《Reversed Dominance》


 Chapter 1 - Weight of Lies

    April 1, 2424


    The car glided smoothly across the Shinra Bridge, connecting the city center to its outskirts. The morning sun reflected off thousands of glass panes and steel surfaces, illuminating the skyscrapers that towered like giants of concrete. The city of Shind¨­ never slept, always driven by the constant energy pulsing within it¡ªNexis. This was the world of tomorrow, a place brimming with advanced technology but also rigid power divisions, where women with Nexis ruled and men with the same energy were met with distrust. And on this April 1, 2424, Ren Amagiri would begin his new life as a student at Reij¨­ Academy, the most prestigious school for training warriors.


    In the front seat, his father, Kenji, drove with a stern expression. His eyes were fixed on the road, but his face bore the exhaustion of recent months, as though the weight of it all had crushed him. Beside him, his mother, Miko, spoke to him in a low, tense tone.


    "I still don¡¯t know if this will work, Kenji. The girls will suspect him. He¡¯s not like them. And the authorities, too. We can¡¯t ignore these details."


    Kenji, as always, didn¡¯t answer immediately, keeping his eyes firmly on the road ahead. His hands gripped the wheel as though it was the only thing he could still control.


    "He has no choice. His life depends on this. We¡¯ll keep it under control until he settles in. If they find out, it¡¯s over, Miko. I¡¯ve said this before."


    Ren could feel the conversation echoing inside his mind. "It¡¯s over." The words dragged on, impossible to escape no matter how hard he tried. His hands were nervously clasped in his lap, as if that small gesture could create a point of stability in a world crumbling around him.


    He looked out the window. The sprawling city of Shind¨­ loomed, immense and distant. Despite its modernity and advancement, Ren felt like he didn¡¯t belong in this world. He was no longer Ren Amagiri. He was no longer himself. He was Yuki Amagiri, an identity hastily and desperately crafted by his parents to shield him from society¡¯s watchful eyes.


    What troubled him the most was the void he felt toward his parents. They were like distant stars, shining far away but unreachable. Miko and Kenji had made the decision to force this facade upon him without considering the psychological toll it would take. He had always been close to them, but now he felt as though they were treating him like a stranger, not their own son.


    The growing emotional distance was tangible, and it became harder each day to see them as the loving parents they once were. The silence between them only widened the chasm, and Ren often wondered if they truly saw the consequences of their actions. It wasn¡¯t just the deception being imposed on him but the emotional disconnection. He couldn¡¯t tell if they were trying to secure his future or if they were blinded by societal pressures, acting out of fear rather than love.


    Ren glanced at his reflection in the window. His snow-white hair fell softly over his face, the fringe partially covering his ocean-blue eyes. His delicate features were often mistaken for a girl¡¯s, and his slim frame made him appear fragile, lacking any masculine presence. It was as if his appearance was part of the lie he now lived. Every detail of his body defied societal expectations, yet there was nothing he could do about it. Even his face, soft and almost ethereal, was now masked under the name and identity of Yuki.This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    It was difficult to look at himself this way. His mother, eager to avoid any suspicion, had dressed him in fine feminine clothing bought in haste¡ªa pink silk blouse, a short skirt, and white boots. The feel of the fabric against his skin brought a strange discomfort, a shiver of unease. The weight of the clothes wasn¡¯t just physical but psychological. He no longer felt like himself. He no longer felt like a boy.


    "We¡¯re almost there," his father said, breaking Ren¡¯s thoughts. Kenji didn¡¯t look back, but Ren knew he was addressing him, trying to ease the tension inside the car.


    Ren sighed softly and looked out the window again. The Reij¨­ Academy came into view, its glass and concrete walls gleaming with a cold, impersonal light. Inside, he would be just another student, another warrior to be shaped for a society that excluded men with Nexis. Inside, he would begin the journey of hiding who he truly was.


    The car stopped at the imposing entrance of the academy, a structure of glass and steel that resembled a fortress more than a school. Ren felt his chest tighten as he looked at the building. He was about to start a new life there, a life where he could no longer be himself. He would be Yuki Amagiri, and that was already decided. All that remained was to follow the rules.


    Kenji turned off the engine and took a deep breath, his face tense. He glanced quickly at Ren but said nothing. It was as if there was nothing left to say. Miko, sitting beside him, reached into the back seat for an envelope and handed it to her son without a word.


    Ren took the envelope with trembling hands. The paper, thin and pristine, felt like it weighed a ton. His father turned to him, his face serious but softer than usual.


    "This is what you¡¯ll use to get in, Ren..."


    Miko interrupted with a sharp gesture.


    "Yuki, Kenji. You have to use the right name. Yuki. Now, Ren, look at this."


    Ren looked at his mother. Her voice was cutting as always, but there was genuine concern hidden behind her words. Deep down, he knew she was trying to protect him in the only way she knew how. Yet, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling of being just a puppet.


    He opened the envelope and pulled out the identification card inside. It wasn¡¯t just the name that made his stomach churn. It was everything. The gender, the height, the weight¡ªthey were all there, as if describing someone else, a Yuki who wasn¡¯t him. The photo, with its forced smile, wasn¡¯t his. He looked like a stranger, a caricature of himself.


    The emptiness he felt staring at the card was so overwhelming he had to take a deep breath to avoid being sick. How could he accept this? How could he be forced to live such a massive lie? He stared at the feminine face in the photo, the appearance he knew he had to embody now, and a wave of nausea swept over him.


    "This is who you are now," Miko said, her tone relentless. "If you want to live here, you have to accept this. Yuki Amagiri will be your name, your future. There¡¯s no room for anything else."


    Ren couldn¡¯t respond. He felt a pressure in his chest, as if he were being crushed from the inside out. His mother¡¯s words echoed, but he couldn¡¯t find the strength to speak. He wanted to scream, to understand why he was being forced into this. He didn¡¯t want to be Yuki. He didn¡¯t want to live a life that wasn¡¯t his own.


    But before he could say anything, Miko leaned closer, her sharp gaze making Ren tense. She raised her hand as if to strike him, her cold expression only deepening the pain within him.


    "I won¡¯t say this again. If you want to survive, you have to adapt."


    Ren swallowed hard, his body trembling. Before her hand could touch his face, Kenji spoke, his voice weary and urgent.


    "Miko, no!" He raised his hand to stop her. "Not here. Not now."


    Miko glared at Kenji, her fists clenched, but he continued to plead.


    "Don¡¯t make a scene. He knows what he has to do. He¡¯s not a child, Miko. He... he already knows how this works."


