Chapter 49 - 8.1 : Shadows Before the Storm
May had arrived. Across the nation, the atmosphere was growing tense. At the end of this month, the National Final Examination would be held simultaneously for all final-year students—whether in Elementary School, Middle School, or High School.
The Virellano residence was busier than usual that evening. Among the bustle, Clarista—the fourth daughter of the Virellano family—had just returned from abroad. Her purpose was clear: to become the private tutor for David, who was now in his final year at Makazhar Elite School, the second-best high school in Eastern Indorosia.
In the living room, the atmosphere was warm. Edward sat with a tablet in hand, occasionally glancing at a digital newspaper. Sandra, as always, maintained control over the household with her calm smile. Between them, David was absorbed in studying his worksheet modules.
Al? He had just arrived, summoned by his father through their butler, Harun. He sat not far away, isolating himself like a shadow among the light.
"You’re in your final year too, right? How’s your exam prep?" Edward asked.
"Everything’s fine, Dad."
"How are your grades, Al?" Sandra asked casually as she brewed tea, as if it were just small talk.
Al replied without turning. "Just average, Mom. Nothing special."
Everyone nodded. Nothing surprising. It was as if that answer was meant to be a part of Al’s life narrative—a norm that was accepted without argument.
But David, who was focused on studying the module Clarista had prepared, mumbled softly, "They said during the last mock exam, the top scorer at HIHS was someone named... Al. Could it be?"
For a moment, time seemed to freeze. All eyes shifted—to Al. Yet the young man continued staring blankly at the TV, which was playing one of Sandra’s favorite Korean dramas. His eyes darted aimlessly, avoiding anyone’s gaze.
"Hm... doesn’t seem likely," Edward muttered lazily before going back to his tablet.