Beyond the Miracle

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Hina, Tsurugi, and Wakamo stood resolute, their determination unwavering as they opposed the idea of defying Sensei's decision.

On the other side, Hoshino, Mika, and Neru gripped their weapons tightly, prepared to fight for the sole purpose of keeping Sensei by their side.

No matter which side emerged victorious, one truth loomed over them all: no one would leave SCHALE unscathed.

The air in the room grew suffocating, the weight of their silent standoff pressing down like an anvil. Guns were raised, fingers hovering over triggers, yet no one dared to move--- no one even blinked.

All eyes were locked, each knowing that the first shot, whether fired by Hina or Hoshino, would ignite a battle of ideals. And in such a battle, only the strongest conviction would prevail.

"You know... you guys really shouldn't be doing this in Sensei's office," Iroha sighed from the sidelines, casually setting aside the pen she'd been twirling in her fingers.

"The Gehenna student is right," came a firm, authoritative voice. Acting President Rin stepped into the room, her sharp gaze sweeping over the tense scene. "You're all fighting for Sensei's sake, yet here you are, about to destroy the very sanctuary where you created your memories with him. Are you all that blinded by your emotions?"

Her words echoed in the heavy silence, but it wasn't until the figure behind her stepped forward that the room shifted.

Sensei.

He had just returned from his trip, only to be met with this chaotic scene upon his arrival at SCHALE.

The atmosphere shattered in an instant.

All six students turned simultaneously, their weapons lowered as their eyes locked on Sensei. Emotions flickered across their faces--- relief, longing, and a desperate eagerness that words could never capture.

"Ahaha... I know you all missed me, but I wasn't expecting this kind of welcome back party," Sensei said with a sheepish grin, scratching the back of his head as he let out a forced laugh. "Good thing I brought souvenirs for everyone! Take a look!"

It was clear Sensei understood the tension simmering in the room. His lighthearted words and casual demeanor weren't just an attempt at humor-they were his way of defusing the oppressive atmosphere.

For most of the students, his presence alone was enough to ease the tension. Relief washed over their faces, their grips on their weapons loosening as they took in the sight of him.

But not for Hoshino.

She had longed to see him, more than anyone else, yet her heart sank as she realized the timing was all wrong. Sensei shouldn't have returned--- not yet. She needed to convince him to stay in Kivotos, but with Hina standing across the room, this was anything but the right moment.

No chance for a proper conversation.

No chance for Sensei to hear her out.

Not without Hina and the others getting in the way.

Her resolve solidified. If there was ever a time to act, it was now. Before the tension reignited, before anyone else could interfere.

Hoshino's eyes narrowed, and in an instant, she made her move.

"...!!"

She lunged forward, a burst of speed propelling her toward Sensei. Her goal was clear: seize him and get him out of SCHALE--- away from Hina, away from the chaos.

But she wasn't fast enough.

Hina, ever the vigilant that she was, had anticipated her move. Before Hoshino could close the final distance to Sensei, Hina was already behind her.

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