After sprinting like hell and leaving Yulia behind, I arrived at the ultimate destination, which was the P.E field.

There, stood essentially and basically the rest of the class, aside from Yulia and the other students that were dismissed. Shortly right after putting my school bag in the locker rooms, I went to the respective location.

"I'm sorry for being late..."

My words were a bit hollow since the atmosphere was slightly dead and I didn't exactly direct those words to about anyone. Especially because my entrance wasn't really noticed, to begin with.

It would be an entirely different story if that were the case.

"We are starting the exam. I'll establish some ground rules first. To start off, since this is an exam that ultimately evaluates the strength and combination of the pairings present, those that do not have a partner are rightfully excluded since they can't participate without their partner."

Just as I was about to take a seat, Yuka-sensei fired the shotgun like that. Mercilessly, she said that despite your past efforts, if you do not have your partner, then you are excluded. I suppose I should be thankful since I managed to get my partner to cooperate.

Nonetheless, that wasn't the case for everyone. Multiple disagreements and revolted expressions could be seen, yet Yuka-sensei wasn't bothered enough to care.

Amidst this cold atmosphere, she stood, with her classic gym jersey along with a swift ponytail, handing out the truth.

"The usage of invalid methods such as cheating or anything of that sort will not be overlooked and they will result in your failure. Furthermore, partner exchange will not be allowed. Example: Person A wants to swap with partner B's partner. It doesn't matter the reason, it will not be allowed. Don't try to argue about this. Moving on, aside from being tasked with your already known physical tasks, there will be a timer for the respective tasks, which I will respectfully reveal once that task is about to begin."

Truly standard no matter how I look at it. She essentially had already explained just about everything there was. However, if Kawahara is correct, then I have to strictly follow the second formula and completely abandon any thoughts regarding the first formula.

But, I already discarded such thoughts.

"What I am about to say concerns more about the exam pattern rather than the essential rules before starting the exam. In other words, if you are already excluded, then you don't have to pay attention to what I'm about to say. Regardless of this, if you are not, then heed these words carefully, since they will prove to be of great help."

Yulia is not here, but that's fine. I can simply tell her all about this and besides, if it's so important then I ought to pay extreme attention and detail to this.

No one is bothering to interrupt Yuka-sensei which either demonstrates a lack of interest or a strong affinity with the attitude of caring.

"My method of evaluation will revolve around points. Since there are five tasks, which I'll remind you of in a while, I will use the same method of evaluation in every single task. A 5-kilometer run, 50 squats, 30 push-ups, 50 sit-ups and 5 minutes of planking. All of these are the only tasks you'll have to fulfill. However, I will have to evaluate the pair as a whole and not just individuals, which means that if the pair is not on the same page, then I'll strictly have to discount a portion of their points."

Despite paying attention, I turned around and saw the figure of Yulia who was looking at me with a semi-embarrassed expression from far away yet she has to go to her locker room first before being here.

"Here is how the points will work. I've already explained how I'll evaluate, but not how I'll distribute the points. Essentially, should a pair get a score that goes above the positive score, then I will give that pairing the minimal of 1 point. By the way, the minimal score is around 50% and it will stay one point unless it goes above 69%. Above 69%, it will be two points if it's between 69% and 80%. Noticeably, from 80% to 89%, it goes up to three points. Ultimately, the best score would be in-between 90% and 100%. That's the perfect scenario which gives the pairing a grand total of 4 points. Reminder, this is all in one task. This will stack under other tasks as well."

Fairly basic to understand overall, however, I dislike the fact that she started with the positive scores instead of the negative ones.

What the hell is up with that? Just tell us what it will actually mean if we go below the positive mark.

"On the other hand, in-between 49% and 35%, you get -1 point. 35% to 20% means you get -2 points. Furthermore, if you get a score in-between 20% to 10%, then it's -3 points off. Lastly, below 10% or any lower than that means that you get -4 points. And now... Here comes the complicated part that might confuse some..."

I mean, just how confusing can this truly get? This is a basic way of evaluation, it can't get harder than this, I think.

