Season 1: Arc'The Training 'Ep 2_Ch/2

SEASON ONE: Episode 2_CH/2[The secret of the tattoo]

Date: 02/01/1867

Time: 07:36 AM

City: On the outskirts of Kyoto

Location: The corridor leading to the dining hall of the "Purity" Organization's school

The Beginning:

As you step into the corridor, you find yourself immersed in a world of luxury and sophistication. A long passage stretches ahead, widening at the center to reveal three branching pathways, yet all leading to the same destination: the grand Victorian dining hall. No walls separate these corridors, allowing you to see those walking alongside you in the adjacent paths, as if you are all moving through an open space enclosed by towering walls adorned with exquisite artwork.

Beneath your feet lies a soft, regal green carpet, extending seamlessly along the corridors. Woven from the finest fabrics, it is adorned with golden geometric patterns—triangles intricately arranged—with straight lines bordering its edges, adding a refined, elegant touch. Surrounding the carpet, polished golden tiles shimmer as if embedded with light, reflecting the dim glow of the lamps hanging from the walls. On either side of the passage stands a transparent glass railing, capturing and refracting the surrounding light, blending modernity with classic elegance.

Four massive pillars anchor the corners of the corridors, each adorned with hanging electric lamps emitting a balanced glow—a fusion of brilliant white and deep amber—creating a warm yet striking contrast in illumination. Looking upward, you find no ceiling to confine the space. Instead, your eyes wander freely, tracing the towering structures that encircle the fifteenth floor of the Purity Organization's school, granting an overwhelming sense of limitless grandeur.

Along the walls, enormous oil paintings tell stories of nature's wonders: breathtaking sunsets bathed in rich hues of crimson and gold, endless fields of flowers swaying in an unseen breeze, and waterfalls so vividly depicted they seem to pulse with life. This corridor is not merely a passageway; it is a journey through art and beauty. Beside some of these paintings, ornate Victorian vases stand gracefully, each holding fresh blossoms that release a delicate, pure fragrance into the air. The scent lingers, making each step through the corridor more than just movement—it becomes an experience, a moment woven with sensory indulgence.

Here, every step is not just a motion but a feeling—of grandeur, of history. It is as if the corridor itself whispers the legacy of the Purity Organization, leaving its mark upon those who walk its path.

The corridor was crowded with students—some on their way to the dining hall, others just leaving it, while a few lingered around, enjoying their free time with no classes at the moment.

Amidst the bustling crowd, Maria walked with a cheerful smile, her hands clasped behind her back in a casual, carefree manner, as if she had no concerns in the world. She was simply enjoying the moment. Tsuyoko, on the other hand, wore an annoyed expression, her pace sluggish as if she had been dragged here against her will. Her steps were unhurried, as though this place meant little to her, while Yuta walked behind them, visibly tense, deeply engrossed in thoughts about how to make his little sister smile.

As Yuta continued his internal struggle, his heart grew heavier with every step. He knew very well that if Maria opened her mouth at that moment, it wouldn't just be a small issue—it could easily escalate into a disaster. All he wished for in that instant was for Maria to remain silent, to avoid making things worse, especially with Tsuyoko's mood appearing fragile and unstable.

Relief washed over Yuta as they neared the dining hall's entrance. He knew he was close to his goal: preventing any unnecessary chaos that could spiral out of control if Maria decided to say something unexpected.

Turning to the girls, Yuta attempted to compose himself, adopting a calm demeanor that fit the moment. With a relaxed voice and a neutral expression, he said, "Girls…"

But before he could continue, his words faltered as he noticed Maria turning toward Tsuyoko with a ridiculous grin, clearly about to say something bizarre. Yuta's eyes widened in fear and tension, his expression filled with dread over what might come out of Maria's mouth.

And then Maria spoke, her voice carrying the same innocence and cluelessness as always.

"Tsuyo-chan!" she called out, stretching the name in an exaggeratedly playful and affectionate tone.

At that moment, Yuta facepalmed in despair. He knew—he just knew—that something incredibly stupid was about to leave Maria's lips.

Tsuyoko, without even glancing at Maria, responded in a flat, irritated tone, "What?" Her face displayed nothing but exhaustion and boredom.

But Maria, completely oblivious to any consequences, continued in the strangest way possible.

"Did you know that your shadow is way taller than you?"

At this point, Yuta sighed in deep despair, feeling utterly defeated by Maria's words, which would only bring more trouble.

The three of them suddenly stopped walking at the exact same moment. Maria, with her clueless smile, utterly unaware of the consequences of her words, the corners of her lips curved into a foolish grin. Yuta, standing there with a worried expression, anxiously waiting for Tsuyoko's reaction, knowing she was on the verge of exploding.

And then there was Tsuyoko—her expression shifted, her eyebrows arching sharply as her jaw clenched, fists tightening as if she was gathering all the suppressed rage inside her. When she finally spoke, her voice was low and strained, dripping with threat.

"Maria, I won't let you off this time. I swear."

Maria looked at Tsuyoko with nothing but her usual innocent, naive expression before responding with obvious sarcasm, "Oh? Really? And how exactly won't you let me off?"

She clasped her hands together, pressing them against her face in an exaggeratedly dramatic manner before adding, "Have you finally admitted that I'm your favorite?"

As soon as Maria finished her words, her eyes fluttered, watching Tsuyoko closely, eagerly waiting for her reaction. And she didn't have to wait long.

The moment Maria's words ended, Tsuyoko's entire body started trembling with fury. Her shoulders shook as she fought the urge to explode, and when she finally spoke, her voice came out strained and broken, her words barely escaping between her sharp, erratic breaths.

"Maria…"

And then—BOOM!

Tsuyoko erupted in sheer rage, yelling at the top of her lungs, "MARIA!!!"

And then—BOOM again!

"YOU'RE DEAD TODAY!"

She lunged at Maria, ready to strike.

At that moment, Maria bolted toward the dining hall at full speed, her heart pounding from fear, yet her face beamed with an infuriating joy that only enraged Tsuyoko even more.

Yuta, panicking, immediately sprinted after them, arms stretched forward in a desperate attempt to stop the chaos. His expression was filled with distress as he shouted in a shaky, high-pitched voice,

"Tsuyoko, PLEASE stop this! This is NOT the solution at all!"

(At the same time)

(In the Purity Organization's School)

(In the main dining hall of the Purity Organization's School)

The Luxurious Victorian Dining Hall

As soon as you step inside through the massive open door, a dark brown masterpiece adorned with intertwined floral carvings—where violet hues dominate the intricate details—you are instantly enveloped by a sense of grandeur and opulence. The hall stretches endlessly before your eyes, so vast and towering that its sheer size makes it impossible to see its boundaries.

