CHAPTER 1

*NOTE:I DIDNT KNOW THERE WAS A CHARECTER NAMEd KUZE MASACHIKA*

I step into the school, the familiar sound of footsteps and chatter filling the air. It's a quiet, typical morning, but I can't shake the feeling that something's off today. My thoughts keep drifting to Kanzaki. Ever since the conversation earlier, I can't help but wonder where his mind is at. There's something he's not telling me.

I walk past the students milling about, exchanging polite smiles and nods as I pass. Everyone seems caught up in their own little world. They don't know what it's like to carry the weight of being perfect, of always needing to maintain an image. It's exhausting, and sometimes I just wish I could blend in like they do. But that's not how the Masachikas are seen. We're always expected to stand out, to lead.

Kanzaki isn't like the others. He's not obsessed with power or control, not in the same way the rest of our family can be. He's calm, level-headed, but I can see the edges of something more beneath his surface. It's in the way he approaches every situation with precision and quiet confidence, never rushing into things. It's a quality I respect, though I don't think he realizes it.

"Hey, Kuze!"

I turn, spotting Kanzaki walking toward me, his usual easygoing smile on his face. He's not cold like the others—there's a warmth to him that's almost... reassuring. He's one of the few people I feel like I can talk to without having to put up a front.

"You look deep in thought today," he says as he falls into step beside me. His voice is casual, but there's an unspoken understanding between us. He knows I don't often share what's going on in my head.

"Just thinking about... the usual stuff," I say, trying to brush it off. But he raises an eyebrow, clearly not buying it.

"Something's on your mind, isn't it?" he presses. "Don't tell me you're stressed about the family again. You know you don't have to carry it all on your own."

I sigh, glancing away. It's true. I don't have to. But it's hard to escape it, to escape the expectations that come with being a part of this family. I've always been good at keeping my emotions in check, but sometimes it feels like there's no space left to breathe.

"I'm fine," I say, trying to reassure him as much as myself. "It's just... everything. The school, the family, the expectations. It gets to you, you know?"

He nods, his expression softening. "I get it. I do. But you don't have to be perfect all the time. You're not alone in this."

I pause, considering his words. I want to believe him, but it's hard when you've been raised to think you always have to be perfect. There's no room for failure when you come from a family like ours.

Before I can respond, Kanzaki claps me on the shoulder. "Anyway, we've got class, right? No sense in stressing over things we can't control."

I force a smile and nod. He's right, in a way. Stressing won't change anything. It's just... hard to let go of the constant pressure.

We walk side by side into the building, the halls buzzing with students preparing for the day. For now, everything seems normal. But the tension I've been feeling won't go away. I can't shake the feeling that something is coming, something bigger than all of us.

And when it arrives il be .

The bell rings, signaling the start of another school day. The quiet hum of conversation fades as students shuffle to their respective classes, and Kanzaki and I part ways in the hallway. As usual, he heads toward the advanced class, where I know he thrives. It's where all the top students are grouped, where his natural charisma allows him to lead without anyone even realizing it. His presence is steady, a balance between quiet strength and calm authority.

Meanwhile, I'm headed in the opposite direction, into a classroom that doesn't quite match my potential. But that's the way it is here. You're placed where you fit, or rather, where they think you fit. No one ever questions it. And honestly, I don't mind. It gives me space. Space to observe. Space to think. Space to plot.

I take my seat near the back, alone as always. The other students filter in, each greeting one another with friendly waves or murmurs. It's the usual morning routine, but something feels off. A few of the students glance at me as they pass, their eyes lingering just a moment too long. I know what they're thinking. They don't get the full picture of the Masachika family. All they see is the perfection, the calm, the stoic faces we wear every day. They don't know the cost behind it. They don't know what it's like to be expected to be perfect all the time.

As I sit there, I can't help but wonder if Kanzaki ever feels that weight. If anyone in this school does.

"Hey, Kuze."

I snap out of my thoughts, looking up to see one of my classmates, Yumi, standing in front of my desk. She's smiling, though there's an underlying uncertainty to her expression. She must have noticed me zoning out, again.

"Are you okay?" she asks, her voice light but sincere. "You seemed... out of it this morning."

I hesitate. I don't like lying, but I don't like talking about myself either. It's easier to keep things to myself. People don't need to know what's going on in my head.

"I'm fine," I say, offering her a smile that I hope seems genuine enough. "Just thinking about the upcoming exams."

Yumi nods, though I can tell she's not entirely convinced. She hesitates for a moment, then leans in slightly, lowering her voice.

"You know," she says, "if you ever need help with anything... I know you're really busy with the Masachika stuff, but you don't have to do everything alone."

Her words hit me harder than I expected. Not because they're profound, but because of how easily she said them. How simple it was for her to offer help without thinking twice. To her, I'm just another student who might need help. But to me? The thought of relying on someone else feels... foreign.

Before I can respond, the teacher enters the room, and the chatter dies down instantly. Class is starting.

As I take out my notebook, I can feel Yumi's gaze still lingering on me, but I force myself to focus. No time for distractions today. There's a bigger game at play.

The lessons pass in a blur, but my mind keeps returning to Kanzaki. He's always one step ahead, and I can't help but wonder if he's planning something today. There's a calm about him, but it's the kind of calm that suggests a storm is brewing beneath the surface. He's not perfect either, but he's good at hiding it.

The class period drags on, and I can feel my thoughts getting more restless. It's the pressure, I know. It's always there, nagging at the back of my mind. The weight of what's expected of me. Of all of us.

The bell rings again, and the students file out of the classroom. I gather my things slowly, taking a moment to clear my mind before I step back into the chaos of the school. There's something about today that feels different. I can't put my finger on it yet, but I know it's coming.

---

The rest of the day moves in a similar fashion. I walk through the halls, my footsteps echoing slightly as I make my way to the next class. Students move around me, some talking, others lost in their own thoughts. A few of them glance at me, but for the most part, I remain unnoticed—just another face in the crowd.

By the time the final bell rings, signaling the end of the school day, I feel a familiar weight lift off my shoulders. The pressure of expectations never fully fades, but it's easier to bear once the day is over. I can leave this place, go home, and hide away in the comfort of my thoughts.

I gather my things quickly, making my way out the door. The campus is still buzzing with students, but I keep my head down. I'm not in the mood for small talk.

As I reach the school gates, I spot Kanzaki across the courtyard. He's standing with a small group of students, casually talking and laughing as if it's the most natural thing in the world. His smile is effortless, the kind of smile that's always been a part of him. It's strange, in a way—his ability to be so open, so social, while I struggle to even maintain the illusion of normality.

I stop for a moment, just watching him.

I wonder if he ever feels trapped by the same expectations. Does he ever wish for a break, a chance to just be himself? Or is this his "self," the confident, approachable persona that everyone loves?

I shake my head, snapping myself out of my thoughts.

"Focus," I mutter under my breath. There's no time to waste on such things.

