*📚 “Detention Duty” PRINCIBALD

It’s unusually quiet in school after hours. The halls of this Here's School echo with the faint squeak of shoes on tile. Baldi stands in his classroom, ruler tapping rhythmically against his hand.

“Hmm… no students… no math problems… this is highly unusual…” *Suddenly, the door creaks open. The Principal of the Thing steps in, posture as stiff as ever.

“Baldi. You’re still here after school hours.” Baldi straightens slightly.

“Of course! A good teacher is always prepared for… extra learning opportunities!” The Principal pauses, scanning the room. “No running. No entering faculty. No loitering.”

Baldi tilts his head. “I am not loitering. I am… patiently waiting.”

“…For what?” the Principal asks.

Baldi taps his ruler once more, softer this time. “For someone who understands the importance of rules… and learning.”

There’s a brief silence. The Principal adjusts his whistle. “…Rules must be followed at all times.” Baldi smiles faintly. “Exactly!”

The tension in the room shifts—not hostile, just… oddly mutual. Two rule-focused minds, finally on the same page. The Principal turns to leave, then stops at the doorway.

“…Detention duty tomorrow. 3 PM.” Baldi’s eyes light up.

“Oh! Extra time in school? That sounds… wonderful.”

The Principal nods once and exits. Baldi watches the empty hallway, ruler tapping again—this time almost… content.