I exit D.A. Group Six’s homeroom and enter the lengthy hallway. The echoes of my footsteps reverberate against the cold, sterile walls of the institute.

I watch as Chigusa Tanaka and the others leave to eat at the cafeteria, but I have other plans.

I glance at the clock in the hall to make sure no one is around and take a right. I know what I need to do, and I don’t need any distractions.

I head to the women’s restroom and find Ryuko staring at the mirror. She looks down, clearly upset and worried.

“I… I don’t know how to let people in. It’s always been easier to push them away.”

I observed Ryuko’s hesitant admission, her eyes reflecting a tumult of emotions, the weight of past scars evident in the furrow of her brow.

“I understand, Ryuko Homura. It is hard to trust, especially when you’ve been hurt before. But you are not alone now. You have someone who genuinely cares about you.”

“I’m just scared. Scared that if I open up, everything will fall apart.”

“Opening up is a step towards healing. I will not let things fall apart, Ryuko Homura. You can lean on me; I am here to support you.”

She slowly approaches me; at that moment, the air seems to be charged with the unspoken, unsteady bridge forming between us as Ryuko.

“I never thought I’d find someone who could understand.”

“People often wear masks, hiding their true selves. I can see beyond those masks, and I see someone strong yet vulnerable, someone who deserves compassion.”

“Thank you, Kiyorakana. I… I appreciate you being here.”

“You are welcome, Ryuko Homura. We all need someone to rely on. Do not hesitate to reach out when you need support. You are not alone anymore.”

“I… I’ll consider it. But don’t think this changes anything between us.”

“Understood, Ryuko Homura. Trust takes time. I will be here when you’re ready.”

“Fine, just go. You’ve made your point.”

With a nod, I retreated, leaving Ryuko to her contemplation, the space between us a bridge to be crossed when she deemed fit.

“As you wish. Take care, Ryuko Homura.”

I leave the restroom, my steps deliberate, echoing the controlled rhythm of my thoughts.

As I navigate the corridors, I spot Instructor Shinoda discussing disciplinary measures with Onibi.

I subtly intercept the conversation.

“I think Ryuko deserves a second chance. She may have played a minor role, but she is a genuinely caring and thoughtful student.”

Instructor Shinoda nods in agreement.

“The matter needs careful deliberation. I understand she may not have instigated the incident, but she didn’t stop it.”

“Then perhaps a probationary period?”

“That may be a good start. She can’t keep her thoughts to herself, but I believe she is still capable of showing improvement.”

A probationary period, huh…

I am not entirely satisfied with the results, but when the time comes, I will ensure that Ryuko is fully supported.

After their conversation ends, I reveal myself to Instructor Onibi, asking if she can join me for a brief chat. We engage in casual conversation, with me voicing my support for Ryuko’s role in the incident and assuring Onibi that Ryuko will learn from her actions.

In reality, I use this conversation to gather as much information as I can about Ryuko’s probation. I probe for the stipulations, time frame, and type of discipline she will face.

Out of curiosity, I ask about the boy’s punishment. However, Instructor Onibi laughs it off. She may not disclose all the details, but she does reveal that the boy’s punishment is… unorthodox and efficient; and that Instructor Shinoda will get to relieve some of her ‘stress’ on him. Though he is guaranteed to be expelled.

Having gathered all the information I can, I thank Onibi for her time and offer to guide her back to her classroom.

She rejects my offer, saying she’d like to meditate in the courtyard for a bit. She has a calm, wise aura that is simply irresistible to most.

My next task is to locate Instructor Shinoda.

I traverse the bustling corridors of the institute. The low hum of student chatter accompanies me as I navigate the labyrinthine halls.

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After a brief search, I spot her near the institute’s training area, engaging in conversation with another faculty member. Their voices carry a blend of authority and restraint, emphasising the seriousness of their discussion.

Her sharp eyes lock onto mine; without preamble, I address her with a respectful nod.

“Instructor Shinoda, may I have a moment of your time?”

Her response is a curt nod, signalling for me to proceed.

“I understand the gravity of Ryuko’s involvement in the recent incident. However, I believe there’s potential for her to learn from this experience. A probationary period might be a suitable measure, but perhaps the conditions could be more tailored to her needs.”

Instructor Shinoda’s eyes narrow slightly, and her lips curl into a subtle smirk. The challenge is evident, and I choose my words carefully, acknowledging her authority while subtly pushing for leniency.

Instructor Shinoda listens intently, her gaze unwavering.

“And what guarantee do I have that she won’t repeat her mistakes? Words can be deceiving, after all.”

“Her mistake of self-defence? Instructor Shinoda, I must say, you are not very forgiving. While I acknowledge the need for discipline, I believe Ryuko’s actions were, to a certain extent, a reaction to the immediate threat posed by the boy.”

