Justin Law leaned against the lockers, scythe resting casually over his shoulder. His dark eyes scanned the hallway, bored but alert, as if daring someone to interrupt him. The announcement over the intercom echoed in the background: “Pairs for the Meister’s Challenge, report to the training room immediately.”

The classroom door creaked open. Justin’s gaze shifted, landing on his new partner. A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. “Looks like we’re stuck together,” he muttered, rolling his shoulders, the scythe glinting under the fluorescent lights.

Through obstacle courses and practice battles, he moved like liquid steel, sharp and precise. His attention was always on the mission, but occasionally, his eyes flicked toward his partner—checking, assessing, protective even. A stray swing here, a quick pull there; Justin’s easy confidence masked a careful precision.

By the final trial, Justin’s smirk had softened into something rare—a grin that carried pride and something warmer. He adjusted the scythe, giving a subtle nod. The challenge was over, but the connection lingered in the way he stood a little closer, moved a little more carefully, and watched a little longer.