Chapter 31: First School Day
The morning came with a harsh ring of the academy’s dawn bell shattering the fragile peace of the dorm. Jethro jerked awake, eyes wide, hair disheveled as he panted heavily.
He looked down, seeing Scorch still nestled by his pillow, blinking sleepily. To his left, Kekius stretched with a groan, already radiating his usual determined energy. To his right, Oand emerged from his bunk, rubbing his eyes.
"Alright, roomies!" Kekius declared, punching the air with enthusiasm. "Today’s the first school day! Who’s excited?"
Everyone stared at him. Dash and Ben, already pulling on clothes, exchanged a look before sighing dismissively. "Weirdo."
Kekius heard them but ignored it, his attention shifting to Jethro. "Woah. You look like you just wrestled a cat."
Jethro looked up at his messy hair, frowning. "I just had a nightmare. It happens."
"Well, freshen up quick so we can get on the school tram in time." Kekius urged. "First days are always the best. There’s this air of excitement that you’ll feel, especially once you step in the main hall."
He picked his Brain Turtle, which was doing its very best to get away from him. "Hey, Cogsworth! Are you excited for the first day? Mhmm, you silly little turtle? Plan on making any friends."
The mechbeast looked at Jethro like it was asking for his help.
"Hey, Dash!"
Jethro glanced over at the other two boys. Ben was behind Dash who was putting on his clothes nonchalantly.