The next morning, Richard and Javi were up before sunrise, already buried in their books.
Richard sat cross-legged on his bed, posture straight, eyes scanning the pages with focused calm. Javi, meanwhile, slouched at the edge of his own bed, book dangling in one hand, his chin resting heavily in the other as he stared at the words like they were mocking him.
He sighed, long and frustrated.
"Is Mr. Graves serious? I'm only on page fifty. How the hell did you finish already?"
Without looking up, Richard chuckled. "Don't just read it—analyze it. It'll go faster."
Javi gave him a sideways glance, brows lifted in disbelief.
"Analyze it? That just sounds like extra work."
Richard finally looked over, amusement in his eyes. "Dumbass, just try it. It works."
Javi flopped back onto his bed, arms sprawled. "Fine. Guess it's worth a shot if it means I'm done quicker."
Richard nodded, satisfied. "Exactly."
Javi sat up again, suddenly grinning. "Toss me some chocolate and let's see if your genius method holds up."
Richard pulled a small bar of dark chocolate from his pocket and flicked it toward him. Javi caught it midair, eyeing it like it might bite.
"You sure this helps?"
"Absolutely. Dark chocolate boosts memory and focus."
Javi took a bite, chewing slowly, clearly unconvinced. "You said that last night. Still feels like a scam."
Richard shrugged, relaxed against the headboard. "Worst case? You eat some chocolate."
Javi smirked. "Fair point." He took another bite, letting the taste settle before muttering, "Not bad."
Richard grinned. "Told you."
Javi glanced at the clock. "What time's our first class?"
Richard leaned over. "We've still got an hour."
Javi stood, stretching. "Alright. Got any plans for how we're using it?"
Richard lit up. "Let's go meet the others."
"The other first-years?" Javi asked, interest piqued.
"Yeah. Might as well see who else is lost like we are."
Javi's posture straightened, energy returning. "Alright then. Let's go."
As they headed out, Richard teased, "Someone's excited. Nervous or just hyped?"
Javi bumped him lightly on the way past. "Shut up."
Richard laughed. "Touchy."
Outside, morning sunlight poured over the grounds, casting everything in soft gold. Javi squinted up at it, shielding his eyes.
"Damn... what a nice morning."
"Yeah," Richard agreed, stretching lazily. "Sunlight makes everything look peaceful."
Noticing Javi still squinting, he grinned. "You good?"
"I'm fine," Javi muttered, rubbing his eyes. "Just wasn't ready for the brightness."
Richard snorted. "You strike me as the sunglasses-in-winter type."
Javi rolled his eyes. "I'm not a celebrity wannabe. It's just bright, alright?"
Still laughing, Richard turned toward the path ahead. "Alright, alright. Follow me, lost boy."
Javi groaned. "Seriously?"
"Hey, you walked right into that one."
As they strolled across the grounds, Javi's gaze wandered. The architecture, the morning stillness, the quiet magic of it all settled into his bones.
"Hoho... es una escuela realmente hermosa después de todo."
Richard turned, eyebrows raised. "You speak Spanish?"
Javi nodded, smile fading slightly. "Yeah. I'm from Spain."
Richard's voice softened. "That's a long way from home. You miss it?"
For a second, Javi's eyes darkened. Then he looked away, rubbing the back of his neck. "Let's just meet your friends."
Richard caught the shift but didn't press. "Yeah. Let's go."
The boys approached the cafeteria, the scent of fresh bread and roasted beans wafting toward them. A hum of chatter and clinking dishes filled the wide, open space where several first-years were already settled—some hunched over their books, others laughing at inside jokes, and a few sparring lightly in a corner with mock blades or cards.
Richard nudged Javi with his elbow, nodding toward a familiar group near the back window.
"There they are."
Javi groaned the moment he spotted the unmistakable figure with crossed arms and a haughty lean—Gwen Watson.
"Of course. Of course she's here," he muttered.
Richard grinned and raised his voice.
"Hey! Good morning, guys!"
Diana Marville, perched atop a bench with her legs crisscrossed and a juice box in hand, perked up and waved enthusiastically.
"Morning, Richard! And… I guess that's Javier? Right, Gwen?"
Gwen didn't look up from the small black notebook she was sketching in. Her smirk curved lazily.
"The one and only. Sleep well, Garcia?"
Javi raised his brows in dramatic disbelief.
"Oh, absolutely, Ms. President. Thanks so much for your concern." His voice oozed mock courtesy.
Richard quickly stepped between them, placing a hand on each of their shoulders.
"Alright, alright—way too early for bickering, you two."
Gwen finally looked up, her piercing gray eyes scanning Javi like a locked-room puzzle. She tilted her head, arms crossing tighter.
"Sure, Doyle. As long as Mr. Lost Boy doesn't mind the heat."
Javi scowled, trying to keep it cool.
"Yeah, yeah. Nice to meet you again."
At the edge of the table, a boy with curly hair and a relaxed slouch glanced up from where he was tinkering with something small and metallic in his hands.
"Hey. You must be the new guy," he said with a lazy grin.
Richard motioned to him.
"That's Simon. Simon Curtis—my other best friend. Also the biggest hoarder of sketchy gadgets on campus."
Simon pointed at him with mock offense.
"Allegedly."
Richard chuckled.
"Anyway, yeah. This is Javi—our newest member. He's been giving me a hard time since he got here."
Javi blinked.
"Excuse me? What's that supposed to mean?"
Richard shot him a teasing grin.
"What, can't take a little friendly banter?"
Gwen rested her chin on her hand, voice soft and sly.
"He better learn to, if he wants to survive here."
Javi narrowed his eyes at her, deadpan.
"Coming from you?"
A beat passed, just long enough for tension to stir—
Then Diana giggled, unable to hold it in.
"Oh my God, you two sound like an old married couple!"
Immediately, Javi and Gwen spun toward her, voices overlapping in synchronized disgust.
"Yuck!"
Richard nearly doubled over, laughing.
"Okay, okay—everyone chill out. Let's not throw shade before breakfast."
Javi let out a breath and rolled his shoulders.
"Fine. I guess it's only fair I introduce myself properly, right?"
Gwen leaned in slightly, resting her elbows on the table, interest sparking in her eyes.
"Ooh. Go on then. Impress us."
Diana nudged her knee.
"Gwen, don't scare him off."
"I'm not!" Gwen said innocently. "I'm encouraging him."
Javi cleared his throat, standing up straighter with mock elegance.
"Alright, here goes… I'm Javier Garcia, the rookie, the newbie, the latest victim of Doyle's tragic roommate habits."
Richard clapped him on the shoulder.
"Or, as we like to call him… Lost Boy."
Everyone laughed—except Gwen, who just raised a brow and sipped her tea.
