The sharp, sterile atmosphere of the organization’s central headquarters was a stark contrast to the chaotic streets outside. Takuma adjusted his tie, feeling the weight of the moment as he entered the sleek, glass-walled meeting room on the upper floors. The air hummed with quiet authority, the kind of power that didn’t need to announce itself.
At the head of the table sat a man whose presence was anything but ordinary. Dressed in an impeccably tailored black suit, his silver hair was neatly combed back, and his sharp, ice-blue eyes seemed to pierce through Takuma the moment he stepped into the room. This was Hiroshi Kageyama, the enigmatic founder and owner of the organization.
“Takuma,” Hiroshi began, his voice as smooth as silk but carrying an edge that demanded attention. “I’ve heard much about you from Daichi. Please, take a seat.”
Takuma nodded and sat down, his posture straight, his mind alert. He’d been summoned here not just as a recruit but as someone being considered for a leadership role. He couldn’t afford to slip up.
Hiroshi leaned forward slightly, folding his hands together. “You’re aware of the trials being held today for new recruits, correct?”
“Yes,” Takuma replied. “Daichi briefed me. He mentioned I’d get a chance to observe the candidates.”
“Good,” Hiroshi said, his lips curling into a faint smile. “But before we get to that, there’s something else we need to discuss—our rivals. You see, our organization doesn’t operate in isolation. There are others out there, competitors who seek to undermine what we’ve built. Some are straightforward in their opposition, while others… prefer more subtle methods.”
Takuma’s brows furrowed. “Competitors? You mean other groups like this one?”
Hiroshi’s expression darkened, his gaze becoming colder. “Precisely. Some are splinter factions formed by those who once stood where you do now but lacked the discipline or vision to see things through. Others are entirely separate entities, operating in the shadows, pursuing their own agendas. The most dangerous of them is Umbra Nexus. They’re a clandestine group that’s been attempting to poach our recruits and sabotage our operations.”
“Umbra Nexus,” Takuma repeated, the name rolling off his tongue like a whispered threat. “What’s their goal?”
“Chaos,” Hiroshi said bluntly. “While we aim to maintain order and balance, they thrive on disorder. They manipulate and exploit weaknesses, turning allies into enemies, and destabilizing regions to expand their influence. They see us as a threat to their existence, just as we see them.”
Takuma’s mind raced. The stakes were higher than he’d realized. This wasn’t just about forming a team or climbing the ranks; this was a chess game on a much larger board. “And what do you need from me?” he asked cautiously.
Hiroshi’s smile returned, but it was sharper this time. “For now, I need you to focus on building your team. The recruits you’ll observe today are the future of this organization. But more importantly, I need leaders who can think beyond the immediate, who can anticipate the moves of adversaries like Umbra Nexus.”
Takuma nodded, determination hardening his features. “Understood. I’ll do whatever it takes.”
“Good,” Hiroshi said, leaning back in his chair. “Then let’s not waste any more time. Follow me.”
----------------------------------------
The two walked through the sleek corridors of the headquarters, the walls adorned with holographic displays showcasing the organization's history and achievements. Hiroshi led Takuma to a large observation room overlooking a vast training arena.
Below, a group of recruits was already gathered, each one clad in the organization’s standard training gear. The trials were about to begin, and Takuma could feel the tension in the air, even from behind the reinforced glass.
“Watch closely,” Hiroshi said, his voice low but commanding. “These recruits are about to face their first real test. Some will succeed, and others will fail. What matters is how they handle themselves under pressure. Pay attention to their instincts, their adaptability, their drive. These are the qualities that define a true leader.”
Takuma’s eyes narrowed as the first trial began. He didn’t know what challenges awaited these recruits, but one thing was clear—this was no ordinary initiation. This was survival.
As Takuma leaned closer to the observation glass, his brow furrowed at an unexpected detail. The group of recruits assembled in the training arena below were all female. Each one carried herself with a different energy—some exuding confidence, others radiating quiet determination, and a few with nervous jitters they tried to suppress.
"All women?" Takuma muttered under his breath, glancing sideways at Hiroshi, who stood beside him with an enigmatic smile.
"Sharp observation," Hiroshi said, clasping his hands behind his back. "This batch is indeed unique. A deliberate choice, you might say. These individuals were handpicked for their potential to fill critical gaps in our operations."
