known in his school as "Detective Bro," wasn't your average seventh-grader. While others played football, Rohan studied footprints, analyzed handwriting, and observed details others missed. He wore a beige trench coat (even in summer) and carried a notebook filled with scribbles.
The crisis began on a rainy Tuesday. The school's beloved, antique brass trophy—set to be awarded to the best science project—had vanished from the locked trophy case in the main hallway.
"It's an inside job," Rohan announced, examining the scene. "The glass isn't broken, and the lock was opened with a key, not forced."
His best friend, Sam, looked skeptical. "But only Principal Sharma has the key, Bro."
"Precisely," Rohan said, narrowing his eyes.
The Clues:
A damp patch: Near the case, there was a small, muddy puddle, even though the windows were closed.
A lingering scent: The faint smell of peppermint.
A missing witness: The janitor, Mr. Gupta, was nowhere to be found.
Rohan went to the library, the only place with a similar dampness (due to a leaking roof). He found a stack of science textbooks, and between pages, a peppermint wrapper.
"Wait, Mr. Gupta doesn't eat mints," Sam said. "He's allergic."
Rohan realized the clues were a red herring. He rushed back to the science lab.
The Solution:
Rohan walked up to Ms. Davis, the science teacher who was known for her strictness and her love for peppermint tea. "Ms. Davis, the trophy is not stolen. It's in your desk."
The teacher went pale.
"You didn't want the trophy to go to the Art Club, which is winning," Rohan deducted. "You used your spare janitor key—which you borrowed—to take it. The mud came from your shoes when you walked from the greenhouse to hide it!"
Ms. Davis confessed. She was tired of science being overlooked. She had to return the trophy.
"Another mystery solved," Rohan said, scribbling in his notebook, as the school cheered for their young detective.
- by likhith yb