Still grinning, Richard turned to the group.
"Alright, your turn. Let's not leave our dear Lost Boy out in the cold."
Diana hopped to her feet and gave a theatrical bow.
"Diana Marville. Your charming, not-at-all grumpy classmate. I'm probably the most normal one here. Probably."
Javi laughed.
"Nice to meet you, Diana. Don't worry—I'm good with grumpy." He gestured toward Gwen, who narrowed her eyes.
Gwen clicked her tongue.
"Careful, Lost Boy. You're racking up those insults early."
Simon leaned back and held out a fist.
"Simon Curtis. Dorm 208, right next door. I'm Richard's tech guy, and your unofficial supplier of cool, possibly illegal stuff."
Javi blinked.
"Cool… illegal stuff?"
Richard laughed nervously.
"Don't ask too many questions."
Javi bumped fists with Simon.
"Nice to meet you, Curtis."
Richard crossed his arms.
"Alright, we all know who's left."
Javi mock-shook his head.
"Nope. Not poking the bear again."
Gwen stood slowly, stretching like she ruled the room. Her voice dropped into something firmer.
"Don't push your luck, boys."
She turned to Javi, eyes sharp, arms folding like a closing gate.
"Gwen Watson. Class president. Dorm 115. And the only person here with actual authority."
Javi smirked.
"Uh-huh. I already knew your name, Grumps."
Silence.
Then Diana whispered behind her juice box,
"Yep. Definitely married couple energy."
Richard chuckled as he stepped forward, nudging Javi with his elbow.
"Alright, Javi. Time for breakfast—before you turn into a walking tantrum."
Javi clutched his stomach with exaggerated agony.
"Finally. I'm starving. At this rate, I might start biting people."
He flashed a toothy grin at Richard.
"Starting with you, maybe."
As they turned to go, Javi tossed a lazy wave over his shoulder.
"Later, guys!"
Richard followed, more upbeat.
"Catch you all in class!"
Simon raised a hand mid-bite, chewing with a thumbs-up. Diana gave a polite nod, still sipping her juice with a bright smile. Gwen didn't even glance up—she casually lifted one hand, extended her middle finger, and continued sipping her tea like nothing happened.
Javi blinked.
"...Did she just flip me off?"
Richard laughed, unbothered.
"Classic Gwen."
Javi shook his head with a dramatic sigh.
"That girl… seriously, who nominated her as class president? Satan?"
Richard snorted.
"Believe it or not, she won unanimously."
He gave Javi a sideways glance.
"She's actually really good at the job... terrifyingly good."
Javi scoffed, but his lips twitched like he was fighting a smile.
"'Terrifyingly good' is just a polite way of saying she'll bite your head off if you breathe wrong."
Richard shrugged.
"You'll get used to her. Eventually, you might even—dare I say—appreciate her."
Javi arched a brow.
"Appreciate her? I barely survived her this morning."
As they neared the breakfast line, Richard gave him a meaningful look.
"Still… you didn't hate her."
Javi gave him a slow side-eye.
"Didn't say I liked her either."
Richard's smirk grew, voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper.
"But you are thinking about her."
Javi froze mid-step, then scoffed like he'd just been accused of murder.
"No, I'm not. You're literally the only one talking about her."
Richard grinned, clearly enjoying himself.
"You said she 'wasn't so bad.' For Gwen? That's basically flirting."
Javi opened his mouth to argue, paused, then threw up his hands.
"Okay, look. She's got fire, alright? I respect that. Doesn't mean I'm crushing on her."
Richard raised an eyebrow.
"Sounds like a crush to me."
Javi halted again, eyes wide.
"Hell no! Why would I be crushing on that grumps?!"
He spun around, scanning the hallway like she might suddenly appear.
"Take that back. Immediately."
Richard doubled over laughing, nearly dropping his tray.
"Relax, man! You look like I just accused you of murder."
Javi grumbled, grabbing his tray and trying—and failing—to keep his cool.
"I'm not being defensive. You just… caught me off guard, that's all."
Richard leaned in with a grin.
"Gotcha."
Javi narrowed his eyes, jaw tight—but the smirk returned anyway.
"You're enjoying this way too much."
"Oh, I absolutely am." Richard chuckled, stepping up to the breakfast counter.
"Let's get you fed before you get hungry enough to yell at Gwen again."
"Again?" Javi muttered.
"That implies I stopped."
--
Javi tried to brush it off, waving a hand like the topic was old news.
"So… what now?"
Richard's grin widened into something mischievous.
"Now," he said, voice low and conspiratorial, "I show you the sacred ritual we perform every morning… just to get breakfast."
Javi raised a brow, slowing his pace.
"A ritual? What kind of ritual? Do I need to draw a blood circle? Recite the alphabet backwards?"
Richard just laughed, already approaching the counter like he owned the place.
"Just watch, rookie. This is serious business."
Javi followed, tray in hand, half-convinced his friend was pulling some elaborate prank. The cafeteria smelled like eggs and toast, but now it felt like something out of a fantasy novel. He watched as Richard stopped at the food counter with the posture of someone preparing for battle.
Behind the counter stood a sharp-eyed woman in her sixties. Her silver hair was tied into a no-nonsense bun, her pristine apron offset by a single strand of colorful beads on her wrist. She looked like she could command a kitchen—or a battlefield.
She turned, spotting them, eyes twinkling.
"Morning, Doyle," she said warmly, with the kind of smile that came from years of tolerating students' antics. "What can I get for you?"
Richard set his tray down like he was placing a poker hand.
"Bacon and toast, please. The usual."
Ms. Yuro's hands moved quickly, but she didn't reach for the food. She folded them together and tilted her head.
"You know the rules, honey. Payment first."
Richard straightened up like a knight before a quest.
"Hit me with your best shot, ma'am."
Ms. Yuro leaned in ever so slightly, lowering her voice like she was about to share a secret.
"I am an odd number," she said smoothly. "Take away a letter, and I become even. What number am I?"
Javi blinked, frowning as he replayed the words.
"Wait, what—"
"Seven," Richard answered confidently, cutting Javi off with a smirk.
Ms. Yuro laughed softly, clearly pleased.
"Still got it." She slid the plate onto his tray. "Enjoy, Doyle."
Richard turned to Javi, eyes dancing.
"Alright, rookie. Your turn."
Javi glanced from Richard to Ms. Yuro, who was now eyeing him like a cat sizing up a new toy.
He blinked.
"Wait, you're serious? I thought that was just, like… a you thing."
Ms. Yuro chuckled, holding up a finger.
"Name and order, darling. And prepare your mind."
"Uh… Javi. Eggs, toast, and orange juice?"
She nodded, already preparing his tray.