Takuma’s curiosity deepened, but he turned his attention back to the arena as the trial began. The first stage seemed straightforward—a physical test of agility and endurance. The recruits had to navigate an obstacle course riddled with traps and moving platforms while dodging bursts of simulated energy attacks.
The first recruit stepped forward, a tall woman with a determined set to her jaw and piercing eyes. Her movements were precise and methodical, almost like a predator stalking its prey. She made quick work of the course, her lithe frame darting through the obstacles with minimal mistakes.
"Impressive," Takuma thought, watching her finish the course with a flourish. "She’s got a natural talent for movement, almost like she’s been doing this her whole life."
The second recruit was smaller in stature, with a quick, nimble grace that allowed her to slide under low-hanging obstacles and vault over others. Her speed was unmatched, though her precision lacked the finesse of the first.
As recruit after recruit tackled the course, Takuma began to pick up on patterns. One relied too heavily on brute strength and stumbled at the more delicate sections. Another hesitated too long at a swinging platform, causing her to lose precious seconds.
Takuma’s eyes narrowed. "They’re good, but raw. A lot of potential, but they’ll need refining."
One recruit, in particular, caught his attention. She was petite, with short, raven-black hair and a confident stride. As she began the course, her strategy was immediately clear—she studied the obstacles, pausing for only a fraction of a second before executing each move with almost surgical precision.
"She’s analyzing the course," Takuma murmured, impressed. "She’s not the fastest, but she’s playing smart."
Hiroshi glanced at him, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "You’re starting to see it, aren’t you? Each of them brings something unique to the table. Individually, they’re strong, but together, they could be unstoppable."
Takuma crossed his arms, his mind racing. "Why all women, though? Is it just coincidence, or is there a reason behind this specific selection?"
"Think of it as an experiment," Hiroshi replied cryptically. "A test of synergy, adaptability, and unity. We’ve found that diverse perspectives often yield the most surprising results."
As the trial moved on to the next stage—a combat simulation against AI opponents—Takuma’s focus intensified. Each recruit faced off against a holographic opponent tailored to exploit their weaknesses. The tall, confident recruit faltered slightly against a faster adversary, while the petite strategist adapted quickly, using the environment to outmaneuver her opponent.
Takuma’s mind began to churn with possibilities. "If I’m going to lead a team, I need individuals who can compensate for each other’s weaknesses. These recruits… they could be the foundation of something remarkable."
By the time the combat trial ended, Takuma had formed a mental list of potential candidates. As the recruits caught their breath, their performances replayed in his mind.
"You seem deep in thought," Hiroshi said, breaking the silence.
"I am," Takuma admitted. "They’re good—better than I expected. But I still need to see more before I decide."
Hiroshi nodded approvingly. "Good. The trials are far from over. Take your time, Takuma. This decision will shape not just your team, but your future within the organization."
Takuma’s gaze lingered on the recruits below, his mind already racing with strategies and possibilities. This wasn’t just a test for them—it was a test for him as well.
As the second stage of the trials began, Takuma leaned forward, his eyes narrowing as he studied the remaining 23 recruits. The initial test had weeded out the less adaptable, leaving behind those with a mix of raw talent and resilience. He could feel the tension in the air through the observation glass—each remaining recruit seemed to be brimming with determination to prove themselves worthy.
Stage two was a test of tactical skill and decision-making under pressure. The recruits were placed into randomized teams of three and tasked with completing a capture-the-flag scenario in a simulated battlefield. The catch? Each recruit carried a glowing orb representing their "life force." If an orb was shattered during the simulation, that recruit was eliminated. The goal was to secure the enemy flag and return it to their base without losing more than one teammate.
“Now this,” Takuma thought, a faint smirk tugging at his lips, “is where their true potential will start to shine. Let’s see how well they work under pressure and in a group setting.”
The simulation began, and the recruits sprang into action. Each team had a different approach. Some split up, relying on speed and stealth, while others stuck together, opting for a more defensive strategy. Takuma’s eyes darted from one team to the next, analyzing their choices.
One team immediately caught his attention. The petite strategist from earlier, who he had mentally nicknamed “Raven,” had taken charge of her group. She led her teammates through the simulated terrain with calculated precision, using natural cover to conceal their movements. Her calm demeanor under pressure stood in stark contrast to her peers, who occasionally hesitated or acted impulsively.