Above you, an enormous domed ceiling, carved meticulously from stone, looms high. Adorned with enchanting Victorian embellishments, its elegant lines weave seamlessly into paintings that depict a breathtaking sunset—so masterfully rendered that it feels as if you're standing before a canvas crafted by the greatest of artists.

Tables and chairs are arranged harmoniously across the expanse, each piece a masterpiece in its own right. Made from the finest woods and inlaid with golden accents, they reflect the shimmering glow of the chandeliers suspended from the grand dome, casting a warm and comforting radiance throughout the space. The dining chairs boast high backs with intricate carvings, upholstered in luxurious fabric bearing classic patterns that perfectly complement the grandeur of the hall.

Lining both sides of the hall are medium-sized windows framed by ornate geometric patterns in soft, harmonious colors. These windows create mesmerizing compositions of light and shadow as the sunlight filters through them. The golden rays of day gently embrace the walls, adorned with touches of white and gold, interwoven with shades of deep cherry red and regal blue, enhancing the hall's majestic aura. Vivid streaks of bright yellow add a luminous brilliance, reminiscent of glowing suns suspended in time.

At the heart of the dining hall, magnificent orange-crystal chandeliers dangle from the elaborate domed ceiling, casting their warm glow in a mesmerizing dance across the ornately adorned walls. The ambiance exudes a regal splendor, as though you've stepped into a palace from another era—where beauty and grandeur merge in an enchanting harmony that steals your breath away.

The hall was bustling with students, but the crowd was not chaotic; rather, it was organized in a way that felt comfortable. Each student sat neatly in their seat, eagerly anticipating the arrival of their morning breakfast, as if they were all preparing to recharge for the rest of the school day.

Throughout the hall, waiters and waitresses moved swiftly yet gracefully, navigating between the various tables with practiced expertise. They carried dishes with care, responding to the students' requests without delay. The atmosphere was filled with the soft murmur of conversations, the sound of footsteps against the polished floor, and the enticing aroma of food wafting through the air—creating a warm ambiance that signaled the beginning of a long academic day.

The Waitresses' Attire:

The waitresses wore elegant, long dresses that reached their ankles, meticulously designed to blend beauty with practicality. The dress was fitted at the waist, accentuating their figures, while the skirt flowed smoothly with a slight flare, allowing for ease of movement. The skirt took on a warm shade of orange, adding a touch of vibrancy, whereas the upper part of the dress—the bodice—was black, adorned with silver buttons intricately engraved with lotus flower patterns, giving it a luxurious touch.

The bodice was made of soft, high-quality cotton, while the skirt was crafted from lightweight, hand-embroidered wool, offering an elegant appearance without restricting movement.

Over the dress, the waitresses wore white aprons tied at the waist with long ribbons, made from fine linen, with delicate lace-trimmed edges that added a sophisticated traditional charm.

The sleeves were long and fitted at the wrists, while the high, refined collar was fastened with a small button, harmonizing with the crisp white cuffs that reflected the precision of the outfit's details.

Their ensemble was completed with a small white cap, adorned with delicate layers of lace, carefully positioned atop their heads. As for their footwear, they wore black, closed-toe shoes with low heels, made of glossy leather—a perfect balance between comfort and elegance.

Finally, their attire was complemented by elegant white gloves made of fine rubber, adding an element of cleanliness and professionalism, completing the look with a sense of order and refinement that resonated throughout the hall.)

The Waiters' Attire:

The waiters wore elegant black formal jackets, designed with long tailcoats that added a touch of sophistication and luxury. The jackets were made from fine wool, giving them a refined appearance, and were adorned with gleaming gold buttons that reflected the craftsmanship in their design.

Beneath the jacket, they wore soft, high-quality orange cotton shirts, comfortable yet stylish, with silver buttons engraved with lotus-inspired symbols, adding an artistic and elegant touch. The long sleeves ended with small pearl cufflinks, further enhancing the luxurious look.

The waiters' trousers were long, black, and reached the ankle, made from smooth velvet that provided a rich texture befitting the lavish atmosphere. Around their necks, they wore crisp, pure white bow ties, perfectly complementing their formal and coordinated attire.

Their shoes were polished black, meticulously shined to reflect an elegant gleam, with a classic design featuring a small silver buckle as a final luxurious touch. Lastly, their white rubber gloves completed the look, adding an element of cleanliness and professionalism, reinforcing the refined ambiance of the hall.)

…

The waiters moved with poise, pushing food carts in a smooth and orderly manner, distributing breakfast to each student with quiet precision and respect. Their expressions exuded professionalism and discipline. In return, the students received their meals with evident politeness, expressing gratitude through courteous words or respectful gestures, reflecting the order and sophistication that permeated the hall.

Breakfast:

The breakfast plates were meticulously arranged, exuding a sense of elegance and variety. At the center of each plate lay golden pancakes, glistening as maple syrup drizzled down their sides, garnished with fresh strawberry slices and ripe blackberries. Some plates featured a touch of smooth whipped cream, while others were covered in rich chocolate sauce, offering a variety that catered to all tastes. To complete the presentation, delicate chocolate shavings were scattered over the cream and sauce, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

As for the morning beverage, each student received a warm cup of milk tea, its soothing aroma filling the air, alongside a glass of pure water to ensure a balanced and refreshing start to the day.)

…

At that moment, a deafening scream shattered the calm of the dining hall, ripping through the atmosphere of order and tranquility. The loud voices echoing from the corridor leading to the hall immediately caught the attention of all the students who had been peacefully enjoying their breakfast. A brief moment of confusion took over—their hands froze above their plates, and heads lifted in unison, questioning the source of this sudden chaos.

From beyond the wide-open doors, the shadow of a person came into view, sprinting at an insane speed, their frantic screams preceding their unsteady footsteps. As the figure approached, their features became clear—it was none other than Maria Asahina, her face etched with an expression of excessive fear, though the way she ran carried an undeniably comical air.

Maria burst into the hall before coming to an abrupt stop, bending over with her hands on her knees, panting heavily in an attempt to catch her breath. The students' eyes remained fixed on her for a few moments before recognition settled in. Upon realizing the identity of the one responsible for the terrifying scream, some quietly turned back to their breakfasts, while others began whispering among themselves.

— "She's beautiful, but she's so weird..."

— "What was she running from this time?"

As Maria struggled to regain her breath, she suddenly felt the presence of a tall figure standing near her. Lightly, her gaze dropped downward, and before her, she found a pair of black leather shoes gleaming brilliantly under the hall's lights. Slowly, she lifted her head to look at the man standing firmly in front of her—it was none other than the Dining Hall Gatekeeper, the one responsible for guiding students to their seats and ensuring the doors were closed at the designated time.

