The classroom had emptied, and Athar now stood in front of the podium, facing Vale directly. His mind churned with a thousand possibilities, each more unlikely than the last. What could Vale possibly want to talk to him about? He had no idea. Even though, he could not think of the reason, the feeling of unease was getting stronger.
"Mr. VonCruz," Vale said at last. His usual calm, almost gentle tone was gone replaced by something colder, more clipped. It was like a different man altogether.
"Sir," Athar replied respectfully.
Vale gave a slight gesture, motioning for Athar to climb onto the podium. A wooden stool had been placed there, and Athar sat as instructed. Vale took a seat directly opposite him, the distance between them uncomfortably close.
"Do you have any idea what I want to talk to you about?" Vale asked, his voice low and unreadable.
"No, sir," Athar answered honestly.