Just as I start to turn away, I hear a voice behind me.

"Kuze."

I turn around to see Kanzaki approaching. He's already walking toward me, his expression neutral but with a hint of curiosity.

"You heading home already?" he asks, though it's more of an observation than a question.

I nod. "Yeah. I've got some things to take care of."

He glances around, noticing the way the students around us are still going about their business. There's always a certain energy on campus, an air of competition that seems to hang in the air. And yet, there's something about Kanzaki that seems unaffected by it all.

"You've been quiet today," he remarks, his tone thoughtful.

I offer a slight shrug. "Just tired, I guess."

He doesn't push further, though I can tell he's still watching me carefully. There's always that edge to his gaze, the subtle challenge that lies beneath it. We both know that the rivalry between us is far from over, even if neither of us speaks it aloud.

"Well, don't get too comfortable," Kanzaki says with a small smile. "I've got a feeling we'll be seeing a lot more of each other soon."

I raise an eyebrow, but before I can respond, he turns and starts walking away, disappearing into the crowd of students.

I stand there for a moment longer, my mind racing. What did he mean by that? What's coming?

I don't know, but I can't afford to ignore it.

I take a deep breath and start walking toward the exit, knowing that whatever's coming, I'll have to be ready.

---

The streets are quieter now, the usual hustle and bustle of the day fading as the sun begins to set. I make my way home, my thoughts swirling around the day's events. The small interactions, the glances, the words—everything seems to hold some deeper meaning. But I can't make sense of it all just yet.

Arriving at my apartment, I unlock the door and step inside, greeted by the silence. It's always like this when I get home. The house is quiet, empty, and for the most part, that's how I like it.

I drop my bag on the couch and head straight for my room, shutting the door behind me. I pull out my phone and scroll through the messages, but there's nothing that demands my attention. It's just a few random updates from classmates and the occasional message from Kanzaki.

I glance at the clock.

It's still early enough to get some work done. There's always something to study, something to prepare for.

I pull out my notebook and start going through the notes from today's classes, reviewing the material in my head. But even as I do, my thoughts keep drifting back to Kanzaki.

His words linger in my mind. "I've got a feeling we'll be seeing a lot more of each other soon."

What did he mean by that?

I close my notebook with a snap, standing up abruptly.

No. This isn't the time to think about him. Not now.

I take a deep breath, forcing my mind to quiet. There's a bigger game at play, and I need to stay focused.

I sit back down and open my phone again, this time scrolling through the names of my classmates. So many potential pawns. So many ways to manipulate the game to my advantage.

The pieces are already in motion.

All I have to do now is wait.

---

The night stretches on, but I don't sleep. Not yet. There's too much to think about. Too much to plan.

The world outside the window is quiet, and the stars above seem distant, like they belong to another world entirely.

But in this world, in this game, I'm still just a player.

And I'll be damned if I don't win.

---

That feeling doesn't fade as I get ready for bed. There's a quiet unease in my chest, but it's not the kind that comes from fear. No, this is something else. This is the feeling of a challenge, something that's waiting just beyond my reach.

And I'm ready for it.

---

I lean back against the bed, the weight of the day settling over me like a heavy blanket. My mind races through everything that's happened, from Kanzaki's cryptic words to the growing tension that seems to linger in the air. Something is coming, I know that much. But I can't shake the feeling that I'm missing something crucial.

Just as I'm about to close my eyes, my phone buzzes.

An unknown number.

I hesitate, staring at the screen for a moment. It's late, and I usually don't take calls from strangers, but something about this one feels... different. I swipe to answer, my thumb brushing against the screen as the call connects.

"Hello?"

A deep voice answers, distorted and cold. "Kuze Masachika," it begins, and my body tenses instantly. "I know what you are, and I know what you've done. You and your little 'family of prodigies.' But no matter how perfect you think you are, there's always someone watching. Someone who knows your weaknesses."

I lean forward, the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. "Who is this?" I demand, my voice barely a whisper.

The voice chuckles darkly. "It doesn't matter who I am, but I have one message for you: Surrender now. If you don't, I'll destroy the Masachika family to the ground."

I clench my fists, my mind racing with questions. The call cuts off abruptly, leaving only silence and the hollow feeling of being threatened by an unseen force. My breathing quickens, and for a moment, my mind spins with possibilities. Is this just another game? Another test? Or is this something much darker, something I'm not ready for?

Before I can process everything, my phone buzzes again. This time, it's a message from my father.

"Kuze, there's been an unsettling development. A new rival family has emerged. They've been gathering prodigies, and their influence is growing. They blend into the student body, and no one suspects them. Stay alert, keep your head up. This could change everything."

I read the message twice, trying to make sense of it. A rival family. Hidden among the students. As if Takuya, Anniken, and Akinen weren't enough, now I have to deal with an entire family, a force that operates in the shadows, unnoticed by the rest of the world.

My mind flashes back to the phone call—the threat. Destroying the Masachika family. Could this be connected to the new rival my father spoke of? I take a slow breath, trying to steady my racing thoughts.

They want me to surrender?

I smile, a cold smirk tugging at the corner of my lips.

"Well, this just got a lot more interesting."

---

I stand up from the bed, pacing in the small space of my room. The wheels in my mind are already turning, calculating my next move. The stakes are higher now. Takuya, Anniken, and Akinen—those three have been my focus for so long. But now, there's a new enemy, one I know nothing about. A family of prodigies hiding in plain sight.

I don't know who they are yet, but that doesn't matter. They're just another obstacle in my path, and I will deal with them in the same way I've dealt with everything else.

With precision.

With control.

And when the time comes, I'll tear them apart just like everyone else who dares to challenge the Masachika name.

I sit back down at my desk, pulling out a new notebook, the pages waiting to be filled. This battle won't be fought with fists. It'll be fought with strategy, with intellect. Whoever this family is, they'll need to be dismantled piece by piece. And I'll be the one to do it.

The game has changed, but I haven't lost yet.

Not by a long shot.

And I'll make sure they know it.

---

The sound of my phone buzzing again jolts me from my thoughts. I glance at the screen, seeing that it's Kanzaki. Without hesitation, I answer.

"Got your message," I say, my voice cool but tinged with an edge of urgency.

"I heard," Kanzaki replies, his tone more serious than usual. "I don't know what's going on, but I have a feeling that things are going to get a lot more complicated."

"I know," I mutter, my gaze flickering to the window. "And I think someone's trying to make a move. We need to be ready."

"Don't worry," Kanzaki says, the familiar confidence in his voice returning. "I'll be there. Just don't let your guard down."

The line goes silent for a moment, and then he adds, "This isn't just about us anymore, Kuze. It's bigger than that."

I nod, even though he can't see it.

"I know," I reply. "Things are about to get interesting."

---

As I hang up, I lean back in my chair, my mind filled with the weight of what's to come. A new rival family, prodigies hiding in plain sight, and an unknown threat lurking just out of reach.