"She’s a natural leader," Takuma noted, his mind racing. "Not just a fighter—she’s someone who can think three steps ahead."
Another team, led by the tall, confident recruit he remembered from the first stage, adopted a more aggressive approach. They charged forward, using their superior strength to overpower opponents. It worked initially, but their lack of caution left them exposed, and one of their orbs was shattered by an enemy ambush.
"They’ve got the drive," Takuma thought, his expression hardening, "but they’re reckless. That’ll cost them in a real fight."
Hiroshi, standing beside him, noticed his intensity. “Interesting, isn’t it? You can tell a lot about someone by how they perform in situations like this.”
Takuma nodded absently, his focus unwavering. As the simulation unfolded, he found himself rooting for some recruits more than others. A quieter recruit with a sharp gaze demonstrated exceptional aim with a simulated bow, covering her team with pinpoint accuracy. Another recruit, smaller and seemingly outmatched, used clever feints and misdirection to lead her opponents into traps.
By the end of the stage, only 12 recruits remained. Takuma’s smirk deepened, though his expression was tinged with respect. These women weren’t just surviving the trials—they were thriving in ways he hadn’t anticipated.
“Stage two’s over,” Hiroshi said, folding his arms. “Thoughts so far?”
Takuma didn’t answer immediately, his eyes still fixed on the recruits as they exited the simulation. Finally, he spoke.
“They’re better than I expected,” he admitted, his voice steady. “A few of them stand out—‘Raven,’ for one. She’s got the brains and the composure to lead. And that sharpshooter... she could be an invaluable asset.”
Hiroshi’s smile widened. “You’re already building your team in your mind, aren’t you?”
Takuma glanced at him, a faint glimmer of determination in his eyes. “Maybe. But I still need to see more. These trials are about more than raw skill. I need people I can trust—people who can adapt and grow.”
Hiroshi nodded, his expression approving. “Wise words. The final stage will push them to their limits. Let’s see who rises to the occasion.”
Takuma returned his gaze to the recruits below, his mind racing with possibilities. These women were more than just recruits—they were potential allies, and perhaps even the key to his future success within the organization.
The final stage of the trials wasn’t just a test—it was a gauntlet, designed to push the remaining recruits to their physical, mental, and emotional limits. This time, the simulated battlefield was replaced by a sprawling obstacle course paired with a time-sensitive mission. The recruits were informed that their goal was to infiltrate a heavily guarded fortress, retrieve a "sacred artifact," and escape without being "captured" or “eliminated.”
What the recruits didn’t know was that the fortress wasn’t just guarded by automated drones and traps. Experienced operatives from the organization were stationed as live opponents, tasked with testing the recruits’ ingenuity and perseverance.
From the observation deck, Takuma leaned against the railing, his sharp gaze fixed on the monitors showing every angle of the course. “This is going to separate the exceptional from the merely competent,” he muttered under his breath.
The recruits were dropped into the simulated environment one team at a time, their entry shrouded in thick mist to disorient them. The first challenge was a series of pressure-sensitive platforms scattered across a shallow ravine. Misstep once, and they’d trigger blaring alarms, alerting the fortress guards to their location.
Raven, Takuma’s favored strategist, took charge of her team with calm precision. “Follow my lead. Step exactly where I step. No exceptions,” she instructed her teammates. Her methodical approach allowed them to cross undetected.
Meanwhile, the second team panicked. One recruit’s hesitation caused her to falter, triggering the alarm. Lights bathed the area, and automated turrets emerged from the ground, forcing the team into a desperate scramble. Within minutes, they were “eliminated.”
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“Raven’s composure is paying off,” Hiroshi commented from beside Takuma.
“Yeah,” Takuma replied, his eyes narrowing. “But the real challenge hasn’t even started.”
The next obstacle was a labyrinth of narrow corridors laced with tripwires and motion detectors. Teams had to navigate it without triggering any of the traps. Raven’s team moved cautiously, disarming the simpler traps with steady hands. At one point, a teammate almost tripped a wire, but Raven caught her by the wrist in time.
“Keep it together,” Raven said, her voice sharp but encouraging.
