Chapter 34: A New Year, New Challenges

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The sun rose over the school, casting a soft light into my room. With a sense of renewed purpose, I got up and washed my face, staring at my reflection. My short hair was still an unfamiliar sight, but it represented change—a break from the past. Adjusting my uniform, I took one last glance at the mirror, feeling a little awkward without the long hair I was so used to. But it was time for a fresh start.

 But it was time for a fresh start

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As I walked into the classroom, I noticed Ayanokoji seated in his usual spot. He looked up as I approached and gave a brief nod. "Good morning," he said in his usual monotone voice.

"Good morning," I replied, taking my seat beside him. Before long, Sudo and Kushida entered. Sudo’s eyes widened when he saw me, and Kushida gasped.

“Suzune! Your hair!” Kushida exclaimed, approaching with a smile

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“Suzune! Your hair!” Kushida exclaimed, approaching with a smile. “It’s so different. It suits you, though.”

Sudo grinned, scratching the back of his head. “Whoa, Suzune, didn’t expect that. Looks good, though.”

I offered a small smile. “Thank you. Just wanted a change,” I said simply.

A few moments later, I joined my group of friends—Kei, Haruka, Matsushita and Sato. They were quick to notice my new look.

“Horikita, your hair!” Kei said, eyes wide with surprise. “Why’d you cut it?”

I touched the short strands lightly, smiling faintly. “I felt it was time for something different,” I said, and they all nodded in approval, offering compliments.

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A week into our classes, Chabashira-sensei walked in, her expression serious. “Attention, everyone. I have an announcement,” she began, her eyes scanning the room. “A new special exam is coming up. You’ll be required to pair with a first-year student. Your performance will depend on how well you and your partner do.”

A murmur swept through the room as she explained the details of the exam, similar to the structure of past trials but with the added twist of working with underclassmen. I immediately recalled key first-year students from the original light novel—Yagami, Hosen, Nanase, and Ichika. The implications made my pulse quicken.

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