"Each task holds a respective percentage considering how much you perform. Let's say that a pair manages to perfectly ace a task, it is obvious that the pair will receive the grand percentage of 100% to them. Because the strongest element did 49% of the task while the other did the 51%. Now... Regarding the possible negative scores, if a pair does one task... let's say that it's the push-ups one. If the pair as a whole does a grand amount of push-ups below 15 push-ups, then that equals a 49% percentage which gives you -1 point."

Wait, what about the other ones? What's the exact percentage?

Yet, as I questioned those, Rayazaki fearlessly asked Yuka-sensei what he had in mind despite the fact that she was busy explaining how things would work out.

"Sensei!! If I want to do all the tasks perfectly, then just what is the acceptable quota for my partner to fulfill the remaining 1%?!"

Rayazaki's essentially claiming that his partner, Yukishiro is basically useless and that he will most likely ace the whole thing without her effort. However, he recognizes that she is needed and thus, he wants to know just what is the acceptable quota for her to comply in his case.

"It depends on the tasks. Though, I don't mind going into detail. In the 5-kilometer run, if you do 2,4 kilometers, which I will count on this pedometer, your partner has to simply run to the point where your 2,4 will be 2,5 kilometers. Anyone who is going to run will have to wear this pedometer though, otherwise, there is no way to count the kilometers. For the record, Rayazaki, your partner only has to run 100 meters. That's how much it is. However, that's only if you are able to pull off your scenario."

I'm fairly sure that this formula is repeated. Under my assumption, this not only applies to the 5-kilometer run, but to all the other tasks as well. Although, you have to be a fool to not see the obvious pattern here.

"I see! And, is there any rule if my partner refuses to do all of those tasks? Even if minimal?!"

Dude's so aggressive when his partner is present. Though, if I see things from his perspective, he probably inherited this rage when Yuka-sensei said that the pairs that do not have their partners are automatically disqualified.

News flash, Hinagiku is disqualified.

"No such thing, Rayazaki. No one is forced to do this. As a matter of fact, if you don't want to do this, then you can just tell me. No one holds an obligation to do this at all. However, you will have to at least attempt it. I'm not saying that you have to absolutely push yourself if you don't want to, you must, however, attempt."

Essentially, put in some effort before quitting, because that totally makes sense...

"That makes no sense. What's the point of giving a chance of trying if someone can just quit the moment they attempt to perform that task?! Wouldn't it be more logical and practical if that someone had to fulfill a minimal quota?!"

I get what Rayazaki's trying to do. He's fighting his own paranoia by trying to make sure that Yukishiro is able to do the minimal allowed, but I don't think that's going to work.

In my opinion, Rayazaki and Hinagiku aren't in different positions, because their results will ultimately and most likely be the same. However, Rayazaki will have to undoubtedly endure a certain amount of suffering, if my assumption is correct.

Because Yukishiro can't get rid of that stupid smirk of hers, even though she attempts to hide it all the damn time.

Admittedly, Rayazaki's situation ignites a level of anger inside my soul, but situations like these were bound to happen, especially when all of us are criminals.

There is a level of malice swimming around the invisible water right now.

"Rayazaki, it's already decided. I'm not changing the rules just because you don't put any trust in your partner. Also, I said that you weren't allowed to argue yet you've done plenty of it. I'm going to ask you to remain silent or else I'll disqualify you."

Although it took him a while since he was refusing to let go of his ground, Rayazaki backed off after a few seconds.

Thus, Yuka-sensei resumed her words.

"The thing about these points is that positive points, which are the points above the negative ones can be used to demolish the negative points. Example: Your pair has done four tasks that sum up the equivalent of 4 negatives points. In other words, the situation has to be a situation where the pair has scored in-between 49% to 35%. If such is the case, then throughout the four tasks, there has been applied an ultimate score of -4 points to the pair. However, should the pair, for whatever reason, obtain a score in-between 90 to 100%, then the pair will gain 4 points, which will automatically be used to abolish the negative points. In this situation, for better or worse, that pair will be on a 50% ground, which will result in the pair passing the exam."

I see. So that's why they are there. Negative points can essentially change into positive points should you have the respective amount of points to abolish the negative ones.

Again, just like the former formula, it will most likely be applied the same way. An equal distribution.

"Of course, if you over accumulate negative points to the point where even if you get a good amount of positive points, if they are below the former negative points, then it will be meaningless because they hold no value at all. Another thing I wanted to mention is how a pair can pick the order of the tasks. However, in the case of a disagreement between the respective elements, then the tasks will be followed as originally intended. Think of this as a token of good luck and fair play."

