Chereads / The Edu Series / Chapter 4 - Segment 2 : 4th Story Beat

Chapter 4 - Segment 2 : 4th Story Beat

//Beginning of the Chapter//

Fast forward to one month later in the series.

The chapter starts in the morning at exactly seven: fifteen o'clock, bells are heard all over Edu for the flag ceremony to begin shortly. Many students run towards the soccer field like a bunch of troop soldiers, some of the students who arrive went straight running to attend with their bags on their backs. When they do of course arrive inside the borders of the soccer field are facing towards the grandstand while also organizing themselves in lines and order of grade levels from left to right. Meanwhile the college students are organized by strands; PolSci, STEM, ABM, and lastly The Arts from the farther right side.

Three students who are assigned for raising the Philippine flag are seen walking upstairs to go to the flag pole at the middle surface of the grandstand, these students are from STEM specifically Win's brother sector class; John, Levi carrying the folded flag, and one of their classmate. Once they raise the flag, everyone with their right hand on their left chest sing the national anthem while the teacher in front of them is serving the role as a baton composer.

In just a few minutes later after they finished singing the national anthem and oath, all hands at their backs and standing straight and faces slightly looking above for a bit of preparation to sing the school anthem song written by the third deceased principal during the Japanese invasion.

In just a moment of silence and...

Disclaimer : Song based and parody of Little Root Town, a instrumental song from Pokemon R/S/E. Reading this song in a poetry or poem is optional.

When the sun is rising up a morning shine

That the land we step is another bloody war

Darkest time, curses to arise

Losing from the fights, our fate has come.🎵

At the time, many lives we're suffered in vein

All the way to an endless marching game

Signs of hope, praying that might come to an end

Planting roots for our future grow and bloom

In that time, Edu was a beacon of hope

A school that spawn, many soldiers on the go

With the help of our allies in the west

Advancing through until we change the tide of war.🎵

This song is repeated twice, once it is finished they all simultaneously put their right arm in a fist shape pounding twice on their left chest as a sign of respect.

The principal walks up the stairs at the same time the three students walk down the stairs to return to their line of sector, and the baton composer return to their back on the ground level beside the left grandstand of where some of the teachers standing in a group. Mr. Lipo finally arrives on the middle for an announcement with a mic on hand.

Happy Advance Beard Day and Happy New Year - Mr. Lipo shouts in excitement.

Everyone claps and shouts in hoora.

I'm giving my thanks to Mrs. Ivy and Sector IV Kaloko for their contributions in decorating and I have to remind every PolSci sectors and college students that the renovation will start in less than a week, so I advise to carry everything from supplies to furnitures out of the way, got it ? You may return to your class - Mr. Lipo said it clearly with a mic holding on his left arm.

After the announcement, the lines of organized sectors and grade levels is now a giant blob of mess in sight. Somewhere in all of that mess, Elmo is seen walking along the running lanes and then went jogging in an instant towards the PolSci building.

Damn... it's daily Test period ! Why didn't I study last night ?!😞 - Elmo said it in his mind grudgingly while jogging

A change of perspective of perspective that pans close to one of the sectors of STEM located near the southeast side of wall namely Sector II Monay currently under the time of Jerry Cho, the older brother of Win Cho discussing inside the room about a very complicated and technical topic about math.

For the last time, please be quiet - Levi whispers to John.

Just tell me the answer - John whispers back to Levi.

Sir this guy is bugging me again ! - Levi shouts in desperation to Mr. Jerry.

John if you want the answers, just copy without their consent or ask your other neighbors near you - Mr. Jerry speaks in wisdom.

I don't know any of these people - John reply in truthful words.

Seriously, were been classmates here for two months, outside from me... you would have at least more than one friend - Levi said it teasingly.

Then blame our God for making the time moves fast - John said it weirdly.

One of his classmate burst out laughing while drinking water.

Time does fly, like the world just time skip for no reason at all and go on to the point of where numbers and calculations cannot comprehend - Mr. Jerry said it in a feeling unease about it.

Damn that's deep - Levi said it a bit reactive.

Alright... eyes on me for now, the last thing I want is someone attending the cram session in the afternoon and you sector II Monay will have a test here for tomorrow - Mr. Jerry said it clear.

That's easy - John smirks while saying it.

Says to the guy who can't answer the first question of a thirty item analysis - Levi reminded him in a calm tone.

A bit of fast forward to eight: thirty in Sector III Aswang in ABM. Thomas is seen exiting out of the class for a little fresh air and others are also seen exiting slowly the room becomes empty until it it is only Mr. Win, Kate, and Kevin left.

You two have done a remarkable job especially you Kate, this first half of of this semester is not even close to its end, yet the possibility of lower than ninety five us just a fraction - Mr. Win compliments and acknowledges Kate's potential.

Thank you sir ! 😊 - Kate said it in a joyish mood.

You'll just wait until I out perform until I out perform you Kate in the end, I'm not letting you get the upper hand on me ! - Kevin shouts with a daily dose of fun competitiveness.

Bring it on, cause this is my favorite subject ! - Kate gives Kevin a giant smirk yet wholesome.