Instructor Shinoda’s gaze remains persistent; she weighs my words, considering the delicate balance of justice and understanding.

“Self-defense or not, she allowed herself to be drawn into unnecessary conflicts. Such incidents can’t be tolerated.”

I nod, acknowledging the severity of the situation, but I press on.

“I propose a probationary period with specific conditions that address the root of the issue. Mandatory counselling sessions focused on emotional healing and conflict resolution could be instrumental in guiding Ryuko towards a healthier response to such situations.”

“Counselling, you say? You believe that will be effective?”

A flicker of interest crosses Instructor Shinoda’s eyes, and her demeanour softens slightly.

“Yes, Instructor Shinoda. Understanding the emotional aftermath and providing the necessary support can prevent future conflicts. Ryuko is not beyond redemption; she needs guidance to navigate her inner shadows.”

Instructor Shinoda contemplates my words, her gaze penetrating.

“Very well, Kiyorakana Kage. I’ll consider your proposal. But make no mistake, if she fails to meet the conditions or repeats such mistakes, the consequences will be severe.”

“I appreciate your consideration, Instructor Shinoda.”

Instructor Shinoda’s piercing gaze lingers for a moment, assessing the sincerity in my words. A subtle nod signals her acceptance of my proposal, and with that, she resumes her authoritative demeanour.

“Your confidence in Ryuko intrigues me, Kiyorakana Kage. I hope you’re not underestimating the complexities of human nature.”

“I assure you, Instructor Shinoda, I am well aware of the challenges. However, I believe in the potential for growth and change, even in the face of adversity.”

Instructor Shinoda’s measured gaze lingers on me for a moment before she nods in agreement. “Your confidence in Ryuko intrigues me, Kiyorakana Kage. I hope you’re not underestimating the complexities of human nature.”

“I assure you, Instructor Shinoda, I am well aware of the challenges. However, I believe in the potential for growth and change, even in the face of adversity.”

With that, Instructor Shinoda resumes her authoritative demeanour, signalling the end of our discussion. I leave the training area, my steps deliberate and purposeful, contemplating the weight of the responsibility I’ve taken on to support Ryuko.

As I walk through the bustling corridors, word of Ryuko’s potential probation spreads among the students like wildfire. Whispers and glances follow me, the air thick with anticipation and curiosity.

Reaching the courtyard, I find Onibi meditating in a serene corner. I approach her with a respectful nod, acknowledging the wisdom that emanates from her calming presence.

“Instructor Onibi, the deliberation for Ryuko’s probation seems to be in progress. I believe we can play a crucial role in guiding her through this challenging time.”

Onibi opens her eyes, a serene smile gracing her lips.

“Indeed, Kiyorakana Kage. Supporting our fellow students is a noble endeavour. Let us hope Ryuko finds the strength to navigate the shadows within.”

Ryuko’s fate now rests partially on my shoulders, and I am determined to ensure her path to redemption is navigated with care.

I walk through the institute’s corridors, and the news of Ryuko’s probation begins to spread among the students like wildfire. Whispers and sidelong glances accompany my every step, the air thick with judgement and speculation.

I spot Ryuko near the store, her expression a mix of uncertainty and defiance. She’s aware of the eyes following her, judging her every move. I approach her with deliberate steps, cutting through the oppressive atmosphere.

“Ryuko Homura.”

Her response is a guarded look, a silent acknowledgement of our previous encounter in the restroom. The gravity of the situation hangs between us, unspoken yet palpable.

“Instructor Shinoda has decided on a probationary period for you.”

“The terms of your probation are specific,” I continue, conveying the conditions with clarity. “Mandatory counselling sessions focused on emotional healing and conflict resolution will be part of the process. It’s an opportunity to address the root of the issue and guide you towards a healthier response to such situations.”

Ryuko’s gaze remains guarded, but there’s a flicker of understanding in her eyes. She realises that this could be a chance for her to find that elusive inner peace she desires. I wait for her response, giving her the space to agree with the proposed terms.

Her words, when they come, are measured but carry a hint of reluctant acceptance.

“Fine. If that’s what it takes to stay here and not be expelled, I’ll do it.”

I nod, acknowledging her decision.

“This is a step towards growth, Ryuko Homura. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.”

As I speak these words, I sense a subtle shift in the atmosphere. Ryuko’s guarded expression softens, revealing a glimmer of gratitude buried beneath layers of hesitation.

I stride away, leaving Ryuko to her thoughts.

The word of Ryuko’s probation spreads among students like wildfire, with curiosity and judgment in their glances.

In the courtyard, Onibi acknowledges the unfolding drama with a serene smile. I approach her, and we exchange a nod, both understanding the gravity of our roles in Ryuko’s journey.