(Description of the Gatekeeper's Attire:)

He wore a crisp white shirt, made from the finest cotton, adorned with light blue buttons that added a touch of elegance. Over the shirt, he sported a uniquely designed short men's vest—royal green in the front, olive green in the back—embellished with delicate light blue embroidery. The vest, crafted from luxurious taffeta fabric, was fastened with glossy black buttons that further enhanced its sophistication.

His trousers were long and royal blue, made from soft taffeta, flowing smoothly with a perfectly tailored fit. Completing his look, he wore classic dark brown leather shoes, polished with precision to reflect a subtle shine under the hall's lights.

Maria froze for a moment, instinctively standing up straight, as if her body responded to discipline without her realizing it. The gatekeeper's sharp, stern features were enough to make her uneasy—the last thing she needed right now was another problem. Dealing with Tsuyoko, who was chasing her like a raging bull, was already more than enough.

Heavy seconds passed in silence. Neither of them uttered a word, only exchanging quiet stares. Sweat slowly trickled down Maria's forehead, a clear sign of her growing tension, while the man remained completely still, his expression as unmoving as stone—a statue devoid of emotion.

Maria quickly realized he had no intention of speaking, so she decided to break the suffocating silence. She opened her mouth, attempting to say something:

— "Uhh..."

But before she could finish, she was abruptly cut off when the man's expression shifted—his rigid sternness melting into something unexpectedly gentle. With an upbeat and lively voice, he suddenly said:

— "Good morning, young lady! I'm Tomioka, the hall's guide. May I help you with anything?"

There was no accurate way to describe what Maria felt in that moment—she was like an iceberg, utterly shocked by the sudden warmth of the sun. She completely froze in place, stunned by the man's drastic transformation. Just seconds ago, he had the imposing presence of a royal guard, yet now he was unbelievably friendly!

She examined him closely. Now that the sharpness had faded from his expression, she could finally take in the details of his face. He was a man with strong, mature features. A few faint wrinkles lined his prominent cheekbones—not diminishing his handsomeness but rather adding to his charm. His tall, well-proportioned physique hinted at his dedication to maintaining his health, while his light brown hair fell naturally in soft waves. His eyes, however, were what stood out the most—clear, sky-blue, like the heavens after a storm.

— "Impossible… Is this really the same man?!" Maria thought, struggling to process the drastic shift.

After a few moments of being frozen in place, Maria finally snapped back to reality, forcing a hesitant smile onto her face as she tried to make sense of the situation. But before she could even ask Tomioka a single question, a deafening roar erupted from the entrance of the hall—more like a human roar, filled with raw fury:

— "Asahina Maria! Today is the day you die!"

The voice belonged to Tsuyoko, who stormed into the hall like an enraged bull, her eyes blazing with uncontainable wrath. It seemed that Maria's very existence on this planet was enough to send her into a limitless rage.

Behind her, Yuta appeared, panting heavily, his face drenched in exhaustion and frustration from his failed attempts to restrain his explosive sister.

At that moment, every student in the hall turned their attention to the scene. Such dramatic displays weren't uncommon, but this time, the intensity was on another level. The only difference? They were now thoroughly entertained, watching the spectacle unfold while casually continuing their breakfast, as if enjoying a thrilling film.

As for Maria, pure terror shot through her the moment her gaze met Tsuyoko's fiery eyes. Without a second thought, she darted behind Tomioka, shamelessly using his tall frame and broad body as a makeshift shield. She pressed herself against him so tightly that it almost seemed as if her back was about to fuse with his vest.

Meanwhile, Tomioka, despite the brewing chaos before him, simply wore an innocent, almost clueless smile—completely unfazed by the situation.

Tsuyoko, who had been steadily advancing, came to a halt right in front of him. Due to the massive height difference between them, she had to tilt her head up slightly to meet his gaze—something that was clearly aggravating her beyond words. Her frustration was painfully evident on her face, and she made absolutely no effort to hide it.

In a sharp, dry voice, she said:

— "Move out of my way, old man. I have no problem with you, so don't get involved. The person I want to settle scores with is hiding behind you."

Yuta quickly intervened before the situation escalated further. He stepped forward, apologizing as he spoke in a tone meant to calm the tension:

— "Sorry, sir... My sister doesn't mean to offend you."

Tomioka looked at Yuta with a gentle smile, understanding the situation without showing any signs of annoyance. In fact, he had already planned to step aside to avoid the conflict, but suddenly, he felt something tugging at his coat from behind.

He turned his head slightly to find Maria clinging to him as if he were her last lifeline. Her expression was filled with terror, her eyes tightly shut as if she expected a barrage of punches at any moment.

Tomioka let out a soft sigh, then smiled calmly before turning back to face the siblings, as if he realized the scene wasn't over just yet.

He looked at Tsuyoko calmly, while her features were still ablaze with anger and frustration. She glared at him for a moment, and after realizing he wouldn't budge from his spot, she said in a sharp, threatening voice, furrowing her brows tightly:

— "If you don't move, I'll show you hell, just like I'll show her."

Tomioka continued to look at her with complete composure, not showing the slightest reaction to her threat. He closed his eyes for a moment, took a deep breath, and then exhaled gently. Within seconds, his entire expression changed—the seriousness faded, replaced by a relaxed demeanor, and a kind, soothing smile spread across his face.

He spoke in a warm voice, laced with a gentle, reassuring tone:

— "I understand that you're angry right now, but you need to calm yourself... And remember, forgiveness is a virtue."

There was something strangely calming about his voice, as if it carried with it a wave of serenity. For a brief moment, Tsuyoko felt an unexpected sense of calm wash over her, as though his words had quieted the storm raging in her mind. Her tense, harsh expression slowly began to soften, and the muscles in her face relaxed bit by bit.

She quickly regained her composure, then sighed, as if she had suddenly realized how unjustified her outburst had been. After a moment of silence, she spoke in a softer voice, tinged with some regret:

— "I'm sorry for disturbing you, sir. I hope you can accept my apology."

She then bowed slightly, trying to express her regret sincerely.

Tomioka observed her for a moment, then felt some awkwardness and embarrassment. He raised his hands lightly, waving them a little in an attempt to ease the tension.

At that moment, Maria peeked her head out from behind Tomioka, an air of innocence on her face, then asked in a curious tone, her eyes sparkling with childlike curiosity:

— "So... does this mean you're not going to try to hit me?"

Tsuyoko let out a long sigh in annoyance, then responded with boredom:

— "Yes, I'm not going to hit you... Now, get out from behind the sir, and let's go to the tables. I'm hungry."

