A few seconds passed before Victor spoke again.
"My readout shows no critical danger. Her mech has already initiated emergency medical protocols. It's linked to my mech's network and has entered escort follow mode."
The lead weight crushing Ethan's chest finally loosened. He did not waste another breath. "Stay where you are. I'm coming now," he said, then cut the connection.
Only after the call ended did he truly register his surroundings again. He lifted his head and was immediately met by a wall of stunned faces. Everyone was staring at him, frozen in place, Lyla included, her eyes wide as if she had just watched something unbelievable happen right in front of her.
"What?" Ethan asked, genuinely confused. Victor's news had consumed him so completely that he had shut out everything else in Ethereal without realizing it.
"Bro… just now…?" Lyla finally managed, her voice hovering between disbelief and shock.
