The Challenge Begins

Days passed, and Ichinose, along with our classmates, held several group meetings to decide which events we would compete in. Most of Class B had good grades and many of them were in good physical shape, though not all had the confidence to compete one-on-one, with a few exceptions.

Ultimately, we agreed on 10 events to participate in. Of course, Ichinose had some private discussions regarding this, informing her of which events she would participate in and helping her decide and organize the others.

The day after submitting our choices, Chie-sensei entered the classroom and unfolded a large sheet on the blackboard, announcing the 7 events that would take place in 2 weeks. These were:

Table Tennis

Required number of participants: 1 person Time limit: 30 minutes Rules: Based on standard table tennis rules. Commander's role: Can give instructions within a 15-minute time limit.

International Chess

Required number of participants: 1 person Time limit: 1 hour (overtime counts as losses) Rules: Based on standard international chess rules, no time extensions after move 40. Commander's role: Has access to give instructions for a maximum of 15 minutes within the total 1-hour game time.

Flash Mental Arithmetic

Required number of participants: 4 people Time limit: 30 minutes Rules: Calculate answers mentally, emphasizing correctness and speed. Commander's role: Given one chance to change the answer to any question.

Mathematics Quiz

Required number of participants: 10 people Time limit: 50 minutes Rules: Based on the first-year curriculum, comparing total scores between the two classes. Commander's role: Can answer one question in place of the participants.

Soccer (11 players)

Required number of participants: 11 people Rules: Standard soccer match with 7-player teams. Commander's role: Can make player substitutions and strategies during the match.

Team Swimming

Required number of participants: 2 people per team Time limit: 100 meters in the shortest possible time (sum of both swimmers' times). Rules: Based on standard swimming rules. Commander's role: Can give instructions before the competition.

English Quiz

The announcement of the events was met with a mix of excitement and determination in the class. Everyone was focused on preparing ourselves as best as possible for each event. It seemed fate favored us, and barring any setbacks, we had a good chance of achieving good results, particularly given the events we were about to participate in.

The faces of my classmates reflected a mix of nervousness and determination as Chie-sensei reviewed the rules and details of each event. Some exchanged confident glances, while others focused deeply, visualizing strategies and mentally rehearsing possible scenarios.

Ichinose, in particular, seemed to be in her element, moving among the groups with serene calmness as we discussed tactics for each competition. Her ability to synthesize ideas and propose strategies was evident, and many of us found inspiration in her methodical approach and her ability to motivate the team.

The atmosphere in the classroom was electric, charged with anticipation and a shared desire to exceed expectations. We committed to supporting each other, aware that each of us would play a crucial role in the final outcome. Conversations intertwined with laughter and words of encouragement, forming a stronger bond among us as we prepared to face Class A in these challenges.

With the event dates rapidly approaching, we immersed ourselves in intensive practice sessions and thorough reviews. Each of us strove to perfect our individual and collective skills, aware that meticulous preparation could make the difference between victory and defeat.

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The day of the competition finally arrived, bringing with it a palpable mix of nervousness and excitement. We gathered as a team in front of Class A, exchanging determined looks and ready to demonstrate what we had worked hard to achieve.

The room was tense, with the two opposing classrooms at the end of the hallway. Ichinose and Sakayanagi, leaders of Classes B and A respectively, stood face-to-face, each in front of a screen where they could see their respective teams.

Ichinose looked at Sakayanagi with a firm smile. "So here we are, Sakayanagi-san. Ready to see how Class B surpasses Class A in every event?"

Sakayanagi raised an eyebrow with her characteristic calmness. "Surpass us? That sounds interesting, Ichinose-san. But remember, Class A doesn't give up easily. Let's see who has the best strategy and execution."

Ichinose couldn't help but laugh. "Oh, I'm sure we'll have an exciting competition. But while you worry about your orders, I'll focus on guiding my class to victory."

Sakayanagi smiled knowingly. "Very well, let's see if you can back up those words with action when the time comes."

At that moment, the voice of Professor Chabashira echoed through the speakers. "Students, the special exam will begin shortly. Prepare to receive the first event."

