The day found its rhythm fast.
Phones buzzed, printers hummed, and by the time Noel had settled at his desk, the familiar scent of fresh coffee filled the floor.
He glanced toward Ren and Jace. "What's today's schedule?"
Ren shrugged, twirling his pen. "No clue. Max didn't tell us anything yet."
As if on cue, the office door swung open.
Mr. Max stepped in, setting his coffee down with a soft clink. "Alright, good morning, everyone." His voice carried—calm, confident, the kind that pulled focus without trying. "Now that you've had two weeks to get comfortable, it's time we talk about how this department really operates."
He began pacing slowly, hands in his pockets. "International Relations isn't a desk job. It's dynamic. It's mentorship, adaptability, and knowing when to read the silence between the lines. Starting today, each of you will shadow a senior staff member. Think of it as… an apprenticeship."
Ren straightened up immediately.