But the more I think about it, the more the adrenaline starts to flow. This is the game I've been waiting for—the kind of challenge that pushes me to my limits.

And I won't back down. Not now, not ever.

Let them come. Let them try to destroy the Masachika name.

I'll show them just how wrong they are.

The next morning, I wake up to a feeling of unease that lingers even as I get ready for school. The events from last night— the call, my father's message, and the looming threat of the new rival family— keep playing on loop in my head, like a broken record. I can't shake the thought that something big is coming, something I can't control.

As I make my way to school, the air feels thick with tension. Even the normal bustle of students moving through the hallways seems a little more muted today, as if everyone senses that something is off. But maybe that's just me, overthinking as usual.

By the time I reach my classroom, I'm already deep in thought, trying to plan my next moves. Who is this rival family? Why do they want to destroy the Masachika name? And, more immediately, how do I deal with Takuya, Anniken, and Akinen, who are all vying to see who can be the first to knock me down?

I don't have answers yet, but I'll find them. I always do.

The bell rings, signaling the start of class, and the teacher walks in. Her usual stern demeanor is slightly heightened today, as if something's weighing heavily on her too. She stands in front of the class and addresses us all with a sharpness that immediately catches everyone's attention.

"Attention, class. Today, we'll be having a special exam."

I freeze. Special exam? I've been through countless tests, but something about her tone, the seriousness in her eyes, makes me think this one is different.

"A special exam?" Kanzaki whispers from beside me, his voice low. He's trying to keep his usual cool composure, but I can see the hint of tension in his expression too.

The teacher nods, her eyes scanning the class. "This will be a test like no other. Your performance today will determine your standing within the school, and there will be consequences for those who fail. The goal is simple: to outsmart, outmaneuver, and outlast your rivals. If you fail, you risk being expelled."

A ripple of murmurs spreads through the room. The air is suddenly charged with uncertainty. Expelled? The stakes were always high at this school, but this feels different.

"Everyone will be assigned a rival," the teacher continues, her gaze shifting briefly to me. My heart skips a beat, knowing exactly what that means.

"Rivals will be chosen based on your individual skills, and some will be more challenging than others. But keep in mind, the ones who can outsmart their opponent in every possible way will not only prove themselves to be worthy students, but also earn the right to be part of this school's elite."

I feel Kanzaki shift beside me. He's as keenly aware as I am that the game is about to get much more intense. The challenge is coming, and it's not just about brains—it's about survival.

"As for you, Kuze Masachika…" The teacher pauses, her eyes narrowing. "I trust you understand what this means for you."

I'm already well aware. The rivals are coming, and this exam will be the perfect chance for them to strike. Takuya, Anniken, Akinen—all of them have been waiting for a moment like this to take me down. Now, they have a chance.

And then there's the new rival family. Whoever they are, they'll be watching, just like everyone else. And they won't hesitate to use this opportunity to further their own agendas.

"You have your instructions," the teacher says. "Now, prepare yourselves. The exam begins shortly."

As the class settles into uneasy silence. The acedemicly lower students start panicking. They start ask for my help. But i just ingore them lost in my own thoughts, I can't help but feel the weight of the moment. Today could change everything. The risks have never been higher, and the threat to the Masachika family is no longer just a shadow—it's real.

My mind races with strategies, plans, and possibilities. There's no room for mistakes. I need to stay one step ahead of everyone—Takuya, Anniken, Akinen, and the hidden rival family—because this game is about to get even more dangerous than I ever imagined.

I glance at Kanzaki, who meets my gaze. He's still calm, but there's a sharpness in his eyes that tells me he's already analyzing the situation, already thinking ahead. He doesn't need to say anything. We both know what's at stake

The room falls into a tense silence as the teacher walks to the front of the class, her sharp eyes scanning everyone as she prepares to explain the rules. But before she can, the whispers begin.

A few students, their faces painted with worry, glance nervously at each other. I can hear their voices rise in a mixture of fear and uncertainty. They're all wondering the same thing: "Will we make it through? Will we really be expelled?"

One student, a nervous-looking boy near the back, looks at me hesitantly, his voice almost a whisper. "Kuze… You're the best in this class, right? You've always been the one to pull through in these kinds of situations. Can… Can you help us? If we stick together, we can all make it through, right?"

Another student, a girl named Alya sitting nearby, nods in agreement. "Yeah, please. If anyone can save us, it's you." Her voice trembles slightly, but it's filled with hope.

I glance around the room, seeing several other students looking at me with similar expressions. It's a familiar sight. They know what I can do. They've seen me outmaneuver challenges, pass exams, and come out on top—just like they've seen Kanzaki do.

But this time, it's different. I know what's coming. The threats are real. And the weight of everything rests on my shoulders.

I take a deep breath and stand tall, my usual calm composure settling over me. It's time to take charge.

"Don't worry," I say, my voice steady. "Nobody will be expelled. It's under my hands."

The class quiets slightly at my words, the students visibly relieved, though still unsure. They're trusting me—again—but I know they're also wary. This isn't just another exam. This is something far bigger.

The teacher looks at me for a moment, her eyes narrowing slightly, before she speaks.

"Very well, Kuze Masachika. If you believe it will be as you say, we shall see." She doesn't sound entirely convinced, but she doesn't press further.

I'm sure the class trusts me because

I known for having nearly 0 flaws.

I meet her gaze, unflinching. The stakes are high, but I'm not about to let anyone else in this class feel like they're alone. Not while I'm standing here.

The teacher then clears her throat, turning her attention back to the class.

"Now, as for the rules…" Her voice takes on a serious edge. "This exam will be divided into three parts. Each of you will be assigned a rival, and your goal is simple: outmaneuver them. You can use any method within the boundaries of school regulations. But remember, there will be consequences for failure. If you're outsmarted or outlasted by your rival, you risk being expelled. Only those who can succeed in all three stages of this exam will remain."

I can feel the tension in the room grow as she speaks. The weight of her words hangs heavy over us. It's not just about intelligence this time; it's about strategy, manipulation, and survival. This isn't new at this school. This school is a prestigious school known for their smarts and gifted students that's why we have been asked to do a special exam not only requiring acedemicly good grades but also intelligence and social dynamics.

"Part one," she continues, "is a battle of intellect. You'll be paired with your rival and given a series of problems to solve. Only one of you will emerge victorious. Part two will test your social skills—how well you can influence others. Your rival will be your opposite in this area and the majority with votes win. The final part is a physical test, but not a typical one. It will be a test of endurance, strength, and resourcefulness. You will be given a series of challenges you can from you can only choose 2

Running ,material arts,swimming,archery and finally long jump"

The majority choose material arts and archery

The class is silent, processing what the teacher has just said. Everyone knows the stakes now. It's not just about passing a regular exam. This is a fight for your place in the school, and only the best will remain.

The teacher looks over the room one last time, as if waiting for anyone to speak up, before she gives a curt nod.