So do I ! - Kevin reply back loudly.

Alright that is enough my dear students, you two have proven to be worthy of working in business for your future. I'm gonna see you guys later, I have some things to work on right now, especially with Miss Allegna - Mr. Win said it in a humble approach.

Mr. Win packs some of the paper to his plastic case then close it and pick it up with his own left hand, and walks away silent leaving Kate and Kevin alone.

So, who was that friend specifically the one I don't know about ? - Kevin said it curiously

You mean Iron, I thought you knew him already - Kate said it a little bit confuse.

Is he one of Thomas friend ? - Kevin ask.

Yes, he is a first year SHS and reside in DHBL just like you - Kate said it.

Interesting, how much you talk with him ? Any qualities or traits ? - Kevin ask out of curiosity.

I say... very interesting. He is something else - Kate briefly describes surface level findings.

Alright, anything else ? - Kevin ask for more.

Well he beat me on something I'm good at like friendship where he lacks at - Kate said it clear.

*Thinking* Wait.. that's- *realizing*. Anyway where is he at ? - Kevin said it both confusing and down the line felt stupid.

Not much I know, but I believe his second class is PolSci - Kate answers Kevin's question.

That's good cause I'm going to challenge him - Kevin said it in a straight forward mood.

What ! - Kate surprisingly said it.

Cuts to black then returns to Mr. Win walking around the ABM towards the entrance of the STEM building and once he arrives, he turn to his left direction then opens the door of the strand office where Miss Allegna and his brother doing some paperwork.

Bro how is your car ? I heard people outside the school walls want to steal your fancy car - Mr. Win jokingly said it.

Haha very funny bro - Mr. Jerry said it in sarcasm.

Good thing the folks around here are willing to donate some funds for the cause - Mrs. Allegna said it.

I'am curious of after this is all finish, I wonder what will be next though... - Mr. Jerry said it in a curious out look.

Probably more renovations... - Miss Allegna suggest.

It's gotta be The Arts strand is next, have you seen those SHS coming out ? - Mr. Win said it precisely in a observant view.

Yeah like the flood of mayhem, I have so much respect for the doors not worn out yet from all that constant abuse - Mr. Jerry empathetically said it.

Only time can tell, for now we need to double check if the funds are enough to support it, Jerry... are all five rooms ready for moving sectors ? - Miss Allegna said it in a formal tone.

Yes all five ready - Mr. Jerry replied back in guarantee.

Hey Miss Allegna, how was Beard Month for you ? - Mr. Win change the topic.

I only spend like a week at home mostly sleeping and it felt great for once - Miss Allegna said it a bit happy and relax.

Sometimes I felt bad for you being a teacher - Mr. Win humbly said it.

Well... I don't trade it either way, plus you two are lucky especially Win over here only been working for three years, you like it or not, Rizal doesn't give the younger teachers here to get involved that much - Miss Allegna said in a casual manner.

Win you just wait when you reach five years here, the situation is much more crazy for us - Mr. Jerry positively said it.

Now your making me get more worried than this - Mr. Win said it in a fun but lazy delivery.

Mr. Jerry and Miss Allegna laugh a bit.

How about you guys ? - Miss Allegna said it with a curious smile.

Well... we hunt a pig - Mr. Jerry put it in words.

Yeah and then we massacre it while hearing it's pain screeching agonize - Mr. Win demonically said it.

With the use of proper tools to slice the bankai open - Mr. Jerry calmly said it.

Don't worry, we gave the pig a jacuzzi bath first inorder to smell like a fragrant of flowering a pollen of deliciousness - Mr. Win reminded.

I have a photo of us with the pig - Mr. Jerry grabs the photos in his pocket while saying it.

NOO !! No need for explanations because I know what's going to happen next - Miss Allegna said it anxiously.

*Deep sigh* You're no fun - Mr. Win said it a bit of a ruined yet teasingly delivery.

Let's get this finish on hand, because I have some teaching involvement later - Mr. Jerry said it a little bit eager and serious.

Sure - Mr. Win agrees in return.

Meanwhile at eight: forty five o'clock, we return back to Kate and Kevin looking for Iron throughout all five floors in PolSci, the results of finding him is so little especially Kevin making sure he acts normally when is inspecting all the rooms while passing by.

What does he looks like ? - Kevin exhaustedly said it.

The weirdest person you can imagine ? - Kate exhaustedly said it.

Weirder than my dead uncle ? - Kevin replied a bit stingy and self acknowledgement.

Not that far... - Kate said it in a haste reply.

I thought you were in good terms as friends with him, so much for your... *confuse* nevermind *sigh* - Kevin said it impatiently.

We only interact from a ratio of sometimes to rarely, I don't even know anything much or any interactions with him during Beard Month. I don't even know if I did something wrong or not - Kate said it truthfully with a hint of regret.

Let's just find Thomas instead, because he knows Iron better than anyone else - Kevin suggest.

Nah it would be a will goose chase to find him in a middle of this gap Time, Kristasha can't help us in this time for she is currently busy doing her daily Test in one of these rooms, so its a waste of time to find him and then finding Iron if Thomas know where he is - Kate explains in details of Kevin's flawed suggestion.