    There was a hopelessness in Kenji¡¯s words, as if he already knew there was no turning back. Ren looked at them both, feeling the tension between them rise. There was no room left for decisions. They had placed him in this position, and now he had to move forward, with no other choice.


    Ren lowered his head, feeling the weight of the lie he was about to live. He no longer felt like their son¡ªjust a piece in a game he hadn¡¯t chosen.


    When he looked at his parents again, something inside him broke. They were there, but it felt as if they were somewhere else. The emotional distance was greater than any physical divide. They no longer saw the boy he was but the reflection of what they wanted him to be.


    "Let¡¯s go," Kenji finally said, breaking the silence that filled the car. He stepped out first, followed closely by Miko, without another word.


    Ren hesitated for a moment, clutching the card tightly in his hands. He looked at the academy building ahead and, for a brief instant, wished he could disappear. But he knew he couldn¡¯t. He had nowhere to go.


    Taking a deep breath and casting one last glance at his parents, he followed them toward the academy¡¯s entrance. The lie had already begun.

 Chapter 2 - The Mask I Wear

    Ren¡¯s footsteps echoed on the marble floor of the lobby, a reverberation that seemed to amplify the growing emptiness within him. His parents accompanied him to the boundary of the area where families were allowed. With each step, the weight of reality became more tangible. They were pulling away, the invisible line of separation growing sharper with every meter.


    Kenji stopped at the boundary line. With a forced smile, he turned to Ren, a futile attempt to be comforting, but Ren could see the flaw in his eyes, the fatigue that couldn¡¯t be disguised. Miko, standing beside him, gave him a quick and distant hug, followed by a kiss on his forehead that felt more like a formality than genuine affection.


    "Remember, Yuki," Miko said, her voice attempting to sound firm but failing to hide its coldness. "Be strong. Don¡¯t do anything that might bring us trouble."


    Kenji, with a tense smile, placed his hand on Ren¡¯s shoulder but quickly withdrew it, as if the contact was uncomfortable for both of them.


    "Study hard, stay focused, and¡­ make friends. You have to fit in, understand? Everything will work out."


    Ren couldn¡¯t muster another smile. He knew those words were empty, an echo of who he was supposed to be... not who he truly was. Looking at them, the sense of detachment grew stronger, as if an expanding distance was forming with every unspoken word. They were there, yet not truly with him.


    Ren nodded, an automatic gesture. He couldn¡¯t bring himself to speak. He already knew that his words would be in vain, that nothing could change this. It felt as though he had already lost the right to be who he truly was.


    And then his parents slowly walked away, giving him one last wave with smiles that Ren saw as hypocritical. He felt a tightness in his chest but forced himself not to show any weakness. They were leaving him there, in the hands of people he barely knew, while they returned to their lives. It was as if, from that moment on, he was just a turned page, a chapter no longer worthy of attention. He was Yuki, and that was the only truth that remained.


    As Ren turned his back on his parents and headed toward the main entrance of the academy, his eyes fell on a group of girls saying their goodbyes to their families. Some of them were smiling, chatting animatedly, giving kisses to their mothers and hugs to their fathers with an enthusiasm Ren had never felt. For them, this was just the start of a new chapter, a promising beginning full of possibilities.


    But for Ren, this was the end. The end of a part of himself that would never return. As he looked at the girls, a wave of nausea swept over him. Their bright, carefree smiles felt like sharp knives. They didn¡¯t know what he carried. They didn¡¯t know that while they were stepping into a future filled with light and promise, he was being buried in a place where he didn¡¯t belong. The emptiness inside him deepened as the laughter and conversations around him felt distant, like a parallel reality to his own.


    Ren looked away, feeling a growing tightness in his throat. He didn¡¯t want to look at those girls anymore. He didn¡¯t want to hear their voices, their laughter filled with a happiness he could never have. The pain of being there, of being forced to live this lie, made everything around him feel unreal.


    He glanced at the card still in his pocket, and the feeling of disgust only grew stronger. Yuki Amagiri wasn¡¯t him. And he no longer knew if he would ever be anyone.


    "..."


    Ren kept walking, but with every step, the sense of discomfort grew stronger. The clothes he wore, carefully chosen by his mother to conceal his true identity, were a cruel reminder of the lie his life had become. The long-sleeved shirt and pleated skirt felt like they were made for someone else not for him. The soft fabric, meant to feel comfortable, now seemed heavy, like a prison. Each movement, each step, intensified the feeling of living a farce. The clash between the body he had and the forced appearance he was made to carry was unbearable.If you stumble upon this tale on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    As he walked down the academy¡¯s corridor, the voices and laughter of the girls around him became mere background noise, as if an invisible barrier had risen between him and the world. The sounds were there, but he couldn¡¯t connect with them. His thoughts dragged on, heavy and muffled, until suddenly, a memory from long ago overwhelmed him.


    ?¡ñ¡è¡ñ?


    The scene shifted, and he found himself in a distant past, a time when he was still a child. It was a hot afternoon, the sun shining high in the sky, and Ren was in a grassy field, playing soccer with his friends. His white hair was still short, like a boy¡¯s, and the sleeveless shirt he wore left his arms free to run and play. He didn¡¯t care about being a boy with strange hair, hair that others found unusual. In that moment, he just wanted to play.


    But then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw something... a kitten, meowing softly as it clumsily walked down the street, exploring the world around it. Ren smiled to himself, drawn to the sight of the tiny creature. It was something so simple, so pure, that he almost forgot where he was. He stopped running, instinctively crouching to approach the kitten.


    But then he saw the car speeding toward it, and panic set in. The vehicle was terrifyingly close, and the kitten, oblivious to the danger, continued to walk leisurely across the street, unaware of the imminent end awaiting it. Ren tried to shout, but the words didn¡¯t come in time.


    In an almost primal instinct, something stirred inside him. Nexis, a powerful energy he didn¡¯t yet fully understand, surged through his veins like an uncontrollable river. His body trembled, his muscles pulsating with a strength he never imagined he possessed. He didn¡¯t think, didn¡¯t rationalize. It was as if his body had been overtaken by a wave of power, and all he could do was leap.


    With supernatural speed and strength for a child his age, he sprinted toward the kitten, diving to save the small creature just before the car could hit it.


    When he finally landed on the ground, the kitten safe in his arms, Ren looked around, expecting to see faces filled with admiration. He expected to hear shouts of "hero" or applause from his friends. But what he saw was entirely different.


