The morning began differently at Aurora Academy. The atmosphere was heavier, almost suffocating. The hallways seemed quieter, as if the students could feel something strange lingering in the air.
Principal Mr. Augusto walked across the courtyard with firm steps, flanked by two teachers: Ms. Helena (literature) and Mr. Gustavo (physical education). Augusto's gaze, always severe, looked even heavier than usual.
Helena (in a low voice): "Do you really think it was necessary to call him here?"
Augusto: "I had no choice. After the recent incidents, we need someone… more experienced."
Gustavo (suspicious): "Experienced, or dangerous?"
The principal didn't reply. He simply adjusted his suit jacket and kept walking.
Then he appeared. A man in a gray suit, tall, neatly combed gray hair, and a cold gaze. He carried a thin cane, though his steps were far too steady for someone who actually needed it. His name wasn't announced; he simply entered through the gates with unsettling calm.
From a distance, Lucas watched with his phone in hand, heart racing. Something about the man felt wrong. Discreetly, he raised the phone, snapped a few photos, and quickly tucked it away.
Lucas (thinking): "Who is this guy? And why does the principal treat him with such reverence?"
---
In the classroom, Rafa and Isa whispered about festival rehearsals, trying to ignore the tension in the air. But it didn't take long for Lara and Bruna to start their usual provocations.
Bruna (loud whisper): "Look at them, practicing just to lose. Maybe they'll cry again."
Isa (annoyed): "They never stop…"
Rafa (holding Isa's arm): "Leave it. It's not worth it today."
From behind them, Matheus noticed the tension and leaned forward.
Matheus: "If they cross the line, you call me. I won't let anyone step all over you."
Isa smiled faintly, tucking the words away. She knew Matheus meant what he said.
---
Meanwhile, in the principal's office, the mysterious man examined papers detailing the school's incidents. Principal Augusto tried to mask his unease.
Augusto: "I need you to keep this confidential. If the students find out—"
Man (cutting him off, firm voice): "They don't need to know. Young people are fragile. And you have no idea what forces are at play."
Helena crossed her arms, visibly uncomfortable.
Helena: "We're talking about teenagers, not soldiers. This isn't right."
The man slowly turned his head toward her, his smile cold.
Man: "Perhaps you don't understand, Professor. But some wars have already begun, whether anyone wants to accept it or not."
---
At recess, Lucas discreetly showed the photo to Matheus and Diego.
Lucas (quietly): "Did you see this guy? Walking with the principal. I've never seen him here before."
Diego: "Damn… looks like a movie villain. Who carries a cane without needing it?"
Matheus (frowning): "I don't like it. What if it's connected to… you know."
He glanced toward the hallway, where Claws was walking slowly, still recovering. Lucas nodded, understanding.
---
Outside the school, Claws stopped for a moment as a chill ran down his spine. Eduardo, his gang friend, appeared again, leaning against the wall.
Eduardo: "Heard someone new's been showing up here. You better watch yourself."
Claws (irritated): "I can't just disappear. They need me."
Eduardo: "They'll be your downfall, Claws. And worse—if he's here… you know what that means."
Claws said nothing. He seemed to understand more than he let on.
---
That night, in the group chat:
> Lucas: "Guys, I need to show you something."
He sent the photo of the man in the suit.
The group went silent for a few minutes until Claws finally typed:
> Claws: "Are you sure you saw him at school?"
Isa: "Yes. The principal welcomed him. Who is he?"
Claws: "…"
Claws: "He's my grandfather."
Shock rippled through them. Rafa nearly dropped her phone. Matheus's eyes widened, remembering the vague old stories Claws had never explained.
> Lucas: "Your grandfather? But why would he be here? That guy looks dangerous."
Claws: "Because he is. He's the leader of one of the biggest gangs in the neighboring city. My parents always forbade me from going near him. Now you see why I never said anything."
The weight of the revelation hung over them all.
Hesitantly, Rafa typed:
> Rafa: "Claws… if he's involved, then this is way bigger than we imagined."
Claws didn't answer right away. He just stared at the hospital ceiling, heart racing. He knew the past had finally caught up with the present.