Then what is your best plan if motion ? - Kevin said in a bitter mood.

Well... we just ask the people around here in this building, minus the rooms that are closed and busy. So, there is a high likelihood that we encounter one of Iron's classmates if they know - Kate suggest a less energetic and more on the social approach.

Our plans are getting nowhere - Kevin said it in a hard realization.

Let's just hope we bump to him - Kate unconfidently said it.

The two walk downstairs from the left side of the building.

So, why are you challenging him ? - Kate ask the impatient Kevin.

Well.. reclaiming the point that you recklessly gave - Kevin said it.

What do mean ? I'm confuse - Kate said it with her face looking a bit frowny.

Well a month ago, I was Abit unsatisfied of how the Levi versus Thomas chess match that ends without any conclusion, I was struggling to keep an eye of Levi, because him and his classmate became more unseen and aware of my antics, if it wasn't for Thomas.. I would have got away with it *sigh* - Kevin said it disappointingly.

Kate laughs hysterically, luckily no one pays any attention.

Since its leading to nothing, let's take a bite first, maybe he is nearby the cafeteria - Kevin suggest.

Good idea - Kate reply in respond.

Meanwhile in one of the PolSci rooms of where Elmo is answering a long test.

Damn they are idiots, they have been looking weird for something and yet... they even don't consider that this place is less crowded due to the upcoming renovation *sigh*, but then again it is still a wild goose chase, I'll give them that - Elmo said it in his mind.

Alright don't even bother to use your cheating scopes for I have been put in by the principal to monitor during the daily test periods, I suggest to keep your eyes to your selves, the main function of this is serve like a survey to determine your strengths and weaknesses - Jon said it in a incouraging act.

Yes Mr. Ramen - Elmo said it in a boring and teasing tone.

Its Mr. Ramin - Jon ask a little bit polite.

Finish or not no one is allowed to exit until recess kicks in - Jon reminded the whole first year college class.

Some of Elmo's classmates are dry up bored or struggling of waiting and further more complains silently from the back row of seats. In all honesty, no one is thrilled to wait more than one hour in the daily test periods.

A bit of time forward to recess time on the cafeteria grounds near the PolSci building. Its not much compare to the past month, right now the college students in like five rooms simultaneously exit from their daily test periods, some run while others walk with friends and teachers stay in classrooms for a little bit doing some recording of today's scores of the students. Kristasha is seen buying some snacks then returns to where Kate and Kevin are sitting, later on Elmo joins with them for no other reason than listening and throw some jokes while at it.

What were you guys doing ? Suspiciously and aimlessly all around - Elmo said it very confuse and curious.

Really ? I didn't even notice them - Kristasha said it in a little surprise.

We were finding Iron - Kate answers Elmo's question.

Did you even consider that he is not here ? - Elmo said it in a consideration.

Kate and Kevin look at each other dumb founded.

Does this Iron relate to Thomas ? if so.. let's hunt him right now - Kristasha eagerly said it.

We were but Kate suggest a more social approach - Kevin said it in a hesitation of Kate's plan.

Lol, what a wild goose chase *laugh* - Elmo said it with a giant smirk.

A group of girls nearby Elmo are full of different reactions on their faces or surprised, disgust and weirdly unhinge. From ahead of the group Iron was walking towards to his next class until he heard a laugh that surprise him, he looks and saw Elmo then he is now just a tid bit surprise, eyes widen seeing Kate hanging with other friends of hers.

Should... I ? - Iron said it in his mind nervously.

Iron stops at the moment thinking.

Thomas... what was your advice again ?! - Iron said it in his mind while making weird deaf noises.

Meanwhile back to the four.

Well I give up, you three are lucky and even Iron, I'll give him that, besides I'm gonna be late for my STEMbclass, bye ! - Kevin said it loudly.

Back to Iron

What was that about ? Do I even deserve a point ? - *deep voice*.

While Kevin was running away from the cafeteria, Kate, Kristasha and Elmo stand up quietly then they slowly walk towards PolSci, Iron immediately went upstairs to the second floor for his next class with his teacher Miss Nethos, who is not currently present in the room, so he takes a seat then put his bag to hang behind of his seat, and waiting patiently watching his classmates entering until Miss Nethos arrives.

Okay class starting tomorrow, we will be moving out from this building and our class will be taking outside, sadly all of the other strand buildings are all booked - Miss Nethos said it in a worried reminder.

Iron's face looks displease and some of his classmates mingle or react in different responses.

And I need some boys to carry some of the furnitures out after this class is over. Anyway has anyone memorized the school anthem ? - Miss Nethos said it calmly.

Most of the students raise their hands especially those at the back.

Good.. - Miss Nethos smile while saying it

Iron raises his right confidently and standing up while his face is a little disoriented with anxiety.

Ma'am.. why is the song ended... very weirdly ? - *deep voice*.

