Ren matsuda stood infront of Principal Nakamura's office like a soldier about to be face his final mission.
Akio's dramatic words echoed in his head:
"If you don't make it out alive,I'll inherit your pencil box."
Ren gulped.
He knocked softly.
"Enter"
Principal Nakamura's voice was calm
....too calm.
Ren stepped inside.
The Principal adjusted his glasses."Ren matsuda, do you know why you're here ?"
Ren nodded nervously."Because.... I snezzed too loudly?"
Principal Nakamura blinked...."No"
"Because I forgot Homework?"
"Also no."
"Because I —..."
"REN"
Ren froze.
Principal Nakamura tapped a file. "Three students reported that you threatened them at the school gate."
Ren gasped. "WHAT?! Sir, I was just squinting! The sun was attacking my eyes!"
Principal Nakamura stared at him. "They said you gave them a 'death glare.'"
Ren pointed at his sunglasses. "Sir, these are too big! I can't glare even if I try!"
The principal sighed. "And what about the rumor that you scared away a dangerous pigeon with a secret battle cry?"
Ren covered his face. "I WAS JUST PANICKING!"
The principal leaned forward. "Ren… are you involved in any delinquent activity?"
"NO!" Ren shouted.
Silence.
Then—
Knock knock.
Hana stepped inside. "Sorry to interrupt. Principal, the Triple Claws just reported something new."
Principal Nakamura raised an eyebrow. "What now?"
Hana unfolded a paper. "They claim Ren is forming a gang called… 'The Silent Shadows.'"
Ren nearly fainted. "WHAT?! I can't even form a straight line in morning assembly!"
Principal Nakamura rubbed his forehead. "Ren, please stop scaring the students."
Ren cried out, "I'M NOT EVEN TRYING!"
Hana cracked a tiny smile. "Sir, maybe he's just… unlucky."
Principal Nakamura sighed deeply. "Ren, you may go. But remember—any more incidents, and I will personally supervise your actions."
Ren bowed repeatedly. "Thank you, sir! I promise I won't even look dangerous anymore!"
As he and Hana exited, Akio ran toward them.
"Well?" Akio asked. "Did they suspend you?"
Ren whispered dramatically, "Worse. He's watching me… like a ninja sensei."
Akio grinned. "Perfect. What could go wrong?"
Ren stared at him. "WHY WOULD YOU SAY THAT?!"
Because, as they would soon discover… everything was about to go wrong.