The opening ceremony was over. Students returned to their classrooms for homeroom meetings.

Hmm, homeroom meeting? I wondered what our teacher was like. That question was quickly answered—the vibe in class made it crystal clear how formidable he was.

"Formidable" is just from an ordinary perspective. He had diplomas from top universities but chose teaching. I learned his name too: Zhang Minghui, if I recalled right.

...

"Hey~ Li Ze, daydreaming again?" Ye Qian patted my shoulder.

I shook my head slightly. "Nothing. Just thinking our teacher’s really tough."

Zhao Yi pushed up his glasses. "Teacher Zhang? Truly admirable! Compared to Zhe Li—a godlike figure—I actually respect someone like him more."

Sunny Su huffed unhappily. "What’s wrong with Zhe Li? His magic is the world’s strongest!"

I glanced back at the class monitor behind me, sighing. "Class monitor, why follow us?"

Sunny Su shot me a look. "Vice monitor, you still owe me lunch! I’m here to collect~"

I grinned wickedly. "Hehehe, aren’t you scared we three guys might..."

Before I finished, Ye Qian jumped back. "Li Ze, bro! Don’t drag me in—she’s the national high school karate champion! We can’t mess with her!"

Zhao Yi stammered, "S-Sis Su, we don’t even know him!"

I shook my head in resignation. "Don’t you know not to bow to bullies?" I sighed deeply as they retreated.

Ye Qian poked me from behind. "Li Ze, apologize now! Once she snaps, she’s terrifying!"

Seconds ago, I’d planned to flee—but now, I wanted to teach Sunny Su a lesson for teasing me. I smiled. "National champion? I don’t believe it!"

Zhao Yi and Ye Qian instantly covered their eyes.

Sunny Su dropped into a half-crouch, ready to strike.

I lunged forward without hesitation. She was skilled—instinctively blocking my approach.

But useless. I grabbed her arm and twisted it behind her back.

"Stop! I surrender! Let go!"

Ye Qian shook his head. "Li Ze, I warned you..."

Zhao Yi sighed. "Class monitor, please just let Li Ze go..."

I held Sunny Su’s arm, her back to me, tears glistening in her eyes.

"Li Ze... let go. People might see." As I loosened my grip, she added, "I promise—no revenge after you release me."

Ye Qian and Zhao Yi stood frozen, speechless.

"Fine, I’ll let go. But no retaliation!"

"Okay, I swear! Absolutely!"

I spotted triumph in Sunny Su’s eyes. A playful smirk crossed my face as I silently counted: 3, 2, 1!