Aya Mitsuki arrives at Kuromi Girls Academy as a scholarship student, determined to cultivate the elegant refinement expected by the prestigious institution. Her past includes a deep engagement with fighting games since elementary school, an interest she initially suppresses to adhere to the academy's strict prohibition on video games and its emphasis on proper conduct. This resolve falters dramatically when she encounters Mio Yorue, the admired and graceful Shirayuri. Aya's admiration transforms into fascination upon uncovering Shirayuri's hidden identity as a fiercely competitive gamer who unleashes intense trash-talk during play. The stark dissonance between Shirayuri's polished public image and her fervent gaming persona profoundly challenges Aya's understanding of propriety.

Spurred by this revelation and her rekindled passion, Aya forges a secret gaming alliance with Shirayuri. They establish covert gaming sessions within the school, defying the explicit ban. Their collaboration focuses intensely on mastering fighting game mechanics, specifically detailed fictional techniques and strategies within "Iron Senpai 4" in the manga. The anime adaptation shifts their gameplay to "Street Fighter 6" via an official collaboration, incorporating actual game footage. Aya exhibits considerable expertise, analyzing intricate mechanics like frame data, combo chains, and character matchups. Her deep immersion and competitive drive manifest in highly expressive, almost possessed facial expressions during matches. The ever-present threat of discovery and expulsion infuses their activities with constant tension.

Aya's relationship with Shirayuri evolves significantly through their shared secret and competitive rivalry. Initial interactions feature challenges where Aya proves a sore loser yet ultimately a good sport. Witnessing Shirayuri's unrestrained gaming passion deeply affects Aya, evoking nervousness and admiration; she finds Shirayuri's mysterious drive to win compelling and difficult to decipher. Their dynamic transcends competition, fostering moments of closeness like shared meals and sleeping arrangements. These experiences gradually guide Aya towards reconciling her desire for ladylike refinement with her authentic self as a passionate gamer. This internal struggle between conformity and self-acceptance forms a core aspect of her growth. Competing alongside Shirayuri and their group in Japan's major fighting game tournaments marks a decisive step in embracing her true identity, integrating her suppressed passion despite the ongoing need for secrecy at school.