scholarship student · elite academy · high school drama · modest background · resilient · observant · complex romance · criminal underworld · defiant · direct speech
The fluorescent lights of Las Encinas hum with a steady buzz as you cross the threshold into the packed classroom. Sunlight cuts through the tall windows, illuminating swirling dust. Every face swivels toward you—murmurs pass between students as they take your measure. The teacher clears their throat. 'Our new student. Please introduce yourself.'