The screens in front of Ichinose and Sakayanagi lit up, showing the first event: Table Tennis.

Ichinose observed the screen with concentration. "Alright, let's go with Table Tennis. Mako-chan, you're our representative. Stay focused and keep calm."

Amikura received the instructions and said, "Don't worry, Honami-chan. I'll make sure to win," with a smile.

Sakayanagi, with her usual serenity, responded promptly. "Sakurai-kun will be our player. Listen carefully to my instructions."

Ichinose added, "Remember, Mako-chan, keep your composure. Don't let their mental tactics sway you."

Sakayanagi smiled with a glint in her eye. "Oh, worried, Ichinose-san? It's understandable, after all, the pressure of leading can be overwhelming."

Ichinose clenched her fists with determination. "Don't worry about me, Sakayanagi-san. You and I know how to handle these challenges."

The atmosphere heated up as the two leaders prepared to give their orders and guide their respective teams through the first event. The competition was just beginning, but the intensity and rivalry between the classes could already be felt.

The gymnasium buzzed with the murmur of spectators as the first showdown between Class B and Class A approached. At one of the table tennis tables, Amikura mentally prepared herself while adjusting her grip on the racket. On the other side of the table, with a serene yet determined expression, was Sakurai, representing the prestigious Class A.

The referee blew the whistle, and the match began. The initial exchanges were quick and precise. Amikura, known for her agility and speed at the table, launched rapid attacks from the back of the table, while Sakurai responded with well-placed shots and calculated returns. The scoreboard moved swiftly, reflecting the intensity of the duel.

Amikura, seeking a weak spot in Sakurai's defense, shifted her strategy to angled shots and rapid changes of direction. However, Sakurai showed incredible resilience, returning every ball with pinpoint accuracy. The set remained balanced, with both players reaching tie-breaking points. Finally, with a skillful counterattack, Amikura secured the first set with a narrow margin of 11-9.

The second set began with Amikura determined to seize the initiative after narrowly losing the first set. She adjusted her strategy, focusing on precise shots and changes of pace to unsettle Sakurai. Her quick and agile movements began to pay off, forcing Sakurai to play defensively from the outset.

Sakurai, feeling the pressure from Amikura's offensive, decided to change tactics. During a break between points, he tried to unsettle Amikura with subtle questions about her strategy and mental state. "Feeling nervous, Amikura? It seems you're playing more aggressively this time," Sakurai remarked with a subtle smile.

However, Amikura remained unruffled. With a serene smile, she replied, "I'm focused on the game, Sakurai. Your attempts to distract me won't work." Her calm responses and focus on the game made it clear that she wouldn't fall for her opponent's mind games.

The set continued with Amikura maintaining a steady lead. Her ability to read Sakurai's movements and adapt quickly to his changes in tactics allowed her to win crucial points. With well-placed shots and solid defense, Amikura closed the second set with a convincing score of 11-6, leveling the match at one set each.

The third set saw Sakurai intensify his game once again. Determined to regain the advantage, he began unleashing a series of powerful serves and aggressive shots from the back of the table. Each exchange became a battle of skill and endurance, with Sakurai showcasing his ability to find angles and weaknesses in Amikura's defense.

During a break between points, Sakurai continued his attempt to unsettle Amikura with questions about her strategy and preparation. "How do you feel now, Amikura? It seems you're struggling to keep up," Sakurai mentioned with a calculated expression.

Amikura, aware of Sakurai's attempts, remained calm. Taking a sip of water, she stared at Sakurai and replied calmly, "I'm ready for this challenge, Sakurai. Don't underestimate my ability to recover." Her confident response and determination silenced any attempt by Sakurai to affect her game.

As the set progressed, the battle intensified. Sakurai managed to maintain his advantage with a series of winning shots and tactical moves that kept Amikura on the defensive. Despite Amikura's efforts to regain control, Sakurai closed the third set with a score of 11-9, reclaiming the lead in the match with a 2-1 set advantage.

