Midterm Exam Preparations

[Light and Shadow Capture Deepening - Highlight Spill Suppression - Dark Area Detail Analysis]

His consciousness felt like it had a subtle "regulator."

Was the halo of the streetlight core too dazzling?

With a slight turn of his will, his perception automatically "lowered" the brightness in that area, as if adjusting exposure parameters in his mind, making the halo softer.

At the same time, it didn't lose its presence as a visual focal point.

And the deep shadows beyond the streetlight's illumination were no longer pitch black.

His "vision" pierced through the surface, analyzing the texture of the steps in the shadows, the blurry outlines of the bushes, and even the faint reflections from the windows of another dormitory building in the distance.

The dim areas held rich details and a serene atmosphere.

[Dynamic Scene Capture: Falling Leaf Trajectory Prediction.]

A gust of virtual wind blew, and a few ginkgo leaves swirled and fell.

As if before a photographer's eyes, their trajectories were no longer random.

He instantly predicted their potential positions in the next second and the subtle translucent effects that might occur as light passed through the different angles of the leaves.

The optimal "decisive moment"—a leaf just happened to drift to the edge of the streetlight's brightest halo, its veins clearly visible in the strong light, while its edges merged into shadow, forming a perfect semi-silhouette—was precisely locked onto by his perception.

[Simulation Count: 1000/1000.]

[Skill: Photography (Composition and Light Capture) A-rank Mastery 100%.]

[Simulation Points Gained: 50 Points (A-rank Skill Reward).]

His consciousness returned to reality, and Toudou Shizuka let out a long sigh, fine beads of sweat appearing on his forehead.

Although the system indicated "instant mastery," the thousands of perceptual adjustments, compositional refinements, and light and shadow captures he experienced in the virtual training ground were real.

The mental fatigue was genuine. He walked to the window and looked out at the actual Twilight Campus once more.

The world now felt brand new.

Without conscious effort, everything he saw was automatically analyzed, reorganized, and optimized in his mind.

The teaching building was no longer just a structure but a stage of light and shadow;

the streetlight was no longer a lighting tool but the soul of the picture;

the falling leaves had become a poetic footnote of time passing.

Sakura Airi's eyes, which observed the world through a lens, had now become a part of how he perceived the world.

This ability far exceeded his initial expectations; it was not just a skill but a way of thinking that deeply understood the beauty of the world.

[Current Simulation Points: 115 Points]

[Talent Shop:]

[- Dynamic Vision (Fine-tuning) Lv1: 120 Points (Available for Purchase)]

[- Energy Recovery (Basic): 80 Points (Available for Purchase)]

[- Basic Physical Fitness Enhancement: 50 Points (Available for Purchase)]

115 points—he was only 5 points away from purchasing the coveted [Dynamic Vision (Fine-tuning)]!

A strong impulse surged through him, almost urging him to immediately immerse his consciousness into the system and scan his next target.

Kanzaki Ryuji, his shining "Efficient Learning Method" was like a tempting little cake emitting a delicious aroma!

If he could obtain it, it would definitely lead to twice the result with half the effort in the upcoming midterm exam preparations!

Just as this thought burned the brightest, and his fingertips were about to touch that intangible light screen—

Ring ring ring—!

The landline on his dormitory desk suddenly erupted with an urgent ringing, like a basin of ice water unceremoniously dousing all his impulses!

"Ugh!" Toudou Shizuka frowned sharply, almost with the annoyance of having an important ritual interrupted, and snatched up the receiver.

"Hello, may I ask who this is?" His voice carried a subtle trace of irritation.

"Good evening, Toudou-kun. It's me, Kanzaki Ryuji."

The voice on the other end of the line was as steady and clear as ever, carrying the reliability and a hint of subtle seriousness unique to Class B's second leader.

Kanzaki? Toudou Shizuka was slightly taken aback. He had just been thinking about scanning his skill, and the person himself called?

This coincidence instantly replaced his annoyance with a subtle curiosity.

"Kanzaki-kun? Good evening." He quickly adjusted his tone, returning to his usual calm, "Is there something you need?"

"Sorry to bother you at this hour."

Kanzaki's voice came through the receiver, "It's about the upcoming midterm exams. I've discussed it with the class representatives and consulted the homeroom teacher's opinion. This midterm exam might be quite difficult, especially for some foundational subjects. A few students in the class... well, their progress is a bit behind. If left unchecked, it will not only affect the class's overall average score but also be very detrimental to them personally."

Toudou Shizuka listened quietly, his fingers tapping unconsciously on the tabletop.

Class B's overall atmosphere was positive and progressive, but there were indeed some academic shortcomings.

As a core figure, it was natural for Kanzaki to consider the overall interests of the class.

"So," Kanzaki continued, his tone becoming more earnest, "we're planning to organize a temporary 'Study Buddy Group.'"

We'll use after-school hours and weekends to concentrate on helping these students sort out key points and consolidate their foundations.

We hope to gather the strength of several classmates who are good at different subjects.

Toudou, your math and logical analysis abilities are top-notch in the class; everyone saw your last quiz results.

I was wondering... if you'd be willing to spare some time to join this group? You'd mainly be responsible for tutoring the science subjects.

Here it comes! Toudou Shizuka's heart stirred.

This was exactly what he had been hoping for—an opportunity to build closer ties with Class B's core members!

Kanzaki Ryuji himself had invited him; that carried significant weight. Building a good relationship, increasing Affection, and unlocking scan permissions!

Kanzaki's A-rank study methods, team coordination abilities, and even the skills of other Class B elites who might be present... were all his targets! (Like Kobashi Honami, who had a considerable Presence)... her skills... could all be his targets!

"Of course, Kanzaki,"

Toudou Shizuka answered without hesitation, his voice carrying just the right amount of enthusiasm. "Helping classmates is also a process of self-improvement.

I'm very happy to contribute to the class. Have the specific times and locations been arranged yet?"

As he responded, he subconsciously activated the keen Observational Skill brought by his newly acquired [Composition and Light Capture A-rank]—even though it was over the phone, he could almost "hear" the sense of responsibility in Kanzaki's Words as he worked for the class.

And the Approval of his abilities. This Approval was the cornerstone of Affection.

"That's great! Thank you, Toudou!"

Kanzaki's voice clearly relaxed, revealing his sincere gratitude.

"We've tentatively set it for tomorrow after school, starting at 4:30 PM, in the A3 Seminar Room on the second floor of the Library.

It's quiet there, and the space is sufficient. A few of us core members will arrive half an hour early to meet, briefly assign tasks, and finalize the list of students needing help.

If it's convenient for you, could you also come a little early?"

"No problem, I'll be there on time," Toudou Shizuka agreed readily.

"That's excellent. We'll discuss the specific list and subject focus when we meet tomorrow," Kanzaki paused and added.

"Oh, right, Kobashi Honami will also be responsible for tutoring the liberal arts subjects, especially English and speed-reading techniques. You two can communicate beforehand."