Fleeing the scene, I went back to the empty white room at the top of the cafeteria. It's not as if I developed a liking for this room, I just needed some time to think, surely.

"How am I going to screw this bitch up..."

Fuck... Fuck!

How does she dare to steal my first love like that...!

Who does she think she is?! What's her deal, even?

In order to relieve some stress, I kicked the wall right in front of me furiously.

"Hyunda's not at fault totally. I know this. He doesn't know about the situation, therefore he can't be blamed for this. However, what that bitch did, is unforgivable and for that, she'll have to pay the price!"

But... how?

I've thought of killing her since we share the same dorm but then I'm screwed. It's important that I don't aggravate any considerable consequences to my side.

Otherwise, I can't enjoy my time with Hyunda. In other words, I need to take care of Ikkiri in a way that I am not jeopardized completely.

Think...

Think...

What can possibly screw her here...

"Wait... Didn't Yuka-sensei mention how the losing partners will stay paired up...? If... If that's the case, then I'm doing the correct thing by making Hyunda lose in this upcoming exam! But what about Ikkiri though? What if she wins...? How does that work out...?"

Yuka-sensei never truly bothered to explain these rules.

I can't possibly know how it all works if I don't know in the first place...

"Who is Ikkiri's partner in this exam anyways...?"

If I recall correctly, Ikkiri ran considerably fast, but obviously not faster than me.

Of course she wouldn't be able to run faster than me. That pesky and pretentious vile creature will never be better than me at any possible aspect.

"It's Tatsu, isn't it...? I remember... It is Tatsu. Tatsu is her partner."

But wait... If Ikkiri has the time to defile my relationship with Hyunda then things must be going pretty bad with Tatsu. Because, Ikkiri's absence would imply that somehow she treasures the time she has with Hyunda, for now, considerably more than the time she has with Tatsu.

All in all, that should be proof that Ikkiri and Tatsu aren't even aiming to work together here.

"I can use that... If Tatsu and Ikkiri are having trouble cooperating then that means that something is wrong with their interaction. And of course, Ikkiri, you obnoxious clown, I won't let this opportunity slide!"

Nevertheless, I could really use some knowledge to make my situation better. There are certain things that I must know before I act...

While this might be considered evil, it can't be helped.

It's entirely justifiable since it's for the sake of love. Anything is justifiable, then.

"In the end, who will I contact first...? Yuka-sensei or Tatsu?"

Well, for starters, I don't know where Tatsu is, but just by simply asking my fellow classmates about his whereabouts, I can form a solid conclusion about his location. Therefore, Tatsu is, right now, partial.

"That leaves only one person then..."

I vow to make this right. I really do.

P.E field main office, door entrance. 10:30 am.

Am I allowed to come in...?

Firstly, I'll knock on the door.

Ahhh... I can feel a warm sensation coming from the inside of this office, even though the door isn't open yet.

What should I say in order to make my entrance entirely justifiable...?

After forming a solid thought, I knocked on the door and spoke.

"Yuka-sensei, are you there...?"

No response came forward.

Should I knock harder...?

"The door hold is open though... I'm just being diplomatic about this, but maybe I should..."

No, no.

I must get my audition in the best way possible for this to work. Mistakes can be crucial, especially in this type of scenario.

Therefore, I knocked on the door yet again.

"Sensei, it's me, Arkalee. I want to talk to you."

After roughly waiting for 20 seconds, no response came forward.

Well, I do realize that this isn't diplomatic at all, but I'll just come in.

Plus, this shivering cold is the worst and I get the feeling that if I go inside the office that I'll be warmer anyway...

"I'm coming in..."

As expected, this truly does seem like an office. There are piles of sheets all over the place. Nevertheless, in the huge office table stood a certain attractive figure.

I must say, while I am pretty, she isn't anything to laugh at.

"Zzzz...."

Noticeably, her face is lying face down in front of a computer. It seems that she was doing some sort of work but fell asleep in the middle of it.

Still, what a babyface. It's hard to believe that you are in charge of criminals when you are sleeping so innocently like that...

Shortly after walking a few steps, I tried to reach out to her by saying some words first...

"Yuka-sensei... Are you there...? I have a few doubts..."

"Mhm... Not now... Later..."

...?

What?

You're not even opening your eyes. Are you even paying attention to me in the first place or was that an instinctive reaction...?

That must be it, I think.

I'll try again.

"It's serious... I'm confused about certain aspects regarding the upcoming exam and so, I need your help..."

This time, I was far more concrete about my shortcomings rather than showing a lack of interest in her answers.

"Ahh... Not there..."

...What?

What am I listening to?

Why do I get the feeling that her previous words aren't even connected to my current words?

That's it... I'll wake her up by giving her a touch or two in the back. I'm sure she'll come back to her senses and stop speaking such nonsense.

Seriously, just what is she...

Then, as I attempted to reach her back...