That's a good question... alright everyone sit properly and listen. Say what the critics will about the ending of this song that was sung ever since the Japanese invasion. Yes, it is not very... very well put, and it ends in a unsatisfied conclusion that even some of us agrees, although.. with all that, this song's delivery and lyrics tells a tragic story of our ancestors during "that era". It is more tragic that the third principal of Edu was beheaded by our enemies and left the song unfinished, and that's why the conclusion is the way it is. Its not just we sing it everyday to give representation of our own pride to the world, its only respect that it all matters. The older generations who sung this school anthem in the past will be our responsibility to carry the torch and show respect for them cause they stand and fight for this school and country to achieve peace for all of us. So it's best we sing this everyday morning outside until the very end of this school year, especially graduation to sing the improve and occasional song in order to inspire the next batch to do the same for us in return. As long as Edu stands, more students will be nurtured with knowledge - Miss Nethos said it in a motivated and inspiring tone.

A moment of silence.. every one of them were not expecting Miss Nethos to go deep of discussing, one of the students raises an arm, he or she tells a curious question about the occasional song, and then Miss Nethos continues.

The occasional song is a remix that fills the hole of the unfinished original song, its a collaboration of teachers, students, and musicians contributing to the progress of finishing the song that was difficult to rekindle the third principal's vision and should be treated with care, competence and respect. This other song is only used for graduations, because it involves some aspects that is only necessary in occasions like back up singers, choirs and some instruments involve - Miss Nethos said it loud and clear.

Iron appears to be nervous of hearing that the other version of the original song of any participations involve or the idea of singing in front of the public to watch when graduation happens.

Fast forward to ten: thirty o'clock, the time for the SHS students morning class session ends, Iron is walking downstairs with his bag looks heavy than usual. Thomas is waiting for him outside sitting on a seat made of cement while he is watching Kevin demolishing Shiena in a game of volleyball. From the referee post, Kate is observing the game and she serves as the scorer. Iron joins up with Thomas of watching their friends playing.

Sorry I had not been around as much, does Kate still annoys you ? - Thomas said it in a concern delivery.

Yeah.. a bit - Iron truthfully said it.

Don't worry you'll get to be used of it eventually, damn they are surely massacring that friend of theirs *laugh* - Thomas said it with some encouragement.

What is that point system that they're been doing ? I don't get understand - *deep voice*.

Well I don't even know, Kate started it since last year, yet with all that.. its just something to buy time and just enjoy the moment - Thomas said it.

Well... they are making it so... - *deep voice*.

...Too much, I'm also a victim to this *giggles* sooner or later it will bloom until the very end and you will be drag with us, so expect yourself to be ready when the time comes - Thomas said calm and precise.

WHAAT !? - Iron shouts.

Then the scene turns black.

The chapter begins at a time if twelve : thirty seven o'clock near the northeast corner of the wall. Under one of those umbrella hangout is where are Thomas and Levi playing chess, they are currently in the middle phase of their game, both combatants are queen less. Thomas playing with the black pieces that is already in a huge advantage in defense while also eliminated Levi's bishops and three pawns and force him defensive with the castling move in which Levi is left with rooks, supports and blockage of knights and pawns.

Why so desperate of a queen suicide charge ? - Thomas said it in a lovely competitive tone.

Because its the most powerful chess piece, I know chess players love using queens, so it's better to eliminate the thing that is too dangerous even if it cost my queen - Levi deductively said it.

Except I'm not like most players, I play better without the queen and I have a bigger advantage of taking down both offensively and defensively - Thomas moves a pawn from the left Knight's original set up while saying it.

I'm impress... best not to underestimate one of Rey's chess rivals - Levi seriously said it.

Suddenly Thomas stands up up in a haste in which Levi's respond a bit surprise and not noticeable.

I give up, knowing how a chess game works, this match of ours might take along time, sorry I gotta do some other stuff - Thomas honestly said it.

It's fine, our match has been nothing but fun, other than hanging with John and the others.. the rest are filled with pressure and doubts. If I do something that is out of society's expectation, they would relentlessly correct someone what is right and wrong - Levi said it openly.

That's barely a problem, cause you have a respectful family l, right ? - Thomas positively said it.

Maybe, my parents are more strict and less mean about it yet it is overbearing sometimes - Levi correctly respond.

Oh, *thinking* anyway what's your next class ? - Thomas curiously said it.

Outside and you ? - Levi respond back.

Same - Thomas smile while saying it.

The two ended their chess match abruptly, the two return the chess pieces in Levi's chess board while the view of the two pans slowly upward and fades into black.

Cuts to Kate and Kevin's perspective during the art class singing the national school anthem in front with the rest while Mrs. Ivy sits for at least ten minutes long since one o'clock.

Again ! The last two sentences should be higher ! - Mrs. Ivy shouts in dissapointment

When the sun is rising..🎵 - Kevin sings a bit quickly.

Kevin synchronize with your classmates ! - Mrs. Ivy shouts.

The class sing in different tones and less harmonic harmonic until Mrs. Ivy stops them with her right arm.

Kate put more heart into it, Kevin try to calm down, you stop making weird facial expressions ! Remember this is the song that lift up people's spirits. All I could hear are whining and a disrespect to those who came before us ! - Mrs. Ivy loudly and boldly said it with a bit of soul within her words.

