Chapter 4 - Principal Mai’s Interrogation

Chapter 4 - Principal Mai's Interrogation

Monday.

The school buzzed with whispers and rumors about the fight from Friday. As I walked through the corridors, the stares and hushed conversations were impossible to ignore. It felt like everyone was scrutinizing me, their curiosity mixed with apprehension.

When I reached my locker, Aiya approached quickly. "Asahi-kun, Mai Sensei wants to see you in her office."

I sighed. "Just what I needed."

"Good luck," she said, giving me a sympathetic smile. "I'll be here if you need me."

I headed toward Principal Mai's office, my heart pounding with each step. I knocked on the door and entered when I heard her voice.

Principal Mai Sensei sat behind her desk, her expression serious but not unkind. "Asahi-kun, please have a seat."

I sat down, trying to steady my nerves. "Yes, Mai Sensei."

Mai Sensei leaned forward, her gaze intense. "I've reviewed the reports and spoken with the students involved. Your actions have been widely discussed. I'd like to hear your side of the story."

I took a deep breath and recounted the events—how I had been provoked, how things had escalated, and the consequences that followed. Mai Sensei listened carefully, her eyes focused on me.

When I finished, she nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you for explaining. However, your actions have had serious repercussions. We need to address how to proceed."

She paused, then added, "Before we finalize any decisions, there's something you should know. The system has presented you with an option."

A notification appeared before me:

[System Alert]

[Choose how to handle the situation with Principal Mai]

[Explain Everything] – Provide a detailed account to Principal Mai, giving your full perspective and clarifying the situation.

Reward: Potentially improved understanding and reduced punishment.

[Stick to the Basic Story] – Give a simplified version of events, focusing on the essentials without going into too much detail.

Reward: Easier handling of the situation but may result in less favorable outcomes and + 2 strength.

[Request to Speak to the School Council] – Ask to present your case to the school council for a more formal review.

Reward: Chance to have a broader hearing, possibly leading to a more balanced decision and + 3 intelligence and + 4 speed.

I looked at Mai Sensei, feeling the weight of the decision. "I need a moment to think."

"Take your time," she said. "It's important to make the choice that you feel is right."

Stepping out into the hallway, I found Aiya and Deku waiting for me.

"How did it go?" Deku asked.

"It's intense," I said. "I have a choice to make. I can either explain everything, stick to a basic story, or request to speak to the school council."

Aiya looked thoughtful. "Explaining everything might help clear things up, but it could also be risky. Sticking to the basics might be simpler but could leave some things unsaid. Speaking to the school council could give you a chance for a fair hearing, but it might be more daunting."

Deku nodded. "It's a tough call. What are you leaning towards?"

After weighing their advice and the options, I made my decision.

"I think I'll request to speak to the school council," I said. "I want to ensure my side of the story is fully heard, even if it means dealing with more scrutiny."

Aiya and Deku both nodded in support. "We're here for you," Aiya said.

"Yeah, we've got your back," Deku added.

Returning to Principal Mai's office, I knocked and entered. "I've made my decision. I'd like to request to speak to the school council."

Mai Sensei's eyes showed a hint of approval. "Very well. I'll make the arrangements. Be prepared to present your case clearly and honestly."

"Thank you, Mai Sensei," I said, feeling a mix of apprehension and relief.

As I left her office, I felt a renewed sense of determination. The road ahead would be challenging, but with the support of my friends and a commitment to making things right, I was ready to face the consequences and work toward a better future.