"Your rivals will be announced shortly. Prepare yourselves. The exam begins soon."

I stand there, my mind already racing with possibilities. I know the others are calculating their next moves, figuring out who their rivals will be, how to play the game. But for me, there's no need for calculation right now. The rules are simple: outwit, outmaneuver, and outlast. And I've done that more times than I can count.

But the new rival family looms in the back of my mind, their presence adding another layer of complexity. I can't let them get to me. Not yet.

As the teacher finishes, the class murmurs again, everyone glancing at their peers, wondering who will be paired with whom. I know the game is on, but I won't let it distract me. I have one goal in mind: to control the game, to stay in control of the Masachika name, and to come out on top.

The exam has just begun, and I'm ready.

The room buzzes with anticipation as the teacher pulls up a list of names on the screen, her fingers hovering over the keyboard. My mind is still processing everything that's been thrown at me. The stakes have never been higher. I'm about to face someone new, someone from a rival family, but my thoughts are momentarily interrupted when the teacher clears her throat.

"Let's begin with the rival pairings," she announces. "Kuze Masachika, your rival is a student from Class 3-A. His name is Kaito Kagamai."

Kaito Kagamai.

I blink, trying to make sense of the name. I've never heard of him before. The class stirs with whispers, but there's nothing particularly special about the name. It doesn't hold the same weight as the Masachika name, nor the infamous Kagami name.

But I can't shake the feeling that something's not right.

The teacher continues, her eyes flicking to the next name on the list.

"Next, Kanzaki Masachika. Your rival is… Takuya Masachika."

The words echo in the room. "Brother vs. brother," someone murmurs in awe.

I glance over at Kanzaki, who seems completely unphased by the announcement. His gaze remains fixed ahead, his usual calm demeanor intact, but a slight glint in his eyes betrays his excitement.

Takuya, his older brother, the leader of our branch of the Masachika family, is a formidable rival. But now, it seems, the ultimate battle between brothers will unfold in front of everyone.

I can hear the students whispering about it, intrigued by the rivalry they don't fully understand. There's an unspoken tension in the air. They don't know the true depth of the conflict between the Masachika brothers. But they will soon enough.

Meanwhile, my attention is back on Kaito Kagamai. I can't help but wonder why his name feels so… ominous. His reputation is clear—exceptional grades, remarkable leadership, and physical abilities that match the Masachikas. But what else is there? What does he hide behind that mask of perfection?

I stare at the screen, trying to make sense of what's happening. Kaito's presence seems to stir something in me, like a distant warning I can't fully grasp. But there's something in the air today. A sense of urgency. The familiar feeling of competition, but with an edge that I haven't felt before.

As the teacher continues to announce rivalries, my mind keeps returning to Kaito. His family's name—Kagamai—lingers in my thoughts. Could he be related to the same Machiavellian cousin I've heard rumors about? The one who manipulates from the shadows, always pulling strings behind the scenes?

But no. It couldn't be. I'm overthinking it.

Still, something about Kaito feels like more than just an academic rival. There's a hidden depth to him, something that could spell trouble for me.

The class quiets down as the teacher finishes with the rival pairings. It's not a typical exam. This is more like a game of survival. Only the strongest, thmost cunning, the most manipulative will remain standing.

I glance at Kanzaki again. He's silent, but I can see the subtle shift in his posture. Takuya is his older brother, but we both know it's not about family anymore. This is personal.

I turn my attention back to Kaito, my thoughts swirling. I still don't know why his name is so unsettling to me, but I can't afford to let it distract me. I've got enough problems to handle as it is. The rivalry with Kanzaki, the pressure to keep the Masachika family name intact, the looming threat of the Kagamai family, and now… Takuya's sudden involvement in this exam.

The game is starting. But the rules are unclear, and the players are more dangerous than I thought.

And I… I can't afford to lose.

The bell rings, signaling the end of the lesson. My thoughts are still clouded as I gather my things and leave the classroom. The air in the hallway feels different, tense, as if the atmosphere itself is aware of the looming challenge that awaits. I move swiftly, trying to push the unease aside. But something catches my eye.

A figure standing near the lockers. I glance up, meeting his gaze, but it's brief. He's tall, with an aura of quiet confidence. His uniform is impeccable, his posture rigid, almost predatory. I can't place his face, and I don't have time to. I continue walking, my footsteps echoing in the empty hallway, but that strange feeling sticks with me. There was something about the way he looked at me. A look that made my skin crawl, but I couldn't figure out why.

I shake my head, trying to clear my thoughts as I reach my dorm. My door creaks open, and I step inside, ready to drop my bag and settle in. I head straight for my closet, preparing to change and relax, but something catches my eye. A folded note, hidden behind the clothes on a high shelf.

My hand hesitates before I reach for it. It feels... wrong, somehow, as if it's not meant for my eyes. But I pull it out anyway, the crinkled paper cold in my hand. I open it slowly, reading the words scrawled in messy handwriting.

Surrender.

I pause, my heart skipping a beat. A chill runs down my spine. Who would leave a note like this? But my confusion doesn't last long. I flip the paper over, and that's when my breath catches in my throat.

Don't think about calling the cops. I have evidence that proves Kuze Masachika is guilty.

My blood runs cold as I stare at the note. My mind races. What evidence? What is going on? Who would do this? My pulse quickens, and just as I'm about to toss the note aside, I hear a faint beeping sound. A soft, rhythmic beep, almost like an alarm.

I freeze.

The sound is coming from behind the wall. My heart hammers in my chest, and my instincts scream at me to move. But it's too late. The beeping grows louder, faster. A brief flash of panic courses through me. A small bomb, no bigger than a few inches in diameter, appears from beneath the hidden note. It's too late to stop it. The explosion is deafening, and for a split second, the world around me turns into chaos.

The pain is immediate, blinding. My ears are ringing, my vision blurred from the blast. I don't even know how I manage to stumble out of my dorm, but I somehow make it into the hallway. My arm, scorched and bleeding, is tucked tightly against my body. My mind is in a haze. I'm trying to process what just happened, but it's hard to focus. The smoke is thick, and the sound of shouts fills the air.

"Is anyone hurt?!"

A crowd gathers outside my door, panic spreading through the halls. Teachers rush to the scene, and I hear the murmur of worried students. But none of them see me as I slip past, my burned arm hidden beneath my jacket sleeve. I keep my head down, pretending to be unaffected by the chaos. I don't need them to know the truth.

I can't let them see the weakness.

A teacher approaches, her face tight with concern. "Kuze, are you alright?" she asks, eyes scanning me for any obvious signs of injury.

"I'm fine," I reply quickly, my voice steady. "Just doing some renovations. I might've accidentally triggered something."

The teacher gives me a skeptical look, but she doesn't press any further. It's easier to believe the story than question the perfect Masachika heir. I don't know whether to feel relieved or disgusted.