She finished her sentence and turned, ready to head to one of the empty tables, but before she could take a step, Tomioka calmly stopped her, saying:

— "Wait a moment, Miss. Did you check the signs first to see where you're sitting?"

At that moment, expressions of confusion appeared on the faces of the three of them, and they looked at him, clearly questioning what he was referring to.

At the same place and moment,

Maria, Tsuyoko, and Yuta stood in front of the sign, staring at it in astonishment, their mouths slightly agape in disbelief. They hadn't expected to see something so extravagant for something as simple as seating arrangements.

The list was attached to the wall, a white board adorned with elegant golden decorations. In the center were the names of the students, written in beautiful golden lettering, surrounded by sleek golden frames. Each name was accompanied by a number engraved next to it, indicating the student's seating position in the hall.

Mr. Tomioka broke their silence, speaking in his calm voice:

— "Well, this is the sign I was talking about. In this list, you'll find all the student names. Next to each name is a number, which indicates your seat in the dining hall. You'll find a number engraved on each table, so look for your names in alphabetical order, and then head to your respective numbers. The names are in alphabetical order, but the numbers themselves are distributed randomly."

A collective murmur of understanding came from the three of them at the same time:

— "Oh..."

Then they turned their attention back to the sign. The lists were extensive, stretching along the wall, starting from the letter "A" and going all the way to the last one. But they quickly realized another problem— the names were positioned too high above their heads, and they couldn't even read half of them. Their expressions shifted from confusion to questioning as they stared at the list as if it were an unsolvable puzzle.

On his part, Mr. Tomioka noticed that they hadn't started looking for their names yet, which made him wonder why. He stared at them for a few moments before realizing the problem, laughing to himself at his oversight.

He then put his hand behind his head in embarrassment, saying with a nervous smile:

— "Ah... I just remembered. I apologize for this mistake, I forgot that these lists are too high for you... Alright, let's go. I'll take you to the Organizer of the list."

At his last words, the three of them turned toward him at the same time, their faces showing signs of intense confusion.

— "The organizer of the list?"

They exchanged glances, wondering what he meant by this strange term.

Maria, Tsuyoko, and Yuta shared confused looks, as if they were trying to decode what Mr. Tomioka had just said. "The organizer of the list?" The expression on their faces made it seem as though they had just heard the name of a secret organization specializing in complex operations, not just someone responsible for seating arrangements.

Maria, never missing a chance for sarcasm, tilted her head slightly to the side, raising an eyebrow with feigned curiosity, and said in a questioning but mocking tone:

— "Wait a minute... The organizer of the list? Are we at a regular academy, or are we on some secret mission? Are we going to meet a mysterious person sitting behind a huge desk, with their hands clasped in a mysterious way, saying in a deep voice: 'I've been expecting you'?"

Yuta, though trying to suppress his laughter, couldn't stop a small smile from sneaking onto his lips. As for Tsuyoko, she sighed and placed a hand on her forehead, her expression exhausted, but she couldn't hide the slight twitch of the corner of her mouth.

Mr. Tomioka, used to such remarks, remained calm but smiled gently, as if speaking to mischievous children:

— "Not exactly, but I can ask the person in charge to sit behind a dark desk if that would make you more excited."

Maria chuckled lightly, then waved her hand playfully, saying with cheer:

— "It's fine, I don't want to scare the poor person!"

At that moment, Mr. Tomioka gestured for them to follow him through the hall. As they walked, Maria began to notice the luxurious details of the hall. The walls were made of dark marble, with columns adorned with golden engravings, while crystal chandeliers scattered a soft sparkle in the air.

Maria whispered to herself as she took in the scene around her:

— "The amount of gold here is more than the jewels of kings... Are we in a school or an imperial palace?"

Yuta responded with a quiet laugh:

— "Every time I think I've gotten used to the luxury of this place, I find out I was wrong."

As for Tsuyoko, she kept her gaze fixed ahead, her expression still stern, but it was clear she was regaining her earlier composure. Moments ago, she had been on the verge of snapping at Maria due to her constant teasing, but now, after Mr. Tomioka's intervention, she was more relaxed. Though she didn't want to admit it, his calm voice and measured words had helped her regain her rationality quickly.

A few moments later, they stopped in front of a sleek desk, behind which sat a middle-aged man with neatly combed gray hair and thin glasses, wearing an elegant and expensive black suit. He observed them with a formal gaze. He held a luxurious notebook, and as they approached, he raised an eyebrow slightly before speaking in a calm yet firm voice:

— "You are looking for your seats, aren't you?"

Mr. Tomioka nodded with a small smile, while the three of them cautiously stepped forward.

Maria, unable to hold back her usual sarcasm, whispered under her breath, though she knew everyone would hear her:

— "Well... he didn't sit behind a dark desk, but he sure looks serious... I think he takes his job more seriously than some professors take teaching itself."

Yuta let out a light cough to hide his laugh, while Tsuyoko shot Maria a sideways glance, as if to say, "Can you please just be quiet for a minute?"

As for the man in charge, he simply cast a cold look at her before speaking dryly:

— "My name is Mr. Norimasa, and I am the supervisor of the seating system. Do I need to remind you that order is the key to success, or will you find your names without any extra drama?"

Maria felt a slight shiver run through her, then slowly turned to Mr. Tomioka, whispering cautiously:

— "Um... well, this guy is more serious than I expected. I guess I'll stay quiet now."

Mr. Tomioka smiled kindly but didn't comment, while the three of them began searching for their names under Mr. Norimasa's watchful eye, making sure not to say anything that might provoke his anger.

The three of them continued searching for their names with focused attention, while Mr. Norimasa stood behind the desk, watching them with sharp eyes, as if making sure they wouldn't make a mistake in the simplest of tasks.

Maria slowly tilted her head as she examined the list in front of her, her eyes following the names written in elegant gold above the luxurious paper. But despite seeming busy, her mind was buzzing with sarcastic thoughts.

— "Seating system? Engraved numbers? An official list? I feel like we're in a secret meeting for the elite, not just a dining hall at a school... when are they going to ask us for our credentials?"

But she decided not to voice this aloud, especially after Mr. Norimasa's previous look, which was enough to make even the boldest of people reconsider their choices.

Yuta, who had been running his finger along the names, suddenly stopped when he found his own. He leaned forward slightly and read the number next to it:

— "Hah, table number 12..."

He turned toward Tsuyoko, who had also found her name. When she read her number, a look of displeasure crossed her features.

— "Table number 5..."

She said it coolly, but it was clear she wasn't happy, which made Maria raise an eyebrow and ask with curiosity:

— "Why do you look like they've put you in some far-off exile? It's just a dining table."

