A Week of Anticipation

The announcement of the House Selection Event had thrown the entire first-year class into a flurry of discussions. Reikou Academy had already felt different from any ordinary school, but now, the competitive atmosphere was undeniable. Everywhere Kazuki turned, students were already theorizing about which House they would be recruited into, exchanging strategies, and even speculating about potential rivals.

Kazuki himself, however, had a different concern—Miyuki.

He wasn't the type to get distracted easily, but ever since she had taken the seat next to him on the first day, he had found himself drawn to her presence. Even in mundane moments—when she absentmindedly tucked her hair behind her ear or quietly flipped through her notebook—there was something effortlessly graceful about her. Not that he'd ever say that out loud. Not yet, at least.

Classes proceeded as usual, but with the looming event, every subject seemed to have subtle undertones of competition. Teachers incorporated problem-solving exercises and light athletic drills into their lessons, encouraging students to be well-rounded in preparation for the event.

During breaks, Kazuki's group found themselves discussing the Houses more often than they'd expected.

"I'm definitely aiming for Raijin," Reo declared, leaning back in his chair with confidence. "Thunder Beasts? That's the coolest name."

Naoto scoffed. "You? In a House known for 'power and unpredictability'? More like unnecessary recklessness."

"Hey! Unpredictability is a strength."

Daiki, as always, was the least stressed. "Honestly, I'll just go with the flow. If I get chosen, I get chosen."

Kyouya, on the other hand, was the most practical. "We should at least figure out our strong points. If we can get multiple invitations, it's better to have options."

Kazuki listened to the conversation but didn't contribute much. He was still uncertain. He hadn't even decided which House he wanted, let alone how to approach the event.

And then, there was Miyuki. What House would she aim for? Would they end up in the same one?

It was during lunch break that Kazuki found himself unexpectedly alone with Miyuki. His friends had gone ahead to check out the library's posted event details, leaving him to finish packing his things when Miyuki stood up as well.

"You're not going with them?" she asked, her voice as soft as ever.

Kazuki hesitated for half a second before shaking his head. "I'll check it out later."

For a moment, there was silence. Then, to his surprise, Miyuki offered a small smile. "This whole House system is… interesting. It's different from what I expected."

"You weren't expecting competition?"

She tilted her head slightly. "I thought it'd be more traditional, like just picking a House. But this… it feels like we have to prove ourselves."

Kazuki nodded. He could understand that.

They walked together toward the hallway, their steps falling in sync. It was a simple moment, but it felt strangely significant.

Then, without really thinking, Kazuki spoke. "Do you have a preference? For a House?"

Miyuki glanced at him briefly, then back ahead. "I'm not sure yet. I think I'll let the event decide."

Kazuki hummed in response. He wanted to ask more, but the words never quite formed. Instead, he simply enjoyed the brief walk together, their presence side by side.

When they reached the hallway where their paths split, Miyuki turned slightly, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "See you in class."

And just like that, she was gone.

Kazuki exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. It was ridiculous how something so small could make his heart race a little.

Maybe, just maybe, this week wouldn't be so bad.

The next morning, sun streamed through the classroom windows, casting a warm glow over the students as they settled into their seats. Conversations buzzed at a steady hum, a mix of excitement and nerves still lingering in the air from yesterday's announcement.

Kazuki sat at his usual spot, chin resting on his palm as he absently stared out the window. His mind wasn't on the upcoming lesson. No, it had drifted back to yesterday—the way Miyuki had entered the room, the quiet grace in her movements, the way she had tucked a loose strand of hair behind her ear without a second thought. The image had lodged itself in his mind, surfacing now and then without warning.

"You're spacing out again."

Kazuki blinked, snapping back to reality as Reo smirked at him from the side. "Huh?"

Reo leaned in, eyes gleaming with mischief. "Thinking about something—or someone?"

"Tch." Kazuki rolled his eyes, brushing him off. "As if."

Before Reo could push further, Hoshino Mei stepped into the room, her presence immediately commanding attention. The chatter died down as she approached the board, adjusting her glasses before turning to the class.

"Alright, everyone. Before we begin today's lesson, I'll be going over the details of the House Selection Event."

A ripple of anticipation spread through the room. This was what they had been waiting for.

"As you all know, the event is set to take place in one week," Mei began. "It will span over two days and test various aspects of your abilities. The goal is to showcase not only your skills but also your mindset, adaptability, and teamwork. The Houses will be observing you throughout, and by the end, they will decide whom they wish to invite."

She tapped the board, where a list of categories appeared.

House Selection Event Breakdown:

1. Academic Challenge– A written test focusing on logic, problem-solving, and adaptability.

2. Athletic Trials – A series of physical challenges testing strength, speed, and endurance.

3. Tactical Exercise – A strategic game designed to assess leadership, decision-making, and teamwork.

4. Social & Negotiation Test– An interactive challenge evaluating persuasion, charisma, and cooperation.

5. Final Evaluation – The Houses deliberate and make their selections based on overall performance.

"This isn't about being the best at everything," Mei continued. "Rather, it's about proving where you fit best. Each House has its own strengths, and they will be looking for students who align with their values."

Kazuki took in the list, already analyzing where he might excel. Academics? He was confident. Athletics? He could hold his own. But the social test… that might be a challenge.

A few rows over, Daiki sighed dramatically. "Tests and running? I was hoping for something less exhausting."

"Should've known this wouldn't be easy," Kyouya muttered. "Still, at least we have time to prepare."

"Exactly," Naoto added, adjusting his glasses. "We should start figuring out our strengths and weaknesses now."

Reo grinned. "Translation: Naoto wants to make a training plan."

Naoto huffed but didn't deny it.

Kazuki only half-listened to their banter, his eyes flickering toward Miyuki, who sat quietly a few seats away. She seemed deep in thought, her fingers lightly brushing the edge of her notebook. Did she already have a strategy in mind?

As if sensing his gaze, she glanced up. Their eyes met.

A second passed. Then another.

Kazuki quickly looked away, heart skipping a beat.

Reo noticed. "Oh? What was that?"

"Nothing."

"That was definitely something."

Kazuki ignored him, focusing back on Mei as she wrapped up her explanation.

"The full schedule will be posted later today," she said. "For now, I suggest you all think carefully about how you want to approach this event. Dismissed."

As soon as class ended, conversations exploded around the room, everyone speculating about which House they'd end up in. Kazuki exhaled, leaning back in his chair. One week. That was all the time they had to prepare.

And for some reason, he couldn't shake the feeling that this event would change everything.