"A-Ahhh! S-Sensei...?"

"Hm... Not on my sleep, okay?"

It hurts, it really does! Why is she gripping my right wrist with such brute strength!?

All I wanted was to touch her...!

"Sensei, you're hurting me! Let go of me! It really hurts!"

"Hmm...? Arkalee... Oh... Oh...! I'm so sorry!"

Finally, she let go of the hold...

Consequently, I took a few steps back...

"Oh dear, I'm so sorry! I fell asleep! Sorry, are you okay? Your wrist, it hurts, right!? Do you need to apply some medicine to it!? Do you!?"

And now, she's showing a tremendous amount of grief and is apologizing for what she did...

Although I'm extremely curious about what that was all about, it didn't hurt to the point where my wrist needed proper caring, since the pain I felt was transient.

"No... It doesn't hurt that much, don't worry about it! But, thank you for caring! It's alright now, trust me!"

"Really!? Are you sure!? It's alright to tell me if it hurts... Again, I'm sorry for hurting you, Arkalee. It wasn't my intention. I'm not sure if you believe me or not, but it was an instinctive reaction. When I'm sound asleep, it happens all the time!"

"Don't worry, Yuka-sensei! I really do believe you. So, there's no need to worry anymore, honestly."

"Ah, I see... But, allow me to apologize one more time, Arkalee. I really am sorry for treating a student in this manner, especially when it's my student!"

She's so kind... She's even bowing! How admirable!

Not only did she apologize after hurting me, but she justified her reasons!

What a great person...

"Um, so, Arkalee, what are you doing here in my office?"

"A-Ah, I knocked but you didn't reply so I came in... Sorry about that... But, I really just wanted to get some doubts out of my mind regarding the upcoming special exam. Or am I not allowed to clarify my doubts...? Sorry, if I'm not then I'll go back to the class..."

Surprisingly, Yuka-sensei greeted my reluctant words with a wide smile which implied that I was about to get a favorable answer.

"How nice!! I was waiting for this moment!"

"Eh...? W-What?"

"I left some massive rules out of the table in order to steer up some curiosity in my students but none of them thus far have gathered the will to ask me about them! I was wondering what was going wrong... Maybe too much individuality? Ego? Pride? Independence! But then, you came in, Arkalee! I'm so glad that you have doubts! Let me help you with them! But first, take a seat! Would you like something to eat? Tea! Do you like tea? I only have black tea though..."

"N-No, I really like black tea!"

"Really!? I'm so glad! I love it too! Do you want sugar cups in it too!?"

"Yes, yes! I love sugar!"

"Ahh! Sugar sisters, are we!?"

"It appears so!"

I wasn't expecting such a jubilant mood to simply invade this dead atmosphere, but there is only happiness and excitement co-existing within this moment and that makes me truly happy.

Because it made me forget my negative emotions and my abysmal hatred for Ikkiri.

While Yuka-sensei was preparing the black tea, which I seriously adore, I took a seat in the comfortable chair and enjoyed the warm temperature that was being emitted all over this tiny room.

How nice...

If only I could share this moment of happiness with you too, Hyunda...

"Here you go! Be careful though! It's hot!"

"Thanks, Yuka-sensei! I'll be careful then..."

I blew a few gusts towards the warm cup of tea in order to attempt to stabilize the almost volcanic temperature it possesses.

Yuka-sensei, too, did the same...

"How is it going with your partner, Arkalee? If I recall correctly, it's Hyunda, isn't it?"

"Ah yes... We... Um... Had an argument and we started off wrongly... So, things aren't going too well right now..."

"Right now? Does this mean that there will be a time where it will be well? Or did you mean to say something else?"

Spot on. Certainly, there are times when people just use words they don't mean, however, such was not the case here.

"N-No, I mean what I just said. I plan on making things right. But, a certain problem arose and I'm seeking to eliminate that problem, you see."

"I see. I'm glad that you are taking the initiative to fix your situation, Arkalee. The majority of your classmates aren't even slightly interested in changing their situation and that worries me because the consequences might become major if they don't take this seriously. To be honest, it's additionally worrying about how your classmates are just rejecting such a simple way to be granted freedom. It's pretty nonsensical if you ask me. Nevertheless, I profoundly rejoice that you are thinking differently."

Truly, it's pretty illogical to not take this seriously. I don't think that there is anyone in my class who wants to suffer a possible execution or even jail years...

But she's right. I am taking the initiative unlike the rest of my classmates which automatically makes me someone who wants to, not only pass this exam in theory but to stabilize the relationship between me and my partner.

However, the truth is, I didn't want to pass this exam, but rather, to fulfill the latter.

"Yeah, I don't get them... It's as if they don't care about their situation that much, huh..."

"Not to worry though, Arkalee! I made sure that the majority of the boys would take this exam seriously. Unfortunately, Hyunda was not included in this majority..."

