"Ah, there you are! Please, step inside my classroom for just a minute. I'll write you a late pass." Mr Clarkson gestured toward the nearby classroom he had just stepped outside of. The two of them walked into an empty room; there was no class for that period, so all that remained were slightly disheveled desks, several lab tables with gas nozzles and sinks, a chemical shower in the corner with a floor drain beneath it, and Mr. Clarkson's desk at the front of the room.

"Look, you probably already know what I'm going to say. Last year you had my class, but you didn't do so well. I know you're a smart guy, but I'm a little concerned that your work ethic is going to really pull you down. All I'm saying is it's the start of a fresh new year, and it's the perfect chance to flip things around and really nail it this year. If you ever need help or you want to talk, just come find me." Mr. Clarkson wore a warm smile as he spoke, invoking a sense of sincerity. He really did care about his students and did whatever he could to lend a hand when possible, but now the situation was entirely in Kirin's hands.