"A fine choice. Now—your riddle."
She cleared her throat theatrically, her voice adopting a sing-song lilt.
"I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with the wind. What am I?"
Javi stared.
"What kind of Sphinx-level nonsense…?"
Richard leaned over, whispering through a grin.
"You got ten seconds before she starts deducting toast."
Javi muttered under his breath, eyes narrowing in mock panic—then suddenly snapped his fingers.
"Wait—an echo! It's an echo, right?"
Ms. Yuro's smile widened.
"Correct." She placed the plate in front of him like a prize.
"Not bad, rookie."
Javi exhaled dramatically, clutching his chest.
"I genuinely thought I was gonna starve in front of everyone."
Richard clapped him on the back.
"Welcome to breakfast at the School of Shadows. Survival of the brainiest."
Javi side-eyed him while grabbing a fork.
"I'm bringing cheat sheets tomorrow."
"And Ms. Yuro will see them from a mile away. She's part bloodhound."
"I heard that, Doyle," Ms. Yuro called without even turning.
Richard winced.
"Told you."
Javi grinned around a bite of toast.
"This place is gonna kill me. But at least I'll die well-fed."
Richard chuckled.
"You think you can handle it?"
"I can handle anything this place throws at me. I'm tougher than I look."
"We'll see about that."
"You bet. Anyway—where's the guy you were talking about?"
"You mean Rukawa?"
As if summoned, the cafeteria doors opened. A tall, lean Japanese boy stepped in, shoulders relaxed but eyes razor-sharp. His presence shifted the room's energy—quiet but undeniable. He moved like he didn't care who watched, but noticed everything.
At a nearby table, Diana nudged Gwen.
"Hey, Gwen. That's Rukawa, right? The guy who, you know... handled you pretty well?"
Gwen's eyes narrowed.
"Ugh. Don't remind me of that night." She sipped her juice. "And handled me pretty well? Seriously?"
Diana giggled.
"Alright, alright. No need to snap. You just looked… flustered."
Simon looked up, mouth full.
"People say he used to be in a gang. Like, back in Japan."
Gwen rolled her eyes hard enough to sprain something.
"Oh great, here we go—Simon's daily gossip hour. Keep it down, TMZ."
Simon held up his hands.
"I'm just saying what I heard! Don't shoot the messenger!"
---
Back at their table, Richard leaned in.
"Speaking of the devil…"
Javi followed his gaze, eyes narrowing.
"That him?"
"Yup. Rukawa Hiroshi. First-year, just like us."
Javi took a moment, watching Rukawa's calm, unreadable expression.
"He doesn't exactly scream 'friendly neighborhood classmate,'" he muttered.
"Yeah, he's got that 'I'll beat you at chess then disappear into the shadows' energy," Richard said.
Javi leaned back, a spark lighting behind his eyes.
"Heh. Interesting."
Richard groaned.
"Oh no. That look on your face? That's your 'I'm gonna try to outdo him' look."
Javi just gave a one-shouldered shrug.
"I know that shrug too!" Richard said, exasperated. "You're already planning some kind of showdown, aren't you?"
Javi smirked.
---
Meanwhile, Rukawa stepped to the counter. His voice was calm, smooth.
"Good morning. Can I have breakfast?"
Ms. Yuro's face lit up.
"Ah! You're one of the new boys, right?"
"Yes."
"Okay then," she said with a grin. "Name your order?"
"Egg sandwich. With milk."
"Excellent choice. But you know the rule…" She leaned in. "Riddle time."
"Hit me."
"I come from a mine and get surrounded by wood always. Everyone uses me. What am I?"
There wasn't even a pause.
"Pencil lead," Rukawa replied.
Ms. Yuro blinked. Then smiled.
"Sharp mind. I like it. You may eat."
From across the room, Richard nudged Javi.
"Told you he was sharp."
Javi's smirk widened.
"Sharp's fine. I've got edge too."
Richard groaned.
"Oh no. You are planning something."
"That," Javi said, flashing a cocky grin, "is my business."
---
They stood to leave.
"Time for class," Richard said. "And remember—no bells."
Javi froze mid-sip.
"Wait, what?" He groaned. "I don't even get to enjoy my first decent breakfast here?"
Before Richard could answer, they both caught movement out of the corner of their eyes.
Rukawa, standing a few tables away, checked his watch. Then—without a word—downed his milk in one gulp and demolished his sandwich in three clean bites.
Javi blinked.
"...Did he just speedrun breakfast?"
"Dude eats like he's got a mission briefing in five," Richard said, baffled.
Javi followed, muttering,
"This school's gonna kill me before the homework does."
---
At the main building, Javi slowed, taking in the stone walls aged with time. It wasn't polished or grand—but it had character.
Richard smirked.
"Impressed?"
Javi blinked.
"Yeah. Not what I expected, but… it feels real."
"Alright, poetic boy. Let's get moving."
"Cut me some slack. I arrived at night."
"Fair. Just don't get lost. These halls are a maze."
As they walked, Javi tried to memorize the path—but couldn't ignore the stares. First-years whispering behind cupped hands.
"Do they always stare like that?" he muttered.
"You're fresh meat. Give it a week."
They reached the classroom just as the door creaked open. Mr. Graves was already inside, seated behind his desk, reading from his ever-present leather-bound journal.
The room was half-full. Gwen crossed her arms and gave Javi a side-eye glance. Simon waved. Diana smiled politely. Rukawa sat near the back, gaze distant.
Javi felt the weight of the room. His earlier bravado faded.
"Okay," he whispered. "Time to survive my first day."
"Don't worry," Richard said. "You'll get used to it."
Javi nodded.
"Alright. Let's do this."
Mr. Graves's voice rang clear and cool.
"Take your seats."
They took a seat. All the students had arrived, and once everything had settled...
Mr. Graves set down his journal and turned to the blackboard. With deliberate, clean strokes, he wrote in crisp white chalk: Desmond Graves. Then he turned to face the class, his dark eyes scanning the room like they were suspects in an unsolved case.
"In case you've somehow missed it," he said coolly, "my name is Desmond Graves. I'm the one responsible for turning you from aimless children into proper detectives. Or at least trying to."
A beat of silence. Then his eyes narrowed.
"We have two new faces today. Rookies. Front and center, if you please. Introduce yourselves."
Chairs scraped against the floor. Rukawa stood without hesitation, every movement calm and composed. Javi, on the other hand, exhaled quietly. He glanced at Richard, who gave a subtle thumbs-up. The silent message: You got this.
Javi rose—slower. Reluctantly.
In the corner, Simon leaned forward like he was preparing to take notes for a court case. Diana nudged Gwen with her elbow, a teasing smirk on her face.
"Come on, President. Your rookies are on display."
