The Hero Of J-High

The whispers never stopped.

Wherever Wei Liang walked, students stole glances, whispered his name, and kept their distance. He didn't mind it was expected. J High wasn't like other schools. Strength ruled here, and he had made an impact on day one.

But not everyone kept their distance.

BOOM!

Something crashed behind him.

Wei turned his head slightly. A group of students had been knocked over, their trays and food scattered across the hallway. But the cause wasn't a bully it was a giant.

A towering figure stood in the middle of the mess, scratching the back of his head with an embarrassed grin. Broad shoulders, thick muscles, and an energy that was way too positive for a place like J High.

Vasco.

Wei had heard the name. A fighter with no fear. A walking powerhouse. But nothing prepared him for the sheer contrast between Vasco's intimidating frame and his genuine, almost childlike expression.

Vasco turned, his eyes locking onto Wei.

Then he smiled.

"YO!"

Wei raised an eyebrow.

Vasco walked right up to him, stopping uncomfortably close. "You're the new guy, right? The one who wrecked Taegon?"

Wei didn't answer immediately. He wasn't used to someone this… open.

"I fought him," he replied simply.

Vasco beamed. "Man, that's awesome! He's a jerk, so good job!"

Wei didn't expect that reaction. Most fighters either saw him as a threat or a target. Vasco? He looked genuinely excited, like he had just found a new friend.

Before Wei could respond, Vasco threw an arm around his shoulder.

"Listen, you seem strong! You wanna spar?!"

Wei blinked. "…What?"

Vasco grinned. "Let's fight! Just for fun!"

For fun?

Wei wasn't sure what to make of him. He had met plenty of fighters before—cold, brutal, calculating. Vasco? He had the strength of a monster but the heart of a kid.

And for the first time since coming to J High, Wei felt something unexpected.

Amusement.

Maybe this school wasn't all bad.