That's weird. Why not though...?

Although this is news to me, I'm fairly interested now.

I kept on blowing gusts to my hot teacup, but it was still far too hot.

"Why not, sensei? I thought that was the reason why Hyunda decided to take me seriously today..."

Of course, I knew that the reason why he showed a degree of seriousness was because of my previous threat but I was trying to obtain information about the source of Yuka-sensei's words.

Because I didn't know how her words connected to the fact that some boys were forced to suddenly take this seriously.

"Oh no. You see, it's a really stupid argument. Basically, boys being boys, you get me?"

"Ah, that's understandable. Fair enough, let's not lose time with that."

There was no point in losing time here because I had to make my stand right here and now in order to get some progress.

I took a small sip of the black teacup even though it was hot. However, it was a short sip since it was abnormally hellish when it comes to its own temperature.

After doing so, I put down the teacup and made my move.

"Sensei, can a pairing be disqualified in this exam?"

"What do you mean? You're going to have to be way more specific~~~"

Ah, she's truly enjoying her black tea regardless of the temperature, but it seemed to me that she was taunting me when she said those words.

"Let's say, for example, that one partner got injured physically and that the partner cannot comply with any of the criteria. What then?"

"That's simple. Just like in any physical competition, if you are not in the physical condition to do such performances, then you will not be allowed to do them in the first place. I surely thought that this was common sense so I didn't bother to emphasize that parameter. Also, if your partner is physically incapable of performing, minimally, then the pairing automatically loses. Get this, Arkalee. In this exam, it's not the individuality that I'm evaluating, but the duality that the exam is proposing."

This confirms it.

Essentially, I realize that Yuka-sensei was speaking in the second person only for the sake of bringing a heavier clarity to my understanding, but I also understand that she was referring, not only to me but to all of us. What this means is that, this applies to every single one of us and that it's impossible to escape it.

"Thank you for clearing one of my doubts, but I must ask you this, sensei... Don't you think that you are being far too rash when it comes to this exam? There's an obvious contrast in physical capabilities among my peers... Not that I'm standing up for them, I'm just seeking the logic and your point of view here."

Once again, I have no interest in standing up to anyone, I just find it completely bizarre the suggestion of this exam as a whole.

"Nice insight, Arkalee. Well, since you are the first one to seek me out like this, I'll tell you something of good interest as a reward. You see... There are additional criteria for this exam, but I'll never explain that criteria. What I can say in addition is that the criteria is related to the premise of this exam."

"Oh, I see. Like a double-catch, yes? Kinda how the initial proposition proposes way more than what the surface shows?"

"That's the correct analogy. Essentially, should you find out the additional criteria, it could even bring a pairing that is completely the opposite of each other when it comes to physical regard, to victory."

Hm...

That's really interesting to know. Nevertheless, I couldn't care about it now. It was just something that was on my mind for a while. Also, with this, Yuka-sensei's mindset was somewhat explained.

Perhaps she was focusing more on the other criteria rather than this initial one. In a sense, if the two individuals in a pairing combine their intelligence to firmly grasp this possibility, then they can potentially arrive at the conclusion that there is way more to the surface than what it shows initially.

But, it's irrelevant to me. Because I want to fail.

I don't need to say why I need to fail at this point, do I?

"The losing pairs will be paired up until the end of the year, correct?"

"Yes, that was an original consequence that I bothered to address at the last minute because I thought to myself that in order to work unity as a whole that the pairings if they fail, they should learn about the concept of unity as a whole. I'm sure you know this but this program is an attempt to morally reform criminals such as you people and for that to come into play, the teachers, such as I and Basara, are responsible for teaching the students how to incorporate and how to put morality into practice."

I'm truly grateful that Yuka-sensei thought of that consequence at the last minute. Otherwise, this would be entirely pointless.

While the morality reformation aspect is efficacious, it's surely easy to manipulate that.

After all, my intentions are hardly moral, to begin with. They are entirely emotional and I'm fine with that.

"Is physical inability the only aspect that can bring disqualification in the upcoming exam? There must be more, right? I'm just worried because I fear that an accident could happen and I want to have the ability to counterattack quickly. I really, but really, want to pass the exam, sensei..."

In the meantime, the tea got slightly warmer which made it possible for me to comfortably drink it without having to constantly blow gusts against the water.

Therefore, I grabbed the cup and drank a bit.

"I'm glad that's the case, Arkalee. But, that's something you have to work with your partner. And besides, it's the last day. It's somewhat unlikely for that to happen. Although, I understand your worries... If you and Hyunda can communicate better then I advise you to think together. It's never a good thing to think individually far too much when you are together with someone."

"T-Together with someone?! N-No, not yet, we...!"

O-Oh no, I got so embarrassed that I accidentally spit out a bit of my tea...!

I did not expect this! Not at all!