Gwen didn't move. Just lifted a brow.
"They're not my rookies," she muttered, though her gaze flicked upward.
Rukawa reached the front first. Hands behind his back, tall and unshaken. His voice was clear, calm.
"Rukawa Hiroshi. Fourteen. From Tokyo, Japan. I'm here to change what I am."
A ripple of murmurs rolled through the room. Mr. Graves tilted his head, intrigued. Javi raised a brow.
"Whoa. That was dramatic."
"He sounds like he's got a past. Like a dark past."
"Did you see his posture? Like he's in a martial arts movie or something."
"Straight from an anime opening scene."
"I bet he doesn't even blink in fights."
"I wonder what he's changing from..." a girl whispered.
"Maybe he was an assassin in Japan or something," her friend breathed back.
"He's giving serious don't mess with me energy."
"Ugh. Why are mysterious boys always the hot ones?"
From the back, Richard leaned toward Simon.
"What do you make of that?"
Simon shrugged.
"Cryptic. Mysterious. Definitely an enigma. But… look behind us."
Richard turned—and blinked. A group of girls was giggling, eyes locked on Rukawa like he'd just stepped out of a K-drama.
"What the hell?" Richard whispered.
Javi noticed, too. The calm poise. The soft-spoken confidence. The swooning. And felt a strange twist in his gut—annoyance? Jealousy? He brushed it off. No time for that.
"Okay, seriously," Richard leaned closer. "What is it with this guy? He's barely said a word and they're acting like he's a movie star."
Simon raised a brow.
"I don't know, man. He's not doing anything. Maybe... Japanese aura?"
"Japanese aura? That's not a thing."
"Sure it is. Stoic. Mysterious. Anime-vibe."
Richard snorted.
"You watch way too much TV."
At the back, Diana giggled like she couldn't hold it in. Gwen rubbed her temples.
"Oh, come on," she muttered. "What's gotten into you now?"
"I can't help it!" Diana whispered. "He's hot. Tall. Lean. There's just… something about him. Like, effortlessly cool!"
"You're embarrassing yourself," Gwen hissed. "And me by association."
"Someone should check if he even breathes like a normal person," a guy muttered nearby.
"Bet he sleeps with his eyes open."
"He's got the 'main character' syndrome, for real."
"He looks like he already knows how this class ends."
"Do you think he knows kung fu?"
"I'd pay money to see him fight the third-years."
Then Mr. Graves cleared his throat. The room snapped to silence. He gestured to Javi.
"Your turn."
Javi took a deep breath. His pulse thudded in his ears. He squared his shoulders and stepped forward.
"Here goes nothing," he muttered under his breath, just loud enough for the nearest row to hear. Then louder:
"I am Javier Garcia, 14 years old, from California. To be honest with you… I got no idea how to deduct, observe, or act like a detective."
A collective ripple spread across the class—whispers, chuckles, raised brows. Some curious. Some impressed.
"Did he just say he can't do any of it?"
"That's bold."
"Why would Graves even accept someone like that?"
"Scout must've seen something weird in him."
"He's got guts though, I'll give him that."
Javi kept his gaze steady. Chin up. No flinching. No backpedaling. Daring the world to prove him wrong.
Mr. Graves raised an eyebrow. Arms crossed. Lips twitching with something close to amusement. Rukawa tilted his head—studying Javi like a rare puzzle piece.
Simon leaned in.
"Man, your roommate's an enigma too. Enough mystery if you ask me."
Richard chuckled, arms slung over his chair.
"I know, right? But hey, he's different. Like… the contrast to Rukawa."
"Couldn't agree more. He's new, sure, but he's got fire in him. We've seen him argue with Gwen—that counts for something."
Javi took another breath and stepped forward again.
"But! Even if I am indeed a newbie, I assure you—I will not let myself be left behind. I'm also here for a reason. Everyone is, right? I also believe that if I work hard, I can be one of you. Thank you very much."
A heavier pause followed. Then—
"Okay, that was actually kinda inspiring..."
"Not bad for a kid from California."
"Didn't expect that from him."
"He's got a backbone. I like that."
"Ballsy. I respect that."
Mr. Graves smirked faintly—just a twitch of the mouth. Rukawa gave a small nod, folding his arms, silently deciding: worthy.
Meanwhile, Diana nudged Gwen again, grinning.
"He's not bad... right?"
"Gwen!"
Gwen blinked, realizing she'd been leaning forward, eyes fixed on Javi.
"Y-yeah. He is."
Diana smirked.
"I saw that."
"Saw what?"
"Gwennie, you were staring."
Gwen scoffed, brushing hair from her face.
"I'm not, okay? Just... paying attention."
"Sure, sure. Keep telling yourself that. But I noticed—you paid more attention to Javi than Rukawa."
"Gwen's got a type," someone behind them muttered, earning soft laughter.
"Quiet brooding types with confidence issues?"
"Nah, troublemakers with attitude problems."
"Careful, Gwen. You're gonna end up mentoring him like some rival-to-lover plotline."
Gwen shot a glare toward the noise. The students quickly turned back to their notes. She grumbled and slouched in her seat.
Mr. Graves cleared his throat, sharp and commanding, slicing through the chatter like a scalpel. The class quieted instantly.
"Now that introductions are done," he said with measured precision, "you two—take your seats."
But before that Rukawa and Javi bump into each other shoulder as they stare a imaginable spark happened.
Then they part ways.
Javi let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding, his shoulders relaxing as he slipped back into his seat beside Richard. He leaned back, trying to shake the tension from his limbs.
Richard chuckled under his breath, arms crossed casually.
"Well, you managed not to embarrass yourself. Kinda."
Javi shot him a half-hearted glare.
"Hey, I was trying my best here, okay?"
Richard smirked, tapping his pen idly against the desk.
"You'll get used to it. Trust me, the people here…"
He glanced around the room as a group of students whispered near the windows, while another kid was balancing a pencil on his upper lip.
"...are a mixed bunch, to say the least. But that's part of the fun, right? Except for the girls swooning over Rukawa. That's just weird."
"Weird? It's a mystery, that's what it is."
"I swear he didn't even blink during that whole intro."
"Does he own a comb or does his hair just look like that naturally?"
Before more gossip could spread, Mr. Graves cleared his throat once again, and the room obeyed, snapping to attention like soldiers. He surveyed the class, eyes sharp and unreadable, before giving a subtle nod—satisfied.
"Good," he said coolly. "Now that the introductions are out of the way, we can get down to business."
He walked slowly across the front of the class, hands clasped behind his back.
"You've all been brought here because someone—somewhere—saw the spark in you. Not talent. Potential. Which means it's up to you to light the fire. I won't hold your hand, nor will anyone else."