This is actually pretty good, but only if you know why it's good. Depending on how you choose this order, you can ultimately preserve your physical condition.

Also, if you have minimal knowledge about this overall, then taking the 5-kilometer run first will backfire. A 5-kilometer run will obviously backfire. Therefore, the obvious selection would be the physical exercises that require the least strength and effort.

Mainly squats and sit-ups. This is how I feel about them, however, this is probably debatable. I just don't think that you would start this off with running because it will burn you out faster than any of the other exercises.

In the middle of all this, Yulia had arrived, but I was too focused on arguing against myself.

"I can't believe you said those irresponsible words and ran off..."

Trust me, it's for the greater good. I might've turned into a real-life tomato if I had stayed in that doki-doki atmosphere any longer...

"Remember them, or you might forget them. That would be a waste."

I'm surprisingly good at this, or, Yulia's just insanely easy to embarrass. If I was someone honest and entirely truthful I would assume that Yulia's easy to embarrass but something tells me that I'm minimally good at this.

After all, she looked in the opposite direction as soon as I said those words.

"Lastly, in order to give a fairer chance to you all, I will do another act of kindness, which is to allow each individual to decide how much the individual will perform. Now, before you get confused, allow me to clearly explain how it works. I'm sure you all must have at least a minimal expectation on how much you will perform, right? You can uphold your expectations with me and if your expectation is correct, then I will allow the individual to gain a positive point. This will however not apply to the pair, but just the individual. What the individual can do with that point is, either give it to the pair as a whole OR, the individual can use the point to make the individual's partner's score positive."

Huh....? Why bother with giving your partner a positive score? What's the damn point? Isn't it just more worth it to give the positive point to the pair overall? I don't see a point here.

As I wondered the purpose of this, I accidentally came across Kawahara's glance.

Mhm? Why is he looking at me like that? He's looking at me so seriously. But why? Why are you looking in my direction?

It's confusing me. Why would he look at me in the first place?

And then, he did an act of mockery. He tapped the right side of his head where the brain is located while looking at me. I realized what he meant immediately.

Furthermore, he used his lips while not speaking. In other words, mute's language.

"....What? ..e ...r ..a.n?"

Those were the only letters I truly understand.

Yulia was too busy being embarrassed however, Kawahara sighed deeply and spoke in his mystic language again. Though slowly this time.

It pissed me off how he spoke so slowly. It seriously got on my nerves.

".se your ..ain?"

Oh.

"Use your brain?"

He confirmed, even though we are quite far away with a single nod.

But am I not using my brain though? Or did he mean to say that I'm not using it the correct way?

Let's review my thought process. Right now, Yuka-sensei is busy answering doubts from all my classmates, but as we speak, there is something that I am not understanding. Something completely invisible.

Vast yet translucent.

Kawahara only bothered to look at me when Yuka-sensei said those words about the duality of both options. Surely, I entirely think that giving the pair the points is far better than giving your partner the single point because you are ultimately contributing to the pair.

You and your partner. What else is more important?

Unless...

Unless I'm thinking this out from the wrong perspective. If I take into consideration that my perspective fills something that Kawahara has already spoken out to me, then the only remarkable thing I can honestly remember openly is the second formula.

......!

"I see!"

"W-What? What do you see?!"

My thought process is still filled with the first formula, however, that itself is completely useless right now. In other words, I have to see Yuka-sensei's words from the second formula's perspective.

Midst this, I was ignoring Yulia's exclamation because I was prioritizing this sudden realization.

I'm such an idiot... I should not have realized this at a time like this... Though, there is still time. It's fine.

Accordingly, the second formula revolves around working this out together with your partner. Yulia will be in a losing situation all the time.

What's the point of handing out my point to both of us, if Yulia is bound to fail every single thing? If, however, I hand out the positive point to better her score and not mine, then won't that be viewed as an attitude that shows that it's more important to win along with my partner rather than attempting a solo effort?

Perhaps that's the whole point. To ensure that my partner and I, in the end, work out together.