"Hm? Ara, did I hit the mark? Is that it? Is it? Hm? Hm!?"

"N-No, it's not like that...! We had a misunderstanding so it's not possible, you see...! And... and.... there is a certain problem in the way..."

"Waah, Arkalee, why did your expression get so dark suddenly?!"

Huh? It did...?

"A-Ah... It's nothing... Erm, more importantly, since we've had an argument and we haven't talked since then... our communication slightly decreased! And that's a problem..."

It really is a problem. But what's truly problematic is that my circumstances of communicating with Hyunda keep on being intercepted by a single buffoon...

"But that's something you have to work on with him. You told me that you were going to make it right, correct? What happened to that?"

"No! I really intend on making it right..."

"Hm, is that so. That's good. But, let me answer your question since I haven't answered it yet. You asked me if physical inability was the only thing that could serve as a method for disqualification and while physical inability is commonly used as a bridge for disqualification, it's more versatile to break rules instead of relying on pure facts such as those. Basically, since physical inability is such an abundant and permanent factor to disqualification, people tend to forget what truly counts when it comes to disqualification, such as breaking rules."

"A-Ah, I see... So physical inability isn't the only thing that can be viewed as a way to get disqualified, but there are other alternatives for such..."

"Yes, Arkalee. However, I'll explain that tomorrow when the exam is about to begin. I don't want to give anyone the ability to break the rules ahead of time. I'm sure you can understand, right?"

Well, that sucks. I wish she would be kind enough to tell me some more methods that I can use in order to bring a certain person's demise, but this will do.

"Of course. I also understand that you are delivering this information out of goodwill, which is something I honestly appreciate."

"I'm also saying this because you seem to be someone who truly wants to fix her situation and to buy herself a ticket to freedom surely. As long as you show the will to cooperate, I will always help you and anyone who wants to change their situation. Just know this, it's never too late, okay?"

"Yeah... thanks. I really am grateful. Your words are truly reassuring. And that's all I have left to say. Thank you for clearing my doubts, sensei! The tea was delicious..."

Since there was no reason to stay here any longer, I got up from my comfy seat instantly.

"No problem! You can always count of me, after all, that's the duty of a teacher, to teach and to be there for her students, right? Don't hesitate to ask about anything, really."

Her words were suggesting more than what she was saying.

Maybe...

Maybe I should be a little greedy here...

Although I'm in a rush, I could use advice on something... Since, currently, I'm having trouble identifying the correct route for this to overall work.

Surely, I know how to deal the final blow onto Ikkiri, but there was a massive problem. Hyunda's individuality was far too overwhelming.

Though it was quick, I realized my love for him and since my attraction is becoming more obvious to myself, I will need to make him mine and only mine.

And for that reason, I need to know how to conquer someone who excels at individuality this excessively.

"Um..."

"Hm? What is it, Arkalee? Do you still have any more doubts?"

"Well..."

They aren't related to the exam itself so I'm wondering if this isn't worth asking. However, it's probably worth the shot.

"Are you experienced in love...?"

I asked this question with little hope since Yuka-sensei seems like a Christmas cake...

But, she looked at me with a shocked expression.

"What do you mean? Of course, I am! What do you take me for? There's nothing I don't know when it comes to love! But... could it be that you are troubled by the fact that you are possibly struggling with love? Mhm? Is that is...? It is, isn't it!?"

W-Why is she so excited about this...?

Regardless, this excitement might just be proof that she is willing to heed my calling, even though this has absolutely nothing to do with the exam.

Also, why is her expression way more happy regarding this circumstance rather than the exam circumstances...?

Nevertheless, I took a seat once again since Yuka-sensei seemed to be totally open with discussion.

I additionally, should be a bit more open about my case rather than leaving small hints behind the trails.

"I am... in love with someone..."

"I knew it! That innocence of yours is so cuteeee. So, who is the lucky person!?"

"T-There's no need to know that...! I was just wondering if I could get a bit of solid advice from someone who is romantically experienced and has minimal knowledge about it..."

"M-Minimal knowledge!? Arkalee, my cutie, I don't have such thing... And that's because my knowledge when it comes to love isn't minimal, it's vast and infinite! I'll prepare another tea for you since we might be here for a while then."

I was already feeling the need to pee but I guess I could let this one slide since I do love black tea to an absurd extent.

Not more than I love Hyunda though.

"You can speak about it while I prepare the second tea, Arkalee."

"A-Ah, okay...! So... I accidentally fell in love with this person for reasons that are not even supposedly good in the first place..."

"Ara, so you've fallen in love with someone who treats you wrongly?"

"Well... I won't deny that. But that's just his persona, I guess. Therefore it's not entirely my fault. And while I do partially despise his persona for being harsh, I still fell in love with him..."

The kettle noises got a bit louder, but Yuka-sensei was truly listening to me. It was as if her entire attention was undividedly directed to me.