He stopped by the chalkboard and began writing rapidly—subjects, course titles, acronyms. His handwriting was clean and authoritative.
"This morning, you'll follow a general curriculum. Mathematics, Literature, History, Sciences... yes, I know. Boring." He gave them a dry look, and a few students chuckled nervously.
"But the afternoon is where you earn your keep. Crime scene procedures. Psychological profiling. Case study breakdowns. Observation training. Terminology. Report writing. And eventually—field exercises. I expect excellence. Not excuses."
Javi blinked as he tried to keep up, jotting down quick notes. He glanced around the room—some students were furiously scribbling, others just nodded like they'd already heard all this before.
He leaned toward Richard, whispering,
"Wait, there's a whole afternoon session just for detective stuff?"
Richard smirked without looking away from his notes.
"Yeah. Welcome to the real school. You thought this place was all secret riddles and old buildings?"
Javi's eyes widened slightly. He looked across the room—and Rukawa, sitting two rows ahead, turned subtly in his seat, eyes meeting his for a brief second. He didn't smile, but the way he held the gaze—calm, knowing—made Javi wonder if he knew just as little as he did.
Meanwhile, Gwen was already flipping to a fresh page in her notebook, posture perfect and focused. Diana had pulled out a highlighter and was doodling a miniature magnifying glass in the corner of her page.
"Great," Simon muttered to himself, already underlining things on his tablet, "first we do math, then we chase ghosts. Typical Thursday."
A random boy in the back whispered to his neighbor,
"Think they'll make us do blood analysis again this year?"
"Ugh, I still remember the smell from last semester's 'murder mock-up.'"
Another girl leaned over to her friend,
"I swear, if we have to write another ten-page report on behavioral patterns, I'm switching to culinary school."
Mr. Graves continued as if he hadn't heard a word, flipping through a stack of folders.
"You're not here to be entertained. You're here to learn. You will be pushed, tested, and evaluated—daily. If that bothers you... the door is right there."
The door creaked a little in the silence. No one moved.
Javi stared at the board, heart pounding again—but this time, it wasn't fear. It was something else. Something like a challenge. He scribbled faster, lips tightening into a line. He wasn't about to fall behind.
---
Morning class felt more relaxed compared to the tense, spotlight-heavy introductions earlier. The atmosphere shifted—less pressure, more routine. Javi found himself gradually leaning into the rhythm of the lesson, his pen finally moving across the page with some confidence. The numbers on the board made sense, and the history teacher wasn't half as terrifying as Mr. Graves.
Richard smirked from beside him, arms folded like a proud coach watching a rookie finally find their footing. Across the room, Simon was scribbling away in his notebook, barely blinking—completely immersed. Gwen sat with her hands folded neatly under her chin, eyes sharp and focused like she was already memorizing the entire textbook. Diana, beside her, twirled her pen between her fingers while still managing to track every word with ease.
And then there was Rukawa—expression unreadable, posture perfect, absorbing the information like a sponge. He didn't take many notes, but somehow, Javi knew he didn't have to.
Still, as he glanced at the clock ticking toward noon, Javi couldn't shake the thought: this was just the warm-up. The real challenge—the real weird—was coming in the afternoon.
The lunch break finally arrived.
Javi let out a long, dramatic sigh of relief, slumping against his desk. "Gah! It takes forever."
Richard chuckled as he slung his backpack over his shoulder, stretching his legs.
"I know, right? It's like an eternity. But hey, at least we get to eat something and take a break for a bit."
Javi nodded, yawning as he stretched his arms over his head.
"Yeah, that's true. But I swear, I feel like I'm never getting enough of a break here. Everything's constant work and studying. It might drive me crazy at some point."
Richard smirked.
"Man, you're adapting as fast as I expected."
Javi rolled his eyes, grinning.
"Hey, don't sound so surprised. I'm a quick learner, you know."
Simon, already packing up his things with surprising speed, chimed in from behind his desk.
"Quick learner, huh?"
Javi turned, his expression confident.
"Yeah. I'm a natural at picking things up fast. And I always do my best to catch on to new things, no matter how hard they are."
He shot Richard a grin. "Right, Richard?"
Richard snorted.
"Are you just... being cocky or what?"
Javi raised an eyebrow, placing a hand over his heart like a betrayed nobleman.
"Cocky? Me? No, no, not at all. Just proud of myself for keeping up with you fancy shmancy detectives, that's all."
Gwen scoffed as she passed by with her tray and a look of exasperated authority.
"No, Garcia—you're just being cocky. I'm honestly expecting you to pass out before the week's over."
Javi gasped theatrically, his hand still pressed to his chest.
"Wow. You're just a ray of sunshine, aren't you? Can't even give me a little bit of credit?"
Richard laughed, nudging Javi in the ribs.
"Oh, lighten up, Gwen. Can't you see it's all in good fun?"
Gwen rolled her eyes, arms crossed.
"Yeah, well, I'm not here to entertain your 'fun.' I've got a reputation to maintain, you know."
From behind her, Diana chuckled as she balanced her notebook and snack container in one hand.
"Come on, don't be such a stick in the mud. Lighten up a little. He is kind of funny, in a dumb way."
Gwen shot her a look, but Diana just grinned and shrugged innocently.
Javi sighed with exaggerated defeat.
"Can we just go to the cafeteria before I start hallucinating food?"
Everyone nodded in agreement, the buzz of chatter growing as students filed out.
Richard slung an arm casually over Javi's shoulder as they walked.
"Yes, finally. Let's get moving before you start complaining about stomach growling or faint from 'academic trauma.'"
Time Skip — At the Cafeteria
The cafeteria buzzed with chatter, the clinking of trays and hum of conversation filling the expansive, high-ceilinged space. Sunlight spilled through the arched windows, casting golden streaks across the polished floors and long communal tables.
Javi leaned back in his chair, his tray only half-touched as he lazily scanned the room with a grin.
"I have to admit, this place is pretty impressive," he said, folding his arms behind his head. "I didn't expect a school to have so many different areas. It's not like anything I've seen before."
Diana smirked as she took a bite of her sandwich.
"I know, right? Straight out of novels. All we're missing is a castle turret and a cursed artifact or two."
Javi chuckled, rolling his eyes.
"Yeah, seriously. The architecture and the layout of this place are something out of a dream. I half expected to stumble onto a secret passage behind a bookshelf or a hidden rooftop garden."
Simon, seated across from him, raised an eyebrow while sipping his juice.
"You watch too many movies, Javi."
Javi turned toward him, looking mock-offended.
"I'll have you know, I appreciate a good movie. They're not just mindless entertainment—they're art. And don't change the subject—I was trying to compliment our oh-so-awesome school."
Richard leaned back in his seat, lips tugging into a smirk.