"Ahh, please all of you, pay attention now. I forgot something. I will only allow the bonus point thing once per pair. In other words, it's not available every task. The individual can only use this bonus point to their liking throughout the whole exam once. Of course, in a pair, if both the two individuals manage to obtain a bonus point, then that's the same as two points if you haven't noticed. Otherwise, every pair could simply just abuse this. This option is so strong and that's why it's an act of kindness. See, this is something you all must learn. In the face of the weak, you must distribute something that will allow the weak to be strong."

The author's tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

You literally just called us all weaklings you insensitive bitch.

"Hey... What's wrong, are you thinking deeply or something?"

I did not realize something. Yulia's literally in my face as we speak.

Coincidentally, I looked towards Kawahara, who was jokingly doing the kissing signature with his lips.

Fucking moron, I swear, if you are incorrect I will hunt you down not only for this but for that.

"No, sorry. I zoomed out. We are winning this though. I'm just saying this in case if you are feeling nervous. Are you?"

At this point, I'm just fueling my anger barrage for Kawahara in case that he lied to me. This way, I'll be sure to commit to a straight murder.

I honestly don't care if I get some sort of death penalty for that, it's a million times worth it.

Suddenly, deep down, the thought of killing Kawahara just didn't come across as something so consequential.

Yet, more importantly, I wanted to know how Yulia was actually feeling regarding the situation as a whole.

"Yeah... Sorry about that. I just can't erase this feeling of anxiety even though you said plenty of comfortable words to me. I'm really... helpless, aren't I?"

Self-doubt is something that becomes less transparent in the face of a situation where you feel massively outmatched. This was, to Yulia, one of those situations, without a doubt.

Furthermore, when you are put in a situation where you have to entrust your entirety to someone that has said to deliver the results, then you must at least once or twice doubt that someone before putting your ultimate faith onto that person.

However, she doesn't need to know about this dark side of the truth right now. What she needs right now is the complete opposite. A new page.

"You're not helpless. You've stuck with me thus far because you have selected that I was worthy of your faith. I won't let you down as long as you stick with me through the end. You can't win if you don't see yourself winning."

If you can't see a victory scenario ahead of you and still, you obtain victory somehow, then that's either the inferiority of the situation in the face of the actuality or just the luck factor.

Realistically speaking, that would be a scenario where you didn't lose yet you didn't win. Can you truly call something a victory if you don't fully accomplish it yourself?

That's fucking ridiculous to even consider.

"I wish I had your optimism, I really do..."

It's not optimism; it's realism. If there is someone who wishes to have optimism, then it's me for sure.

But she holds an idea of me possessing optimism when that's not the case. It would be bad if I shattered her delusion because that's actually helpful right now.

"Do you want to have a portion of it?"

"Eh?"

Considering that the questions that Yuka-sensei is answering are slowly decreasing, I would say that the exam will finally start in a few moments.

If so, my time is short. The upcoming words have to weigh on her even harder than the ones I delivered yesterday.

Thus, in order for Yulia to get how serious I was, I did the unthinkable as I thought of an action that would surely grab her attention.

I firmly pressed my forehead onto Yulia's forehead slowly without saying anything. I sincerely didn't care if anyone else noticed, but since the majority was absorbed into Yuka-sensei's orbit, I took the chance.

Plus, we are on the back of the whole crowd, just in case.

Her forehead is cold though. Luckily enough, my forehead happens to be warm. How weird.

"Did you know? Optimism can't be gained unless you feel a very high level of negativity first, Yulia. The most optimistic people were once the most negative of people. That's why you can't remain like this. Those thoughts need to crawl off. Let them go, right now. Believe in victory and nothing else, because that's why I will deliver to you."

How she chooses to express her words, her thoughts, her emotions, her convoluted actions... that option remains alone with Yulia through the very end.

Yet how she chooses to be influenced, that, she doesn't have many options. Although, she actually does. But right now, she's in an emotionally fragile state where she doesn't realize that she holds that option.

Thus, it will come to her naturally, once someone goes out of his own way to help her out to this extent that it's fine to be influenced. Because, to her, I care for her.

Even beyond that, so to speak.

"Alright...... Then, I'll put my trust in you because you have put your trust in me. T-Though, are you sure it's a good idea to be this close, especially publically like this? W-What if they...?"

Why aren't her eyes meeting my eyes? I can't believe that someone like you is forced to look down even in a moment like this.

