Chapter 23: Record
At the end of the school day, Tanaka, homeroom teacher of Class 1-B made her way through the empty corridors to a section of the building that few knew existed. She approached what appeared to be an ordinary maintenance door, but as she placed her hand on a concealed scanner, the door slid open silently to reveal a narrow staircase leading downward.
The secret room was located two floors beneath the school’s foundation. As Tanaka entered the dimly lit chamber, she stood in the center and waited. Moments later, a brilliant band of light materialized in the air before her, gradually forming into the holographic image of a stern-looking man in military uniform.
"Colonel Harrison," Tanaka said, offering a respectful bow to the projection.
The Colonel’s sharp eyes focused on her with the intensity of someone accustomed to command. He was a man in his fifties with graying hair and the bearing of a career military officer. "Report, Agent Tanaka. I trust you have updates on the subjects we’ve been monitoring."
Tanaka straightened and began her briefing. "Yes, sir. I have significant developments regarding both Jun and Haruto that require your attention."
"Proceed."
"First, regarding Jun Nakamoto. Our observations confirm that he has the potential to become an awakened individual. The signs are becoming more apparent each day - heightened intuition, occasional glimpses of supernatural phenomena, and what appears to be latent psychic sensitivity. He fits the profile of someone who could develop abilities within the next few months."
Colonel Harrison nodded slowly. "And the second subject?"
"Haruto Kurokami presents a more complex case, sir. Based on my agent’s reports and my own observations, he demonstrates exceptional potential. His natural awareness of supernatural elements, his protective instincts toward Jun, and his ability to remain calm under pressure all suggest he could be valuable to the government." Tanaka paused, choosing her words carefully. "However, I believe we need to conduct proper trials to fully assess his capabilities."
The Colonel’s expression remained impassive. "What kind of trials do you propose?"
"Nothing too dramatic initially, sir. I recommend starting with subtle tests - observing his reactions to certain stimuli, evaluating how he handles stress, and determining whether he can sense things that ordinary individuals cannot. I plan to arrange scenarios that will reveal his true capabilities without exposing him to genuine danger."
"And your field agent? How reliable is her assessment?"