That made me feel relieved since what I'm talking about is a very sensitive topic...

"Hm... But if his persona is bad then why did you fall in love with him? Well--- I guess I can understand. Sometimes, even though temper is something that's detestable, there are one or two things that make the entire person completely lovable. Is that it?"

"Yes! Yes, that's it! You do get it! As you said, even though his persona is a bit flawed, he possesses characteristics that I find charming so to speak. Only after erring, did I realize that I suddenly loved him! Although, I'm somewhat scared because I fell in love quickly... Usually, it takes time to fall in love, right? What if this is a mistake? What if--"

"I'm sorry for interrupting you, Arkalee, but you can't think like that. Love is never a mistake. People often think that timing and the people that they fall in love with, even the 'self', are to blame, but that's completely wrong. In love, what matters is the feeling you feel not your logical approach. Love is an emotion, right? So, why think about it logically? Let your emotions speak out to you. Hey, what do they say?"

Perhaps for the very first time in my life, someone's words never spoke out to me this much...

This person is... fantastic...

"A-Ahh... What do they say...?"

"Yes. Listen to your heart. And tell me what it says. Don't worry. I won't tell anyone about this. I can keep secrets quite well!"

Listen to my heart...?

Well... I can't just put my head at the side of my heart, but I'm sure that what she meant to say was to listen to my emotions...

"I... really love him. I want to be with him. Every moment without him is too painful. I don't like it. It feels horrible. I also don't like it when other people are around him... I feel intense hatred for them. They don't deserve him. And, I know that I possibly don't deserve him, but I don't care. Because that's what my heart tells me. It tells me that in order to fulfill the void in my heart that I need him in my life..."

I-I said it...

Waaahhh, I want to hide in a hole right now!

Why is it so embarrassing to say these things out loud?!

I'm weird, aren't I?! No one falls in love this fast... There must be something wrong with me...

...............

Why did Yuka-sensei fall silent...? The only things that I could previously hear were my words and the kettle noises, but now that the tea is ready, I don't hear anything.

Even though I'm hiding my head in my arms due to my embarrassment, I suddenly got curious about why she is silent and decided to stop hiding my head and looked towards her...

And...

"E-Ehh!? Why are you crying!? Is everything alright, sensei!? Did something happen?!"

She has tears running down from her eyes, but why...?

What happened, exactly? I couldn't help but form a couple of worries regarding this event.

"So passionate... Humph... You truly have a heart of gold... humph..."

She even grabbed the nearest by tissues to wipe out her streaming long tears.

"I-It's nothing special..."

"No, no, Arkalee. It is special! Normally, a human being doesn't possess such a strong passion for individuals in such a short time. Just out of curiosity, how short are we talking about...?"

"Um... I don't think it's been an hour... Oh god, is that a bad thing?"

As I thought, it really means that I'm weird... Falling in love this quickly is obviously--

"No, not at all! There's nothing wrong with falling in love and harboring strong feelings for someone this quickly!"

"Eh...? Are you sure that's the case...?"

"I'm certain. Listen here, falling in love quickly isn't a bad thing. It just means that you are extremely passionate about certain things that you notice in someone. Plus, your level of passion is high! Super high! There's nothing wrong with falling in love this way, as a matter of fact, it's the opposite! It's a good thing!"

"I-I didn't know that! I thought that I was weird because falling in love quickly for someone who you barely know can be something dangerous but I'm not afraid. I think I'm ready... But I just don't know how to advance..."

Naturally, I had realized my obtuse feelings for Hyunda, but I wasn't sure how I would approach him romantically.

As previously mentioned, I've never truly fallen in love with someone so in the past, when someone would ask me out and if they were good looking, I would just accept. But this is different...

It feels genuine.

"I want to help you, Arkalee. I really do. But you'll need to describe your situation better for me to help you. Also, here is your tea."

"Thank you..."

Yet again, I performed high blows while gusting the enormous heat erupting from the top of the teacup.

"I know that you can't tell me who he is but this is important since I really want to help you. Your passion cannot be allowed to be wasted."

I'm truly eternally thankful that she's helping me out...

Now, I just need to describe the situation in a way that it doesn't tell her much about Hyunda in an indirect way.

"Alright... So... I got extremely bossy with him for selfish reasons entirely. And while I still stand by those reasons, I think that after falling in love with him that I've stopped caring about those reasons a little bit. Not to the point where I will abandon them, but I'm willing to make an exception and to tone it down a little bit... if this made any sense..."

"Oh, I see. So you were persistent for your own reasons and you refused to abandon them. Ultimately, you got a bit too persistent which then caused him to show a negative expression or something like that...?"

"Yes... We therefore argued and got aggressive about it. Although it didn't escalate into physical contact, we got pretty reckless and started to profoundly argue in a loud tone... In the end, it was my fault because I ruined the moment."