That has to change.

"What about them? They don't care. I do care. Everything you do, I automatically care. Also, don't look down. Hey, look at me."

If they actually cared, they would use their words instead of their own eyes. How simple is that, I wonder?

Gradually, although she was initially looking down a lot, her pinkish eyes met mine in a moment of pure silence. Even though words could technically be listened to, it felt like an omnipotent silence had penetrated the current atmosphere.

"You really... I can't my eyes off you, you know. I'm trying to, but I just can't. Can't we stay like this for a little longer?"

Although I'm seriously doing my best effort into this act, my natural instincts are literally screaming.

"Don't say those words, they are unfair, Yulia."

"Then I'll be unfair. I'll be unfair for as long as it takes, as long as I get to be in this moment."

It seems that she no longer cares for her surroundings. I wish I could share that ability too, but no. It's actually eating me. The fact that we are with our foreheads connected right now.

In addition to that, I can sense Kawahara's stupid face looking in my direction for some reason, yet I'll not let that bother me.

My words need to be portrayed.

"We can't be in this moment forever. We will have to move on to the exam."

"That's... Can't we just fail and be together more?"

And she's taking steps that she should not be taking but then again I am to blame, aren't I?

Is Kawahara making that stupid laughable expression because he realizes just how much of an idiot I am being right now?

Should I have asked him how to portray an act to this extent? Fuck no. That would be so awkward to ask, Jesus Christ.

"No, we can't, Yulia. Remember what we agreed on? We will pass the exam and that can come later."

"Yeah, I get that! But, still, I'm deep down still not agreeing with the idea of being separated from you the whole year... Wouldn't it make more sense for us to be together throughout this whole year?"

It also seems that she didn't pay attention to my past words at all.

"Don't you remember? We will be together throughout furthermore. Being together in seats is irrelevant when you have the former."

Even with our foreheads connected, Yulia formed a pouting expression suddenly, although, I really wasn't understanding something here.

"But it would be better if I could have both... Why can't I have both...?"

"Silly. That's because you can only get placed with me if we lose. And we are not going to lose, remember?"

All in all, it would just be extremely counterproductive if she got obsessed with the idea of being paired up with me just for the sake of being together with me.

Not only is that ultimately counterproductive but it's counterproductive because it will make me fail the exam.

That can't happen.

"But..."

"No buts. Just hold on for a bit longer..."

"Okay..."

This is getting... awkward so to say... Even though we are looking at each other in the eyes, we can't leave this moment. It's not as if I don't actually share her sentiment.

I've come this far, therefore, why back off? However... We will eventually have to burst this moment into pieces.

Plus, I'm sensing a few looks onto us. Especially one in general.............

"Aniki? What's happening? Do you have a fever? Is that why you and Yulia are so close to each other? Here, let me try too."

"H-Hey, what are you doing?!"

Yulia's forehead was forcefully removed from mine since Kuzan separated our connected foreheads and Kuzan, out of respect and care, connected his forehead with mine.

"Hmm... It's warm, Aniki... Are you sure you can do the exam? Don't push yourself, Aniki! Your life is mor-- Aniki... That hurts... You're going to break my hand, Aniki!!!!"

I'm looking at Kuzan with an absolute cold death stare because right now, I can't believe that I got cockblocked by someone who calls me Aniki and is bald on top of it.

However, Kuzan is the type of person that can't just understand that. He can't read the mood. At all. Never. Yet, his body will react if I apply considerable strength to his body.

Which is why I almost just broke his right hand, that I am currently holding with a monstrous grip.

"Kuzan. Don't do that again."

In the end, Kuzan swiftly fleed the scene, but not due to my words, but because Yuka-sensei had just spoken out.

"We are starting the exam now! All of the pairs that are not the ones that are about to be called are to stay out! Preferably, outside of the running platform. Anywhere is fine, as long as you are not inside."

With that said, all of us moved out and went to the same place, which was a massive horizontal block of stone where we could all seat in.

And since the block of stone wasn't that far from Yuka-sensei's location, we could just essentially hear what she was saying perfectly. I took a seat on the left edge of the block with Yulia on my right side.

Ultimately, inside the vast running platform stood only one person, which was our homeroom teacher. On her hands now, she had a notebook with her black pen. Furthermore, she was viewing something in her notebook.

