Chapter 22: The Principal's office.

Principal Malt sat in his chair, his sharp, penetrating eyes scanning the files in front of him. His office was meticulously organized, with diplomas and commendations hanging on the walls, a stark contrast to the tension-filled atmosphere between the two boys seated opposite him.

Principal Malt was a tall, imposing figure with graying hair and a stern expression that rarely softened. He prided himself on maintaining discipline and order within the school, running the place with an iron fist, more like a general than a principal, and incidents like this were a direct affront to his efforts.

The room was silent except for the occasional rustle of papers as Principal Malt turned the pages of the files. He occasionally looked up, his gaze settling on each boy in turn, his disappointment palpable. Finally, he cleared his throat, closing both files with a decisive snap and turning his full attention to the two people sitting in front of him.