray, standing directly behind him.

“Ah!” Connor yelped, jumping back in shock. Nova and Ray burst into laughter, their amusement filling the corridor.

“Really, Connor?” Nova teased, wiping a tear from her eye. “You screamed like a little kid.”

“Yeah,” Ray added, grinning ear to ear. “And here I thought you were supposed to be the cool one.”

Connor scowled, his cheeks flushing. “I wasn’t scared! You two just… snuck up on me!” he retorted, trying to regain his composure.

Nova smirked. “Sure, whatever you say, hero.”

Ray clapped him on the back, still chuckling. “So, what’s this about avenging fallen comrades? Sounds like you’ve got a plan.”

Connor rolled his eyes, his irritation melting into a small grin. “Come on, you two. Let’s go put an end to Rad and his squad’s winning streak.”

The roaring crowd echoed through the sky as Ray, Nova, and Connor stood atop the enormous floating platform. High above the sprawling Academy grounds, the circular arena hovered, kept aloft by the Immense power of Sensei Ino’s telekinesis. The glowing runes etched along the platform’s edge shimmered with faint magical energy, ensuring the safety of those watching.

Ray adjusted his white exosuit, the visor glinting in the sunlight as he glanced at his friends. “Alright, we’ve got this. Stick to the plan, and we’ll take them down.”

Nova smirked, hands on her hips, her curly afro bouncing slightly as she turned toward the opposing team. “We better, because I am not losing to Elara. Not after she laughed at my starburst attack!”

Connor crossed his arms, his black training gi catching the wind. “He’ll laugh at anything. That guy’s got more energy than he knows what to do with.” He shot a glare across the platform. “And don’t even get me started on Rad.” On the opposite side of the platform, Rad, Lucio, and Elara were huddled together, exuding confidence.

Rad stretched, his impressive physique on display as he grinned. “You guys ready? This’ll be over in five minutes tops. I’ll handle Ray; you two can deal with the rest.”

Lucio adjusted his pill cartridge, the soft jingling of capsules audible even over the crowd. “I’ve got Connor covered. His telekinesis is flashy, but speed? Speed always wins.” He grinned mischievously, sparks of electricity dancing across his fingertips.

Elara, leaning casually against Rad, glanced toward the other team, her sharp eyes narrowing. “Nova will be tricky,” she admitted, her tone calculated. “But if I can copy her powers and amplify them… Let’s just say she won’t know what hit her.”

The tension between the two teams was palpable. The crowd, made up of hundreds of sorcerers, chanted and cheered, placing bets on who would come out on top.

Sensei Ino, seated alone in the stands, observed quietly. His expression was unreadable, but his keen eyes darted between Ray and Connor. “Interesting,” he murmured to himself, his arms folded. “Let’s see how far you’ve both come.”

At the center of the platform stood Penelope and Olivia, the twin sisters in their element as they hyped up the crowd. Penelope, her pale skin glowing faintly in the shadows, raised a hand to silence the audience.

“Sorcerers! Behold! The ultimate showdown: Team Light versus Team Shadow!” Her voice was calm yet commanding, amplified by her shadow magic.

Olivia, practically glowing with energy, gestured toward the teams with an enthusiastic grin. “Who will reign supreme? Rad and his unstoppable squad, or the daring trio of Ray, Nova, and Connor? Place your bets, folks, because this is going to be one for the history books!”

Penelope cast her sister a sideways glance, smirking slightly. “My money’s on Rad. His strength is unmatched, and Elara’s versatility is hard to counter.”

Olivia scoffed. “Please! Ray’s ingenuity, combined with Nova’s raw power and Connor’s telekinesis? It’s no contest!”

The two sisters turned back to the players, their sibling rivalry adding to the electric atmosphere. Penelope stepped forward, conjuring shadowy kites that ominously hovered above each competitor. “Courtesy of Ashley’s scientific technology,” she began, her shadows deftly attaching the kite-shaped devices to each player’s back, “these devices will allow both teams to go all out without risk of harm.”

Olivia chimed in, beaming. “That’s right! No injuries, no setbacks, just pure magical mayhem!” The crowd erupted in cheers as the twins raised their hands, signaling the start of the match.

The platform rumbled slightly as the game began. Both teams sprang into action, dashing toward the glowing orbs scattered across the arena.

Nova darted forward, her hands glowing with star-like energy. “Try to keep up!” she called back to Ray and Connor, already targeting a golden orb near the edge of the platform.

Lucio, a blur of motion, intercepted her path in an instant. “You’re not getting that one,” he taunted, lightning crackling around him as he smirked. “Let’s see if the stars can keep up with the storm.”

On the other side, Ray locked eyes with Rad. The two stared each other down for a moment before charging at full speed, the clash of Ray’s exosuit and Rad’s raw strength shaking the platform.

Meanwhile, Connor found himself face-to-face with Elara. She grinned wickedly, her aura shimmering faintly as she began to mirror Nova’s abilities. “You don’t stand a chance, Connor,” she said, her tone dripping with confidence.

“We’ll see about that,” Connor replied, his eyes narrowing as he braced himself for the battle ahead.