    The silence was heavy. People¡¯s eyes were fixed on him, but not warmly or gratefully. His friends were frozen in place, and the adults nearby stared at him with looks of suspicion¡ªeven fear. There was no relief or gratitude in their expressions. Only terror.


    Ren felt the heat rise to his face as reality set in. He had done something good, something heroic, something any child would love to be praised for doing. But instead, people saw him as a threat. He wasn¡¯t just a child anymore. He was a man.


    "What is this...?" a voice whispered from afar.


    "That boy... what did he do?" another voice said, with a tone of fear.


    Ren looked at the kitten in his arms, still alive and safe, but the weight of the stares surrounding him made his stomach churn. He didn¡¯t understand what was happening. He couldn¡¯t grasp why his simple act of saving a defenseless creature, something so natural, was treated with such hostility. He only wanted to be like other children, to live a normal life!


    But at that moment, he realized: to the world, he wasn¡¯t normal. He wouldn¡¯t be seen as a child. He would always be treated as a threat, as something different. And in that instant, Ren understood, for the first time, the weight of what it meant to be a man with Nexis.


    ?¡ñ¡è¡ñ?


    Back to reality, Ren gripped the handle of his bag tightly, feeling his fingers dig into the rigid material. The pressure in his hands seemed to be the only thing keeping him grounded in the present. He bit his lower lip, trying to suppress the urge to vomit. The nausea intensified with every step he took through the corridors of Reij¨­ Academy, the sound of his footsteps echoing off the marble walls as if the corridors themselves were swallowing him whole.


    He glanced weakly at the window beside him, the view of the city sprawling outside, but his mind was elsewhere, lost in bitter reflection. The reality surrounding him now was far crueler than he had imagined. There was no turning back. He knew he had to retrieve his uniform and then find his room... in the girls'' dormitory.


    He knew what that meant. The thought of living in such a feminine environment, surrounded by girls who would likely see him as an oddity, filled him with visceral discomfort. And worst of all: he couldn¡¯t even rebel. He couldn¡¯t let his true identity be revealed, or he¡¯d be cast aside, rejected by everyone. It was as if he were a ghost in his own life, condemned to live a role that wasn¡¯t his.


    With every step in the corridors, Ren felt an increasing pressure, as if the school walls were closing in on him. He tightened his grip on the bag again, and this time, he couldn¡¯t stop it. The urge to vomit was overwhelming. He tried biting the inside of his cheek to maintain control, but the sensation of everything being revolting grew stronger with every passing moment.


    "I¡¯m going to have to live like this," he thought, and the idea sank deeper and deeper into his chest. He knew none of it made sense, but as much as he wanted to scream, to oppose everything, he felt paralyzed. His mother¡¯s face flashed briefly in his mind, with her cold, demanding eyes. She always said this was what was best for him, that he needed to ¡°fit in¡± and ¡°make friends.¡± But deep down, Ren knew she wasn¡¯t talking about a real future. She was talking about a future where he became someone he wasn¡¯t, someone shaped by a society that feared him.


    When he turned the corner, other students passed by him, some girls laughing and chatting while Ren felt the weight of their gazes. He had no idea what they were thinking, but he knew things would never be the same. He wasn¡¯t a child anymore; he wasn¡¯t just a boy. Now, he carried something more, Nexis, and it made him a threat to the world around him, particularly to the current society... the female empire.


    He bit his lips again, trying to stay focused. Reality was becoming unbearable, but he had no choice. Ren was already there, trapped in his own body, trapped in his false identity, while the world around him kept turning, indifferent to the torment he felt.

 Chapter 3 - The Mask I Wear (2)

    Ren entered the building, his footsteps echoing in the empty corridor. The girls¡¯ dormitory was even more imposing than he had imagined. The structure of the place was impeccable, with luxurious details in every corner. The white and gold walls reflected a soft light, creating a sense of coldness and distance. A perfect place for a lie, Ren thought, feeling a lump form in his throat as he observed the surroundings.


    When he reached the entrance of the dormitory, a dark wooden door opened smoothly, revealing a refined-looking woman. She was dressed in an immaculate uniform, consisting of a modest skirt and blouse, and her black hair, cut elegantly to her shoulders, added to her sophisticated appearance. Her deep green eyes resembled emeralds shining under the soft hall light.


    She looked at Ren with a courteous expression, but her eyes seemed to analyze his every movement. She gave a small smile¡ªprofessional rather than warm¡ªand bowed slightly in greeting.


    "Welcome," the woman spoke with a voice that was both gentle and firm, echoing softly in the empty corridor. "May I have your full name and class, miss, so I can provide you with the necessary information?"


    Despite the woman¡¯s politeness, Ren felt his stomach churn again. He took a deep breath, trying to stay calm, but being addressed as "miss" still stung deeply. He didn¡¯t want to be Yuki, but he was forced to be. It was impossible to ignore how his identity was being manipulated, forced into a frame that wasn¡¯t his own.


    "Yuki Amagiri," he said, trying to steady his voice, which came out weaker than he intended. "Class... A-7."


    The woman quickly jotted down the information on a clipboard, her expression appearing almost approving as she looked back at Ren.


    "Perfect. Your dormitory will be ready shortly. Feel free to settle in. There will be dinner later; don¡¯t miss it." She paused briefly, observing Ren attentively. "If you need anything, don¡¯t hesitate to call me."


    Ren couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she knew more than she was letting on. There was something in her gaze¡ªa way of looking that seemed to dig into his emotions without directly saying anything. He nodded, trying to mask his discomfort.


    The woman walked away with a calm elegance, leaving Ren alone in the corridor, once again facing the reality of being someone he wasn¡¯t supposed to be. He took a deep breath, forcing himself not to look back, and stepped forward.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    The path ahead was far from easy, but he knew he had no choice. He would have to endure. Hide behind the mask until he no longer knew where the lie began and the truth ended.


    Ren stepped away from the door, still holding his suitcase, and made his way to the reception area of the girls¡¯ dormitory. The room was decorated with the same luxury as the rest of the building, but something about the opulence only heightened his sense of discomfort. The polished marble floor reflected his figure, a sight he wanted to avoid. It wasn¡¯t as if he was there by choice, and every step felt like a heavier weight on his shoulders.


    At the reception desk, a middle-aged woman, elegant with her hair tied in a perfect bun and wearing golden-rimmed glasses, looked at him with a distant and professional expression.


    "Miss Yuki Amagiri, correct? How may I assist you?" Her voice was clear and emotionless, as if she were merely fulfilling a duty.


