Ahiro found himself in a dilemma after turning down Melvin's sincere offer. Despite the enticing benefits that came with being associated with Melvin, Ahiro had carefully considered the situation. He was resolute in his decision not to backtrack on his words, recognizing that relying solely on Melvin would hinder his personal growth and prevent him from pushing his limits. Moreover, Ahiro couldn't tolerate the ongoing mockery aimed at Melvin and his friends due to Ahiro's incompetence.
Determined to forge his path, Ahiro sought partnerships with other students. However, he was sceptical that they would willingly collaborate with him. Even if they did, Ahiro believed it would be out of necessity rather than genuine choice. Throughout this contemplation, Ahiro had a specific person in mind, someone he had intended to partner with for the upcoming exams from the very beginning - June
The recent competition has brought about a dynamic shift, stirring a mixture of positive and negative changes. The competitive spirit was palpable, but with it came a darker side – a tendency to target those who didn't conform to the collective mindset. Ahiro found himself in that category, and so did June.
The competition has brought about many changes .. some positive some negative, all were filled with a competitive spirit and that was good but some students became the target of their hate. All those that didn't align with the mindset of the whole collective became outcasts... Ahiro was one of them and another one of castouts was June.
She became the target of disdain, portrayed as someone who failed to uphold the spirit of the competition. Being a loner who preferred silence over socializing, June didn't seek validation from her peers. However, the newfound hostility towards her didn't go unnoticed.
Adding to the challenge, June's brother, Jade, and others in her circle didn't come to her defence. She continued her training diligently, excelling in academics and circulation, keeping her off the teaching staff's radar. Despite her competence, June became an outcast.
In the past few months, the Weapon Compact classes have provided ample opportunities for students to hone their skills and weapon proficiency. Sensai would make them fight each other using nothing but wooden weapons, striping away their main source of power Awakened abilities all that was left were pure weapon proficiency and in such sessions, one who shined most was June. Unlike many who used these classes as a supplement to their awakened powers, June elevated her swordsmanship with her awakened abilities, creating a truly mesmerizing display. It deeply resonated with Ahiro, who shared a similar approach.
However, even after being in the same class for a whole semester, Ahiro hadn't found the right moment to strike up a conversation. The unresolved matter of the hospital visit lingered in his mind, creating an additional barrier. Ahiro still remembers how she had overwhelmed him during a spar session using just her swordsmanship, he knew she was capable enough to be a semifinalist, therefore, he was sure she would be perfect to team up with.
Thus with the first team member in mind, he sought out June. Knowing her routine, he headed to the training area where she often practised in her free time. As he arrived, he saw June engrossed in her swordsmanship drills. The rhythmic movements of her practice were a testament to her dedication.
As Ahiro saw June from the distance he couldn't help but admire her beauty, he thought she looked happiest when she was honing her swordsmanship.
But his genuine thought caused him to stop in his tracks. Was he genuinely seeking a skilled teammate, or was there an underlying desire to connect with June on a personal level? was the question in Ahiro's mind right now. But he quickly dismissed the latter, attributing his intentions solely to the pursuit of a stronger team.
Taking a deep breath to gather his resolve, Ahiro approached her, finding a moment to interrupt without disrupting her focus. "Hey, June," he greeted, trying to strike a balance between friendliness and respect for her concentration.
June halted her practice, looking up to acknowledge Ahiro. "Hey," she replied, a curious glint in her eyes. Her demeanour, while reserved, carried a sense of genuine interest.
"Hey I am Ahiro, you remember me," said Ahiro. He thought he did pretty good to break the ice first but the lack of any response said otherwise. June just kept staring at him as if asking him to go away.
" So June you training again today you should rest sometime," said Ahiro nervously.
"Was this the reason you came here?" said Jue voice carrying the exhaustion from practice and a tinge of irritation with it.
"Oh no no ... " Ahiro was jaw struck he didn't know what to say. " well you see I genuinely think you are a strong student, and I know your power is not solely dependent on the use of your awakened ability, and that something Stone heart so emphasised today --- or that's what I think he meant to say --- but what I wanted to say is that will you join my team" Aihhro blurted out all that he could thinkin' one sentence due to his nervousness/
"So let me get this straight you want me to join your team is what you are saying: replied June
"Yes it would be my pleasure" Saod Ahiro.
"Sory but I have plans," said June, and went to drink water from her bottle.
"I know I am not too strong but I know many creative ways to be in the jungle plus I am your guy when it comes to academics, if we mix your strengths we will find ourselves in an unmatched team. " Said Ahiro
"I know all that but you should join Melvin's team," said June turning around and starting to leave. "nothing good comes from being associated with me" said June under her breath.
"Well listen We can win this match if we make a strong team, so just think if we ... " Before Ahiro can finish his sentence "Just leave me alone" June shouted.
"Why so you can cry after each practice session, or cuss at your brother's friends or will you blame god for making you a girl," Ahiro said in a loud voice. "Why are you like this always living in your brother's shadow inside a colourless world, the same brother who didn't lift a finger against others for calling you names, making you a castout"