"He's got a point, though. The design of this place is kind of... magical. Like Hogwarts, but with less floating staircases and more surveillance cameras watching your every move."
Gwen let out an audible groan from beside them, stabbing at her food with the kind of frustration only teenagers and detectives-in-training could summon.
"Can we please just eat lunch? I don't need your commentary while I'm trying to digest."
Javi held up his hands in surrender, his grin unwavering.
"Alright, alright, I surrender. No more comparisons to fictional schools, I promise."
The group settled for a moment into casual eating, until Diana began glancing subtly toward the cafeteria entrance. Once. Twice. A third time. Her attention was clearly divided.
Gwen arched a brow.
"Diana? You okay?"
Diana blinked, startled out of her thoughts.
"Yeah, yeah, I'm okay. I'm just... looking for Rukawa."
Richard paused mid-chew, then raised an eyebrow.
"Why?"
Diana huffed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear.
"It's lunchtime. Of course I'm wondering where he is."
Javi leaned forward, curiosity flashing in his eyes.
"Is there anything particular you need Rukawa for, or are you just naturally attracted to the mysterious, brooding type?"
Diana's eyes widened, and she swatted his arm lightly with a laugh.
"I'm just wondering where he is, okay? He's probably hungry by now."
Gwen gave her a knowing look as she leaned back in her chair.
"Hmm. I think he's still in the classroom. Why? You're gonna bring him food?"
Diana's expression shifted, eyes lighting up as an idea clicked into place.
"Actually... yeah, maybe." She stood up, brushing crumbs from her skirt.
Javi blinked.
"Wow. Someone's eager to go see Rukawa. You sure you don't have a thing for him?"
Diana crossed her arms.
"No, I just think he's probably too focused to remember to eat, and I'd feel bad if he missed lunch. What's wrong with that?"
Richard teased, smirking.
"Really?"
Diana gave him a sharp look, though a smile tugged at the corner of her lips.
"Yes, really. I don't have to have a thing for him to care whether or not he starves. It's called basic decency."
Richard raised his hands.
"Alright, alright. You're obviously just the saint of kindness and generosity."
Javi snapped his fingers as if remembering something.
"Ah! Wait—I remember! You were one of the girls who swooned during his intro earlier. Weren't you practically glowing when he walked in?"
Diana's cheeks turned pink as she glanced down at the table, muttering,
"Hey, I was a little starstruck, okay? I can admit he's good-looking. But that doesn't mean I like him. I was just... taken aback by his whole vibe. That's all."
Gwen sighed, then shoved one of the spare meals and a plastic spoon across the table toward Diana.
"Fine, fine. Take this."
Diana blinked, caught off guard.
"Thanks, Gwen. I really appreciate it..."
Javi leaned toward Richard and Simon, lowering his voice dramatically.
"So... she can be nice after all."
Richard smirked.
"Told you. Gwen can be nice—if she wants to be."
Gwen narrowed her eyes and shot them both a look sharp enough to cut steel.
"Don't get used to it."
Diana chuckled and shook her head, clutching the meal.
"Well anyway, thanks again."
Gwen nodded, surprisingly soft for once.
"Wish you luck."
Diana gave her a grateful smile.
"Thanks. I'll need it. It's not easy approaching a seemingly aloof guy like Rukawa."
Richard, now a bit more serious, folded his arms on the table.
"Piece of advice—he doesn't know you yet. He keeps his guard up. Don't take it personally."
Diana nodded slowly, absorbing that.
"Yeah, I figured. He probably doesn't let people in easily. But that's fine. I'm not looking for anything dramatic. I just want to show a little kindness. Maybe get to know him. One step at a time."
Simon, still chewing, raised a finger.
"Well, I think only time will tell if he's nice or not—but I still believe in my lead."
Diana rolled her eyes, amused.
"Simon, it's just a gossip thread. Not gospel truth."
Simon shrugged with a grin.
"Yeah, but sometimes the gossip threads are more accurate than the school reports."
Javi laughed, leaning back again.
"Well, if she breaks through Rukawa's walls, maybe she can give us the secret password or something."
Diana shot them all a playful glare, already walking off with the meal in hand.
"I'll let you know if he speaks in full sentences first."
Javi waved after her with a wide smile, already excited.
"Good luck, Diana!"
Richard chuckled, shaking his head as he watched her go.
"She's certainly determined, isn't she?"
---
Back at the corridor near the classroom, Diana slowed her steps when she noticed a small cluster of girls standing outside, pressed against the glass window.
Their eyes were fixed on someone inside. She followed their gaze—Rukawa sat alone at his desk, reading a folded newspaper with the same unreadable expression he always wore.
Diana raised an eyebrow and approached the group with a wary kind of curiosity.
"Excuse me... what are you all doing?"
A pretty blonde turned to her, smirking like she'd been caught doing something scandalous.
"We're just admiring the view."
The others giggled, clearly not bothering to hide what they meant.
Diana smiled politely but her tone held a quiet edge.
"I get that. But maybe give him some space? He's still our classmate, not a display piece."
The blonde's smirk faded into a scoff.
"We're not hurting anyone. He's just sitting there. Doesn't seem bothered."
The other girls snickered again, leaning in for one last look.
Diana's jaw tightened. She wasn't trying to start something, but the way they hovered felt off.
"Even if he doesn't say it, it's weird. You wouldn't like being stared at like that, would you?"
The blonde rolled her eyes, clearly unimpressed.
"Whatever. We were leaving anyway. C'mon, girls."
As they left, still whispering among themselves, Diana sighed and shook her head.
"People can be so... oblivious sometimes."
---
She pushed open the classroom door quietly. Rukawa looked up from his paper, eyes calm and unreadable as always.
"Who are you?"
Diana blinked, caught off guard, and gave a sheepish laugh.
"U-uhm… Diana Marville. I sit two rows behind you, usually. I brought you lunch."
She held up the neatly packed meal, cheeks flushed.
Rukawa tilted his head, studying her for a long second as if trying to figure out whether she was joking.
"You brought me lunch?"
He paused, then slowly nodded once.
"...Thank you. I suppose."
It wasn't much, but it wasn't cold rejection either. Just... Rukawa.
Diana exhaled, a little surprised by the lack of warmth—but something in his tone told her he wasn't being ungrateful. Just cautious. Private.
She walked in, placing the food on the desk beside him.
"You didn't come to the cafeteria, so... I thought you might be hungry."
Rukawa's gaze flicked to the food, then back to her. He didn't smile, but there was a subtle shift in his expression—like he wasn't used to kindness, and didn't quite know what to do with it.
"...Thanks again."
Diana lingered for a second, unsure if she should stay or leave. Rukawa didn't exactly invite conversation, but something about his quiet solitude tugged at her.
