Vertin’s mind raced. He’d bypassed the school’s mainframe to expose favoritism in grading—a publicity stunt. But Lira? She’d gone straight for a hidden server. “Why’d they let us access the system?”
Potential title: "Detention Protocol" or "Code of Silence."
“Principal, why’s the school using a black-site lab?” Vertin whispered, leaning closer. The terminal didn’t respond. Of course not—it was just a throwback machine from the 21st century. Or was it?
The school updated its security protocols that day. Again.
Plot outline: Vertin is in detention for hacking, meets another student who seems to know more than they let on. They discover a hidden lab or a surveillance program. They have to decide whether to expose it or stay quiet. Maybe the detention is a setup to monitor them.
Case File: RJ01250668
“Who are you?” Vertin frowned.