The next day is… awkward, to say the least. As soon as I open the classroom door, every pair of eyes in the room is on me. They're all staring, their gazes lingering on the bandages wrapped around my arm. Some look concerned, others whispering among themselves suspecting I got hurt while *renovations*.

Mikasa, one of the more popular girls in class, approaches me cautiously, her eyes wide with concern. "Are you okay, Kuze?" she asks, her voice laced with genuine worry.

I give her a small nod, trying to brush off the situation. "Yeah, just a little accident. Nothing to worry about."

She nods, but I can see the doubt in her eyes. I can't help but feel the weight of everyone's gaze. They all know something happened, but no one dares to ask too many questions. That's the thing about being in the Masachika family—people don't pry into your personal life. They leave you alone, either out of respect or fear.

But as I scan the room, my gaze shifts to Kanzaki. He's sitting in his usual spot, the perfect picture of composure. His eyes meet mine for a brief second, and I can see the flicker of understanding pass between us. He's aware that something is off, but we don't speak about it openly.

I walk over to him, making sure no one else is listening. The class continues to murmur as we move to the back of the room, away from prying eyes.

"Did you hear about what happened?" I ask, my voice low.

Kanzaki leans back in his chair, not looking at me directly, but I can sense his curiosity. "I heard something. Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," I say, forcing myself to sound nonchalant. "But there's more to this than what it seems. I think someone's trying to set me up. The bomb… it wasn't random."

Kanzaki raises an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. "Do you know who did it?"

"I suspect it might be one of the members of our rival family also maybe It could very well be that one student, though I cannot say with certainty at this point.

" I reply, my voice laced with frustration. "But I have a feeling this is only the beginning."

He leans in slightly, his voice barely above a whisper. "You're not the only one with enemies, Kuze. You need to stay on guard. There's more at play here than we realize."

I nod, my gaze fixed on him. The tension between us is palpable. But there's something about the way he says it that sends a chill down my spine. Kanzaki knows more than he's letting on, and I can't shake the feeling that we're walking into something much larger than just a family rivalry.

The teacher enters the room then, and the class quiets down, the conversation slipping away as the lesson begins. But my mind is elsewhere. I can't afford to be distracted. There's too much at stake now, and the game is about to get far more dangerous.

I glance once more at Kanzaki, who gives me a small, knowing nod. It's not over. It's just beginning.

As the students moved towards the buses, the atmosphere was tense. I could feel the weight of the upcoming exam pressing down on everyone, but for me and Kanzaki, the pressure wasn't just about the exam—it was about survival. The glances from Anniken, Akinen, and Takuya weren't just casual looks. They were watching us. Evaluating.

Kanzaki walked beside me, his hands in his pockets, his usual calm expression unreadable.

"They're planning something," I muttered under my breath.

"Obviously," Kanzaki replied. "But so are we."

We boarded the bus, taking seats near the back. I leaned slightly towards Kanzaki, keeping my voice low as we discussed our strategies.

"We need to be careful in the first round," I started. "They'll use it to measure our skills, see how much we're capable of."

Kanzaki nodded. "That's why we have to go all out. If we hold back, they'll see it as a weakness. If we go too strong, they might target us harder. We need to make them think we're within their expectations while also staying unpredictable."

I smirked. "So, the Shukuchi Strategy. Give them what they expect at first, then crush them when it matters."

Kanzaki chuckled lightly. "Exactly. But we should also apply the Cavalry Battle Strategy. We act as separate forces, giving off the illusion that we're acting independently, but when it matters, we support each other."

"Right," I said. "And during the influence round. We need to form alliances, but without making it obvious that we're leading. The more we make others think it's their idea, the more control we'll have."

Kanzaki gave a small nod, his eyes sharp with understanding. "Then for the martial arts round —don't let them get into their rhythm. Control the pace of the fight, make them react to us instead of the other way around."

We continued discussing, weaving obvious tactics from various sources, refining them to suit our situation. Our minds were in sync, mapping out every possible scenario before we even reached our destination. Then we discussed on making our own strategies depending on the situation.

When the bus arrived at the large examination center, the tension only grew. The place was enormous, designed like a competition hall with different sections for each round.

The teachers stood at the front, addressing the gathered students.

"The first round will be a written test," the instructor announced. "However, this is no ordinary test. The difficulty will vary based on your abilities. The class with the most failing students will receive a penalty."

Murmurs spread through the students, but I stayed silent. Kanzaki and I exchanged a glance.

This meant one thing. They were actively sorting us out.

"The second round will be Influence," the instructor continued. "You will be given a scenario where you must sway the majority to vote in your favor. Persuasion, manipulation, and leadership will all be tested.There will be somoene that has to represent their classes out of each class anonymously."

I clenched my fist. Influence. A battle of minds.

"The final round will be a combination of archery and martial arts. You will be tested on precision, adaptability, and combat awareness."

That was unexpected. I had trained in martial arts in the past, but archery was new territory.

"Now," the instructor said, "the first round will begin shortly. Find your assigned seats."

I sat down at my designated chair, taking a deep breath. The first question appeared on my screen. I quickly scanned it.

University-level engineering.

I glanced around. The other students had different problems suited to their own skill levels.

Then, from the corner of my eye, I saw Kaito Kagamai smirking at me. He had that expression that said he expected me to fail.

That may have confirmed it. He was from the rival family. Not only that but his body languege and more.It seemed that he got blinded by his arrogance and forgot the fact he's is battling against me.

I looked back at my screen, suppressing a smirk of my own.

Big mistake, Kaito. You underestimated me.

I began solving the problems, my fingers moving across the screen with ease. Equations, structural mechanics, thermodynamics—I had prepared for all of this in the past regardless of my tough past. Each answer came effortlessly. The test was long—19 questions in total—but by the end, I had a perfect score.

When I looked up, I noticed the crowd that had formed around me, their eyes wide with shock.

"Perfect score?!"

"That's insane!"

"Wait… didn't Kaito Kagamai also get a perfect score?"

The crowd turned to Kaito, questioning him.

So, he wasn't just some random genius. He was a prodigy in his own right.

Takuya and Kanzaki also got perfect scores, their own classes cheering them them up.

That meant one thing—our battle had officially begun.

We had an hour before the Influence round. Kanzaki and I found a quiet corner to strategize.

He leaned in. "So, what's your take on this?"

I crossed his arms. "Kaito is definitely a member of the rival family's students. But they're smart—Anniken and Akinen intentionally didn't get perfect scores. They don't want to draw too much attention to themselves yet."

He nodded. "Which means they're waiting for the Influence round to make their real move."

Kanzaki smirked. "Good. Because so are we."

I grinned. "For Influence, we have to play it smart. We'll simply use Reverse Psychology Approach—instead of convincing them directly, we make them question their own reasoning. People don't like being told what to do, but they like thinking they made the right decision."

Kanzaki nodded. "And we use the Silent Authority Tactic—let others speak for us, so it looks like the class is choosing naturally instead of us forcing it."

