Chapter 88: [88] Don’t Open Me Up
The corridors of Catalyst Academy transformed as Class 1-D followed Professor Valdez toward the Support Department. The pristine marble floors and crystal accents of the academic wing gave way to industrial flooring and exposed piping. Xavier noticed the walls changing from the sleek white of the classroom areas to a more utilitarian gray, marked with colorful warning signs and safety procedures.
"Is that... heavy metal?" The blonde haired guy asked, cocking his head as the faint sound of music grew louder with each step.
Shit, I still don’t know his name.
"Support students have different... working preferences," Professor Valdez said, her tone suggesting this was a diplomatic phrasing.
As they rounded the corner, the music became unmistakable—a thundering bassline and screaming guitars echoed down the corridor, accompanied by rhythmic clanging and the whirr of machinery. The hallway vibrated with the combined sounds.
"They’re allowed to play music that loud?" Sayuri asked, her green eyes wide.
"The Support Department operates under different regulations," Professor Valdez explained. "Their results justify certain... accommodations."
Xavier hung back slightly walking beside Nolan Traore. The shorter student clutched his tablet to his chest, his eyes darting nervously behind his thick glasses.
"You okay?" Xavier asked.
Nolan jumped slightly. "Oh! Y-yes, just a bit... nervous. The Support Department can be unpredictable."
"You’ve been here before?"