The rise of the strongest woman

14

Seiko burst into laughter, his typical response. "Everyone knows, considering you ranked first in the exam. Although, this time, I truly believe I can surpass you."

"Maybe next time, but don't be disheartened," Evangeline consoled her, patting Megumi's head.

Megumi brushed off the gesture. "I'm not a child anymore. Besides, we must hurry. The ceremony is about to commence," she urged, taking Evangeline's hand.

Evangeline's masked smile held a knowing sentiment. "(Even after all these years, some things never change)," she thought.

Together, they swiftly reached the ceremony room, finding vacant seats. Evangeline couldn't help but notice the curious glances directed her way as she settled with Seiko perched on her shoulder.

"Why do I always seem to attract attention?" she mused, sensing the weight of people's eyes upon her.

Perhaps it was the presence of Seiko perched on Evangeline's shoulder, or the enigmatic mask she wore, or even her choice to don the boys' uniform instead of the girls'. Regardless, she couldn't shake the feeling of invisible arrows piercing her heart, the weight of the attention focused on her.

"I don't need you to be so harsh," Evangeline quietly responded, her voice tinged with a touch of vulnerability.

Their conversation was abruptly halted by the commanding voice of the principal, the very woman who had appeared in Evangeline's letter.

"Greetings, dear students. I am delighted to welcome you to our splendid institution."

Evangeline found herself growing bored, tuning out the principal's monotonous words. However, amidst the minutes that felt like hours, a particular sentence caught her attention.

"And now, having endured my speech, we shall hear a few words from Evangeline Suzuki, our exceptional student who claimed the top spot in the entrance exam," the principal announced, pointing directly at Evangeline.

All eyes turned toward her, intensifying her discomfort. However, before she could dwell on her unease, Megumi stepped forward, offering support.

"Good luck, Evangeline. I'll take care of Seiko for you," Megumi offered, reaching out to take the cub.

Seiko chimed in, his voice filled with reassurance. "Don't stress too much, Evangeline. We have faith in you. You've got this."

"Thank you both for your encouragement. I believe everything will go well," Evangeline responded with a smile.

Stepping towards the podium, she found herself surprisingly calm, accustomed to being in the spotlight. The only concern was her knack for delivering lackluster speeches. Nevertheless, she reached the podium, and the principal handed her the microphone.

"May we find harmony and friendship throughout our next three years together, and may we all graduate side by side. Good luck to you all," she spoke, offering a slight bow.

The room erupted in applause, and Evangeline returned to her seat, where Seiko promptly clung to her shoulder. Megumi leaned in, complimenting her performance.

"See? It went well. You were brilliant up there," Megumi praised, gently stroking Evangeline's head.

"I suppose so. I'm relieved I didn't embarrass myself," Evangeline responded, scratching her head, still feeling a hint of embarrassment.

Seiko interjected, his focus shifting to his rumbling stomach. "I'm sure you've made your parents proud. But for now, I'm craving some food."

"Patience, Seiko. Let's find out which class we're assigned to first," Evangeline replied calmly.

Their conversation was interrupted by the appearance of a letter before both Evangeline and Megumi. It revealed they were both assigned to Elite Class 1.

"This is fantastic! We're in the same class!" Megumi exclaimed with excitement.

"Yes, you're right. I'm thrilled too. I wonder if there will be formidable individuals in our class," Evangeline pondered, her curiosity piqued.

Seiko interjected with a playful jab. "I doubt you'll find anyone who matches your level, but surely there will be those who can entertain you."

Megumi disagreed, defending her belief. "I think you're underestimating this school, Evangeline. It's renowned, and you may be surprised."

Suddenly, several figures materialized in the room—teachers. Shortly after, letters formed, displaying the names of each class. Evangeline quickly found her class name, and their assigned teacher was a stern-looking man with brown eyes and black hair. He exuded an air of elegance in his tailored suit and polished shoes.

Exiting the bleachers, Evangeline and Megumi made their way toward their teacher, feeling an unspoken pressure bearing down on them. Evangeline glanced over her shoulder, seeking the source of the sensation, but found nothing. Deciding to brush it off, she proceeded as if nothing had occurred. Once the teacher confirmed everyone's presence, they set off toward their assigned classroom.