    Already tired of being addressed as "miss," Ren forced a smile, hiding his frustration. He approached the desk and, without much effort, said:


    "I need the uniform... for class A-7."


    The receptionist nodded and, without another word, pulled out a form from the desk. She glanced at Ren with calculating eyes, as if seeing more than he wanted to reveal. She paused briefly before speaking, her tone as cold as before:


    "I¡¯ll need your measurements. Can you provide your height, weight, and the measurements of your bust, waist, and hips?"


    Ren swallowed hard, his hand tightening around the handle of his suitcase. Even though it was a simple procedure, her words seemed to echo in a way that made him feel small. It was another reminder of how lost he was and how forced and surreal everything around him felt.


    "1.58 meters. Weight... 45 kilograms," he murmured, the words leaving his mouth like they were pushed out by a tide of discomfort. "Bust... 75 centimeters. Waist, 58. Hips... 80."


    The receptionist quickly noted everything down, not even glancing at Ren as she worked, as if it were an automatic process. When she finished, she stood up with calm elegance and walked over to one of the large wardrobes that lined an entire wall of the office.


    Ren watched the enormous wardrobe, filled with clothes organized with precision in soft shades of pink, white, and lavender¡ªcolors that felt far removed from anything he wanted. He bit his lip, tension growing within him. He didn¡¯t want to see the clothes. He didn¡¯t want to be forced to wear any of it. But he knew there was no alternative.


    The receptionist opened one of the compartments and removed a white uniform with short sleeves, accompanied by a white skirt striped with thin black lines that reached the knees. The top was a simple white blouse with a red bow delicately tied at the collar. It was an immaculate uniform, but its feminine aesthetic and the expectation of wearing it made Ren feel even more disconnected from himself.


    She handed the uniform to him with the same blank expression as before.


    "This will be your uniform, Miss Amagiri," she said mechanically, her eyes now fixed on Ren. "Your dormitory is ready. Once you change, you may join the other students in the dining hall for dinner."


    Ren took the uniform, the feeling of revulsion growing stronger. The light fabric rested in his hands, and he couldn¡¯t avoid thinking that it was the final piece of his identity being stripped away. He was being forced to live as a stranger, and it disturbed him deeply.


    "Thank you," he managed to say, his voice quieter than he intended.


    He walked away from the receptionist, feeling her gaze on his back, but he didn¡¯t look behind him. When the door closed behind him, he took a few more steps down the corridor, the weight of the uniform in his hands adding to his sense of suffocation. He was so far from who he was, so distant from anything he could call his own. All that remained was to keep moving forward.

 Chapter 4 - The Storms Gaze

    Ren was standing in front of the mirror, adjusting his uniform, when he heard a movement coming from the couch. He turned around and realized that the girl who had been there had woken up. Their eyes met, still sleepy, and both of them froze for a moment.


    She looked at him for a few seconds, her green eyes still hazy, and without thinking too much, said:


    "Wow... are you... an angel?"


    Ren froze. The girl seemed genuinely surprised, as if she wasn¡¯t fully aware of what she had just asked. He blinked, confused, and looked at his own uniform¡ªthe red ribbon, the skirt, the thigh-high stockings¡ªand felt even more uncomfortable.


    "H-Hello..." he murmured nervously.


    The girl, noticing the confusion on his face, gave a lazy smile.


    "Oh, sorry, it''s just that with this white hair and the way you look... I thought you were an angel." She chuckled. "If you are, I hope you''re a good one."


    Ren felt his face heat up, more embarrassed than before.


    "N... I''m not an angel..." he replied quietly, not really wanting to continue the conversation.


    The girl shrugged and stretched on the couch.


    "Oh, right. Hehe~." She smiled casually. "But, if you change your mind, let me know."


    Ren, not knowing what to do, just stared at the mirror, feeling the discomfort grow. The tension in the air lessened a bit, but he still couldn¡¯t feel at ease.


    After a brief moment of silence, Saki stretched her arms and let out a big yawn, still with her eyes half-closed. Yuki was standing there, looking at the mirror, while she got up from the couch, seemingly in no hurry at all.


    "Oh, sorry about that..." she said with a sleepy smile. "I think I got carried away and slept for too long."


    Yuki watched her without saying anything, and then she finally straightened up, looking more awake.


    "I''m Saki Tanaka," she said, introducing herself with a mischievous smile. "Looks like we''re roommates, huh? And we''ll be in the same class too... I guess you can''t escape me. Don''t worry, I''m easy to deal with~."


    Yuki gave a shy smile but still seemed uncomfortable. Saki spoke in such a casual tone, it was so different from the way Yuki was.


    "I''m Yuki Amagiri," she said quietly, still trying to adjust to the situation. "Nice to meet you..."


    Saki looked at her with a curious gaze, evaluating the situation. She let out a soft laugh, as if she were enjoying the moment.


    "You''re pretty quiet, huh?" she said with a playful look. "But don''t worry, I''ll help you loosen up a bit. Things here might be easier than you think, you just have to take the first step!"


    Yuki felt a bit uncomfortable. She wasn¡¯t exactly looking to ¡°loosen up,¡± but Saki seemed to have such a carefree attitude, which made her feel a bit more at ease. However, she still felt strange about the situation. Saki, on the other hand, seemed to be handling everything almost casually.


    She threw herself back on the couch, stretching her legs in a relaxed manner.


    "Since we''re in the same room and the same class, it should be easier, right? By the way, something tells me you''ll stand out, one way or another."


    Yuki looked at the mirror, trying to push away the uncomfortable feeling. She was still trying to adjust to the idea of being in this environment, especially with Saki''s presence. Saki seemed so different from Yuki, so... carefree.


    Saki gave a smile and then looked at her with a curious gaze.


    "Oh, Yuki..." she said, in a teasing tone. "If you really are an angel, let me know, okay? Who knows, maybe we can work some miracles together."


    Yuki didn¡¯t know how to respond. She just smiled weakly, without much conviction, while looking at herself in the mirror once again. The uncomfortable feeling hadn¡¯t gone away, but something about the way Saki acted made her feel... a little more relaxed.


    After a brief moment of silence, Saki stretched again and threw herself back on the couch with a lightness that only she seemed to have. Yuki, on the other hand, was still trying to absorb everything happening around her. The feeling of being in that place, away from home and her parents, was starting to feel even more palpable.


    "Come on, Yuki," Saki said, getting up and stretching her arms. "The maid said dinner is ready. I''m starving, and I''m sure you are too, right?"


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    Yuki didn¡¯t have time to protest before Saki pulled her by the arm, grinning mischievously.