The third team, led by the sharpshooter Takuma had noticed earlier, displayed a different approach. Instead of avoiding the traps, they found ways to repurpose them. Using a broken motion detector, they created a diversion, drawing the guards away from their path.
“She’s resourceful,” Takuma muttered, a faint smirk playing on his lips.
The final stretch was the most grueling: an assault on the fortress itself. The recruits had to dodge sniper fire, evade patrolling guards, and breach the fortress walls using whatever tools they had on hand. By now, exhaustion was evident in their movements, but a few recruits refused to give in.
Raven’s team reached the artifact first but was ambushed by operatives posing as guards. The confrontation was swift and brutal, and while Raven managed to hold her own, her teammates faltered, leading to their elimination.
“Too bad,” Hiroshi said with a sigh. “She’s good, but she couldn’t carry her entire team.”
The sharpshooter and her team were next to arrive. Instead of charging headlong into the artifact chamber, she used her surroundings, creating a makeshift distraction that lured the guards away. This allowed her to retrieve the artifact and escape with minimal confrontation.
By the end of the trial, only three recruits stood victorious: Raven, the sharpshooter, and a quiet recruit who had demonstrated exceptional agility and stealth throughout the course.
Takuma straightened, his expression unreadable as he looked down at the survivors. “Three out of fifty,” he said quietly.
Hiroshi clapped him on the back. “Quality over quantity, right?”
Takuma didn’t respond immediately. His mind was already at work, evaluating the three recruits who had passed. They had proven themselves capable, but there was still much to be done before they could truly be considered part of his team.
“Schedule a briefing with them,” Takuma finally said, his voice firm. “I want to see how they perform in real missions.”
As he turned to leave the observation deck, Takuma allowed himself a small smile. The trials were over, but the real work was just beginning.
Takuma sat at the head of the briefing room table, his demeanor calm and composed, though his eyes held a glimmer of curiosity. Across from him sat the three recruits who had passed the trials. They were still catching their breath from the grueling tests, but their gazes were sharp and determined, their earlier exhaustion now replaced by an unspoken pride.
“Before we get into anything else,” Takuma began, his voice steady, “I want to hear from each of you. Who are you? Why did you want to join this organization? And what do you think you bring to the table?”
The recruits exchanged glances before the sharpshooter, who had stood out to Takuma during the trials, spoke first. She leaned back slightly, her arms crossed over her chest, exuding a quiet confidence.
“My name’s Kaede Yoshikawa,” she said. Her voice was steady but carried an edge of vulnerability beneath the surface. “I’m here because... I want to make a difference. Sounds cliché, I know, but it’s the truth.” She paused, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her jacket. “A year ago, my little brother got caught in the crossfire of a gang fight. He didn’t make it. The people responsible were never brought to justice. I... I couldn’t just sit around and let the world stay like that.”
Kaede’s voice wavered, but she quickly steadied herself, her eyes meeting Takuma’s. “I’m a good shot because I trained myself to be one. I wasn’t going to let anyone else I care about get hurt because I wasn’t ready.”
Takuma nodded, sensing the depth of her resolve. “You’ve turned your pain into strength,” he said simply. “That takes courage.”
Next, the quiet, agile recruit raised her hand hesitantly, her demeanor a stark contrast to Kaede’s boldness. “I’m Sora Himura,” she said softly. Her voice was like a whisper in the room, but there was a determination behind her shy exterior. “I... I grew up in the system. No family. No support. Just... survival.”
She paused, her hands resting on her lap. “I learned to fend for myself early on. Sneaking around, stealing food—it wasn’t glamorous, but it kept me alive. I thought that was all my life would ever be until someone from this organization found me and gave me a chance. They told me I could use my skills for something greater. That I could belong somewhere.”
Sora looked down briefly, then back up at Takuma. “I don’t want to just survive anymore. I want to matter.”
Takuma felt a pang in his chest at her story. Despite her reserved nature, there was a fire in Sora that couldn’t be ignored. “You’ve already taken the first step,” he said, his voice warm. “You’re here, and that means you’re stronger than you think.”
Finally, Raven, the strategist, cleared her throat. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table, her expression serious. “I’m Hikari Kuroda,” she began. “And my story isn’t as tragic as theirs, but it’s no walk in the park either.”