Tsuyoko glanced at her sideways, then sighed in annoyance before replying:

— "Because I wanted to sit at a specific table, but they put me at another one."

Maria nodded as if she understood, but didn't miss the chance to tease her playfully:

— "Ah, I see... So you're the type who takes the whole seating arrangement very seriously, like it's a life-or-death game of chess?"

Tsuyoko sighed without answering, but her eyes clearly said, "If I weren't so tired from this day, I'd have buried you here."

Mr. Norimasa, however, ignored the entire conversation and simply looked at Maria sharply, waiting for her to find her name. Maria felt the strange pressure and silently swallowed, then began quickly running her finger over the list until she finally found her name.

She paused for a moment when she read the number next to her name. She blinked a few times, then smiled slowly, as if processing the surprise.

— "Well, this is interesting..."

Yuta leaned in closer to take a look at the list, then raised an eyebrow in surprise and said:

— "Table number 1?"

Tsuyoko also turned toward the list, and when she saw the number, she let out a short exhale, whispering as if speaking to herself:

— "Of course... this was expected."

Mr. Tomioka looked at Maria calmly, as if he weren't surprised at all. Maria noticed this, tilted her head slightly, and asked him:

— "You don't seem surprised. Did you know beforehand?"

Mr. Tomioka nodded slightly before answering in his usual calm voice:

— "Of course. Table number 1 is reserved for students with special rankings."

Maria couldn't help but raise an eyebrow slightly as she asked slowly:

— "Special rankings? Like what?"

Mr. Norimasa looked at her with a steady gaze before speaking in a formal, dry tone:

— "Students of strategic importance. Whether due to their abilities, status, or other reasons the administration deems necessary."

Maria didn't respond immediately, but she felt a certain thrill inside her. It wasn't that she was all that surprised—after all, her abilities weren't exactly ordinary, as she always claimed—but this classification made things more interesting.

She took a brief moment to think, then smiled lightly and said with a sarcastic tone:

— "So, I'm an important figure here? Well, that suits me."

Yuta smiled faintly, while Tsuyoko merely shot her a sidelong glance before responding coldly:

— "Don't let this go to your head."

Maria placed a dramatic hand on her chest before saying exaggeratedly:

— "Oh, how could you say that? I'm just an ordinary and gentle girl, I could never be vain with such a position."

Tsuyoko didn't respond, but she let out a soft exhale, as if resisting a deep urge to kick her.

At that moment, Mr. Norimasa decided to bring the matter to an end. He closed his notebook and said sternly:

— "Now that you've found your seats, you may proceed to your designated tables. Do not cause any disruption."

Maria put her hands behind her head and cheerfully said:

— "Of course, of course! We're model citizens."

But Mr. Norimasa's expression didn't change, prompting Yuta to gently pull Maria by the arm and whisper:

— "Don't provoke him any further, let's go before he decides to give you a lecture on discipline."

Maria laughed as she followed them, while Tsuyoko walked beside her, trying to ignore the growing feeling that she would need a lot of patience if she wanted to survive the coming days.

In the dining hall,

The atmosphere inside the hall was bustling with sounds, a mix of student conversations, the clinking of metal utensils against plates, and the warm smell of breakfast filling the air with a cozy ambiance.

At table number 1, Maria sat with her elbows on the table, staring at the dish in front of her: golden, crispy pancakes drenched in shiny maple syrup, with soft whipped cream and fresh slices of strawberries and blackberries adorning the edges.

— "Wow, this looks amazing..."

She muttered to herself before eagerly picking up her fork and knife, but her eyes quickly drifted toward table number 5, where Tsuyoko was quietly seated three chairs away. She was eating her breakfast in silence, her brows furrowed slightly, as if trying to enjoy her meal without disturbance.

But, of course, that wasn't an option as long as Maria was nearby.

— "Tsuyo-chan~~"

Maria called out in a drawn-out tone, leaning forward a little as if trying to stretch her neck across the distance between them. Tsuyoko didn't lift her eyes, instead calmly placing a piece of pancake into her mouth, as if she hadn't heard anything.

But Maria wasn't the type to give up easily.

— "Hey, are you ignoring me? Ouch, Tsuyoko-chan, we're friends, right?"

Despite Maria's friendly tone, it was clear she was enjoying provoking her quiet companion.

Finally, Tsuyoko quietly set down her fork, glanced up toward Maria, and said coldly:

— "There are three seats between us, enjoy your meal in your own space."

Maria laughed, then rested her head on her hand while looking at her mischievously:

— "But my breakfast isn't as delicious without some company, right, Yuta?"

She turned to Yuta, who was sitting at his own table, but was able to see the scene clearly. He raised his eyebrows as he chewed a piece of pancake, then said cheerfully:

— "Of course, company makes the food taste better. But in your case, I feel like Tsuyoko doesn't think the same way."

— "Yuta, don't ruin my spirits like this!"

Maria said dramatically, as though her heart had been wounded, then she turned back to Tsuyoko with a pleading look:

— "At least, can I taste your pancake?"

Tsuyoko looked at her slowly, then at her plate, then back at Maria before she said coldly:

— "Your plate has the same thing."

— "But food from others is always tastier!"

Maria slowly reached out her hand, trying to pull the plate toward her, but Tsuyoko stopped her by pressing her fork down onto the table, freezing Maria in place. Maria then slowly withdrew her hand, smiling innocently.

— "Okay, okay, I get it, I won't touch it, no need for violence."

Tsuyoko sighed and went back to eating her breakfast in silence, while Maria sat there watching her for a few moments before lifting a piece of pancake to her mouth and smiling:

 — "Even though you pretend to be cold, I think you like having me here."

Tsuyoko didn't reply, but she lifted her cup of milk tea to her lips, hiding a small smile that almost appeared.

In the halls of the Purity Organization,

After finishing breakfast, both Yuta and Tsuyoko got up from their seats, as they had to head to their first lecture of the day.

 — "So, we're going now. Don't cause any trouble, Maria."

Yuta said while adjusting his tie, as Maria looked at him with a teasing smile, leaning on the table.

 — "Me? Trouble? How could you say that about me? I'm an innocent angel!"

She delivered her line dramatically, placing a hand on her chest as if shocked by his accusation.

 — "Yes, of course, the angel of chaos."

Tsuyoko mumbled as she walked past her, not bothered by Maria's usual theatrics. Maria shot her an amused look before casually waving them off.

 — "Enjoy your time in the lecture while I enjoy my freedom!"

And so, they left, heading toward their classrooms, leaving Maria alone in the dining hall.

– Walking through the school –

Since she didn't have any lectures at that hour, Maria found herself wandering the halls of the Purity Organization school, or as it appeared to her, a luxurious mansion that looked like a polished jewel.