The class frown in dismay of their teacher's reaction.

I sing better in solo - Kate said it in her mind in a boastful remark.

Please don't be solo - Kevin repeat it thrice in his mind wishfully.

Alright... since all of you are terrible, everyone return to your seats, cause a college student from my strand will be arriving here to give a demonstration - Mrs. Ivy said it in delight.

A few minutes of waiting, the college student arrives in the classroom of Sector IV Kaloko and stop in front of them.

Sector IV Kaloko, her new is Sasha Lyna, she is a third year Art strand college student... everyone please be silent and observe of how the school anthem was performed - Mrs. Ivy said it.

Sasha sings the school anthem with a harmonic heartfelt and little bit angelic from her singing voice, when she is at the second paragraph of the song, most of the students look at aww and jaw dropping from Sasha's delivery that leaves a sign of empathy or emotionally shock. The singing lasted in only a minute and ended with Sasha pounding twice on her left chest with her right arm. The whole class applaud for Sasha's brilliant singing performance even she only sing it once.

Wait I made an error, the song should be be repeated once more ! - Sasha nervously said it with a joyish smile appears on her face.

It is still wonderful ! - Kate shouts with compliments.

Alright everyone, we are gonna spend the rest of this period of perfecting to your limits of singing this school anthem one by one - Mrs. Ivy said it in a short strict manner.

Well all hope is lost - Kevin said in his mind very doubtful.

Mrs. Poise De Ivy's words causes like four domino effect in random starts and progressions that end in different directions of students reacting.

Cut to a montage in a sequential order of time, starting with Iron in the next room reciting a poem in front of his classmates watching him struggle and made errors from his delivery. Second is outside under the cement roof of the grandstand of Thomas being himself while Mr. Raulence is discussing with the help of a slim and sturdy blackboard on strolling wheels aiding to keep the topic understand by

everyone. What comes after it is also outside, another art class taking place on the soccer field of where John Sy and Levi Jones doing a very grindy project of sculpturing a wooden mess into a poor and disappointing art of of a flamingo and finally... with Shiena answering a twenty item analysis during her STEM class on Mr. Jerry's time in Sector II Monay, she finished her worksheet before two o'clock strikes by passing her paper in front on the table, some of her classmates struggles, one of them has some erasures on his or her worksheet.

Two from the back left corner are leaning left and right while their heads act like giraffes trying to eat answers from the bushy hair of students for satisfaction and need. The whole room is slowly decreasing of students answering until the last two guys run ahead towards the table when two o'clock strikes, good thing their teacher accept it unlike other teachers who are strictly abide to time.

Shiena walks out at the end of her STEM class along with her classmates exiting out of the strand building, she went to the left towards the cafeteria then left again walking beside the left side of the STEM building to arrive to the Art Gallery of where Kate and Kevin are now walking casually out last when the horde diminished overtime. The three of them meet up while they are talking, Iron is sneaking quietly to avoid getting spotted which he fail when Kate just glare her eyes for a brief moment and saw Iron sneaking away. Since Iron fail to avoid them, he just embraces and joins with them.

So you are Iron Shien ? - Kevin curiously said it.

Yesss... - Iron said it off tone.

Iron you wanna join us in a game of badminton ? We are currently one person short - Kate proposes an invitation to Iron.

No thanks, I have things to worry like

attending a cram period - *deep voice*.

You know that is too early for "that" ? - Kevin adressee.

Sorry not in a mood - *deep voice*.

The three looks at Iron's face drawing out some sort of sorrow happening in his expression, although it might be any of what the three are imagining, but in truth Iron is just embarrassed of what happened during his art period. He walks slowly away from them to an isolated place for him to hide his sorrow, Kate and Shiena respond to run in front of him knowing the behavior he display is noticeable while Kevin stays put at the back.

You wanna tell us what's wrong ? - Kate ask in worry.

Iron stays silent no response from him while looking bon the ground.

A month ago, you said that you are less of an average person, I found that is something very... very questionable - Shiena put in words and a bit of revealing her caring side.

It's all.. Nothing - Iron nervously said it while holding in the watermarks from his eyes towards the girls in front of him.

Kevin is still there and this time he is observing Iron's manner.

I just felt like... *confuse* very, I meant, some sort of a bad day - *deep voice*.

Wait a minute.. why are you so splitty ? - Kevin points out from the back.

It is something that happened a long time ago and I'm not gonna tell it - *deep voice*.

Well since he pointed out.. I didn't notice it before - Shiena said it curiously.

Do you wanna tell it, this is maybe the best to get to know you more - Kate compassionately said it in a soft pleasing tone.

The surrounding in moments later is filling with an eary of silence, Iron didn't make any responses then he walks away slowly in every step he stutters a bit until he pass through with no reprecautions, he realized that the two didn't stop him. He can't look back knowing all three of them are looking towards him, with some thoughts filling in his mind in which he stops walking.

I was laugh stalked during my art class period reciting... a poem - Iron said it clear and precise in a whispering tone .

