The Ultimate Test Begins

The atmosphere in the classroom was tense. Every student sat at their desk, the sound of scribbling pens and rustling papers filling the room. The mid-semester exams had finally arrived, and for Isagi, this was more than just a test — it was a battle for pride.

Isagi glanced at the clock. Time was slipping away fast, but he felt confident. He had prepared well, thanks to May's constant support and their late-night study sessions. Every question he answered felt like a step closer to victory.

May sat a few rows away, her brow furrowed in concentration. Despite her nervousness, she was giving it her all. And Rin — Isagi could see his rival's usual calm demeanor, his pen moving swiftly across the paper.

When the final bell rang, signaling the end of the exam, Isagi stretched his arms and let out a breath of relief. As the students handed in their papers and started filing out, Rin approached Isagi.

"I hope you're ready," Rin said with a smirk. "Because when the results come out, I'll be the one on top."

Isagi didn't rise to the bait. He simply shrugged and walked away. There was no point arguing — the results would speak for themselves.

Two days later, the results were posted. A crowd gathered around the bulletin board, whispers and gasps filling the air.

"Isagi Yoichi — 1st place."

Isagi's eyes widened. He had done it. He had actually done it.

"May Nakamura — 2nd place."

He turned and saw May's face light up with joy. They exchanged a glance, and she gave him a proud nod.

"Rin Itoshi — 3rd place."

The crowd began to disperse, and Rin approached them slowly. There was no bitterness in his expression — just acceptance.

"You won this time," Rin said, his tone calm. "But don't think this is over. I enjoyed this competition, and I want to keep pushing myself. Next time, I'll be aiming for the top again."

Isagi extended a hand. "I wouldn't want it any other way."

Rin shook his hand, a small smile forming on his face.

Later that day, as they walked back to the dormitory, Isagi turned to May.

"Thank you," he said softly. "I couldn't have done this without you."

May blushed, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "Well, you worked hard too. And… I'm glad I could help."

For the first time in a while, things felt peaceful. But Isagi knew that with rivals like Rin and a partner like May, the journey was only just beginning.