Damian said nothing, his hand moving to his spatial ring.
Light flashed as a cigar materialized in his palm.
He brought it to his lips, his other hand producing a small flame that lit the end.
Smoke curled upward as he exhaled, his eyes tracking toward the window showing Tranquil City beyond.
The silence stretched.
Mike waited, knowing Damian well enough by now to understand when words were coming.
Finally, Damian spoke.
"I know."
"You destroyed all their confidence, then mentally tortured them for hours..." Mike continued, his voice becoming harder. "Even if they understand what you were trying to do, even if they eventually realize this was meant to strengthen them..." He paused. "They might hate you for this. Being forced to confront their fears for hours, experiencing the worst moments of their lives on repeat... I'll have to talk with them and help them process what just happened... These are still kids, Damian."