 Everything around her gleamed with an exaggerated opulence. The walls were decorated with designs carved from pure gold, while the edges were adorned with shining silver. On either side of the hallway, tables and couches made from real sapphires and diamonds were placed, surrounded by royal embellishments that made the place look like a palace belonging to another world.

Maria walked slowly, her hand brushing over the cold edges of the furniture, her eyes admiring the ceiling decorated with rare crystals.

 — "Oh, what an incredible waste! I wonder how much this table costs? Three, maybe four mansions?"

She muttered sarcastically to herself as she tapped her finger on a table made entirely of green emerald. But soon, she grew bored, letting out a long sigh as she placed her hands behind her head.

 — "This place is so fancy it's boring... I need some entertainment."

As she walked, she spotted a group of young men standing together in one of the hallways, talking among themselves. She didn't know them, but that didn't stop her from making a decision right away.

With confident steps, she approached the group and walked right into the middle of them without hesitation, placing her hands on the shoulders of two young men standing next to each other.

 — "Oh, what a charming scene! Handsome young men gathered like this? Could it be fate that brought me to you?"

 She spoke playfully, raising an eyebrow mischievously, which made the group turn toward her in surprise. One of them, a young man with black hair and blue eyes, looked at her hesitantly before asking:

— "You're... Maria, right?"

— "Oh, so you've heard about me already? That makes things easier!"

She smiled as her gaze shifted between the young men, then added jokingly:

— "I have a serious question... Which one of you is going to be my knight in shining armor today? I don't want to feel lonely in this cold palace!"

There was a brief silence before one of them burst out laughing, while the others exchanged surprised looks.

— "Oh, you really aren't shy, huh?"

Said a young man with silver hair, placing his hand on his hip as he looked at her with a mix of astonishment and amusement.

— "Shyness is for the weak! Now, gentlemen, who among you would like to spend some time with a fun and cheerful girl like me?"

The group started laughing and responding to her spontaneous way, and Maria found herself having a good time, easing some of the boredom she had felt since morning.

– At the front entrance of the school –

Maria was sitting on the stair tiles in front of the Purity Organization, talking to the group of young men who had gathered around her, the ones she met in one of the school hallways. They had shown admiration for her witty remarks and her undeniable beauty.

Her conversation was full of humorous comments that made everyone laugh, and as she teased them and waved her hand, she felt as if she had cast a shadow of fun around them.

"You know, if I had a job, I would totally work as a comedian, wouldn't I?" she said in a deep voice, her face spreading into a wide smile.

One of them laughed and said, "You're better than any comedian! We can't stop laughing when you're around."

The young men's reaction was to laugh, as if she had lit up the room with her energy. Maria noticed how they were becoming more surprised by her captivating beauty and the smoothness of her speech. She took every moment to enjoy this interaction, knowing it was helping her shake off some of the boredom she'd been feeling.

"Oh, that's sweet of you, but you should know that I can make anyone laugh without even speaking!" Maria replied, raising an eyebrow challengingly, as the others burst into laughter.

But as she was speaking, Maria heard a soft noise from below the stairs. She looked down, where a group of girls were standing in front of a young man who seemed indifferent to his surroundings. He was eating his chips as if he were in another world while the girls tried to win his attention, taking turns to impress him with exaggerated conversations.

The girls were gathering around the young man in a way that wasn't without subtle competition, each one trying to catch his attention in a different manner. Their attempts ranged from innocent to manipulative, but they all tried to appear in the best light possible.

"You know, I heard you like old movies. Maybe we can watch something together?"one of the girls said in a sweet tone, with a smile colored with hope. She had studied his interests well in previous conversations and tried to find a common ground with his love for films.

But the young man, who was casually eating his chips, didn't seem to care about what the girl had said. She felt a slight embarrassment, but her actions remained overly kind.

On the other side, another girl, bolder in her approach, tried to catch his attention in a different way. "If you like fast food, I could make you a meal next time. I think I'm pretty good at making delicious pizza!" she said in a low voice, gently running her fingers through her hair, trying to show her interest in small details that might catch his attention.

The other girl, more reserved, observed the scene with a scrutinizing gaze, though without showing any desire to compete. She added casually, "I know great places for coffee if you're looking for a quiet spot away from the crowd." She tried to present herself as the suitable choice for calm conversation, away from the complexities.

But despite their multiple attempts, the young man remained absorbed in his own world, his eyes focused solely on the chips as if they were the only thing worthy of his attention. He was trapped in a bubble of indifference, lost in the simple pleasure of eating.

In that moment, the young man reflected a type of indifference that spoke to a part of his personality; perhaps he was someone who preferred solitude or found it difficult to care for others. This moment carried much psychological turmoil for the girls, who felt frustrated by his continuous disregard, while the young man smiled nonchalantly, showing no real interest.

The girls hadn't given up yet, but they were starting to realize their attempts might be in vain. Yet, each one of them hid within herself a desire to be the only one to capture his attention.

As Maria closely watched the scene, she couldn't bear this exaggerated display. Nothing could be more irritating to her than the over-the-top attempts to attract attention in such a superficial manner.

This situation sparked much thought in Maria's mind, who had a more complex personality than these girls with their simple behavior.

She watched the scene coldly, feeling that this type of seduction didn't fit her at all.

"Is this how girls act these days?" Maria thought to herself, the internal struggle brewing in her mind between continuing to ignore it or taking a stand against this absurd display.

The words echoed in her mind: "Is it necessary for them to act this way to get his attention?" Still, she knew deep down that everyone had their way of showing interest, even if it seemed excessive.

Maria smirked slyly and turned her attention back to the scene. She was about to ignore it and walk away, but something caught her eye. It wasn't the young man himself, but something else. This prompted her to act in an unexpected way.

Without hesitation, Maria moved swiftly, heading towards the edge of the stairs. She tried to find her balance on the edge of the tiles as she prepared to throw herself downward, ignoring the warnings from the young men surrounding her.

"Maria, stop! This is dangerous!" one of the young men said urgently, reaching out in an attempt to grab her.

"Are you crazy? Don't do it!" another added, trying to stop her from getting any closer. His eyes were full of concern.

Maria flashed a small smile, but it was full of mischief. "Don't worry! I know you're scared, but I'll be fine." she replied confidently, trying to maintain her balance on the edge.

"You shouldn't take such a risk!" a third said, staring at her in disbelief. "You could fall and get hurt!"

"Don't worry, I'm great at balancing, and I think I'll be just fine, more than you expect," Maria said, her eyes glinting with defiance.

But nothing could stop her. Her determination was stronger than any warning.

