Sensei's words about a surprise lingered in the air as morning arrived, the usual time for the five cadets' training. However, the room was devoid of the sounds of their exertion and only the faint noise from the sound boxes filled the air.
Tess sat on the couch, absentmindedly scrolling through channels with a blank expression. She couldn't help but feel that all the good shows aired at night, but she didn't want to exert too much effort in searching. She glanced over to see Lanse sprawled on another couch, his tablet covering his face.
Tess perked up and sat upright when she noticed Zack, Szedra, and Zino entering the room through the archway. They had returned from the surprise that Sensei had planned for them. Ironically, both Lanse and Tess hadn't participated since they had no relatives to call.
"You guys are back," Tess greeted them with a smile.