Most likely the criteria if I had to guess...

"Erm... Tatsu and Ikkiri!"

Upon hearing his name, Tatsu immediately got up, however, from the look on his face, he was completely dead.

I understand. If your partner is unavailable, then you are essentially a sitting duck. And although Tatsu had no reason to get up except to report his situation, he insisted on asking something to Yuka-sensei even though it had already been answered previously.

"Sensei... You said that if someone doesn't have a partner that they can't perform, right? But what if I can perform all the tasks on my own? I don't need a partner, I can do all the tasks myself."

Honestly, I almost laughed, because, if these are Tatsu's honest thoughts, then he surely and quite literally misunderstood the essence of the exam.

"That idea of yours defeats the whole purpose of the exam. If your partner isn't feeling well, then you two should have developed some sort of responsibility between you two. However, since Ikkiri isn't here, then that means, you obviously didn't, did you, Tatsu?"

That's such a bad logic, but, in other words, Tatsu is apparently at fault because Ikkiri's suffering from a stomachache. I've also lost the curiosity to ask Yuka-sensei about the true reason for both Ikkiri and Arkalee's absence.

"Tsk, what a fucking retarded logic. Can't even muster the guts to give me such a simple thing. Should've known you'd be incompetent. Shit."

It really is a retarded logic, but you are even more retarded for not understanding the essence of the exam.

Or maybe he understood the essence but was somehow convinced that his idea of performing solo would work?

It's strange because he's showing such a frustration even after hearing Yuka-sensei's explanation on how the exam would work.

Why would you convince yourself of an idea that will not work over and over? Doesn't make any sense...

Well, in the end, he went to sit on the edge of the block away from just about everyone else with an angry face.

Yuka-sensei did not bother to reply and most likely, in her notebook, just drew the X on both Tatsu and Ikkiri.

With that, one pair was down.

"Next, Arkalee and Hyunda......."

Is she calling the pairs based on their absences or what? Because if not, then this is legit funny.

I feel like cracking a stream of laughter.

Hyunda, since he was the only one present went in Yuka-sensei's direction slowly and delivered the only word he chose to say.

"Present."

Just about everyone present, except the moody ones, cracked a smile when they heard Hyunda's careless and singular word which expressed authentic carelessness.

Although, if this really is a presence call, then there is no reason for truly laughing.

"Hyunda... Your partner is absent... Do you want to know why?"

"Sure, why not."

Hyunda's yawning in front of her for some reason. I don't think that he cares about his situation. I'm aware of just how much I do tend to think of him as someone who is generally superior but that's because I'm gradually gathering more reasons to confirm my reasoning behind it.

Yet, when you look at Hyunda... He just portrays this extremely average person act who essentially does nothing at all.

Even in front of his homeroom teacher, who is about to explain why his partner is absent.

"She's extremely sick. On any other occasion, I would overlook this but she has a fever of 41 degrees... Therefore, it's impossible for her to be present. I know this because I went to her room yesterday. I get that it's not your fault but since she's not present, you fail the exam. Sorry."

"No problem. Also, can I visit her? I'm worried about her."

It's hard to believe he is. I mean, his face should show some sort of revolted expression but he's not showing that.

His face and overall movements remain still far too carefree.

In addition to that, I felt a slight hint of sarcasm when he said 'No problem.'. Are you seriously okay with failing here like this? Or is this actually intended?

Because according to him, failing the first exam was also intended.

"Visit her? Boys are forbidden to visit the girls in their dorms, Hyunda..."

"Oh, come on. I won't do anything. And besides, I can just ask the dorm supervisor to guide me. There are plenty of cameras, sensei. I just want to check her condition. At least let me have that if I'm going to fail the exam. Also, I want to confirm whether or not she actually got a fever."

His arms movements seem similar to that of a clown jester honestly. I want to take his words seriously but I just can't.

Sincerely, I can only feel the sarcasm. It takes someone fluent in sarcasm to get another person's sarcasm.

"Then fine. You are at your own risk. Don't abuse your luck."

"Thanks, sensei."

Why do I feel like Hyunda, even though he just failed the exam, is about to win something greater?

I know I don't have a single reason to feel this way, but that gigantic smirk on his face tells me that he's up to something....