When Iron tries to continue back to walking, he was suddenly ambush hug tight by Shiena and Kate even though Iron only said it very deafly or whispery, the two understand and comfort him. Iron flinches a little yet after a couple of seconds he didn't bother to continue walking. Kevin is just still at the back smiling with his hands arm cross below his chest smiling a little.

Cuts to Thomas and some of his classmates during Mr. Raulence's class are doing some heavy work of lifting furnitures out of the PolSci building in one of the rooms out on the field under the watch of Miss Nethos and Mr. Win.

Do you really want to stand like that while the boys lift all of the heavy work ? - Miss Nethos said it a little bit displease.

Yes - Mr. Win respond.

Miss Nethos face looks disappointing when hearing Mr. Win's response.

I hear Rizal is doing some plans to make some improvements in DHBL - Mr. Win said it with an interesting delivery of words.

Well yeah, they have recently made the conditions of comfort rooms and bathrooms a bit cleaner and functional, I believe you are talking about the windows - Miss Nethos expressively explains.

Since we're talking about DHBL... I'am curious of a non student renting a place to live, I think it's rude if Rizal would do anything when this particular scenario might happen - Mr. Win said it a bit deductively.

As long as they are recently graduated from Edu like Rey or the Jon Ramin scenario of whom is a bit older yet he gets a pass as long as they are within below ten years after graduation - Miss Nethos informatively said it.

That sucks I was planning to live there because of the cheap cost - Mr. Win humorously said it.

Cuts back to Kate and the other three characters walking towards the library of where senior highs take their cram lessons, once they arrive at the lessons, once they arrive at the doors of the library. Iron separate ways from Kate, Kevin, and Shiena waving their hands while walking towards the tennis or badminton court that is located near the entrance of the east wall. Before they stupidly go to the supply room near the grandstand which is located at the other side. They are currently thinking of anyone in mind to play badminton.

Whose gonna be ? - Kevin spontaneously said it.

Iron is out of the question, I see Thomas right there *pointing out to PolSci building* doing some heavy work from a far and my classmates are doin their own thing, our best bet is waiting for Kris, yet even that is barely an option - Kate said it in a reasonable manner.

What about your classmates ? Kevin ask Shiena.

Well... I'll try... - Shiena unconfidently said it.

What about those guys *points out to Sector II Monay group* - Kevin points out to the soccer field while saying it.

Nah, one of them looks important and the other is intimidating - Kate points out to Levi and John while saying it.

Nevermind of getting my friends here cause they are gonna be taking all over our fun - Shiena realizes.

Since you mention "that", I already regret it when hearing and imagining the outcome - Kate said it in a sudden realization.

Same response, let's get the shuttles and racket from the supply room - Kevin respond.

The three of them walk across from east to west to arrive to the supply room, a sizeable store room structure made of cement, Kate joyishly opens the door then seeing Elmo sleeping on the table tennis in a dead like position, Kevin slowly went inside of a very organized and labelled placements of sport equipments, he then grabs like four rackets, Shiena just stands there weirdly reactionary of seeing Elmo inside, and Kate helps out by going inside making some step noises to grab a cylinder shape container; three new shuttles. They just left the door slightly open just if Elmo finds any trouble of exiting after his nap and the three return back to the badminton court.

Hey Shiena let's one on one - Kevin enthusiastically said it.

Not again... - Shiena said it in a bad mood while smiling regretted.

Let me join with you guys ! - Elmo shouts while running towards them.

The reaction from Elmo's sudden excitement from being awaken in his slumber inside the supply room makes the three of them react in disbelief. Shiena looks like she wasn't expecting to happen, Kevin's reaction is neutral while Kate is giving in that steroid smile of an expression. Elmo finally arrive on the badminton court and then he do the arm stretches for warming up to play.

Whose team I would be in ? - Elmo said it while letting out a yawn between his words.

Me.. - Shiena still respond in disbelief.

Good we're stacked, everyone let's start shuttling ! - Kevin said it in excitement.

The four students place themselves on the court in terms of dual play of Kate and Kevin versus Elmo and Shiena in the opposite sides of the net that separates them.

Are you alright of playing while you are missing a class in this period ? - Shiena said it in concern.

Yeah cause I do this sometimes - Elmo honestly said while eyes lock on the sight of Kate and Kevin.

That is concerning - Shiena respond.

The game starts with Kevin shuttle on his left hand to begin the serve. The shuttle propels up the sky across the enemy's side, Shiena swings back the shuttle to enemy in a shorter height, faster than when it was served by Kevin, in respond, he swings the racket to make the projection of the shuttle higher for he knows that it will cost them in defeat in the first round due to the not reaching over the net. Instead of the game in a dual format, many seconds has passed, it is still Kevin and Shiena doing a lot of swinging and foot work while their partners wait for the shuttle to change in direction.

When the shuttle is downward curve to Shiena, Elmo steals the swing in a diagonal right curve towards Kate and she unsuccessful swing back the shuttle surprisingly which caused them a point for their rivals, luckily the shuttle land near the borders to consider at least a point for Shiena and Elmo.

Yo, that was unexpected ! - Kevin shockingly said it.