    "Don''t worry, dinner will be a great opportunity for you to start socializing with the other girls. It''ll be fun!"


    Yuki wasn¡¯t sure how it could be fun, but she just followed Saki down the hall. The two passed by several doors until they reached a large shared dining room, where other girls were already sitting, talking, and serving themselves.


    But before leaving the room, Saki, realizing she was still in revealing and too-casual clothes, went to her wardrobe and quickly changed. She opened the closet, and with a lazy expression, took off the purple shirt she had been wearing, tossing it aside.


    "I¡¯m not as formal as some of them..." Saki said, looking at Yuki with a cheeky smile as she grabbed a comfortable t-shirt and short shorts. She seemed so at ease while changing that Yuki couldn¡¯t help but feel a little embarrassed for being so uncomfortable with her uniform.


    Saki quickly dressed in her new, more casual and comfortable clothes. She tossed her hair to the side, fixing it, and then looked at Yuki, who was still in her impeccably adjusted uniform.


    "Now this is comfort~" Saki said with a wide smile.


    Yuki just smiled shyly and followed Saki to the dining room, where the smell of fresh food started to make her even more aware of her hunger.


    The dining room environment was immaculately arranged, with dark wooden tables and white plates, decorated with fresh flowers. The other girls were already serving themselves, some laughing and others talking animatedly. The place seemed welcoming at first glance, but for Yuki, the pressure of being there still lingered in the air.


    Saki, apparently, was at ease, as if nothing bothered her. She served herself quickly, taking a generous portion of rice, fish, and vegetables, while Yuki was still trying to decide what to take.


    "Don¡¯t worry about the others," Saki said, noticing Yuki''s hesitation. "They¡¯re all kind of competitive, especially with the new class, but in the end, it¡¯s just a matter of time before you get used to it. Trust me."


    Yuki didn¡¯t respond immediately, still a bit lost in her own thoughts. She served herself quickly, taking just enough to feel comfortable. The environment, which should have been welcoming, only made her feel more isolated, as if she were a stranger in the middle of it all.


    As she ate, the conversations around her began to fade into distant noise. Yuki focused only on the movement of food in her mouth, trying not to think too much. But inevitably, her mind started to wander. She thought about what the others might be thinking of her. About how, once again, if they find out, the consequences would be just too much...


    Suddenly, one of the girls next to them turned and said, with a sweet voice, but a curious look:


    "You¡¯re new, aren¡¯t you? Your arrival was kind of... sudden, you didn¡¯t talk to anyone~. We¡¯re all really curious to know how you¡¯ll adapt here."


    Yuki, feeling the weight of the words, slowly lifted her gaze. She knew the question wasn¡¯t simple. It wasn¡¯t just a polite introduction. It was an analysis, an attempt to understand where she fit into this new reality.


    "Yes... it¡¯s my first day," Yuki replied with a calm voice, despite the internal tension. "I hope I adapt well."


    Saki, noticing the tone of the conversation, let out a carefree laugh and intervened.


    "Yuki is a really calm girl, you don¡¯t need to worry about her," Saki said with a wide smile. "I think she just needs some time to get used to it."


    The girls around Yuki and Saki started laughing softly, and Yuki felt a momentary relief when she saw the mood seemed to calm down. The expressions of the girls, once curious and investigative, softened, and they began to smile in a friendlier way.


    One of them, with long brown hair and yellowish eyes, smiled at Yuki, clearly trying to be welcoming.


    "Well, since you¡¯re new, I¡¯ll give you some important information..." she said with a soft tone, but with a hint of seriousness. "Things here can be... a little intense at first. So, it¡¯s better to stay alert."


    Another girl, with her hair tied up in a messy bun and a look of always being on alert, added, with a light nervous laugh:


    "Oh, yeah, for sure. First off, keep an eye on the Princess of the Red House. She¡¯s... complicated. If you get in her way, you might regret it."


    Yuki raised an eyebrow, a bit confused, and the girl with the bun continued with a laid-back smile.


    "She¡¯s super popular, gets whatever she wants, and worse, she has an ''explosive'' personality. The Ice Monarch is also problematic, as they call her. Better avoid trouble with her."


    The girl next to the first one, with an expression like she was enjoying the stories, then joined the conversation.


    "And don¡¯t forget the psychopathic prodigy of the first year... Yurei or something like that. She seems cute, but her temperament... let¡¯s just say it¡¯s interesting. She¡¯s made some people disappear on campus. Not literally, of course, but... you¡¯ll understand."


    The girls laughed lightly, as if it were a funny and absurd story, but Yuki¡¯s gaze became more serious.


    Saki, who had remained silent until then, looked at Yuki with a mischievous smile, as if she were observing her reaction.


    "Don¡¯t worry too much, Yuki," she said casually. "Things might seem a bit scary at first, but trust me, you¡¯ll get used to it. And if those girls mess with you... well, you have me to protect you! After all, I¡¯m an expert at... giving a few ''touches'' when the situation calls for it."


    The girls around, noticing the interaction between the two, just smiled amiably and nodded, as if everything was already settled. They seemed to know that the dynamic between Saki and Yuki wouldn¡¯t go against their desires to conquer territory.


    Yuki, on the other hand, continued to chew the rest of her food, trying to process the information she had just received. With each word spoken by the girls, she felt the weight of her situation. She was trapped in a game whose rules she didn¡¯t even understand, with pieces and moves she still didn¡¯t know how to interpret.


    The meal continued with more conversations, but for Yuki, the sound of laughter and comments around her seemed distant, as if she were in another place.


    After finishing her meal, Saki stood up with a sigh, rubbing her eyes and letting out a small yawn. She was visibly tired, clearly more focused on the comfort of her bed than the conversations around.


    "Well, I¡¯ve said enough for today. Now, I¡¯m going to run to my savior and beautiful bed," Saki said with a lazy smile, already walking away from the table. "Are you staying here, Yuki? Won¡¯t you rest a bit too?"


    Yuki looked at Saki, who was already walking away, and thought for a moment. Although the idea of resting was tempting, she felt she shouldn¡¯t give in to comfort so soon. It would be better to explore the dormitory a little more, maybe find something or someone who could help her understand better how things worked at this school.


    "I think I¡¯ll stay a little longer. I¡¯ll look around," Yuki replied, more to herself than to Saki.


    Saki gave a wink before leaving, leaving Yuki alone in the common area. The girl looked around, feeling a slight unease in the air. The space seemed enormous, with various corridors and doors leading to different areas of the female dorm. Every detail of the place seemed designed to provoke admiration and a certain discomfort.