"Arkalee, it might've not been your fault entirely though. Sure, you were selfish about certain things but isn't he at fault for not respecting you a little more? You showed him respect, didn't you...?"

"Um, yeah... But it's fine. That's just the main problem. I have no clue how I'm supposed to advance from this moment on..."

"You said that there was a problem stopping you from doing so, right? What were you referring to?"

I guess I did say something like that huh...?

Hm...

I can't mention her name straight up, but I suppose I can, for instance...

"It's not that big of a deal since I've got it covered. That problem will cease to exist shortly. However, what I'm struggling with is thinking beyond that... How do I approach someone who I just argued in a rude way...?"

"Isn't it fine to just convey your true feelings to him? For example, tell him those things that you said to me a while ago. I'm sure that his heart will skip a beat!"

"E-Ehhhh!? I can't do that! It's way too embarrassing, sensei!"

"But, there's no choice here. The more you delay, the worse it is. What matters is how you convey your feelings not when or where. But how."

How...?

If I knew I wouldn't be asking it...

"Arkalee, you have to show how strong your feelings are for him. There are ways to show those feelings. Whether it is by actions or words, they will create an effect in his heart. He will surely remember your words. So, even if you fear failure, you must try."

Is that how it really works? Will my feelings towards Hyunda be convinced if I portray them through actions or words?

Those were my thoughts as I sipped my tea.

It's not as if I fear failure though. Hyunda will be mine soon enough and I've already thought of certain measures in order to make sure that a certain problem does not get in the way.

"And also, you excel at passion. Your sentiments are strong, so I don't see how you'll fail. I've told you how you can show your affection, but what you say, does matter afterward. Remember, listen to your heart and what it says instead of listening to negative thoughts regarding your sentiments."

"I got it, sensei. Really, thanks! I'll make sure to remember your words. I'm sure that they will matter when the time comes!"

Never did I expect her to be this useful, but her advice isn't something to underestimate. I feel that we speak the same emotional language too.

I'm just glad that I was able to profit by coming here.

"By the way, it's Hyunda, isn't it?"

"W-What!? No...! No, it's not!"

"Aww, you're so cute when you're flustered! It's alright, I can keep secrets, as I've said previously!"

"N-N-N-No, you got it wrong! It really isn't Hyunda! Who would fall in love with such an insensitive jerk! Gosh, I'm glad that I'll pass the exam and that I'll never have to speak with him again!"

"Oh come on, you even mentioned how you argued with him and when you were explaining your situation, you mentioned the word 'argument' quite often!"

"That's wrong! That's wrong! There's really, absolutely, nothing going on! It's a different person!"

Kuhh...!!!

I can't let anyone absolutely find out about this. Nobody else needs to know that I love Hyunda.

He's mine...

"Well, still, good luck with your endeavor, Arkalee. Hyunda's stonecold."

"Oh, I kno- Wait, no!!!!"

I'm starting to get mad... She's got no evidence linking me and Hyunda together, it's completely illogical to claim such things without knowing what's really going on!

While I do appreciate the fact that you've done plenty to me in such a short time, you really shouldn't push your luck too much...

"I'm leaving! Thank you for everything!"

"Ah, okay! Come again, if you need more advice, Arkalee!"

Hopefully not. I didn't enjoy getting teased in such a manner as that.

Thus, without finishing my second cup of tea, I forcefully closed the door and embraced the everlasting winter cold as soon as I got outside of the office.

"Now... Tatsu."

Tatsu would be my next connection here. For a certain reason, I needed him.

Luckily, there were plenty of pairs practicing physical exercises in the main running platform. Unlike the previous days, there were some pairs that were motivated enough to pursue training in the first place, despite their shortcomings.

With that on my mind, I walked into the platform and directed myself to the pairing that would most likely interpret my coming as a friendly one.

"Are you okay? Can you keep on doing it?"

"Yeah, Sagasuga. I'm not that tired, but we have been going at it for quite a bit, haven't we?"

From what I could tell, Shizuku and Sagasuga were practicing push-ups together, even though Sagasuga obviously had the upper edge. Nevertheless, Shizuku wasn't showing any signs of backing off.

Nevertheless, I never paid any possible attention to this pairing to know whether or not this is an impressive interaction.

Also, Shizuku seems to be friendly and playful while Sagasuga has a friendly aura around him.

Therefore, with that in mind, I approached them.

"Um... Hi..."

My greeting came out pretty shyly... Regardless of that, I got noticed immediately by Sagasuga who looked in my direction despite performing squats.

Yes, they had just changed exercises.

"What's up? Is there anything I can help you with, Arkalee?"

Normally, I would complement Sagasuga's somewhat attractive appearance in the back of my mind, but that's not the correct thing to do since I already love someone else.

Nonetheless, I am glad he noticed my words. That instantly evoked a sense of completion.

"Yes... Have you seen Tatsu? I need to talk to him about something..."

