At the front of the classroom, a flight simulator runs in demo mode. Shiro stands beside it, arms crossed, smiling but focused. He’s here to scout, not to bask in glory

“Lets see if anyone can get past Level 3,” he says. One by one, cadets step up, but each fails. Even James Griffin, the Garrison's star, burns out mid-run. He storms off, kicking the console

Then, silence. Only Keith remains Shiro looks at him and says, “Looks like you’re the only one left.”

Keith hesitates for a moment—then steps forward. No flair, no speech. He just moves with that quiet intensity

He takes the controls Level 3? Smooth By Level 4, the room watches in awe Keith’s reflexes are sharp—his instincts, unshakable. He reaches Level 5, surprising everyone. A teacher approaches Shiro with a list of top cadets. “Is Keith on here?” Shiro asks

The teacher frowns, glances at the simulator, and shakes her head. “No. That one has a bit of a... disciplinary issue.” Keith hears it, his hands tightening on the controls

The teacher continues, “I don’t think he has what it takes to face the rigid culture of the Garrison.” The teacher gestures to James, introducing him as the top cadet. James smiles and greets Shiro with charm, but Keith knows—it’s the type of cadet the Garrison favors. Perfect, predictable

Then, the simulator shuts down with a beep. Keith is gone. Shiro turns in surprise, but Keith’s seat is empty. Later, during a training drill. the others push him down, and he snaps, pulling his jet out of formation and landing James, standing next to him, mutters, “Thanks alot." Keith: "My pleasure." James sneers, “We all know the only reason you’re here is Shiro.” Keith turns slowly, eyes narrowing. “I can outfly anyone in this building." James rolls his eyes, mocking. “Oh yeah? Is that what Mommy and Daddy told you before they—”

CRACK. Keith’s fist lands with a punch that knocks James to the ground. The room gasps. Keith doesn’t stop. He throws another punch. Then another. Shiro is there, staring as the sergeant drags Keith off of James.