Ch -4. Rivalry Rekindled

As Kaito leaned back after class, his mind drifted — not to the future, but the past.

High school.

He and Raibaru Kurai had always stood out. Equally talented. Equally admired. Whether it was academics, sports, or looks, they constantly tied.

But there was one difference Kaito could never shake — Raibaru could express himself.

Kaito clenched his fist.

That guy never hides what he feels. Win or lose, happy or broken, he shows it all. While I... I act like none of it matters. Like it's just a game.

To the world, Kaito was cheerful, kind, and easygoing. But when it came to something he cared about, his entire personality changed — hyper-focused, quiet, intense. Almost like Raibaru himself.

---

The scene shifted.

Inside the martial arts club, students gathered in a wide, open training hall. Mirrors lined the walls. Mats covered the floors. The air smelled faintly of sweat and ambition.

Raibaru stood calmly in one corner, arms folded. Kaito stood opposite him, stretching his neck.

The club teacher clapped his hands.

"Alright. You two — Delima and Kurai. Let's see what you've got. Spar."

The room fell silent. Students circled around, forming a loose arena.

Kaito cracked his knuckles. Raibaru just stepped forward, expression unreadable.

"Try not to hold back," Raibaru said calmly.

"I was going to say the same to you," Kaito replied, his tone sharp.

The match began.

Their arms clashed — fists and blocks trading blow for blow. The crowd's eyes darted left and right, trying to keep up. Every movement was crisp, calculated.

Kaito feinted low, aiming for Raibaru's legs.

Raibaru leapt back, dodging cleanly — but didn't stop. In one fluid motion, he stepped in and aimed a strike at Kaito's head.

Kaito leaned back, barely avoiding it — but it was a feint.

The real hit came a split-second later — a clean uppercut to the chin.

Kaito's body lifted slightly off the ground.

He got me...

But in that instant, Kaito twisted midair, using the momentum to land a spinning kick to Raibaru's cheek.

Raibaru stumbled back.

The crowd gasped.

Before either could continue, a blur appeared between them. The coach.

His hand was raised — not panting, not even sweating.

"That's enough."

Both Kaito and Raibaru blinked, stunned.

He was that fast? I didn't even see him move... they thought in unison.

They turned to look around. A large crowd had gathered during the fight.

Manabu waved from the back with a grin. "There you both go again — stealing all the attention."

"Shut up," Kaito muttered, earning a few laughs.

The coach gave a nod of approval. "You two are impressive. You'll make fine vess—"

Before he could finish, a voice echoed from the hallway.

"Nice to meet you, Kaito Delima. Raibaru Kurai."

The vice principal stepped into the room, his hands folded behind his back, his presence silencing the crowd instantly.

"I saw your spar. Very impressive," he said, eyes scanning them carefully. "Tell me… would you both be interested in joining the upcoming tournament?"

Kaito stared at him for a moment, then looked away with a smirk.

"...I humbly refuse."