It was the 21st of December, with the new year's holidays looming just around the corner. Kenji had successfully passed his exams, thanks to the diligent studying sessions he shared with Shinji. Every weekend, they met either at the school's library or at a nearby coffee shop to review their materials. Shinji was content with the tranquility and success in his life, recognizing that he needed to maintain this trajectory to earn his father's trust.
As they strolled through the school hallway, Shinji remarked, "The school seems suspicious these days. There's a strange calm in the air."
Kenji replied, "Isn't that how schools are supposed to be?"
Shinji shook his head. "Yes, but not like this."
Suddenly, an announcement echoed through the school radio:
"Attention, everyone! All students are requested to assemble in Amphitheater 2. We have an important announcement to make."
Shinji nodded knowingly. "Told you. This is what I was waiting for."
Kenji hesitated, saying, "Wait, that doesn't necessarily mean anything. It could be related to our exam results."
Shinji disagreed, "I doubt it. Let's go find out."
Kenji agreed, and they made their way to the amphitheater. Upon arrival, they noticed Isen, Kyosei, and Kondo already seated. Kyosei smirked as he kept an eye on Shinji and Kenji.
A tall man in a brown suit and glasses approached the stage, grabbing the microphone. "Hello, everyone. Before we begin, allow me to introduce myself. I am Watari Kurihashi, the COO of JuKyuu Enterprises and the new principal of this school."
He continued, "Since I have many responsibilities, I won't always be available to handle issues. Mr. Katogawa Asari will act as the director in my absence."
Addressing the students, Watari's demeanor turned serious. "I am a strict man. You may wonder why I'm telling you this. It's because I understand how the real world works. I won't allow anything to happen without my permission. Anyone who dares challenge my authority will regret it."
Watari's expression softened suddenly, and he chuckled, "Anyway, enjoy your youth and high school life. Ha ha ha!"
Kenji looked bewildered, glancing at Shinji for an explanation.
Shinji shrugged, saying, "Not the first psycho principal this school has had."
He then mused to himself, "But I can't shake the feeling that JuKyuu Enterprises is hiding something about their intentions. I hope I'm just being paranoid."
Kyosei stood up and addressed Watari, "Mr. Kurihashi, if you think a few words will make students fear you and prevent them from rebelling, you're delusional. I can't wait to see you kicked out of this school."
Watari glanced at Kyosei before leaving with his companions.
Kyosei smirked, "What a loser. He'll regret his arrogance."
As the days passed, tension lingered in the air at Onodera High School. Students whispered about the new principal's strict demeanor, while rumors circulated about JuKyuu Enterprises' hidden agenda. Kenji and Shinji remained vigilant, wary of the potential consequences of Watari's leadership.
Meanwhile, Kyosei's defiance inspired a spark of rebellion among some students, who began to question authority and seek ways to challenge the status quo. As the school year progressed, the battle for control and freedom simmered beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment to ignite.
In the shadows, unseen forces plotted their next moves, and the true intentions of JuKyuu Enterprises slowly unraveled. The stage was set for a clash between power and resistance, with the fate of the school hanging in the balance.