The next day dawns, and Kai continues his morning routine. After bidding his parents farewell, he sets off for school, carrying his backpack.
His usual sense of anticipation accompanies him, the morning breeze invigorating.
At school, he seeks out his friends, who are already congregating in their designated spot. Emily is the first to share a piece of intriguing news.
"Hey, did you guys know that there's a new transfer student joining our class today?"
Rachel chimes in, confirming the information. "Yeah, a teacher mentioned it too."
Intrigued, Sarah inquires, "Is it a boy or a girl?"
Rachel's response brings excitement. "It's a girl."
As the friends continue their conversation, the day's first bell rings. They hurry to their seats as their teacher enters the classroom.
"Quiet down, students."
Within moments, the room falls silent, and the teacher announces, "I'd like to introduce a new student to our class today."
Eager, the students inquire, "Is it a girl or a boy?"
The teacher responds with a smile. "It's a girl."
This revelation sparks joy among the male students and mild annoyance among their female counterparts.
The teacher clears their throat, redirecting attention. "Alright, let's welcome our new classmate."
The door swings open, revealing a girl standing before them. Her presence garners appreciative glances, except for Kai, whose reaction bears a touch of recognition.
The girl introduces herself confidently, "Hello, everyone. My name is Akane."
Kai watches as Akane settles in a seat behind him, giving him a subtle wave and whispering a greeting. "Hi."
Kai, maintaining composure, reciprocates. "Hello."
Once seated, Akane extends friendly greetings to the student beside her. She then focuses on the lesson.
While the class continues, Leon, noticing Akane's interaction with Kai, can't resist teasing. "Oho~~, Kai, what's going on?"
Kai, surprised, feigns ignorance. "What is it?"
Leon persists. "I saw her wave at you. How do you know her?"
Kai deflects with a half-truth. "We met once, coincidentally."
Leon's curiosity remains unsatisfied. "Only once? You're no fun."
Kai's focus returns to the lesson, ignoring Leon's prodding.
With the class concluded, Kai and his friends leave for the Combat Department. Akane accompanies the girls, and Kai observes them getting along well.
As the group approaches the Combat Department, Kai can't help but smile at the thought of his friends and the new girl bonding.
Alex notices his friend's expression and makes a comment. "Why are you smiling all of a sudden? It's kinda creepy."
Kai feigns sadness. "That hurts, Alex."
Alex picks up the banter. "Then don't act so weird."
Kai responds with a simple, "Hm."
Upon entering the Combat Department, the group notes a new training room that was not there the day before.
The students gather, and Akane is met with an onslaught of questions, predominantly from the girls.
To streamline the process, Kai suggests they take turns asking questions after a game of Rock-Paper-Scissors.
The students eagerly comply.
As Kai's turn approaches, Akane inquires what he will ask. He opts to pass, leaving his question unasked.
After the brief question session, the students depart for their training rooms.
Rachel guides Akane into her new environment, and Kai retreats to his training room to focus on his cultivation.