To be fair, you two are literally hogging the game - Kate gives an opinion.

Hey, try to avoid prolonging the game on him cause this is a familiar tactic in sport and you are competing a player - Elmo warns Shiena causally.

Yes, the name is Shiena and you ? - Shiena respond.

Elmo Remle, I was curious how do you know that I would miss my class ? - Elmo respond back to Shiena.

Well I heard rumours of a college student making trouble especially the involvement of the assistant principal chasing you - Shiena explains a bit casually while looking at Kate.

Kate gives a swing that made the shuttle sky rocketed to the sky yet it landed within their territory. Kate picks the shuttle again and this time she throws the shuttle mid air swinging the racket like it was a baseball bat in a surprising speed, luckily Elmo swing it safely back to them, shuttle going to Kevin's side and then he swings it to Shiena, her respond is to swing the racket to change the shuttle's height curve a little higher.

Kevin slowly walks in backwards and eyes on the shuttle then return to Shiena with a bit of momentum. Once again it's another match of Kevin and Shiena until she change the direction towards Kate.

Kevin let's cheese this ! - Kate shouts to Kevin.

Agree ! - Kevin shouts in respond.

Meanwhile on the soccer field of where John and Levi watching the four playing badminton from a far.

Anyone wanna play basketball ? - John suggest.

None of his classmates respond.

Well look at you.. who wants to compete someone whose a bit intimidating - Levi respond.

Same to you, you never play any kinds of sport because you are... - John said in a loudly and counter reactive.

... Because of preferences, there is no other way of any answer - Levi said it haste fully and clearly.

Alright... - John agrees.

Cuts to the Art Gallery in the room of Sector IV Kaloko, inside that room Sasha is helping out Mrs. Ivy to organize a pile of artwork.

I heard this is your last year in Edu - Mrs. Ivy said it in acknowledgement.

Yes planning to move to California to be an animator - Sasha said it in a little exciting tone.

Not a bad choice of using your course, the west is definitely a great place to be an animator and even the eastern here are stepping up since Dragonball and Z - Mrs. Ivy said it gratefully.

I wonder what was Rey doing ? 🤔 Ever since he graduated in his fourth year, there isn't any word from him to this very day - Sasha curiously said it.

Well it's a reminder to all of us that even if someone who is talented and skillful can also struggle to what lies in the battlefield outside of this school - Mrs. Ivy said it in a dramatic tone.

Hopefully its not something that is... too much of a hustle - Sasha positively said it.

Well... I'm more worried about you than Rey - Mrs. Ivy respond honestly.

Wait, what ? - Sasha said it dumbfounded.

Back to the badminton court where Kate and Kevin abusing the racket swings towards Shiena, Elmo run towards the cheese tactic to help her out. Shiena swings the shuttle back to Kevin and that is where Elmo made a mistake that left his side wide open. Kevin didn't hesitate to do the smash swing that causes the shuttle to fly over the net in a blink, Elmo tries to run and catch it, but it was too late when he tries to run back to swing the shuttle in which Kate and Kevin gain a point. Now the two duel partners are tie, they are gonna take take this a bit more fun and competitive in this third round.

Let's make this count cause I'm returning back to my class ! - Elmo said in an enthusiastic demeanor.

Sure - Kevin agrees to Elmo.

Shiena I suggest you to be my support cause I'm doing something ballsy ! - Elmo said it in a hyper and louder delivery.

Alright - Shiena tiringly agrees on Elmo's plan.

Elmo grabs the shuttle on the ground then he hit it that travels in a fast low curve to Kate, she also did the same back to Elmo. The shuttle propels towards Kevin then he swings the racket causes the shuttle to sky rocketed up the sky then falls towards Shiena, she also does it the same, yet from all that body energy used from the last two rounds, its lower than to Kevin both in power and height of the flying shuttle over the net.

Kate runs towards the net to swing the shuttle back while Kevin is closer at her back, Shiena swings if for the point; far from Kate's left, yet she slides then switches her racket to her left hand to swing it back to Shiena only to fail when Elmo went for the smash jump towards between of Kate and Kevin. Kevin jumps tripping in which he accidentally fall on the ground towards the shuttle in which he fail to swing the shuttle to go over the net, the shuttle bounces off from the racket towards the front body of the net in their side of the court.

That cost them the last game and Kevin was still lying on the ground defeated knowing him and Kate just loss to Elmo and Shiena. Kevin rises to his knees looking to both Elmo and Shiena excited and thrilled from their victory.

Cuts to the library of where Iron is at, alongside with other students listening to Mrs. Attorna with the assist of Jon during this three o'clock afternoon period also known as cram period.

There is no shame of coming here, raise your hands if you are a first SHS, because the two grade levels can mixed up from time to time due to constant changes in location - Mrs. Attorna said it carefully and mindfully.

Everyone in the room raises their hands for Mrs. Attorna's confirmation.

Good, now that is all settled. Jon will be assisting me for the time being in a week, so... expect Jon to be taking hands on in this period when I'm not around - Mrs. Attorna said it in a clear and a bit informative.