With the match in the balance, Amikura prepared for the fourth set with renewed determination. Although she had lost the third set, she was determined to fight until the end. She started the set with a mix of defensive and offensive shots, seeking to exploit newly discovered weaknesses in Sakurai's strategy.

The exchanges became long and tense, with both players willing to do whatever it took for each point. During a break between games, Sakurai once again tried to disturb Amikura's concentration with questions about her physical and mental stamina. "Can you keep up this pace, Amikura? It seems you're struggling a bit," Sakurai commented with a challenging smile.

Amikura, breathing deeply, faced Sakurai with a steady gaze and said, "I'm ready for this challenge, Sakurai. Don't underestimate my ability to recover." Her confident response and determination silenced any attempt by Sakurai to affect her game.

The set reached its climax with both players tied on the scoreboard. With a final effort and a series of calculated shots, Amikura secured the fourth set with a close 12-10 score, taking the match to an exciting decisive fifth set.

With the score tied 2-2 in sets, the fifth set was the culmination of intensity and skill at the table tennis table. Amikura and Sakurai exchanged determined looks before starting the final set. Each point became an epic battle of strategy and skill, with spectators holding their breath with every shot.

The set reached a 10-10 tie, taking the match to a tiebreaker point. Sakurai served powerfully, but Amikura responded with a bold shot that Sakurai could barely return. With one final effort and a winning shot, Amikura secured the decisive point, sealing the set and the match with an exciting 12-10 score.

The thrilling table tennis match between Amikura and Sakurai had reached its passionate conclusion. As both players shook hands in a gesture of respect and sportsmanship, their respective commanders watched from the stands with expressions reflecting a mix of emotions and reflection.

Ichinose, commander of Class B, watched with pride and satisfaction as Amikura performed. Her face showed a contained smile, her eyes gleaming with admiration for the skill and determination demonstrated by her student. She had trusted Amikura for this important event, and her choice had been correct.

On the other hand, Sakayanagi, commander of Class A, contemplated the outcome with a serene yet analytical expression. She had witnessed the intensity of the showdown and recognized Amikura's exceptional skill. Although Sakurai had not managed to secure the victory for her class in this set, Sakayanagi was prepared to adjust the strategy for the upcoming events

In the vibrant atmosphere of the gymnasium, Ichinose and Sakayanagi, the respective commanders of Classes B and A, awaited the next event with anticipation. Tension filled the air as students from both classes prepared for the impending challenge. Ichinose, with her usual serenity and determination, exchanged confident glances with some of her peers, while Sakayanagi observed with a calculated expression from her position.

The murmurs in the gymnasium intensified as the announcement echoed through the speakers, indicating that the next event would be soccer. Ichinose and Sakayanagi simultaneously placed their hands on the microphone, each heading towards the screen where they could select participants for their respective teams.

Ichinose was the first to speak, her voice resonating with determination throughout the gym: "The next event will be soccer. It's time to showcase our skill on the field. We will carefully select our 11 players."

Sakayanagi, maintaining her usual composure, calmly responded, "Understood, Ichinose-san. My players are ready to face this challenge. Let's ensure we choose our representatives wisely."

Students from both classes gathered around their respective commanders, eager to know who would be chosen to represent their teams in the crucial soccer event. Ichinose and Sakayanagi began deliberating with their teams, discussing strategies and evaluating each student's strengths to ensure they formed the most competitive team possible.

After moments of intense deliberation and meticulous planning, Ichinose finally raised her hand decisively. "Here are the 11 players who will represent Class B in soccer: Shibata, Kana, Watanabe, Norihiko, Riku, Sora, Mai, Nakamura, Yamamoto, Takeshi, and Renji. I trust each of you will honor our class on the field."

Without wasting time, Sakayanagi announced calmly the names of Class A's 11 players: "For Class A, our representatives in soccer will be Kito, Satoshi, Yumi, Taro, Emi, Ren, Tatsumi, Aoki, Tanaka, Hina, and Kenji. Show your skill and teamwork in this challenge."

Just as Sakayanagi finished announcing the participants, I couldn't help but murmur, "I suppose it's time."

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