    She walked down the long walls, her steps echoing slightly as she tried to familiarize herself with the environment. Without realizing it, she bumped into someone.


    "Ah!" Yuki exclaimed, trying to compose herself.


    The girl in front of her was an imposing presence. Her red hair shone like flames, a vibrant and overwhelming, as if illuminating the hallway around her. She wore the same uniform as Yuki, but with a clear difference: a badge with a large "S" printed on it, visible on her chest, marking her level - S, the highest.


    Yuki was frozen for a moment, observing the girl with the red double tail that moved smoothly, as if it had a life of its own. The girl''s bust was prominent, and her eyes, a piercing golden hue, looked at Yuki with an overwhelming intensity. The girl''s gaze seemed capable of piercing her soul.


    The girl looked at Yuki with a subtle smile, as if evaluating her, and then said, in a soft voice, but full of authority:


    "You... must be new." The girl smiled, a smile that seemed more like a mark of superiority than any friendly gesture. - "I am the Princess of the Red House. Don¡¯t forget that."


    Yuki swallowed nervously, trying to hide her unease. The Princess of the Red House seemed to have no interest in being friendly, quite the opposite. Her golden eyes glinted with a calculating coldness, as if she were deciding what to do with Yuki.


    She took a step forward, getting even closer, and her words were like a cutting blade:


    "And I wouldn''t show mercy even to angels, you know?" she said with a arrogant smile.


    "This place is not for everyone. Be strong or fall to your knees, it doesn''t matter. I... don¡¯t have time for weaklings."


    Her tone was clear, and Yuki felt the weight of the threat in her words. The Princess of the Red House seemed to enjoy Yuki¡¯s discomfort, as if she were testing her resistance, provoking her with her words. Yuki stood frozen, not knowing how to react.


    Without another word, the girl walked away with an almost supernatural grace, the sound of her steps echoing down the corridor. Yuki remained still, motionless, trying to process the encounter.


    The figure of the Princess disappeared around the corner of the corridor, leaving Ren alone, with a racing heart. The girl¡¯s piercing gaze still burned in her mind.


    "-!"


    ".....this can only be hell."

 Chapter 5 - Whispers of the First Day

    April 2, 2424.


    The sound of the auditorium doors opening echoed softly through the vast space as a wave of students entered, some chatting excitedly, others more reserved. Ren followed Saki to one of the front rows, trying to remain as inconspicuous as possible. The atmosphere was charged with energy but also with tension, as if something could change drastically at any moment.


    It was the first official day of classes, and the feeling of being watched by so many eyes wasn¡¯t helping. Even with the disguise of "Yuki," the sensation of being in a place where he didn¡¯t belong never truly faded. Most of the curious gazes came from the female students, but Ren knew that survival here required more than just blending in.


    At the back of the auditorium, a small group of boys sat in isolated rows. They were there, yet they felt like shadows at the margins, almost invisible to the rest of the students. Ren couldn¡¯t help but notice the disguised contempt in some glances, especially from the girls gathered in tight-knit groups up front. The discrimination was subtle, yet undeniable. But what could be worse than that? Only the fact that Ren was one of those few boys, but diferent from them hiding his own gender.


    Saki sat beside Ren, visibly excited for the day ahead. It was easy to see that she felt far more comfortable in this environment. But for Ren, the pressure grew heavier by the second.


    Soon, silence took over the auditorium, and all eyes turned to the stage. The academy¡¯s director, Sayuri Takahashi, an austere woman with an impeccable appearance, stood there, accompanied by the physical training instructor, Mika Fukunaga, looked serious too. Sayuri opened the ceremony with an authoritative voice.


    "Welcome to another year at Reij¨­ Academy," the director said, her voice clear and firm. "This is where the world''s greatest warriors are forged. And this year, we have a very special announcement."


    Professor Mika stepped forward, her sharp gaze scanning the audience.


    "As you all know, the position of student council president is one of great responsibility. It is not just a symbol of academic leadership, but of strength and character." She paused, letting the anticipation build. "This year, we are honored to announce that the new student council president of Reij¨­ Academy is one of the most respected students from one of the most prestigious lineages in the world...!"


    A murmur of excitement spread through the students surrounding Ren. Some girls exchanged jealous glances, while others showed pure admiration. Ren could feel something significant about to happen. And before he could fully process it, an imposing figure stepped onto the stage.


    It was Akane Kagutsuchi, the new student council president.


    The moment she appeared, the air in the room seemed to grow heavier. With fiery red hair and golden eyes, Akane radiated overwhelming confidence. It was impossible not to feel the sheer power emanating from her. She was one of the academy¡¯s most formidable students, and everyone knew it.


    "It¡¯s her... from the other day...!"


    Her presence dominated the room. She wore a badge with the symbol "S"¡ªan unmistakable mark of her rank. As she took the microphone, her voice was both smooth and commanding, setting the room ablaze.


    "Welcome to Reij¨­ Academy," she began, her tone gentle yet unyielding. "Here, we are more than ordinary women. We are warriors. Each of you has the power to achieve greatness. But remember this: weakness is not tolerated here."


    The words carried the weight of a warning. Yuki felt a tightness in his chest. The tension in the auditorium was palpable.


    Akane¡¯s gaze swept across the room, pausing momentarily on the group of boys at the back. They sat apart, distant, as if separated by an invisible barrier from the rest of the students. Ren couldn''t look away. A sinking feeling settled in his stomach, fear creeping in at the thought of being discovered.Stolen novel; please report.


    Then Akane spoke again, her voice turning colder.


    "The boys," she said, her tone laced with indifference. "Are a minority here. Even if some of you have awakened Nexis, your power will never match that of true warriors."


    "!"


    Silence fell like a crushing weight. Ren felt Akane¡¯s gaze linger on them like a judgment. The discrimination was undeniable, no longer hidden behind polite pretense. Everyone knew the boys were here as exceptions, not equals.


    Akane seemed completely unfazed by the reactions. She remained composed, glancing once more at the boys. Ren felt their face flush with heat, shame rising quickly, but forced themselves to stay composed. They couldn¡¯t afford to let the truth slip.


    "Remember, competition here is fierce," Akane continued, her words reverberating through the hall. "Only the strongest will survive. Those who fail to adapt... will be left behind."


    And with that, she exited the stage with the same commanding grace with which she had arrived, leaving behind a heavy atmosphere.


    Ren couldn¡¯t think clearly. Every word that woman had spoken echoed in their mind, a grim reminder of an inescapable truth: he didn¡¯t belong here. And if they find out about his true identity, his time at the academy would end in disaster.


