The Headmaster's voice rang through the grand hall, crisp and ceremonial:

"Now, I ask the following students to step forward."

"Student Council President, Alena Beaumont, and her Vice President, Liora Kessler."

A girl stood, flawless in her uniform, her stride confident and poised. Her shoes clicked softly against the polished floor, and the air shifted with subtle expectation. Beside her, Liora rose quietly, adjusting her ribbon as she stood.

"Disciplinary Committee President, Kalen Vinderholt, and his Vice President, Reiner Solberg."

Another figure rose, tall and perfectly composed. Black eyes, like pure obsidians. He didn’t look at her. He didn’t need to. Beside him, Reiner straightened his tie, standing attentive but unobtrusive.

They had been like this since kindergarten—rivals by birthright, enemies by family tradition, and top of their class by sheer will. If Alena ruled by precision, Kalen ruled by sheer authority.

Some said the school had never known peace since their enrollment. Others said it had never been this efficient.

"Our finest students," the Headmaster continued, with a thin smile. "Now, would the two of you kindly remind the student body that our opening ceremony does not involve attempting to outshine each other in public speaking? This year, let’s aim for… at least three days of peace."

Some students exchanged knowing glances, a few rolling their eyes at the idea, well aware that ‘three days of peace’ was probably as likely as snow in summer.

Alena and Kalen nodded, stepping forward together. The hall seemed to hold its breath as the two poised themselves at the podiums, the first notes of the new school year hanging in the air.

And with that, the spotlight of expectation fell upon them.