She pushed herself forward and leapt down the stairs as if she intended to fall on purpose. The girls below looked up in shock when they saw Maria falling through the air. Their faces were a mix of surprise and fear, as they tried to move, but they were frozen in complete disbelief.

"What is she doing?" one of the girls whispered in extreme concern, her eyes widening in a moment of panic.

"Is she insane?!" another shouted loudly, her voice filled with terror as she tried to move forward but stopped in place, as if she couldn't act.

The moment passed in a matter of seconds, and the young man who had been munching on his chips suddenly looked up.

He had been completely absorbed in his food, but when he felt something moving in the air, he suddenly realized that Maria was heading toward him, about to fall.

The moment she began losing her balance, his expression showed indifference, as if the situation wouldn't bother him, but his features quickly changed when he realized he could get hurt too.

One moment, then he thought about moving quickly away, but he couldn't let the girl fall on him. Instinctively, he shot his hands upward in an almost automatic motion, trying to catch her. The movement was sudden and fast, like an innate reflex, as his masculinity wouldn't allow him to let things go awry.

Maria fell into the young man's arms, like a feather drifting through the air. He caught her tightly, as if she were something precious, and Maria clung to him, placing one hand behind his neck and the other on his shoulder. In that moment, Maria opened her eyes, which had been closed just moments ago, wearing a near-fake expression of fear. Her pupils met his.

The room was filled with a prolonged silence, as they both stared at each other. Maria was completely uninterested in what was happening, observing the reactions of those around them, but she continued the act flawlessly. As for the young man, he was in a state of confusion, trying to process what was going on. He was staring at her beauty, as if her beauty had overtaken his senses, making him wonder to himself: Where did all this beauty come from?

But after a few seconds, the young man snapped back to reality due to Maria's unexpected words.

— "I know, my beauty is irresistible." She said, her eyes sparkling with amusement, smiling with a hint of sarcasm, as if she was enjoying the thrilling situation.

Then, before he had the chance to respond or even reflect, Maria lightly stood up from his arms, as though nothing had happened.

She took a step back and began walking away from the scene, enjoying the shocked and bewildered looks on everyone's faces. It was just a little joke, but she was fully aware of its impact.

A wicked smile formed on her face as she walked away, not caring at all about leaving everyone in a state of confusion.

The young man was stunned by what had just happened, still in shock from what occurred.

He looked at Maria as she walked away from him, while the girls behind him stared at her in clear astonishment. It seemed like he was the only one who hadn't fully processed the situation.

In that moment, all he saw was her calm beauty, her sharp eyes, and her captivating smile, which made him lose himself for a moment. A strange feeling washed over him, as if everything had stopped for a second.

With no regard for what was happening around him, the young man made an involuntary gesture, shrugging his shoulders with clear indifference.

"Ah, whatever. Even if she's strange," he muttered to himself as he returned to the chips in his hand, trying to regain his mental balance. But suddenly, he felt something strange. "Where did the chips go?" he whispered to himself as his eyes started to scan the room in confusion.

He stood still for a moment, recalling the previous instant. He remembered that when Maria had fallen onto him, she had moved a little while he was holding her.

And with that, he deduced that perhaps she had stolen the chips without him noticing in the commotion. When he looked at his hands again, he realized there was no trace of them. He glanced at Maria, who had walked a little further away, and saw her smirking sarcastically, waving at him while holding the chips that had once been his.

The young man paused for a moment, trying to process what had happened, but it was clear. Maria wasn't just surprising him; she was indirectly mocking him.

She stopped, turned her head toward him, then smiled provocatively, lifting the chips he had just lost and waving them as if saying to him in an indirect tone, "I stole your food, you fool."

— "Ah! Did you do that on purpose?" he exclaimed, catching his breath after the shock, then began to follow her steps quickly. "Give me back my chips, you food thief!" he shouted at her while running after her, his voice lighthearted but laced with challenge.

Maria started running fast, heading deeper into the building, with a slight smile on her lips as if she were enjoying playing with this young man who she believed would chase after her.

As for the young man with lavender hair and light blue streaks, he seemed to be trying to keep his balance in the situation. He was of average height, about a centimeter taller than Maria, with calm features that became more mocking as he distanced himself from the scene.

He wasn't showing much interest in what was going on around him in general, but Maria's charm was occupying his thoughts now, especially after she had stolen his chips in such an unexpected way. He was wearing the standard student uniform of the Purity Organization, which added a touch of seriousness to his image, despite the playful actions he was showing now.

…

Maria ran eagerly through the halls of the Purity Organization's school, chips in hand, while Kaito chased after her, shouting in frustration,

"Give me back my food, you food thief!"

The students and servants working around the area paused for a moment, staring at them in clear astonishment, trying to understand this unusual scene.

At that moment, a young man exited the school library, holding in his hands a deep book titled "A History of Western Philosophy" by Bertrand Russell. He was reading it passionately, immersed in the world of great philosophers.

As he walked calmly down the corridor, he heard the scream that Kaito had let out. He lifted his gaze from his book and looked toward the source of the sound. He saw Maria, laughing hysterically, her eyes sparkling with mischief, her head tilted in an attractive way as she glanced over her shoulder. Kaito was chasing her, running faster, shouting threateningly.

"Give me back my food, you food thief!" Kaito yelled again.

Maria, turning her head and smiling provocatively, noticed Kaito's expression, which only fueled his excitement and made him run even faster. She widened her eyes in a mischievous manner, then increased her own speed. But suddenly, her expression changed from one of mockery to one of surprise and confusion. The young man who had just come out of the library was standing in the middle of the hallway, frowning, as if he had blocked her way.

She was running too fast, and couldn't stop in time. She tried with all her might to slow down, but the moment was too short.

As for the young man in the middle of the hallway, he didn't think to step aside. Instead, he raised his hands in a dramatic fashion, shouting loudly as if he were trying to prevent them from colliding:

"Stop, stop! There will be a disaster!"

But the devastating impact came in the next instant.

The chips flew out of Maria's hand, and the young man's book dropped from his hands. With the violent shock, Maria found herself directly on top of him. As the young man lay on the ground, the exchanged glances between them turned into surprised and questioning looks, both trying to comprehend what had just happened.

But there was no time for amazement, as Kaito quickly intervened. He yanked Maria's jacket collar violently, lifting her off the ground and turning her toward him. Grabbing the collar of her shirt tightly, he spoke in an angry voice:

"Where are my chips, you food thief?"

Anger was flashing in his eyes as he tightened his grip on her shirt, attempting to assert his dominance, while Maria, despite the embarrassing situation, smiled playfully.

Maria didn't answer him, still wearing an expression of indifference as he continued to fume, steam like that of a raging bull emanating from his nostrils. The steam from his nose reached Maria's face, and she looked at him with a nonchalant expression, muttering, "What's wrong with the people with the bull breaths?"