    The students began to stir, girls forming small groups, exchanging knowing looks and hushed whispers. The boys remained where they were¡ªsilent, ignored, as always.


    Saki turned to Ren, still buzzing with excitement.


    "Excited for training tomorrow?" she asked, oblivious to the storm of emotions swirling in Yuki¡¯s head.


    Ren nodded absentmindedly, lacking conviction. The truth was, he could barely focus on Saki¡¯s words. His mind was elsewhere, caught in the looming threat of discovery. And deep down, Ren feared that he were nothing more than a shadow in this place, a boy disguised in a world where women ruled. If he is not careful, they wouldn¡¯t just ignore. He gonna be exposed.


    As the voices in the auditorium grew louder and students began filing out, Ren quickly stood and followed Saki into the hallway. Ren tried not to look back at the boys, but he couldn¡¯t help it. They were still there, watching in silence, the weight of their presence suffocating.


    "...."


    Saki chatted animatedly with a few friends, while Ren quietly slipped away, needing a moment alone. He sat on a bench beneath a sakura tree, watching the petals drift gently in the breeze. The serene scene starkly contrasted with the turmoil inside them. He felt lost in a world where even the smallest mistake could lead to exposure.


    As "Yuki" watched the falling blossoms, a small figure caught their eye.


    A little girl, with raven-black hair and deep violet eyes, skipping from one student to another, chatting effortlessly. But something about her movements felt... unnatural. Too smooth, too in sync, like she was attuned to something beyond the ordinary.


    Then, their eyes met.


    The girl¡¯s lips curled into a mischievous, almost predatory smile. She knew.


    Without hesitation, she approached. Her violet eyes gleamed with unsettling intensity.


    "Hello, angel!" the girl chirped, her voice sweet but laced with an eerie playfulness. "I saw you from afar, and I just knew... you¡¯re special, aren¡¯t you? I¡¯m Yurei, first year. It¡¯s not every day you find a flower like you."


    A shiver ran down Ren¡¯s spine. Something about that girl felt... dangerous.


    Yurei sat beside him as if they were old friends, or perhaps as if she were studying his face.


    Leaning in, her violet eyes burned into Ren¡¯s.


    "You know... people like you are rare here. Almost... irresistible. You won¡¯t be able to stay hidden for long."


    She smiled, but something about it felt... hungry.


    "And I love secrets."


    Ren forced a nervous smile, every instinct screaming to be on guard. Something was about to happen. Something he couldn¡¯t control.


    Then, just as abruptly, Yurei stood, giggling softly as she drifted away.


    "I¡¯ll be back, angel. Don¡¯t worry. I always come back... to see if the flowers wilt...~ or bloom."


    And with a graceful twirl, she vanished into the crowd, leaving Ren rattled, his heart pounding with unease. He didn¡¯t know what to think about the girl, but it definitely wasn¡¯t the best first impression¡­


    Deciding to move away from the sakura tree, Ren walked slowly through the school corridors, his heart still unsettled by the encounter with Yurei. The skirted uniform, though comfortable, felt increasingly strange with each step. He could feel the gentle breeze coming through the open windows, and for a brief moment, the wind lifted the hem slightly.


    Ren immediately blushed, gripping the fabric to pull it back down. Though fleeting, that moment made her face burn even more. He hated feeling this way.


    As Ren turned the corner, something caught her attention. A large poster was pinned to the wall, its bold letters standing out. Ren stopped in front of it, reading the words while trying to calm the lingering heat on his face.


    [First-Year Rank Assessment Test ¨C 16:39. All students must proceed to their assigned classrooms for evaluation.]


    Ren furrowed her brows, a tightness forming in his chest as he realized the test was approaching. The words etched themselves into his mind as he continued walking, now more aware of everything around her.


    The future felt more uncertain with every passing moment.

 Chapter 6 - First Clash

    The classrooms of Reij¨­ Academy were vast spaces, carefully designed to reflect the importance of the future warriors training within their walls. The Rank Test was a milestone for all first-year students, and the silent competition was undeniable.


    Ren, or rather, Yuki Amagiri, sat at the back of the room, head lowered, carefully adjusting the folds of the skirt he was using. Despite all his training in acting like a proper student, well¡­ he wasn¡¯t the best actor.


    Beside him, Saki radiated confidence. She leaned back in her chair with an easygoing smile, as if she were watching a performance rather than participating in one of the most important tests of the year.


    "Hey, relax, Yuki," she said, leaning toward Ren. "This test isn¡¯t a big deal. At most, they¡¯ll just make us sweat a little."


    Ren responded with a weak smile, staying silent. He couldn''t afford to stand out too much, nor seem too insignificant. Drawing attention would be a double-edged sword¡­


    Further ahead, Yurei sat casually, swinging her legs back and forth as she observed the room with curiosity. Her glossy black hair and violet eyes shimmered with intrigue, as if she were more interested in the people around her than the test itself.


    Suddenly, she turned to Ren, catching him red-handed as he glanced at her. A bright smile lit up her face.


    "You¡¯re so serious!" she exclaimed in a sweet but loud tone, drawing the attention of nearby students. "You look just like an angel about to descend from the heavens~."


    Ren froze for a second, feeling heat rush to his cheeks. Before he could respond, Yurei had already moved on, giggling to herself as if she had just told the best joke of the day.


    At that moment, the classroom door swung open. One of the test instructors entered, carrying a tablet and radiating authority with every step.


    "Good afternoon, students," she began, her firm voice cutting through the murmurs.


    "Today is the Rank Test. This is not just an assessment of your skills, but an introduction to the level of discipline expected at this academy."


    She paused, scanning the room as if analyzing each student individually.


    "The test will be conducted individually, but all results will be observed. You will face mechanical artificial opponents, selected to evaluate not only your combat proficiency but also your strategy and composure under pressure."


    The first-year students exchanged glances. Some looked excited, while others struggled to hide their nerves. Ren did his best to mimic their expressions, keeping his face neutral, though his heart pounded.


    "Your names will be called soon, and each of you will be escorted to the training arena. Until then, I suggest you use this time to prepare yourselves mentally."


    The instructor gestured to her tablet, and a tense silence settled over the room.


    "You¡¯ll do great!" Saki teased, leaning toward Ren with a playful grin. "Or are you going to explode from nerves before you even get there?"


    Ren let out a nervous chuckle but didn¡¯t reply.


    One by one, the students were called. The first, Number 1, walked out visibly anxious, but she was followed by others who exuded confidence. Each return to the classroom carried murmurs and evaluating glances, increasing the tension.