Hikari’s gaze turned distant, her tone thoughtful. “My family... let’s just say they weren’t exactly model citizens. My parents ran with dangerous crowds, made bad decisions, and I was left cleaning up the mess. I learned how to think on my feet, how to read people, and how to find solutions when everything seemed impossible. I didn’t have much of a choice.”
She folded her hands together, her eyes meeting Takuma’s. “I joined because I’m tired of watching people suffer while others sit back and do nothing. I know how the world works, and I want to be someone who can outsmart it. I’m good at what I do, and I’m willing to prove it.”
Takuma leaned back in his chair, his gaze moving between the three recruits. Each of them carried a unique story, a unique pain that had shaped them into who they were now. Kaede’s bold confidence, Sora’s quiet resilience, and Hikari’s sharp intellect were as distinct as night, twilight, and dawn.
“Well,” Takuma said after a moment, a small smile tugging at his lips. “You’re not what I expected, but maybe that’s a good thing. The organization may have rules, but this team? It’s going to be different. We’re going to do things our way.”
The three recruits exchanged surprised but approving glances. For the first time since joining the organization, they felt not like tools, but like people who could make a difference.
“But,” Takuma added, his tone turning serious, “this isn’t just about me trusting you. You’re going to have to trust each other, too. You’ll be depending on each other in ways you’ve never imagined. Can you do that?”
Kaede, Sora, and Hikari all nodded, their expressions resolute.
“Good,” Takuma said, standing up and gesturing toward the door. “Welcome to your first briefing as part of the team. Let’s get to work.”
Takuma sat at the head of the briefing room table, his demeanor calm and composed, though his eyes held a glimmer of curiosity. Across from him sat the three recruits who had passed the trials. They were still catching their breath from the grueling tests, but their gazes were sharp and determined, their earlier exhaustion now replaced by an unspoken pride.
“Before we get into anything else,” Takuma began, his voice steady, “I want to hear from each of you. Who are you? Why did you want to join this organization? And what do you think you bring to the table?”
The recruits exchanged glances before the sharpshooter, who had stood out to Takuma during the trials, spoke first. She leaned back slightly, her arms crossed over her chest, exuding a quiet confidence.
“My name’s Kaede Yoshikawa,” she said. Her voice was steady but carried an edge of vulnerability beneath the surface. “I’m here because... I want to make a difference. Sounds cliché, I know, but it’s the truth.” She paused, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her jacket. “A year ago, my little brother got caught in the crossfire of a gang fight. He didn’t make it. The people responsible were never brought to justice. I... I couldn’t just sit around and let the world stay like that.”
Kaede’s voice wavered, but she quickly steadied herself, her eyes meeting Takuma’s. “I’m a good shot because I trained myself to be one. I wasn’t going to let anyone else I care about get hurt because I wasn’t ready.”
Takuma nodded, sensing the depth of her resolve. “You’ve turned your pain into strength,” he said simply. “That takes courage.”
Next, the quiet, agile recruit raised her hand hesitantly, her demeanor a stark contrast to Kaede’s boldness. “I’m Sora Himura,” she said softly. Her voice was like a whisper in the room, but there was a determination behind her shy exterior. “I... I grew up in the system. No family. No support. Just... survival.”
She paused, her hands resting on her lap. “I learned to fend for myself early on. Sneaking around, stealing food—it wasn’t glamorous, but it kept me alive. I thought that was all my life would ever be until someone from this organization found me and gave me a chance. They told me I could use my skills for something greater. That I could belong somewhere.”
Sora looked down briefly, then back up at Takuma. “I don’t want to just survive anymore. I want to matter.”
Takuma felt a pang in his chest at her story. Despite her reserved nature, there was a fire in Sora that couldn’t be ignored. “You’ve already taken the first step,” he said, his voice warm. “You’re here, and that means you’re stronger than you think.”
Finally, Raven, the strategist, cleared her throat. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the table, her expression serious. “I’m Hikari Kuroda,” she began. “And my story isn’t as tragic as theirs, but it’s no walk in the park either.”
Hikari’s gaze turned distant, her tone thoughtful. “My family... let’s just say they weren’t exactly model citizens. My parents ran with dangerous crowds, made bad decisions, and I was left cleaning up the mess. I learned how to think on my feet, how to read people, and how to find solutions when everything seemed impossible. I didn’t have much of a choice.”
