The morning sun filtered through the classroom windows, casting golden streaks across the desks. Conversations buzzed around Kazuki, a mix of excitement and unease hanging in the air. The announcement of the House Selection Event had set things in motion, and now, students were beginning to prepare.
Hoshino Mei had posted more details about the event on the class bulletin board. A group of students crowded around it, scanning the information eagerly.
Kazuki and his friends leaned against their desks, engaged in their own discussion.
"So, what's the game plan?" Reo asked, tapping his fingers against the desk. "Which House are we aiming for?"
Naoto adjusted his glasses. "Strategically speaking, it depends on our strengths. Seiryu focuses on intellect and strategy, Suzaku is all about leadership and charisma, Raijin is raw power and athleticism, and Yami no Kiba values cunning and adaptability."
Daiki groaned, stretching. "Man, this already sounds like a headache. Can't we just go with whatever picks us?"
Kyouya smirked. "Sounds like something someone with no options would say."
Daiki shot him a playful glare. "Bold of you to assume I'll have fewer offers than you."
Kazuki listened quietly, deep in thought. He hadn't put much thought into which House would suit him. His grades were strong, he was athletic, and he was good at problem-solving. But where did he fit?
His gaze drifted toward the bulletin board, where Miyuki stood among the students reading the event details. She was calm, her expression focused. A few other girls whispered beside her, likely speculating about their chances.
As if sensing his eyes on her, Miyuki shifted slightly—her fingers brushing her hair behind her ear, a small habit Kazuki had begun to notice. For a brief moment, their eyes met.
Kazuki quickly looked away, but not before catching the faintest hint of amusement in her expression. Did she notice him staring?
"Oi, Kazuki." Daiki nudged him. "You in your own world again?"
Kazuki cleared his throat. "Just thinking about the event."
Reo grinned. "Or thinking about something else?"
Kazuki shot him a look, but before the teasing could escalate, Hoshino Mei entered the room, drawing attention back to the front.
Mei clasped her hands together, smiling at the class. "Now that you've had time to absorb the news, let's go over the event's structure."
She pointed to the board, where the details had been neatly listed.
Day 1-2: Academic & Logic ChallengesA series of written tests, puzzle-solving activities, and strategic decision-making challenges designed to measure intellect and adaptability.
Day 3-4: Physical & Athletic TestsSprint races, endurance tests, reflex challenges, and even some team-based games. Speed, strength, and agility will be measured.
Day 5: Leadership & Social DynamicsA mix of team activities, negotiation challenges, and problem-solving exercises. Designed to evaluate charisma, leadership potential, and teamwork.
Day 6: House Interest & InvitationsAt the end of the trials, each House will select the students they wish to recruit. Those who receive multiple offers will get to choose where they go.
Day 7: Final Selection & InductionA formal ceremony will take place where students officially join their respective Houses.
Mei turned back to the class. "The point of this event is not just competition, but to ensure that every student finds their ideal environment. Your House will shape your school life, so take this seriously."
A heavy silence followed her words. This wasn't just a set of trials—it was a battle for opportunity.
Kazuki stole another glance at Miyuki, who was reading the board with quiet focus. Would they end up in the same House?
His thoughts were interrupted by Daiki's sigh. "Man, this is gonna be exhausting."
Kyouya chuckled. "Better start preparing now. If we slack off, we won't get any offers."
Kazuki smirked slightly. This was just the beginning.
The cafeteria of Reikou Academy was a lively place, filled with the chatter of students and the clatter of trays. Long rows of tables stretched across the spacious hall, each occupied by students from various Houses, though no strict divisions were enforced. Banners representing the four Houses adorned the walls, each displaying its respective emblem.
Kazuki and his friends grabbed their trays, scanning the selection of food. The academy provided a variety of dishes, from traditional Japanese meals to Western-style options, ensuring there was something for everyone.
Reo nudged Kazuki with a smirk. "So, have you decided on a House yet? Or are you waiting for Miyuki to choose first?"
Kazuki sighed, rolling his eyes as the rest of the group chuckled. "It's not like that."
Daiki leaned in, grinning. "Yet."
Ignoring them, Kazuki focused on his meal. The conversation eventually shifted toward the upcoming House Selection Event, speculation running wild about what the tests might involve.
After lunch, the group made their way back to the dormitories. The boys' dorm was a modern, multi-story building with a sleek yet traditional aesthetic. Each student had their own private room, a rare luxury compared to other schools.
Kazuki's room was simple but neat—a bed against the wall, a desk with a laptop and a few books, a shelf lined with manga and game cases, and a window offering a clear view of the academy courtyard.
As soon as the group entered, Reo flopped onto the bed without hesitation. "Not bad. You actually keep it clean."
"Unlike your room?" Naoto retorted, setting up a small portable console on the table.
The evening was spent discussing the House Selection while playing games. The usual chaos ensued—Reo loudly complaining about losing, Daiki laughing at his misfortune, Naoto trying too hard, and Kyouya effortlessly winning without reacting much. Through all the noise, Kazuki found himself enjoying the moment, though thoughts of the upcoming event lingered in his mind.
Later that night, after his friends had left, Kazuki stepped out into the quiet hallway, stretching after the long gaming session. As he walked toward the entrance of the dorm building, he noticed a familiar figure standing near the pathway leading to the girls' dorm.
Miyuki.
She was standing near a vending machine, her elegant presence illuminated by the soft glow of the campus lights. She pressed a button and waited as a can dropped into the tray.
Kazuki hesitated for a moment before stepping forward. "Hey."
Miyuki turned slightly, her expression calm yet welcoming. "Oh, Kazuki."
His name on her lips made his heart skip a beat. He tried to play it cool. "Getting a late-night drink?"
She nodded, holding up the can of warm tea. "It's a habit. I like having something warm before bed."
Kazuki glanced at the vending machine, thinking for a second before selecting the same drink. He picked up the can and gave a small smile. "Guess I'll try it too."
A faint smile touched Miyuki's lips. "It's good. You might like it."
For a moment, they simply stood there, the quiet of the night settling around them. Kazuki searched for something else to say, but before he could, Miyuki gave him a soft nod. "Good night, Kazuki."
"Good night," he replied, watching as she walked toward the girls' dormitory, her graceful steps almost mesmerizing.
As he took a sip of the warm tea, he realized something.
Maybe this wasn't as impossible as he thought.