    "Number 7: Yuki Amagiri!"


    Ren¡¯s heart pounded. He adjusted his skirt one last time before carefully standing up. Saki gave him an encouraging wave.


    Yurei, who had been chatting with a random student, smiled and waved at him.


    "Bye-bye, angel~."


    Upon reaching the arena, Ren felt the full weight of the pressure. The training field was vast, bathed in sunlight reflecting off the Nexis crystals scattered across the ground. Older students and instructors watched from the stands, while small floating drones with cameras transmitted every detail.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    He changed into the academy¡¯s standard physical training uniform: a white T-shirt with red stripes on the sleeves and short athletic shorts. The cold breeze sweeping through the arena made Ren feel even more exposed, a constant reminder of just how bare his thighs were at that moment.


    The instructor stood at the center of the field and gestured firmly toward him.


    "Amagiri Yuki. Your class is [Swordsman], correct?"


    Ren nodded.


    "Then prepare yourself. Your opponent will be a Heavy Armored Guardian. We will assess your adaptability, precision, and control over Nexis."


    Ren gripped the simple sword handed to him, the familiar weight settling into his palm. He took a deep breath, feeling the [Nexis] energy begin to flow through his body.


    "Focus, speed, and precision. Don¡¯t do anything unnecessary."


    The arena fell into silence for a moment before the instructor¡¯s voice echoed:


    "Begin!"


    The [Guardian] charged forward, its heavy armor shaking with each step. Ren tightened his grip on the sword, bracing himself. He knew he couldn¡¯t afford to lose.


    The ground trembled beneath Ren¡¯s feet as he faced the armored giant. The metallic clanking of the creature¡¯s movements reverberated through the field, mixing with the hushed whispers of the watching students.


    He steadied his stance, holding the sword firmly with both hands. Sweat had already begun to cling to his white training shirt, and the chilly air against his exposed legs sent an odd contrast of sensations through him. Still, the heat of tension¡­


    ¡ª !


    The Guardian lunged, its massive war hammer raised like an impending catastrophe. Ren¡¯s heart pounded. As the strike came down, he leaped to the side, the rush of displaced air grazing his face, the sheer force of the impact nearly throwing him off balance.


    With quick steps, Ren repositioned himself, searching for an opening. He knew attacking head-on was useless. The Guardian¡¯s armor was too thick, protecting all vital points.


    The creature lifted its hammer slightly before spinning, revealing a brief moment of vulnerability at its back.


    ¡ª An opening!


    Anticipating the next attack, Yuki dashed in an arc to the side, barely dodging a sweeping blow that kicked up dust and debris. The sand clung to his legs, staining his red shorts.


    He twirled his sword in a swift motion and aimed for the joint between the Guardian¡¯s shoulder and neck, but the blade barely scraped the surface.


    Before he could retreat, the Guardian swung its hammer in a wide arc. Ren tried to leap backward, but he wasn¡¯t fast enough. The impact clipped his shoulder, sending him crashing to the ground. He slid several meters, feeling the rough arena floor scrape against the exposed skin of his thighs and arms.


    His white T-shirt was torn at the shoulder, revealing a shallow cut. The fabric, already damp with sweat, now absorbed dust and blood as well. Ren pushed himself up onto one knee, eyes locked onto the Guardian as it repositioned itself.


    "If I don¡¯t think of something now, I¡¯m going to get crushed."


    The creature lunged again, its hammer raised for a vertical strike. Ren''s heartbeat surged as he leaped aside at the last second. The hammer crashed into the ground with such force that it left a small crater, sending shards of stone and dust flying. The debris clung to Ren¡¯s bare legs, a gritty reminder of how exposed his legs were, why did the academy choose that design!?


    He took advantage of the opening, dashing behind the Guardian, his sword glowing with [Nexis] energy. With a muffled cry, he swung at the joint in the creature¡¯s neck. The blade finally found a weak point, slicing through a thin layer of metal and exposing the Nexis core beneath.


    The Guardian let out a mechanical roar, spinning violently. The sudden motion sent a gust of wind that tousled Ren¡¯s hair and made the hem of his bloomers flutter. He stepped back, panting, wiping sweat from his forehead with his sleeve.


    Now furious, the creature¡¯s movements became faster, more aggressive. Barely dodged its attacks, heat rising in his body as his breathing grew uneven. The weight of the sword in his hands felt heavier by the second.


    "I need to end this before I get flattened!"


    The Guardian thrust its hammer forward, and Ren braced himself, using all his strength to block. The impact rattled through his arms, nearly knocking him off his feet. His feet skidded across the arena¡¯s sandy floor, his red bloomers already coated in dust.


    "Think, think!"


    Then he noticed it... the creature guarded its right side more than its left. An opening.


    Adjusting his stance, Ren feigned a frontal attack, forcing the Guardian to pull back its hammer in defense. Then, in a burst of speed, he dashed in an arc to the left, closing in on the weak spot once more.


    With a short leap, he struck directly at the exposed Nexis core. The energy surged in a blinding explosion, momentarily dazzling the audience and knocking Yuki backward. He landed flat on his back, his dirt-streaked white shirt rising and falling with his labored breaths.


    As the light faded, the Guardian stood motionless¡ªits core destroyed!


    For a few seconds, silence hung over the training field. Then, a wave of murmurs and applause spread through the crowd.


    Ren struggled to his feet, his arms trembling as he used his sword for support. His entire body screamed in exhaustion, but he knew he had to leave the arena. Every step felt heavier than the last, the ground still warm beneath his feet as he slowly made his way toward the exit.


    As soon as he crossed the gate, he spotted Saki waiting calmly for her turn. She was leaning against the wall, arms crossed, a relaxed smile on her lips. As she noticed him, she pushed off and strolled toward the arena.


    "Not bad, Yuki," she said, without a hint of sarcasm. "But I would¡¯ve finished it faster."


    Ren barely had the energy to react, stopping only to stare as she passed by. Her confident stride made it seem like she was completely unaffected by the pressure he had just endured.


    "How¡­?" He started, his voice weak.


    "How are you so confident¡­?"


    Saki paused for a moment, glancing over her shoulder.


    "Maybe you¡¯ll figure it out if you keep watching, little angel."


    She winked before disappearing through the entrance to the arena.


    Ren could only sigh and continue his slow walk back to the classroom, every ache in his body reminding him of the effort he had just put in. Deep down, a part of him couldn¡¯t help but admire the confidence Saki carried so effortlessly.