"Huh? What's going on?"
Gwen blinked, wide-eyed and puzzled, instinctively trusting Ryuuto.
"Simple," Ryuuto said, his tone sharp. "This guy's twisted and dangerous. Best we keep as much distance as possible. I'm not cooperating with him—ever."
Gazing at Gillian's retreating back, unease flickered in Ryuuto's eyes.
"Got it. I'll follow your lead," Gwen said, nodding obediently.
After bidding Harry farewell, Ryuuto and Gwen stepped out of the classroom, hands brushing together.
Suddenly, a tall figure blocked their path. Gillian, clad in his white scientist coat, smiled—but it was the kind of smile that set your teeth on edge.
"Student Ryuuto, come with me. There's something I need to discuss."
Gwen frowned, already irritated, and instinctively stepped closer to Ryuuto.
"Really? Not interested." Ryuuto patted Gwen's shoulder to calm her, then looked at Gillian casually. "And I'm not obligated to follow you, am I?"
Gillian chuckled, adjusting his glasses as if Ryuuto's indifference didn't faze him. "Oh, this isn't about your feelings. Take a look at this first."
Ryuuto's eyes narrowed as he caught the faint glint of ambition and malice in Gillian's gaze. He didn't trust this guy for a second.
Gillian raised a hand, revealing a bright red test paper—Ryuuto's own perfect-score sheet from earlier.
"Huh? Ryuuto, you actually got full marks? This…" Gwen blinked, confused.
"Gillian, are you sure? Did you double-check that?" Ryuuto frowned, feeling the familiar sense that this guy was trouble.
"Of course. I reviewed it personally," Gillian said, eyes gleaming. "It proves you're exceptional. Exactly the partner I've been searching for!"
He stepped closer, greed and ambition shining plainly in his expression.
"You can think it over. One last time—I remind you, this test has Oxford University's full support."
Ryuuto's lips twitched. "Looks like I'm forced to play villain today." He straightened, eyes cold. "I hate you… but you're impressive, I'll give you that."
Gillian laughed, slapping Ryuuto's shoulder with his big hand. Ryuuto shrugged it off effortlessly.
"I promise, you'll be surprised. Come with me."
"Gwen, you go to class first. Don't worry—I'll meet you later," Ryuuto said, eyes sharp, following Gillian cautiously.
Along the street, Gillian didn't look back, walking with stern purpose. Ryuuto didn't bother with small talk. Soon, they arrived at a hidden basement.
"Wait… this is outside school property? Gillian, you didn't set up a trap, did you?"
"You worry too much. Don't worry—I won't touch you. This is a government-backed research lab, just for my work," Gillian said, turning with a strange smile. "Besides… with your skills, are you afraid I'll eat you?"
"I'm warning you. Don't waste my time," Ryuuto replied evenly. "Lead the way."
"Good. You won't be disappointed," Gillian said, lips curling into a wicked grin. He descended first, Ryuuto following calmly.
Inside, rows of jars contained a green, bubbling liquid, giving off an unsettling aura. Each was labeled super bacteria—chemical weapons, no less.
"Gillian… shouldn't you hide contraband better? Or do you want me to report you and drag you down with you?"
"You have a sense of humor," Gillian said coldly, growing more confident on his turf.
He rifled through stacks of papers like a man possessed, finally pulling out a thick, dust-covered folder. His bloodshot eyes gleamed.
"I know you refuse to cooperate. That's fine! But take a look at this before you answer me."
Ryuuto flicked the folder open. His brows furrowed, voice rising slightly.
"Virus? You're showing me viruses?!"
Gillian laughed, almost maniacally. "What? Don't you like it? Do you know what this means?!"