I tapped my chin. "Then we combine it with the Divide and Isolate Strategy. If we pit groups against each other, they'll look to us to stabilize the situation."

Kanzaki's eyes gleamed. "And by the time they realize what happened, it'll be too late."

I took a deep breath.

The Influence round was about to begin.

This was the real battlefield.

The Influence Round Begins

The atmosphere was heavy as we walked into the large hall where the second round of the exam would take place. Students from different classes were scattered around, some already whispering strategies to each other. Kanzaki and I took our seats, calmly observing the competition.

On the large digital screen at the front, the rules were displayed:

"A crime has been committed. Among the participants, there is a culprit. The goal is simple—identify the guilty party. However, the true challenge lies in persuading the majority to vote for the right person. The team with the highest accuracy wins. However, if the majority votes incorrectly, a severe penalty will be applied."

I leaned back, a small smirk forming. This wasn't just a simple influence game. It was a psychological battlefield. It wasn't about finding the truth—it was about making people believe in a version of the truth that worked in our favor.

"Attention!" The instructor's voice echoed across the hall. "For this game, you will be divided into groups. Each group will consist of students from different classes. The culprit has already been chosen, and only they know their identity. Your job is to uncover them… or mislead others into choosing wrong."

At that moment, I realized something.

This wasn't just an exam—it was an attack.

A perfect chance for our enemies to strike. If they could manipulate the majority into voting for me or Kanzaki, we'd be eliminated.

"Let the game begin."

The large screen flickered. A crime scenario appeared:

"A valuable object has gone missing from a high-security facility. Only five people had access to it. Each person has an alibi, but one of them is lying. Your goal is to uncover the culprit."

I quickly scanned the profiles of the suspects displayed on the screen. Each one had a carefully crafted alibi, but I immediately knew the truth—there was no perfect lie. There were only weaknesses waiting to be exposed.

I turned to Kanzaki. "They'll try to manipulate the votes. If we don't take control of the narrative, we'll be in trouble."

Kanzaki nodded. "We should lead the discussion, but subtly. If we're too obvious, they'll suspect us."

I smirked. "That's exactly what I planned."

The Debate Begins

The moment the discussion opened, the room erupted into chaos.

"I think it's suspect number three!" someone shouted.

"No way, suspect two had the weakest alibi!" another argued.

Kaito Kagamai remained silent, observing. He wasn't making a move yet, which meant he was waiting for the perfect moment. That meant I had to strike first.

I raised my hand slightly, my voice calm but firm. "Let's think logically."

The room quieted.

"Instead of accusing people randomly, we should first identify the one mistake in the culprit's alibi. Every lie has a weak point. We just have to find it."

I turned to one of the students who had spoken earlier. "You accused suspect two. Why?"

The student hesitated. "W-Well, their alibi was vague…"

I nodded. "But being vague isn't the same as lying. If you were guilty, would you make your alibi obvious?"

The student's eyes widened. "N-No…"

Kaito smirked, watching me. I knew he was waiting for my next move.

I turned to the rest of the group. "Instead of attacking weak alibis, we should focus on who had the most to gain from the crime. People don't commit crimes for no reason."

The room fell silent as I continued.

"There's a rule in psychology called The Principle of Cognitive Load. When people lie, they create details in their heads, but the more details they add, the easier it is to catch them."

I turned to the screen, re-reading each alibi carefully. Then I found it.

A tiny mistake.

A single extra detail that the culprit had included to make their alibi sound more believable.

Bingo.

"The culprit," I said, standing up, "is suspect number four."

Gasps echoed around the room.

"Wait, how do you know?!" someone demanded.

I pointed at the screen. "Their alibi is too perfect. They claimed they were watching a live event on their phone during the time of the crime. But here's the problem—this event was broadcasted with a 30-second delay."

A wave of realization hit the students.

"If they were really watching it live, they should have seen the crime happening. Yet, they never mentioned it. They slipped up by adding too many details to make their alibi sound real."

Silence.

Then, the instructor's voice echoed through the hall.

"Final vote in 30 seconds."

class erupted in debate again, but this time, they weren't arguing randomly. They were discussing my logic.

Kaito narrowed his eyes. He realized what I had done.

I didn't just prove the truth.

I had made the majority believe it was true.

Even if the real culprit had been someone else, my argument was so airtight that nobody could refute it.

Anniken and Akinen had stayed in the shadows, as expected. They hadn't drawn attention

Got it! Here's the continuation with the plot twist involving Takuya and Kaito.

Just as the final votes were about to be cast, a voice cut through the tension.

"Wait."

It was Takuya.

He stepped forward, his expression calm yet confident. "Before we vote, I have something to point out."

The room grew silent.

Kanzaki tensed beside me. I remained still, watching Takuya carefully. He was up to something.

Takuya glanced at the instructor. "Earlier, during the discussion, I asked to use the restroom. However, I noticed something strange."

I narrowed my eyes.

He continued, turning to the class. "We've been relying on one key piece of information—Kuze's claim that the event had a 30-second delay. But what if I told you… the event was actually delayed by two minutes?"

A wave of murmurs spread through the crowd.

Kaito Kagamai, who had been silent until now, finally smirked and stepped in. "That's an interesting claim. If true, it completely changes the outcome of this round."

Takuya nodded. "Exactly. Because if the delay was two minutes, then suspect four could have seen the crime happening, but only after it was already too late to do anything. Meaning their alibi is still solid."

My mind instantly pieced it together.

Takuya had gone to the staff room. He had secretly altered the event's time settings to create this exact scenario.

And now, Kaito—who was clearly prepared for this—was using that fake information to invalidate my argument.

It was a perfectly executed counterattack.

And the worst part?

It was working.

Students began whispering among themselves, their confidence in my reasoning starting to shake.

One of them hesitated. "Wait… if that's true, doesn't that mean Kuze's entire deduction was based on a false assumption?"

Another spoke up. "Yeah… what if suspect four isn't actually the culprit?"

Takuya and Kaito had masterfully turned my own logic against me.

But I didn't panic.

Instead, I smiled.

Because they had made one fatal mistake.

I took a slow step forward. "Alright. Let's assume, for a second, that Takuya is telling the truth and the delay was two minutes instead of 30 seconds."

I paused, letting the doubt in the room settle before striking.

"But then, I have a question." I turned to Takuya, my gaze sharp. "When exactly did you find out about this change in delay?"

He blinked. "Huh?"

I smiled slightly. "Did the teacher mention it? No. Was it on the exam description? No. So how did you know?"

The room fell silent.

Kaito's smirk faltered. He realized what I was doing.

Takuya hesitated for only a second, but it was enough. I simply overheard it from the staff."

I chuckled. "Overheard it? From where? The restroom?"

More whispers erupted.

I turned to the instructor. "Sir, was the delay mentioned anywhere before this exam?"

