Rocco, Maynard, and Conrad graduated from the academy together. Rocco managed to cinch the valedictorian despite his daily struggles, making his scholarship worth it. His friends were proud of him, even though Conrad had been the top one since he was a child.
Rocco was a worthy opponent, and Conrad took pride in this 'lost.' At least, there was one person who gave him the thrill because being first was boring if there was no worthy challenge.
Maynard, on the other hand, had no actual pressure in his study. He graduated with just passing grades, but because he had proved himself in their family business over and over, there wasn't any issue.
Their friendship only grew deeper over the years.
