Unlike other people Takuro's age, Iwata - in his limited interactions with the boy - had always shown a disposition to expect the best of the boy. "I see," he'd said, tone already understanding. "Well, you cannot help it when there's force majeure, right? Accidents happen," the man said, offering the boy a small smile. "I'll be sure to write this off both of your records. Just try impressing Akiyama-kun with a bit of good uniform etiquette for a couple of days, so that he feels he's accomplished something."

Iwata ignored Itsuki's slightly bemused look at their teacher's complicity in duping the head of the disciplinary committee. He was fully focused on Takuro anyway. "Say, Iwasaki-kun, before you go... There's something I've been meaning to ask you two. See, there's some things gone missing from the old school building. Now, I'm not saying you would do this, but maybe you saw someone who did." Somewhat serene, even gentle in tone, he went on to add, "If you find out something, can I count on you letting me know?"