If you are wondering of why I'm assisting Mrs. Attorna is because I'am involve in the guidance counselor for a bit, do please be in your good behavior, therefore the less students will be at my door steps, you got it ? - Jon said in a boastful demeanor.

Everyone of the students in this period respond with different reactions especially Iron feeling nervous and smiles a little to cover up his embarrassing look.

Jon, please check them outside, Rizal told me that there will be furnitures moving in the library - Mrs. Attorna said in a clear and haste delivery.

Sure, first gotta check if there are any space for all the furnitures - Jon agrees.

Jon walks to the entrance door through the hallway from the left side. Iron gazes his eyes, slightly changing directions of what he is seeing. The section of the library that they are occupying is a bit spacious and some furnitures are already found at their backs beside the farthest wall mostly arm chairs and less than ten tables.

I get it now - *deep voice*.

The door slams occur of where Jon exits, then Thomas and the other students entering while lifting the furnitures towards the back. Iron smiles seeing Thomas of carrying a table with the help of his classmate in PolSci.

Mind them, eyes focus on me, let's discuss about entrepreneurship, social sciences, statistics and other things you missed for the past week - Mrs. Attorna said it in slightly strict attitude.

A student raises a hand for a suggestion.

I'll discuss it later, let's focus on entrepreneurship first - Mrs. Attorna said it.

Meanwhile back to the badminton players minus Elmo, they are currently under the roof of the cafeteria near PolSci sitting on the seats beside the counter of where Anne Theia, the cafeterian adult girl is currently on the care and serving both students and teachers food products and we'll cooked desserts and lunches.

Hey Anne good to see you again - Kate said it loudly.

You too, the usual ? - Anne said it.

Yes and same with Kevin over there - Kate said it.

I want my usual, the fishballs on stick - Kevin said it clearly.

Alright what about you ? - Anne said to Shiena in a questioning remark.

Fries, ten pesos - Shiena said it in a quick specific tone.

Alright just wait a sec - Anne said it with a gentle smile.

A second has passed - Kevin made it literally.

Lol ! - Anne respond surprisingly.

A couple of minutes later, the three finally receive their choice of food; Kate holds a tray of eight pieces of lumpia, Kevin's fishballs on a stick and Shiena holding a small paper bag of fries.

How was your time out of Edu ? I have been missing your cooking - Kate positively said it.

Well it's a bit gloomy compare to the school bubble. I could make a business outside primarily doing something that is related to food - Anne encouragely said it.

Sounds delicious - Shiena mouthfuly said it.

Hopefully you get there - Kevin said it while eating.

Thanks, same goes to all three of you - Anne said it in all honesty.

Cuts to Elmo and Kristasha debating on something that is very stupid, a topic about stalkers in the middle of the grandstand while four to five random college students from different strands watch them bicker.

I'm telling you, girls are stalkers - Elmo said it in a very at most nontoxic delivery.

Really... Had you even considered that boys are also stalkers ? I find it unbelievable due to males are more violent in crime results that are more apparent especially examples like gangwars and drug trafficking happening for the past decade in foreign countries, meanwhile here in the east, it's less and yet is prevalent to some degree - Kristasha deductively said it.

Some of the random students applaud on Kristasha's reason.

Well... I can't argue with that *laugh* but most of my friends are girls and they are stalkers, so take that in consideration - Elmo said it honestly.

Your friends are just weird and samples should focus more on the objectively fair and random that results an unbiased outcome - Kristasha calmly said.

I'm with here - ???; First SHS girl student.

Most if not all who are occupying under the roof of the grandstand agree that Kristasha won the stupid debate.

Cuts to near four o'clock specifically three: fifty seven o'clock inside the room of Sector II Basyaw in the STEM building of where Thomas is assisting Miss Allegna for any conveniences that centers within the subject. Thomas is only helping his STEM teacher in writing informations on the manila paper for their next lesson.

Sorry to make your gap time more occupied than usual - Miss Allegna said in a gentle tone.

It's fine. I like my time in gap time worthwhile than doing nothing - Thomas honestly said it.

Good to know, have you heard any rumours of Rey lately ? - Miss Allegna concerningly said it.

I don't listen to rumours yet I don't believe anything of what some people say about Rey, yes he never spoke or revealed since he graduated, but it's not enough of a point to judge him - Thomas said it in confidence while writing the last written texts on the last manila paper.

Yeah you're right, let's just see it in Rey's lenses, if we wanna know the truth... it's best if we know it when he pays a visit - Miss Allegna said it then she takes a pill and drinks a glass of water.

That would be interesting to see him again, I wonder if he became a lawyer already - Thomas said while placing the placing the manila papers in a sequential order on the board with the help of tape.

Yeah...maybe - Miss Allegna said it with a little hesitation.

Then the scene turns black.

- TO BE CONTINUED -

Iron has two points *worthless ?*

Shiena and Elmo gain a point from Kevin and Kate in a three round badminton game

Kristasha won a point from Elmo in a debate.

Iron won another point for attending the class early against Kevin.

Kevin gains a point from a volleyball challenge against Shiena.

Kate is still zero.