The students made an effort, but the quality of their practice remained poor. Morris eventually called an early halt to the session.
"You're useless today. Dismissed. Try to show up tomorrow actually prepared to learn."
As students filed out, she stopped Thomas. "You. Stay a moment."
Thomas waited while the others left, his expression guarded.
Morris noted, "Your coordination has got better since we talked." "Not by much, but it's definitely an improvement. What do you think caused the change?"
"I talked to the counselor. Once. It was... less terrible than expected." Thomas shifted uncomfortably. "They gave me some techniques for managing intrusive thoughts during practice. Apparently I've been unconsciously replaying expedition events while training, which disrupts focus."
"And the techniques help?"
"Somewhat. I'm still working on it." Thomas met her eyes. "Am I cleared for Inter-House participation?"