She glanced around the classroom before slowly lowering herself into the chair across from him.
"Mind if I sit for a bit?"
Rukawa didn't answer immediately. His eyes studied her for a moment, unreadable as always. Then, with a small shrug, he returned to his newspaper.
"I don't mind."
Diana smiled faintly, taking that as permission.
For a while, silence stretched between them. Not awkward, exactly—just quiet. Comfortable, in its own way.
Rukawa finally folded the newspaper and set it aside. His fingers moved with precise, deliberate grace as he opened the container of food she brought. He paused before taking a bite, almost hesitant.
"...You didn't poison this, did you?"
Diana laughed, startled.
"What? No! Geez, is that how you thank people?"
A flicker of something—amusement, maybe—crossed Rukawa's eyes, so brief she almost missed it.
"Just being cautious."
He took a bite. Chewed. Swallowed. Then nodded slightly, as if giving his silent approval.
"...It's good."
Diana tilted her head with a grin.
"You sound surprised."
Rukawa looked at her again, then spoke with that same even calmness.
"I don't usually eat food other people give me."
There was no edge to it. No coldness. Just truth. Diana absorbed that quietly, her smile softening.
"I get that. Trust is... a rare thing around here, huh?"
Rukawa didn't respond, but his gaze lingered on her a moment longer before he returned to eating.
Diana rested her chin on her palm, watching him thoughtfully.
"You know, you don't talk much, but I think you say a lot anyway."
He raised an eyebrow slightly at that.
"You think so?"
"Yeah. It's in how you move. How you look at people. You're observing all the time. Like you're always... reading the room before deciding if it's safe to exist in it."
There was a long pause. Rukawa set down his spoon slowly.
"...That's accurate."
Diana smiled, a little surprised he admitted it.
"I think I get that. I used to be like that too, in a way. Watching before speaking. Choosing when to care, and when to pull back."
Rukawa looked at her. Not just glanced—really looked. For the first time, his expression softened just a little. Not a smile. But not the stoic mask, either.
"And now?"
Diana shrugged, her smile turning quiet.
"Now I try not to be afraid of caring, even if it's not returned."
The silence returned—but this time, it felt warmer. Lighter.
Rukawa picked up the spoon again. Spoke softly.
"...Thank you. For the food."
Diana grinned, standing up slowly.
"You're welcome. I'll let you eat in peace now. See you in the next class?"
He gave a subtle nod, eyes back on the food.
"...See you."
As Diana stepped out, Rukawa let out a soft exhale, a rare flicker of vulnerability slipping past his usual stoic facade.
"She's not like the others," he murmured, his gaze still fixed on the empty doorway.
His thoughts lingered on their brief exchange—her smile, the sincere tone in her voice, the way she looked at him without expectation or awe. Just curiosity. Just... kindness.
He turned back to his food, the soft murmur of distant conversation filling the quiet room around him. He took another bite, slower this time, a strange warmth blooming faintly in his chest.
"Interesting girl."
Diana walked back down the corridor, her footsteps light but her heart oddly heavy. She clutched the now-empty lunch container against her chest, her thoughts buzzing louder than the quiet chatter in the halls.
She replayed the moment over and over—his calm voice, the way he said "thank you," and that surprising final note: "arigato." A soft smile tugged at her lips.
He noticed… and he appreciated it.
Diana shook her head, amused at how much those few words meant to her. He was still an enigma, unreadable and distant—but maybe not unreachable. There was something behind those eyes. Something more than mystery and cold silence.
As she rounded the corner back toward the cafeteria, she exhaled slowly, realizing her cheeks were still warm.
"Okay... maybe I do have a thing for him," she muttered under her breath, before quickly adding, "A little. Just a little."
But despite her words, she couldn't stop the soft smile that lingered.
Mr. Graves exhaled. "I'm expecting that each of you are ready—but before we start," he glanced at Javi and Rukawa, gesturing for them to stand.
Javi raised an eyebrow, glancing at Rukawa before slowly getting to his feet. He wasn't sure what Mr. Graves had in mind, but he was prepared for anything.
"You will not join us this afternoon," Mr. Graves declared.
Javi blinked, caught off guard by the sudden announcement. He turned to Rukawa, who remained as unreadable as ever, before facing Mr. Graves again.
"We… won't? What are we supposed to do then?"
Mr. Graves smirked. "Remember the book I gave you?"
Javi's eyes widened. The Book of Deductions: The Basics.
"Yes, I did. You said we had a month to read it… I didn't think that was why we wouldn't join."
Mr. Graves nodded. "Basics are important. You've got to master them first, Mr. Garcia."
Javi huffed. "Still, that's not reasonable."
Mr. Graves raised a brow. "Are you arguing with me?"
Javi straightened. "Yes. I am."
The room fell into stunned silence. Even Rukawa seemed mildly surprised. Gwen's expression wavered between concern and amusement.
Richard was amazed. He'd seen Javi argue with Gwen before, sure—but this? This was something else.
Simon leaned forward, his eyes locked on the unfolding drama. "Oh great. This is gonna get ugly real quick," he muttered.
Diana felt a chill of worry—not just for Javi, but for Rukawa too. She had no idea what Graves would do next.
Mr. Graves scoffed. "Boldness is a double-edged weapon, Mr. Garcia."
Javi crossed his arms. "Do I care? We're students too. We deserve to be in class. You can't just set us aside."
Another collective gasp.
Mr. Graves smirked. "You've got fire. But you need to learn how to use it right, rookie. You want to walk into a fight without being prepared? Do you want to get yourself killed?"
Everyone froze. The weight of his words sank in.
Javi's eyes widened. This is just our first day...
Rukawa finally spoke. "You won't win this one. Let's just go."
Javi sighed, frustrated. "Fine... and sorry, Mr. Graves."
Mr. Graves inclined his head. "I'm impressed—but that was foolish. A true detective knows when to fight... and when to flee. Don't fight a battle you can't win."
Javi and Rukawa stepped out of the circle, their footsteps echoing in the silent room. The tension lingered like smoke in the air, thick and heavy.
Mr. Graves clapped his hands once. "The rest of you—focus. This is a lesson in observation. What just happened is more valuable than anything I can lecture."
Some students exchanged uncertain glances. Gwen, however, folded her arms, still eyeing the door Javi and Rukawa exited through.
Richard leaned toward Simon. "Think Graves was testing them?"
Simon whispered back, "Obviously. He just wanted to see if Javi would crack or keep his ground."
Richard nodded thoughtfully, impressed.
---
Outside the classroom, Javi dragged his feet down the hall. His fists were clenched, jaw tight.
"He didn't have to humiliate us," he muttered.