"Tatsu? Isn't he with Ikkiri? Well, since they are paired up, you should look for Ikkiri first and you might find Tatsu along."

"Thanks..."

Why are you telling me to chase after that bitch, Sagasuga?

"Ah, Arkalee. Ahh... Ahh... If you are looking for them I think I saw them going to the basketball field for some reason."

Shizuku gave a more appealing reply in contrast to Sagasuga's completely useless answer.

Truly something to preach.

The basketball field wasn't that far away...

"Alright, thank you for the answer! Continue training, you two!"

"Hey, thanks!"

"We will!"

Stop talking already, Sagasuga.

I didn't mean these words to you, I just said it for the sake of saying them.

Though Shizuku is fine I guess.

Now... There were two basketball courts, to my knowledge. The first one was a public one which was all the way up to block A. But, instead of being inside block A, it was outside of it. It was still pretty good nonetheless.

As for the second court, I believe that there is one behind block F.

...

If you can even call it a court.

By far, from what I know, Ikkiri was definitely not with Tatsu, which means that Tatsu was most likely alone.

Of course, this is all assuming that he is alone and not with Ikkiri right now.

Yet, let's be real. Would a bitch like Ikkiri, whose need for attention is insatiable, let go of someone like Hyunda? Obviously not. Therefore, I need to assume the worst.

Also... It's quite unlikely that Tatsu is in the basketball court located outside of block A. Which means... He is at the block F's court instead.

This time though, I didn't run since it wasn't that far away. I left the running platform and made my way towards Tatsu's possible location.

"He's got a crush on me, doesn't he? I'm pretty sure he does..."

Unlike Hyunda, Tatsu is most likely enveloped with my beauty far more often. It's not bold to assume that Tatsu has developed a crush for me just by my appearance alone.

Plus, I act quite nicely.

This is perfect then. Someone like Tatsu, who is often a lone-wolf to develop a crush on me, is truly perfect. Also, he is not the type of person to speak about his crush. In other words, he will be completely surprised that I will be the one who approached him.

"And would you look at that..."

In this crappy and sad excuse of a basketball court, stood a simple looking boy practicing basketball in a harsh but practical way.

Block F isn't a block which is visited except by our class, but behind it, there is a basketball hoop. And, as long as you have a basketball ball you can literally just play it. How nice, to be playing basketball this lonely just to hone your skills.

Fortunately, there was a bench nearby, so without noticing my presence, I simply took a seat and allowed Tatsu to continue playing on his own.

Surely, I never saw him put this much effort into something. But that's mainly because I never paid any attention to Tatsu in the first place.

I would only act once he noticed my presence, because that will for sure, take him by surprise instantly.

Yet...

He is always hopping...

At this rate, he will really never notice my existence.

Or so I thought, but the ball just started coming in my direction...

It started to approach my shoes but Tatsu arrived to catch the ball before it could crash. In order to do so, he bends over.

And only after raising his head up, did he notice my whole existence.

"Arkalee... What are you doing here...?"

He backed off a few steps, but it was about time I put on my act, honestly.

"Hm? I'm here to see you play. I got sooo bored with Hyunda and I decided to take a stroll. Ah, that was when I discovered this place. I didn't know that there was a basketball court."

"Yeah, there is one here, surprisingly. It's really cool because no one comes here..."

How typical. He's not even looking at me in the eye anymore. He's totally acting shyly.

"But, I didn't know... You do basketball? That's pretty cool!"

"...Well, th-thanks, I guess... Do you... um, like basketball too?"

"Nah, I don't know much about it. But, just by watching you play, you're making me interested, you know?"

It really wasn't interesting at all.

"By the way, where is Ikkiri? Isn't she your partner?"

Tatsu, now, started to dribble with his ball for some reason while creating some distance.

"Stuff happened. To each their own, I suppose."

"Eh? What happened?"

"What? You really wanna know that badly?"

"Yes, I do. Take a seat here and tell me about it!"

"A s-seat..."

"Yes?"

Don't be a coward now. I noticed that you are purely attracted to me, but you wouldn't act cowardly in the face of the girl you like, would you?

And as expected, after resisting for a while, he took a seat.

But, at the bay of the bench, though. Probably because he was self-aware of his sweat.

Unfortunately, I was far more self-aware when it came to that...

"So...?"

I pushed the subject and forced him to talk about what had happened with him and Ikkiri. Even though I clearly, deep down, didn't care.

"She's way too eccentric... She doesn't stop talking. She can't appreciate silence and is always walking around the school instead of practicing with me. It's not that she lacks the physical ability, she's just childish and so, it's impossible for us to even work."

Very typical of Ikkiri. To be obnoxious in all senses, I guess there's nothing else that I could've expected, honestly. Still, this is great.

"Aren't you going to do something about it, Tatsu?"