She folded her hands together, her eyes meeting Takuma’s. “I joined because I’m tired of watching people suffer while others sit back and do nothing. I know how the world works, and I want to be someone who can outsmart it. I’m good at what I do, and I’m willing to prove it.”
Takuma leaned back in his chair, his gaze moving between the three recruits. Each of them carried a unique story, a unique pain that had shaped them into who they were now. Kaede’s bold confidence, Sora’s quiet resilience, and Hikari’s sharp intellect were as distinct as night, twilight, and dawn.
“Well,” Takuma said after a moment, a small smile tugging at his lips. “You’re not what I expected, but maybe that’s a good thing. The organization may have rules, but this team? It’s going to be different. We’re going to do things our way.”
The three recruits exchanged surprised but approving glances. For the first time since joining the organization, they felt not like tools, but like people who could make a difference.
“But,” Takuma added, his tone turning serious, “this isn’t just about me trusting you. You’re going to have to trust each other, too. You’ll be depending on each other in ways you’ve never imagined. Can you do that?”
Kaede, Sora, and Hikari all nodded, their expressions resolute.
“Good,” Takuma said, standing up and gesturing toward the door. “Welcome to your first briefing as part of the team. Let’s get to work.”
As Takuma was about to delve into the specifics of team dynamics and planning, the door to the briefing room creaked open. The air seemed to shift as the owner of the organization stepped inside. He was an imposing figure, his presence commanding respect without effort. His sharp suit and piercing gaze left no room for doubt that he was the man in charge.
Takuma straightened in his seat, and the three recruits exchanged nervous glances. The owner scanned the room, his eyes settling on Takuma for a moment before addressing the group.
“Good evening,” he began, his tone measured. “I wanted to personally congratulate you on completing the trials. Not many make it to this stage, and it’s a testament to your abilities—and your determination.”
The recruits relaxed slightly at his words, but Takuma could tell there was more to the visit. The owner’s next words confirmed his suspicions.
“However,” he continued, his voice taking on a more somber note, “I’m afraid I don’t bring good news. For the time being, there are no new missions appearing in our database. Something—or someone—is interfering with our systems. Until we figure out the issue, all active operations are on hold.”
A heavy silence settled over the room. The disappointment was palpable. Takuma folded his arms, his mind already racing through possibilities. Kaede frowned, her confident facade momentarily slipping. Sora’s eyes darted nervously, and Hikari leaned back in her chair, her lips pressed into a thin line.
The owner, sensing the shift in mood, quickly added, “This doesn’t mean you’ll be idle. We’re addressing the issue, and I have full confidence it will be resolved soon. In the meantime, I have a proposal—one that may benefit you all.”
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the recruits. “Given that you’re new to the organization, I think it’s crucial for you to integrate into society while maintaining your training. Takuma, I’d like your team to enroll at your school. It will provide them with an opportunity to observe, adapt, and blend in while we resolve the current issue.”
The three girls froze for a moment, the implications of his words sinking in. Then, almost simultaneously, their faces lit up with joy.
“Wait, school?” Kaede said, a grin breaking across her face. “You mean, like an actual school? I haven’t been to one in years!”
Hikari raised an eyebrow, a smirk forming. “This will be... interesting. I suppose it’s better than sitting around doing nothing.”
But it was Sora’s reaction that caught Takuma’s attention. Her eyes widened, and her hands clasped together tightly. “School?” she whispered, her voice trembling. “I’ve never been to one before. Not even once.”
Takuma’s heart ached at her words, but he kept his expression neutral. The owner noticed as well, nodding in approval at her enthusiasm.
“Yes, school,” he said, a faint smile softening his stern demeanor. “It’s a critical part of the integration process, and it will give you valuable insights into civilian life. You’ll also be able to support Takuma directly, should the need arise.”
Takuma leaned back in his chair, considering the implications. Having his team at school could complicate things—but it could also provide an advantage. He glanced at the recruits, noting their distinct reactions, and sighed.
“Well,” he said, shrugging slightly, “looks like I’m going to have my hands full.”
The recruits laughed, their earlier disappointment forgotten. The owner nodded once, satisfied.
“I’ll leave the details to you, Takuma,” he said. “Make sure they’re prepared for what’s ahead. The situation may seem quiet now, but it won’t stay that way for long.”