"Answer my question—where are my chips?" he said loudly, grinding his teeth together.

Without a care in the world, Maria pointed with her finger in the direction where Kaito's chips had fallen. Kaito quickly looked to the spot she pointed at, and there, scattered on the ground, were the chips. His expression shifted suddenly, from intense anger to a dreamy smile, as though his life had returned to its rightful course.

Maria, watching his reaction closely, glanced at the scattered chips, then looked back at him, surprised, as if wondering about this strange and somewhat disgusting situation at the same time.

As the camera zoomed in on the scattered chips on the ground, a stylish pair of women's shoes appeared, made of shiny black leather, completing the picture. Then the camera slowly pulled back to reveal the identity of the approaching person—it was the janitor, or rather, one of the school servants. She was dragging a trash bin, her face clearly showing disgust at the food scattered on the floor, incomplete.

The janitor sighed deeply, as if the fatigue of her day had intensified. She bent down to pick up the bag of chips, opened the lid of the trash bin, and tossed the bag inside. Then she closed it tightly, while Kaito stood frozen in place, completely stunned, watching the scene as if his mind couldn't comprehend what was happening in front of him.

As for Maria, she showed no interest in what was going on. She was just trying to free herself from Kaito's grip, which was still firmly holding her shirt collar.

Meanwhile, the young man Maria had fallen on earlier remained standing, frozen like a statue, utterly baffled by the unfolding events, unable to do anything but stare at the confusing scene.

As the janitor prepared to leave, she began dragging the trash bin with wheels to make it easier to carry. She passed by Kaito, who was still in shock, and he followed her with his gaze, as if trying to remember her face, that servant, as if he were plotting some unreasonable revenge.

As soon as the bag of chips disappeared into the trash bin, a heavy silence settled over the place. Kaito continued staring at the bin as if he still hoped the bag would somehow return. Then, he released his grip on Maria's collar, and she breathed a sigh of relief as she straightened her clothes a little. But she had barely done that when she heard Kaito speak with deep sadness:

"It... it's gone... it's gone forever..."

The scene shifts to a Chibi style.

The characters' proportions changed humorously, and Kaito turned into a tiny version with sparkling eyes filled with collected tears. He then dropped to his knees in a dramatic pose, raising his hands to the sky as he wailed:

"Ahhh! My precious chips! We were together through thick and thin! I promised I would never leave you, but... but they took you from me!!"

His tears began to fall like little fountains, muttering incomprehensible words, drowning in his sorrow as if the world around him had collapsed.

As for Maria, she stood frozen in place, staring at Kaito with wide eyes, unable to comprehend how an adult could break down like this over a bag of chips. Her expression shifted into a mix of shock and tension, while cold beads of sweat formed on her forehead.

The young man Maria had fallen on earlier, who had been silently watching the whole time, felt extremely confused. He looked at Kaito, then at Maria, then back at Kaito, as if his mind was desperately trying to find a logical explanation for what he was witnessing.

Kaito continued muttering softly, still tears dripping from his eyes, which finally made Maria sigh in defeat. She raised her hand and wiped her face tiredly, then placed her hand on her hip and spoke in a desperate tone:

"Okay, okay... stop the crying. We'll go to the snack hall, and I'll buy you new chips, so cut it out with this wailing."

At that moment, Kaito's wailing stopped suddenly, and he lifted his head quickly, his tears vanishing in the blink of an eye. He looked at Maria with wide eyes and then asked with childlike enthusiasm:

"Really? You'll buy me one?!"

Maria answered as she crossed her arms in boredom: "Yes, yes... just stop acting like you've lost a family member."

Koito got up from the ground with an exaggerated movement, wiping his face as if he hadn't been crying just moments ago. He then placed his hands on his hips and said enthusiastically:

"Awesome! Then let's go to the snack hall right now!"

As for the other young man, he continued to stare at them, shocked, wondering to himself: "Is... is this normal? Am I the only one who finds all of this completely illogical?"

Maria and Koito began walking towards the snack hall, but suddenly, Maria stopped walking, causing Koito, who had only been thinking about his food, to look at her in confusion. He noticed she was turning her head back, looking at the young man she had fallen on earlier.

The young man, still in a state of shock from what had happened, felt a shiver run through his body when his eyes met Maria's, as if she was staring directly into his soul. He shuddered a little, feeling tense from her sudden attention.

Koito, realizing Maria had stopped for some reason, also looked at the same young man, then raised an eyebrow in confusion before returning to think about the sweets waiting for him. He had no interest in what was going on, other than getting his food.

Maria broke the silence and called out to the young man casually:

"Oh, book boy! Come with us to the snack hall."

The young man opened his mouth as if he was about to say something, but the words didn't come out. The tension grew on his face as he tried to process how he had suddenly become part of this strange situation.

"I-I? No, no, no need for that...!"

But before he could finish his sentence, Maria confidently approached him, gently grabbing his wrist but not leaving him any room to resist, and began pulling him towards the spot where Koito was standing.

She said with insistence and a bright optimism:

"Come with us! We're friends now, right?"

The young man became even more flustered, trying to find a convincing response, but he couldn't think of anything to say in front of her wide smile and natural confidence. As for Koito, he didn't care about what was happening, as long as Maria hadn't said anything about canceling their trip to the snack hall.

Maria stood between them, then wrapped her arms around their shoulders and pulled them close to her unexpectedly, causing both of them to freeze for a moment.

Then, she continued speaking with brightness, her eyes sparkling with an incredible positive energy:

"So, let's enjoy together! We're friends now!"

In that moment, Maria smiled with a bright, beautiful, and enchanting smile, as if the sun itself had lit up the room.

Kaito and the other young man, despite their differing personalities, couldn't help but feel drawn to that moment. There was an irresistible energy in Maria. They exchanged glances for a few seconds, then smiled instinctively, as if her charm had affected them without them realizing it.

Koito said enthusiastically: "Okay, as long as there's food, I'm in!"

As for the other young man, he sighed in resignation and said shyly: "Alright... fine, I'll go with you."

As soon as they agreed, Maria jumped up happily, shouting excitedly:

"Great! Let's go then!"

Then she started running quickly, laughing loudly, causing the two young men to look at each other for a moment before they both smiled, then began running after her.

And so, in an unexpected moment, a strange friendship formed between three people who weren't supposed to meet, but somehow, they found themselves running together, laughing as if they had known each other for a long time.

Three hours after the event that brought Maria, Koito, and Yuki together, the atmosphere at the academy was still lively, with students moving around the place, engaged in conversations or enjoying their meals.

To be continued.

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