Damn....

I want to know what he's up to though....

Yet I can't right now. I can only watch his figure leaving the scene while going towards the girls' dorm.

Noticeably, most of the girls were actually revolted yet none of them did anything about it. The exam was apparently more important.

Or maybe they just didn't saw Hyunda as someone who is harmful, which would make sense, since that's how he portrays himself.

"And next up is... Hinagiku and Akihiko. Please step up. Oh, wait."

Wow, did she seriously just make that joke? How bad can you be?

Besides the joke, Hinagiku eventually got up from her seat, but, before she fully could, Rayazaki sprinted in Yuka-sensei's direction.

Hinagiku, was without a doubt, surprised when she saw Rayazaki did that. Not only her but the rest. Yet, it was quite expected. Of course the white knight wouldn't keep quiet. Never.

Brave regardless.

"Sensei, wait! Are you open to new and creative ideas?!"

Considering that he doesn't have many options, Rayazaki opted to try something innovative. Yet, that's good thinking, because if you surely go by the established rules, then Hinagiku will obviously fail.

Without a doubt, this is the correct way to go about it. Because, realistically speaking, there are no other alternatives except creating your own.

"Rayazaki, I already said no. Don't be stubborn for no reason."

But he didn't give up. Telling Rayazaki to stop being stubborn goes against his own catalyst.

"It isn't no reason though, at least hear me out! This will work out, trust me!"

Rayazaki has considerable high hopes when it comes to his own actions, but he fails to realize that his version of reality doesn't actually apply to the actuality.

He's delusional to a high degree, so to say.

And surely, Hinagiku started to notice his behavior and rushed to where he was standing.

"No is no. This is the last time I'm warning you, Rayazaki. You do know what happens once this last time expires, don't you? I'm even being kind right now. If you are intelligent you will recognize this and back off."

"Screw you. Warnings mean nothing to me, at all. Just listen to me instead of denying me, will you?! Because I ha-"

Lingering to his right hand that was moving violently, Hinagiku tried to intervene by stopping him, since Rayazaki was essentially about to get physical.

"Rayazaki, it's alright, you don- Ahh."

But, something that caught her off guard was the fact that his movements were far too wild. Wild to the point of accidentally slapping her.

To contrast what would appear to be an intentional slap, Hinagiku held her ground and just simply said:

"It's okay. Don't worry about it! Sensei, it's unfortunate, but I'll try my best next time if I can! Thank you for giving me a chance! Rayazaki, don't be mean to sensei! You can't do that! I thought we talked about this!"

They did? Damn, I gotta get back to reading their diabetes-level texts.

I will commend Hinagiku for fixing the situation though. On top of being slapped, she held her ground, thanked for being given the chance even though she automatically fails due to Akihiko's absence and lastly, she's starting to put a leash onto Rayazaki.

It's funny because as soon as his memories come back, this will all reverse.

But I mustn't use that card yet. Not yet. Let them have their moments.

My calf has not forgotten what you have done, Rayazaki...

"But, I can fix your situation if she just listens! You don't have to fail, it's not your fault!"

I have no clue what happened to Akihiko, but unless it was intentional, then it really isn't her fault.

Also, Rayazaki keeps arguing back to Hinagiku even though she said not to do so.

"That's enough! Don't do that! I have my own free will too and I'm accepting my situation! Or are you going against my decision?!"

When did she become this fierce? Am I missing something? I should've read their texts, shouldn't I...?

"Listen to Hina, Rayazaki. We also have free will too."

We? Oh, I see what this is about. I guess every man is just to blame huh.

It's even more triggering when a pseudo-masochist sorry excuse of a teacher says that.

"You are not thinking straight. Just trust me here, I got this. With my idea, you'll not only pass the exam, but you'll feel great about yourself! I want that for you!"

I would start chanting the word 'Kiss' if I could right now. I just don't want to accidentally be disqualified for breaking the serious atmosphere.

And while this was happening, Yulia, who had been silent all this time, was looking at the two with passionate eyes. She was covering her cheeks with her right hand while clasping my right hand with her left hand.

"I know what I want for myself and I've decided! Don't go against my own decision, I will get mad!"

"Ah, fine! Get mad! I'll still do it for you though! You'll thank me later, trust me!"