"No... I'm not going to change just because she is like that. For one second, she's serious about this but then second after she's like: 'Hey, let's take a tour around the school!'... Screw that... I'm really serious about this here..."

"I see... Ikkiri's at fault, isn't she? If she cooperated then you wouldn't have to go through this. It's not your fault, Tatsu..."

"Thank you for understanding... She's oblivious as well. She doesn't stop whining as well. How am I supposed to win with her!?"

That's something that is impossible and you truly need to understand why Tatsu.

So, in order to convey my words better, I closed our distance.

"H-Hey, you're too close..."

"Forget that. Listen, shouldn't you just fail the exam?"

"W-What!? Are you mocking me...? How could I fail this exam... It's so important..."

"I know that, but if you fail the exam, then, won't Ikkiri suffer? Hey, I've heard something interesting. Did you know, apparently, if your partner isn't able to compete physically, then you can just take her role and do all of her work?"

"A-Are you serious right now, Arkalee? Where have you heard that...?"

"It's just a rumor going around between the girls. Apparently, someone talked to Yuka-sensei and she told those words... It's up to you to believe them or not, but don't you think that it would be far more possible for you to pass this exam by achieving these tasks alone? I've been looking at you and you seem to be pretty capable of doing such. So, why depend on Ikkiri when you can do this yourself?"

Of course, this is a lie. Nevertheless, I told Tatsu that this is a rumor which means that I don't know truly if this is true or not. In other words, if he believed me, then this would work.

But I didn't have to care about that, because if you are in love with someone then you are bound to find their words credible without questioning them.

And, additionally, I added words that implied that I've been watching Tatsu from afar while I have not.

It was necessary to lie for this to work and this must work.

It can't be helped.

"Are you suggesting that if Ikkiri somehow presents physical incapacity that I might be able to do the tasks alone?"

"I-If you can..."

"I can do them!"

"I-I see! That's great to know!"

How easy to manipulate. I feel like yawning.

"But how can Ikkiri present physical incapacity when she is actually someone who is physically capable? I'm just not sure whether or not she'll take the exam serious and that is troublesome."

"Tatsu, it's very easy. You have to do it."

".....What?"

"Can't you see? Ikkiri alone won't do it, but if you do it..."

"W-Wait, what are you suggesting me to do, Arkalee?"

"For her to present physical inability, you have to do something in order for that to happen. Now, I'm not going to suggest something like beating her up, but instead, why not make her physically incapable while she doesn't know that you have done it? For example... Give her something bad to eat. Something that will surely make her unable to participate in tomorrow's exam, for instance. It can be anything, just something to prevent her from attending tomorrow's exam."

"But why are you going this far, Arkalee? I don't understand."

Of course you don't. And I have no intention of truly explaining it to you. But, I'll tell you something that is true, Tatsu.

"I hate Ikkiri. I can't stand her... She's so annoying and she doesn't shut up. She thinks she's funny while she's not. Do you get the gist of it...?"

"So you feel that way towards her too? Even so... You're expecting way too much from me..."

He started to show reluctance for some reason.

Hm?

Why though?

Aren't you talking with the girl you love? And you tell her that I'm expecting too much from you? Then, isn't your duty to meet my expectations since you are in love with me?

What gives?

..........

I'm not going to let that be the case, Tatsu.

It seems that I must use secondary methods for this, even though I seriously didn't want to do this to someone who is sweaty...

How disgusting...

But it can't be helped.

"Please... Tatsu... I can't do it... So I thought that I could count on you..."

Since our distance was closed, I swiftly grabbed his left arm and pulled it closer to my chest.

"A-Ah..."

It was meaningless to resist. No one can resist me when we have come this far.

While it is disgusting and it pains me to do this, I swear to never do this ever again, Hyunda.

I just need his cooperation, that's all!

It can't be helped.

"Are you going to say no still...?"

"I-I-I.... I'll see what I can do about it...!"

No, that's not enough.

Man up, please.

"Tatsu, please... Only you can do this... I need a yes..."

Shamefully, I put on a desperate act in order to convince Tatsu.

It seriously can't be helped. This is for the sake of something greater. The current events are absolutely partial.

They will not matter in the future.

"Okay... I got it. I'll make sure she won't be coming tomorrow."

"Really!? Thank you, Tatsu! You're a lifesaver! Really, thank you so much!"

To further allude Tatsu, I started to jump around like a kid while smiling.

Also, Tatsu had just left the scene while I was pretending to be happy. It seems that he was going to get his plan or whatever he has in mind to work.

Just wait a little, Hyunda...

Soon... Soon, we will be together and that depraved creature will not be in my way any longer. The perfect scenario will be achieved where only you and I will be together.

Although what I'm currently doing might be something questionable and false, it doesn't matter.

I don't harbor any feelings for Tatsu, so this is fine.

Because I don't care about anyone but you.

It's alright, isn't it, Hyunda?

It can't be helped, yes?