The instructor frowned. "No. That information was not disclosed to any students."

I immediately followed up. "And is it possible for students to access that information?"

The instructor shook his head. "Absolutely not."

Silence.

Then, I dealt the final blow.

"Then how did Takuya know?"

The room exploded.

Students started connecting the dots.

A girl gasped. "Wait… if there was no way for him to know…"

"Then that means—he altered the delay himself."

Takuya clenched his fists, realizing he had been caught. But keeping his calm knowing he could gain his slightly damaged reputation back.

I turned to Kaito. "And you played along. You acted as if this was true from the beginning, which means you were already aware of the change before it was even mentioned."

Kaito's smirk had completely disappeared.

The weight of my words spread through the room.

It was over.

I turned back to the crowd, my voice calm yet firm. "They tried to manipulate the truth to invalidate my reasoning. But in doing so, they exposed themselves. Takuya tampered with the delay, and Kaito used it to support a false claim."

I glanced at the instructor. "I believe that qualifies as outside interference, doesn't it?"

The instructor sighed, checking his tablet. A moment later, he nodded.

"Confirmed. The system logs show an unauthorized change to the event delay during the exam. As a result, Takuya's claim is invalid. The votes will proceed as originally intended."

I turned back to Kaito and Takuya.

"You were smart," I admitted. "But in the end, psychology isn't just about manipulating people. It's about knowing how to control the truth. And the truth was always on my side."

The votes came in.

90% voted for suspect four.

The screen flashed.

"CORRECT. The culprit has been eliminated."

The moment the confirmation appeared, I saw Kaito lower his gaze, his lips curling slightly.

He wasn't angry.

He was… intrigued.

I narrowed my eyes.

This battle wasn't over.

Not by a long shot.

---

Round Three: Martial Arts

As soon as the announcement came that the martial arts round had been changed by gender, I knew things wouldn't go as planned.

And sure enough, my opponent was Anniken masachika.

This wasn't just bad luck. It was a carefully orchestrated move. Someone—whether it was , my rivals, or an outside force—wanted me to fight one of the most dangerous opponents possible.

Anniken wasn't just some random fighter. He was someone who, like me, had been trained to win.

We both stepped onto the mat, the crowd buzzing with excitement. They had seen me dominate academically, outmaneuver opponents in psychological warfare, but this?

This was physical combat.

And Anniken wasn't just skilled.

He was relentless.

The moment the referee signaled the start, I barely had a second to react before he launched himself at me with a lightning-fast jab.

I dodged, barely, but he immediately followed up with a powerful low kick aimed at my calf.

I absorbed the impact, gritting my teeth.

He's fast. And precise.

But I wasn't going to let him dictate the pace.

I countered with a front kick, aiming straight for his chest, forcing him to step back.

Then, I rushed in.

A right hook.

Blocked.

A feint left jab into a spinning backfist.

Blocked again with my burned arm.

He saw through it and responded with a devastating roundhouse kick to my ribs.

I barely had time to raise my arm for partial defense, but the force of the impact sent me sliding back a few inches.

The entire crowd was silent.

This wasn't an ordinary fight.

This was a battle between two predators.

I took a deep breath, rolling my shoulders. He's not just fighting aggressively. He's testing my endurance.

Fine.

Two can play that game.

I adjusted my stance and closed the distance instantly, throwing a Quostion mark kick.

He dodged—barely.

But that's when I saw it.

His right foot was slightly slower to adjust.

I capitalized on it immediately, delivering a brutal sweep kick to his ankle.

He stumbled for the first time.

I lunged forward, using my momentum to throw a knee strike to his ribs.

Direct hit.

Anniken grunted, stepping back. His breathing was heavier now, and I could tell—he wasn't just fighting me.

He was enjoying this.

He smirked. "Not bad, Kuze."

I wiped a trickle of blood from my lip. "Likewise."

Then, he surged forward again.

A flurry of attacks.

Punch. Kick. Elbow. Knee.

I dodged, blocked, countered.

This wasn't just fighting anymore. This was war.

We moved like blurs, each strike calculated to either break, dodge, or absorb minimal damage.

Minutes passed.

Neither of us fell.

But the damage was accumulating.

My knuckles were bleeding from sheer impact force.

My ribs ached from repeated hits.

Anniken, meanwhile, was limping slightly from my earlier sweep.

And then—the final exchange.

We both charged.

I threw a right hook at the exact same moment he went for a spinning kick.

Our attacks connected simultaneously.

I felt a sharp crack in my right hand.

Anniken stumbled as his ankle twisted unnaturally.

Silence.

Then—

"DRAW."

The referee called it, and the crowd erupted into cheers.

But I wasn't paying attention to them.

I flexed my fingers, wincing. Broken.

Anniken sighed, rolling his ankle. "Tch. Twisted."

We locked eyes.

Then, we both grinned.

This fight had proved something.

We were equals.

At least—for now.

---

Final Round: Archery

After a short break, we were led to the archery range. My hand throbbed, but I refused to acknowledge the pain.

There was one final test.

And this time—it wasn't just about skill.

It was about strategy.

The rules were simple.

Each contestant had five arrows.

The highest combined score would determine the winner.

As I picked up my bow, I felt Kanzaki glance at me. He wasn't saying anything, but I already knew.

He was the best archer here.

If we both scored perfectly, we'd tie.

But ties were not an option.

And then I realized something.

Kanzaki had to take first place.

Why?

Because the way this school worked was brutal.

It wasn't just about winning.

It was about status.

I was already seen as the top in academics and psychological warfare. If I took first place here too, I'd become the ultimate target.

Even more than I already was.

But if Kanzaki won?

Then I'd remain in his* shadow* in the athletic department, making my true strength harder to gauge.

It was a long-term play.

And so—I made a choice.

I lined up my first arrow.

Took a deep breath.

And fired.

BULLSEYE.

The second.

BULLSEYE.

The third.

Slightly off-center.

Murmurs rippled through the crowd.

"Kuze… missed?"

But I didn't react.

Fourth arrow.

Another bullseye.

Fifth.

Barely off-center.

Final score: 49/50.

Then, Kanzaki stepped up.

He didn't hesitate.

One after another, his arrows landed dead center.

A perfect 50.

The crowd exploded.

"Kanzaki took first!"

I stepped back, pretending to look disappointed.

But inside?

I was smiling.

Kanzaki was now the one everyone focused on in athletics.

And I?

I remained a mystery. Buy still questioned by my nearly perfect score

---

Aftermath

As we exited the testing grounds, Kanzaki looked at me. "You missed on purpose, didn't you?"

I smirked. "Maybe."

Takuya and Kaito stood in the distance, watching us carefully.

I could tell.

They were beginning to reevaluate me.

Good.

That's exactly what I wanted.

This wasn't just about winning battles.

It was about winning the war.

And as I stepped forward, I knew—this was only the beginning.