Yulia's clasping got even more intense and I wondered what was going on as I watched this drama go on between Rayazaki and Hinagiku.

"No, you will not! I'm not talking to you ever again if you keep on doing this, Rayazaki!"

I can't believe she used the 'I won't talk to you ever again' card on Rayazaki. How do you even come back from that?

"B-But, I just want to help you......"

Rayazaki, after realizing just how futile he was before Hinagiku toned down his voice with sadness as he looked down on the ground in response.

"I know that. I reaaaally do. But, as I've mentioned already, it's my decision. If I lose, then that's on me, not on you. Come on, let's go."

".................Aye..............."

Most depressed 'Aye' in all history. The wounded lion left the stage while the charming princess dragged him out with her.

On the other hand, something else was bothering the hell out of me. Why was Yulia clasping my hand so tightly like this...?

"........So romantic...."

She muttered those words almost silently.

Yulia must be referring to what just happened. I'm not sure if I would label that as romantic, honestly.

Although, I could argue against myself if Hinagiku had feelings for Rayazaki, which we still don't know.

I'm keeping Hyunda's hunch still alive in my soul. Maybe I'm over-glorifying him for not thinking that he can possibly be wrong here.

It's like we live in the same world except not. He's partial to me and the rest. It's as if I'm living with an alien.

What an obscure feeling...

"Oh my gosh, weren't they just so romantic just now?!"

This time, after stopping her own muttering, Yulia talked in my direction while still clasping my hand.

"Rayazaki has feelings for Hinagiku. Did you know?"

"Whaaaaaaaaaat? No way, really?! Ah, but it makes all sense now! The reason why he's been insisting on this matter was that he didn't want to see his beloved fail! Isn't this just something out of a Korean drama?!"

Hey, Yulia, stop breaking the 4th wall. It can't hold out much.

"Do you know the best part about it? Both of them haven't even confessed to each other."

More like Rayazaki just doesn't have the balls and Hinagiku might just be flat out using him. After this exam is done, I do plan on finally utilizing Rayazaki.

But right now, he needs to be broken down and taste defeat before knowing he actually has to rely on someone first.

"They should! They should! Can you imagine what their dates will look like?! I bet they are the type of couple that enjoys being silly all day long and just has fun as if they are kids! They are too young and innocent, honestly!"

They are not innocent. No one here is. Yulia's simply far too obsessed with her idea of romance right now.

Well, since she is by my side, I decided to whisper on her ear something, which, in order to do so, I had to close our distance a fair bit.

"Their sex must be so experimental. Both are so new to it, so they must-"

"D-Don't say that! They must go slooooooowly before doing that!"

Kinda cute how embarrassed she got once I mentioned the word 'sex'.

"What? Don't tell me you aren't curious about it."

"W-W-Welllllllll, m-maybe a little bit...!"

"Ahhhh, I knew it."

"Don't misunderstand, please! I'm not a pervert, I just think they really have a strong affinity, that's all! Look how much they care for each other! Rayazaki insists with Hinagiku and attempts to save her from an unrealistic situation while Hinagiku, despite Rayazaki's efforts, denies them because she believes that her own decision matters as well! However, Rayazaki can't see that and then they start to argue! Isn't that so like couples?!"

Her weird movements such as shaking her hands from left to right whenever she's embarrassed are starting to become something quite cute.

"If they argue, then they lack general understanding yet they argue as an attempt to further their understanding of one another. Maybe one day they will truly understand each other."

Not happening since Rayazaki's destructive by nature. He can't even hide it even though a portion of his memories are gone.

Now, imagine Rayazaki on his prime. God, I almost laugh just from thinking about it.

"Then... Does that mean we automatically understand each other if we don't argue...?"

"We accept each other. That's why we have already understood each other. If we aren't arguing, then that might as well be the case."

Ikkiri and Tatsu.

Arkalee and Hyunda.

Hinagiku and Akihiko.

While exams start off with high hopes, we are starting with three failures.

Without a doubt, this is the opposite of a good start.

"T-Then I really do understand you... I think I want to keep on understanding you..."

I lied about that, Yulia.

You can't ever possibly understand me.

Because, you know, there is something you should know about me yet you'll never know this.

I often don't understand myself.