With that, he turned and left the room, leaving Takuma and his new team to face the uncertain road ahead.
The next morning, the sun streamed through the classroom windows as Takuma and Miu strolled into the room, chatting casually. Their footsteps echoed faintly in the lively hum of students preparing for the day. Miu's voice carried a hint of curiosity as she asked Takuma about his plans for the weekend, but he deflected with a vague response, his mind elsewhere.
They quickly settled into their usual seats as their homeroom teacher, Ms. Aoyama, entered with a bright smile. She clapped her hands to gain the class’s attention, her voice cutting through the chatter.
"Good morning, everyone! Before we begin, I have an announcement," she said, her cheerful tone piquing everyone’s interest. "Today, we’ll be welcoming three new students to our class."
The room buzzed with murmurs and curiosity. Takuma remained composed, though he already knew who the new arrivals were. He leaned back in his chair, feigning nonchalance as Ms. Aoyama continued.
"Since we have new students joining us, we’ve rearranged the seating plan to make sure everyone feels welcome. Please check your new seating assignments.”
Takuma raised an eyebrow as his name was called. He was assigned to a seat at the back of the classroom by the window—a classic spot he was secretly grateful for. As he approached his desk, however, his steps faltered.
Connected to his desk were three more tables, forming a single, shared seating arrangement. He blinked, confused, and glanced around the room. Every other student had their own individual desk.
“What’s this about?” Takuma muttered under his breath. He took the middle seat on the left, his fingers brushing over the smooth surface of the desk as he tried to make sense of the setup.
Unable to contain his curiosity, he approached Ms. Aoyama, who was busy organizing papers at her desk. “Sensei, why are there four tables connected to mine? No one else has this setup.”
She looked up with a knowing smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “That’s the seating arrangement for the rest of the year, Takuma. You’d better get used to it.”
Before he could press further, Ms. Aoyama turned back to the class. “Alright, everyone, let’s welcome our new students!”
The door slid open, and in walked Sora, Kaede, and Hikari. Their presence immediately captured the attention of the entire class. Whispers and gasps rippled through the room as the three girls stood at the front, each exuding a unique charm.
Sora, with her wide, curious eyes and shy smile, introduced herself first. “Hi, everyone. My name is Sora, and I’m excited to be here! I hope we can all get along.”
Kaede stepped forward confidently, her voice carrying a playful lilt. “Hey, I’m Kaede. Don’t be shy—I don’t bite. Well, not often.” Her wink and smirk drew a few chuckles and blushes from the boys.
Hikari followed, her tone calm and collected. “I’m Hikari. Let’s keep things professional and work together.” Her sharp gaze scanned the room, silencing any lingering murmurs.
Ms. Aoyama gestured toward the back of the room. “Your seats are over there, connected to Takuma’s. Please make yourselves comfortable.”
The three girls made their way to the back, their movements drawing every eye in the room. When they reached the desks, each took their spot beside Takuma, their unique personalities on full display.
Sora sat on Takuma’s right, her face lighting up as she greeted him warmly. “I can’t believe we’re sitting together! This is so exciting!”
Kaede plopped down on his left, propping her elbow on the desk and grinning. “Looks like you’re stuck with us, Takuma. Try to keep up, yeah?”
Hikari took the seat directly across from him, her expression neutral but her voice teasing. “I hope you’re prepared to deal with us. This arrangement might be more challenging than you think.”
The entire class erupted into whispers, most of them coming from the boys, who stared enviously at Takuma. Even Miu, sitting a few rows ahead, turned to glance back, her brow furrowed in confusion.
One of the braver boys raised his hand. “Sensei, why does Takuma get to sit with three girls? It’s not fair!”
Another chimed in, “Yeah, Takuma, how do you know them? How long have you been friends?”
Takuma scratched the back of his neck, offering a sheepish smile as he crafted a quick lie. “Oh, we’ve known each other for a few years now. Just old friends catching up.”
Miu narrowed her eyes slightly but said nothing, her gaze lingering on Takuma. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. Takuma and Daichi had been acting strange lately, and now this?
As the class settled into their new arrangement, Takuma leaned back in his chair, trying to ignore the weight of the stares and whispers around him. This was going to be a long day.