Chapter 16: Class Dismissed

The bell rang, loud and sharp, cutting through Luc's thoughts like a blade. He flinched, his mind still tangled in the mess of everything that had happened today. Around him, students shuffled out of their seats, chatting and laughing like nothing was wrong.

Luc barely registered any of it until Zara shot him a knowing look.

"Alright, class dismissed. Go home. Think about what I said. You're gonna need it."

Relief flooded him, but it did little to settle the storm in his chest. Finally, he could get some space from all the confusion and... his past.

After School

The small store smelled of dust, ink, and something faintly metallic. Luc slammed the door behind him, his frustration bubbling over as he stomped toward the counter.

Takeshi sat there, scribbling lazily on a notepad, completely unfazed.

"Hey, Takeshi!" Luc snapped, his voice sharp with anger. "Why the hell did you enroll me in that school? What if they find out I'm a demon and execute me on the spot?!"

Takeshi didn't even flinch. He finished writing whatever nonsense was on his paper, then finally looked up, unimpressed.

"You're dramatic, kid," he muttered. "Come here."

Luc crossed his arms, unmoving. "No. Answer me."

Takeshi sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't have a choice," he said, voice quieter this time. "The Council knows what you are. If they think you're a threat to humans, you're dead."

Luc blinked. A cold weight settled in his gut. "Wait, what?"

Takeshi stood, walking to the store's entrance. He turned the lock with a quiet click.

"The school is the safest place for you," he continued. "They're watching you, making sure you're not dangerous. It's all part of the deal."

Luc's hands curled into fists. "So, I'm being watched like some lab rat?"

Takeshi shrugged. "Pretty much." He glanced at Luc, his expression unreadable. "But you're not dead yet. So, suck it up."

Luc exhaled sharply, shaking his head. "Great. Just great."

Takeshi smirked. "Yeah, welcome to your new life. Keep your head low, or I'll be the one selling you out."

Luc shot him a glare. "I'm so glad you're my friend."

Takeshi just chuckled. "It's for your own good, kid. Trust me."

Luc wasn't sure he did.

Not Too Long Ago…

Takeshi sat alone in the dimly lit store, his fingers tapping idly against the counter. The world outside had long since quieted, the streets empty except for the occasional flicker of headlights passing by.

He stared at the Closed sign on the door, but his mind was elsewhere.

Then the bell jingled.

A figure stepped inside—cloaked, silent, and radiating something unmistakably dangerous.

Takeshi didn't need to look up. "Didn't expect a visit today," he muttered.

The figure pulled back their hood, revealing sharp, calculating eyes— Solix.

"You never do," she replied.

Takeshi sighed, rubbing his temples. "Let me guess. This is about Luc."

Solix crossed her arms. "You've been retired for years, Takeshi. But the boy you're protecting? He's not just another stray you picked up."

Takeshi leaned back in his chair, studying her. "I know what he is."

"Then you know the risks," she said coldly. "The Council agreed to let him live—but only as long as he stays under control."

Takeshi let out a humorless chuckle. "You people always act like you're in control. But we both know that's an illusion."

Solix expression didn't waver. "Just remember—if he steps out of line, we will be the ones to clean up the mess. Not you."

She turned to leave, pausing at the door. "You walked away from the Council, Takeshi. But if Luc becomes a threat... you may not have the luxury of staying retired."

The door shut behind her, leaving Takeshi alone once more.

He exhaled slowly, staring up at the ceiling.

"Kid… you better not prove them right."

To Be Continued…