The Aftermath of the Special Exam

The tension in the air was thick as we stepped away from the competition grounds. The special exam had pushed everyone to their limits—physically, mentally, and socially. But for me? It was far from over.

Kaito Kagamai stood a few meters away, watching me with an unreadable expression. He hadn't spoken to me directly since the influence game, but I could tell he was reassessing me.

Takuya stood beside him, arms crossed, his usual smug expression replaced with something else—calculation.

They had expected me to dominate intellectually.

They had even expected me to do well in strategy.

But what they hadn't expected was that I could hold my own in a fight.

Or that I would use long-term manipulation to shift the school's perception of my strengths.

I had planted a seed in their minds.

Now, they weren't sure what my true specialty was.

Good. Let them wonder.

Back in the Dormitory

The walk back to the dorm was quiet. Kanzaki and I kept a careful distance from most students, but I noticed Alya glancing at me multiple times. I didn't say anything. She had been oddly quiet since the last round.

My right hand throbbed as I pushed open the door to my room. The broken finger was manageable, but I'd need to tape it properly before it worsened.

I flicked on the light—

And froze.

There was another note pinned to my desk.

I walked over, carefully picking it up.

"You surprised me today. But don't think this changes anything. You're still in my way.

— K.K."

I narrowed my eyes.

Kaito Kagamai.

I expected as much.

But something felt... off.

The handwriting was precise. Too precise. The way each letter was perfectly aligned, the spacing between words measured—it was unnatural.

Like someone had deliberately altered their normal writing style.

A small smirk tugged at my lips.

Nice try, Kaito. But I see through you.

This wasn't just a warning.

It was a test.

He wanted to see how I'd react. If I ignored it, he'd assume I was shaken. If I confronted him outright, he'd use it as proof that I was growing paranoid.

But there's a third option.

I pulled out a pen, flipped the note over, and wrote a response:

"Likewise. Let's see who reaches checkmate first."

Then, I left it on his dorm room door.

Let's see how he reacts to that.

---

The Day After the Exam

When I entered the classroom the next morning, I immediately felt the shift.

Everyone was still talking about yesterday's events, but this time—they were talking about me.

Not just as some 'smart student.'

Not just as a 'strategist.'

But as someone to watch out for.

Students surrounded me with excitment .Alya was the first to approach me.

"Kuze, are you okay?" She glanced at my bandaged hand, concern in her eyes. "Your fight with Anniken was intense..."

"I'm fine," I said, brushing it off.

But then—Kanzaki walked in.

He met my gaze, and I already knew.

He had also noticed the change.

The way some students were whispering when they looked at me.

The way even the rival students were being more cautious.

I had to make changes in my cunning moves or else I would've been expelled by now.

I had moved up in the hierarchy.

And now—I had even bigger targets on my back.

---

A Sudden Announcement

Before I could say anything to Kanzaki, the teacher entered the room.

"Listen up," he said, his voice cutting through the classroom's murmur. "The results of the special exam will be revealed at the school assembly this afternoon."

I narrowed my eyes.

That's unusual.

Normally, results were announced privately.

But before I could think further—

"Additionally," the teacher continued, "all students who received a perfect score in any section of the exam are required to report to the Student Council before lunch."

Silence.

Then, the whispers started.

A perfect score?

That meant—

I glanced at Kanzaki. He had a perfect score in archery.

Takuya,Kaito,Kanzaki and i had one in problem solving.

Anniken and i had in physical ability.

That meant—

Kaito, Kanzaki, Takuya,Anniken, and I were all being called in.

This wasn't random.

Something bigger was at play.

---

A Meeting with the Student Council

When I arrived at the Student Council office, I wasn't surprised to see Kaito Kagamai already there. Anniken wasn't at school today . I thought to myself if he knew this would happen.

He leaned against the wall, arms crossed, wearing the same neutral expression he always had.

But I knew better.

He was analyzing me.

Takuya arrived next, his usual cocky demeanor in place. "Well, well. Looks like we're all getting special treatment, huh?"

Kanzaki walked in last, silent but observant.

Then, the Student Council President—a tall, refined third-year student—stepped forward.

"First of all, congratulations," he said, his voice measured. "Your performances in the Special Exam have placed you among the most elite students in the school."

None of us reacted. We already knew that.

"But," he continued, "there is a bigger issue at hand."

I felt it before he even said it.

The weight in his words.

Something wasn't right.

Then he dropped the bombshell.

"One of the perfect scorers is under suspicion of cheating."

---

The Accusation

Silence.

Then, I immediately turned my gaze to Kaito Kagamai.

His expression didn't change.

Neither did Takuya's.

But Kanzaki?

He stiffened.

The Student Council President continued. "Due to an anomaly in the records, we have reason to believe that one of you manipulated the results."

I spoke before anyone else.

"That's impossible."

"Oh?" The president raised an eyebrow.

"There were too many independent verifications," I said. "Every section of the exam had live proctors, surveillance cameras, and automated scoring systems. Manipulating the results would require hacking multiple levels of security."

I glanced at Kaito.

"Unless someone had access to the system itself."

For the first time—Kaito's smirk faltered.

The Student Council President sighed. "That's exactly the issue. There was a two-minute time discrepancy in the final records."

Two minutes?

My mind clicked.

Takuya.

He had disappeared during the influence game.

And now, Kaito was also being accused.

Meaning—

They had worked together. This couldn't be true doesn't Takuya knows that he is a member of the rivaling family

Takuya spoke up, stretching lazily. "So what? You don't have actual proof, right?"

The President's eyes darkened. "Not yet."

I smirked.

But I can get it.

I leaned forward, locking eyes with Kaito.

Kaito's eyes gleamed with interest.

The Student Council President tilted

The Accusation – A New Game Begins

Silence filled the room, thick with unspoken tension.

A two-minute discrepancy.

That meant someone had altered the records.

And the only people capable of pulling it off?

Kaito. Takuya.

But if they had worked together, then—

Why would only one of them be accused?

Something wasn't right.

The Student Council President exhaled slowly. "We will be conducting a deeper investigation. But for now, all four of you are under scrutiny. Until the matter is resolved, your rankings in the Special Exam will be considered provisional."

Provisional?

That meant our victories could be erased.

I clenched my fist, my injured finger throbbing in protest. This wasn't just about an exam anymore.

This was a trap.

One designed to turn us against each other.

And then, just as we were about to be dismissed—

Kaito laughed.

It wasn't loud.

It wasn't mocking.

It was amused.

Like he had been waiting for this.

I turned to him, but he was already walking toward the door, his voice smooth as he said:

"Well then, Kuze... Let's see how you handle this."

He walked past me, his smirk barely visible.

And then, just before leaving—

He whispered, so only I could hear:

"You're not the only one who can play the long game."

The door shut behind him.

I didn't move.

Because for the first time since this game had begun—

I realized something.

I wasn't just playing against Kaito.

I had already stepped into his game.

And now...

I had to find a way to win.

PAR 1 ENDING