The Event

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the deserted street as Jiàn Gāng and Alex fell into step, walking side-by-side down the school hallway. The lighthearted banter had stopped, and there was now a more reflective silence. Finally, Jiàn Gāng broke the silence.

"So, why'd you skip class, Blessed student?"

Alex hesitated for a moment, unsure how much to reveal. He couldn't exactly explain that he was from another world and just wanted to explore the academy. "Just... wanted to look around," he finally mumbled, hoping it wouldn't sound too suspicious.

Jiàn Gāng raised an eyebrow. "Is that soooo~?" he drawled, his voice laced with a knowing tone. It was clear he didn't believe Alex's flimsy excuse, but for now, he seemed content to let the question hang in the air.

"Also, earlier… you said you came here to meet me. Why?"