Rukawa walked beside him, calm as ever. "He didn't humiliate us. You challenged him. You lost. That's all."
Javi shot him a look. "You could've backed me up, you know."
Rukawa shrugged. "It wasn't a fight I wanted to win."
Javi scoffed. "Spoken like a true zen master."
Rukawa gave a faint smirk. "Spoken like someone who knows Graves better than you do. He didn't exclude us to punish us. He excluded us because we're behind."
Javi didn't answer right away. He knew Rukawa was right—but it still stung.
---
Back in the classroom, Diana sat straighter, her focus split between Graves and the empty spot Javi left behind.
Mr. Graves paced slowly, hands behind his back. "Remember this: confidence is important—but overconfidence gets people killed. You want to be detectives? Learn humility first."
Gwen exhaled, clearly frustrated but respectful enough not to argue. For once.
Simon leaned back, arms behind his head. "Bet Javi's boiling right now."
Richard grinned. "Yeah, but he'll come back stronger."
---
Meanwhile, in the library, Javi sat at a long wooden table with the Book of Deductions: The Basics in front of him, still unopened.
Rukawa flipped his own copy open, already reading.
Javi stared at the cover.
"I don't like losing."
Rukawa replied without looking up. "Then learn how to win."
Javi exhaled. "Actually, I'm on page fifty already."
Rukawa didn't respond, eyes scanning the text in front of him.
Javi scoffed. "Tch, man. He could've let us join them. We can multitask, you know?"
Still no answer.
"Seriously?" Javi leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling. "What, the silent treatment now?"
Rukawa finally spoke, voice even. "Complaining doesn't change reality."
Javi muttered, "You sound like my sister."
Rukawa turned a page. "She's right."
Javi narrowed his eyes. "You don't even know her."
Rukawa looked up, calm and unreadable. "I don't have to."
Javi sighed and decided to focus on it. He pulled the book closer and flipped to where he'd left off. The pages felt heavier now—each word carrying more weight than before.
If Graves wanted him to learn the basics… then he'd learn them so well, Graves would regret not letting him in that room.
Javi sighed and decided to focus on it. He pulled the book closer and flipped to page fifty-one.
The next chapter's title stood out in bold: "Observation: Seeing is Not Observing."
He frowned. "Great. More riddles."
Still, he read.
> "A true detective does not see the world as it is—but as it hides. Train your eyes to catch what others miss: a button undone, a scuffed heel, a hand that trembles before a lie."
Javi tilted his head. "Sounds like something Graves would say…"
He continued.
> "To observe, you must slow your thoughts. Do not jump to conclusions—follow the thread of logic. Let facts guide your instincts. Instinct without evidence is just guessing."
He tapped his pencil on the page. "Okay... logic before instinct. Got it."
Rukawa, still silently flipping pages beside him, didn't look up—but a small flick of his eye suggested he was listening.
> "Start with the room you are in. Describe it without assumption. What is out of place? What speaks of habit? What is missing that should be there?"
Javi glanced around the library. Bookshelves neat. Chairs slightly misaligned. A mug on the edge of a shelf—cold, untouched. A pen without a cap next to a crumpled note someone left behind.
He frowned, suddenly aware of how much he had ignored.
"Okay… maybe this isn't total crap."
Hours had passed.
The once-noisy murmur of the library had faded into stillness. Outside, the sky had dimmed into soft gray, clouds heavy with the promise of rain.
Javi reached page one hundred, eyes strained but determined. His pencil was tucked behind his ear, a few notes scribbled messily in the margins. Across the table, Rukawa quietly flipped to page one hundred and fifty, his expression as unreadable as ever.
Javi leaned back with a sigh, rubbing his temples. "Okay, fine. I'll admit it… this book's not bad."
Rukawa didn't answer. He closed the book softly, as if marking the end of a quiet battle.
Javi glanced at the clock. "Guess it's time to head back."
Rukawa stood without a word, sliding the book under his arm.
Javi grabbed his own, stuffing it into his bag. "You're annoyingly fast at reading, you know that?"
Rukawa simply replied, "You'll catch up."
They walked in silence through the quiet halls of the school, the soft sound of their footsteps echoing off stone walls. The day had started with fire—but it ended with a quiet understanding.
As they rounded the final corner, soft murmurs reached their ears—voices, footsteps, the unmistakable sound of students wrapping up for the day.
Javi spotted them first. A familiar group clustered near the main exit: Gwen, arms crossed and sharp-eyed as usual; Richard, talking animatedly to Simon, who looked half-distracted; and Diana, standing off to the side, her eyes scanning the hall—until they landed on them.
"Took you long enough," Gwen said, not bothering to hide the smirk in her voice.
"We were busy learning the basics," Javi shot back, mocking Graves' tone.
Richard grinned. "So? Survive Graves' punishment?"
"It wasn't punishment," Rukawa said, slipping into the group smoothly. "It was training."
Simon elbowed Richard. "Told you. It was a setup from the start."
Diana stepped forward, voice quiet. "You two okay?"
Javi nodded. "Yeah. I mean, I'm half blind from reading a hundred pages, but sure—still breathing."
Gwen raised an eyebrow. "Didn't think you had that much discipline in you, Garcia."
Javi shot her a glare. "Keep talking, President. I might surprise you again."
"Please do." Gwen smirked. "It's fun watching you crash into authority."
Simon chuckled. "Come on, let's head out before Graves changes his mind and gives us homework."
They filed out together, the chill of the late afternoon air greeting them at the door.
Javi glanced back once—just for a second—toward the silent hallway they'd come from. He didn't say anything, but he understood now. Graves hadn't pushed him away.
He'd pushed him forward.
Meanwhile, in Mr. Graves' office...
The dim glow of a desk lamp cast long shadows across the room. Mr. Graves reached for the leather-bound journal resting on the side table, the edges worn from years of entries. He opened it to a fresh page, the spine creaking faintly in the stillness.
He wrote a name at the top in firm, deliberate strokes:
Javier Garcia
His pen hovered.
Then, with quiet precision, he continued:
> Potential: high.
Instincts: undeveloped but promising.
Temperament: reactive. Emotionally reckless. Needs guidance.
Liability? Or leverage?
Keep under observation.
From Beacon Hills. Past connections—promising.
He paused, flipped to the next page.
Rukawa Hiroshi
> Potential: exceptional.
Instincts: controlled, precise. Disciplined.
Temperament: stoic. Lacks emotional expression—advantage in field.
History suggests unresolved conflict. Possibly hunted.
Keep monitored. May attract external threats.
Watch for movement—especially from Japan.
Graves closed the journal with a soft thud, fingers resting on the cover.
Two pieces on the board.
One loud and burning.
The other quiet and sharp.
And both—exactly where he needed them to be.