Vol.1
The morning sun poured through the tall windows of Hoshikawa High, illuminating the bustling hallways. Students chatted, laughed, and hurried to their first classes of the day. Among them, Haruto Nishimura, tall and calm, walked with quiet confidence. His eyes, dark and observant, scanned the crowded corridor—not for trouble, but for patterns, movements, and opportunities.
Beside him, Sora Minamoto, petite and elegant, kept pace. Her hazel eyes were filled with curiosity, yet she remained composed, offering a gentle smile to the few familiar faces they passed.
As they approached the central courtyard, a commotion caught Haruto's attention. A group of upperclassmen had surrounded someone, their teasing laughter echoing. Without hesitation, Haruto's posture shifted subtly—muscles coiled, senses heightened.
"You two again?" one of the upperclassmen sneered, noticing Haruto's approach.
Haruto's voice was calm, almost casual. "I'm not here to start trouble. But I won't let anyone harass others either."
A ripple of surprise passed through the group. They had heard of Haruto Nishimura—the martial arts prodigy—but seeing him so composed in person was different.
Before the upperclassmen could react, Haruto moved. In a blur of precise, controlled movements, he disarmed their aggression without causing lasting harm. Each step, each strike, was measured—like a masterful dance.
The courtyard fell silent. The upperclassmen retreated, muttering about luck and skill, leaving a clear path for Haruto and Sora.
Sora looked up at him, impressed but unshaken. "You make it look so effortless."
Haruto shrugged slightly, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "It's not effortless. It's practice… discipline. You'll see soon enough."
As the bell rang, signaling the start of the day, Haruto and Sora headed to class. But the tension in the air lingered—a subtle reminder that rivalry had already begun, and the battles ahead would test every skill, strategy, and strength they possessed.
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