Classroom of the Elite: Battle Royale

by ConvenientParking

It was a day like any other at ANHS, little did I know there was an exam on the horizon the likes of which would shatter the students to their very core. I'd considered the nature of the exams up until now to their logical extreme, and concluded it would have been something like a battle royale, no holds barred. I never thought it would actually happen though.

1. Chapter 1

Note: No, the title is not a reference to Fortnite, that's just a coincidence. I think. Also this story is from Ayanokouji POV. With that said, enjoy!

—/—

As I walked into class 2-D (formerly 1-D) the atmosphere was noticeably different, more tense. There was usually anxiety before an upcoming exam is revealed but this… this was different. There was the usual chatter that came before homeroom, but more subdued. It didn't help that Chibashira-sensei had an extremely pained expression on her face, gripping the desk so hard her knuckles were white. She was visibly shaking, and her eyes were red, almost as if… she had been crying? Not a chance, it must be my imagination then. I took my seat near the back and wondered what the exam could be, it couldn't be that bad right? Up until this point we've had multiple special exams to prepare us including the deserted island, the cruise, the sports festival, and the written exam, among others. They had been increasing in intensity, but besides that have been relatively low stakes. How could this one be any different? I turned to Horikita to get her take on the situation.

"That look Chibashira-sensei has on is making me concerned. I mean, we've seen her worried before, but never like this I don't think. Do you think it's because of the upcoming exam?"

I said to Horikita in a lowered voice.

She looked at me with her usual haughty glare.

"That's so like you to start asking someone questions without so much as a hello. Would it kill you to say good morning first?"

"Sorry. You know my manners aren't the best. I'm still working on it."

"It's fine. I'll cut to the chase, her expression has me worried as well. If it's not the exam doing it, I mean… What else is there?"

"She hasn't revealed anything yet has she?"

"Not yet. Some students have raised their hands, but she just told them to wait until the entire class was present."

"Hmmmm… The atmosphere is different today. It's almost ominous."

"I agree. It is strange."

As she said that the last few stragglers shuffled in and began to take their seats. I didn't bother to converse with her any further for the moment and focused my attention on Chibashira-sensei, who seemed like she was about to address the class. She gulped heavily and took a deep breath to gather herself.

"I want to start by saying what an honor it has been to teach you all. Watching you grow and learn over this past year and half has truly been a blessing."

The class began to murmur quietly. Without turning my head, I whispered to Horikita.

"I don't like the sound of this."

She gave me a glance that said 'me neither'. I quickly scanned the classroom for my girlfriend Karuizawa Kei, she was sitting in her usual spot across from me next to her friends. She hadn't been looking my way at first so I quietly snapped my fingers to get her attention and shot her a look that said 'this is serious, prepare yourself', or at least that's what I tried to communicate. My head was all over the place today. I guess I forgot to say 'good morning' to her as well.
Chibashira-sensei continued.

"I'm saying this because…"

Her voice began to crack and what seemed like tears began to well up near the corners of her eyes.

"This is likely the last time we will see each other."

At this reveal the entire class began to erupt into confusion and conversation. Chibashira-sensei simply raised her hand in response, and the class began to quiet down.

"The school is under new management as of late, and they are heading in a direction I and the other teachers simply cannot support. Not in a million years. But we are powerless to do anything, and I'm sure suitable replacements for us have already been found."

At this point I heard footsteps outside the classroom on the hall. Not just any footsteps, to me, they were instantly recognizable. Those were the footsteps of soldiers, the way they march is audibly militaristic. Heavy steps, perfectly in-sync and at a constant rhythm. Now I really didn't like where this was going. Just as I thought that, three men entered the room in black suits and wearing sunglasses. They were massive, easily all over six foot four inches tall each. Their stature as well as their outfit reminded me of Albert.

"Follow these men to receive the complete exam briefing. I don't think I even have it in me to tell you. I am so, so, sorry."

Chibashira-sensei loudly sniffled and closed her eyes shut to stop herself from crying. Just as the class was about to erupt again into questions and confusion, one of the men in black held up his hand.

"Silence. As Chibashira-sensei said, follow us to find out the rest. Everything will be explained in due time."

He motioned for us to stand up and slowly, the class began to get up from their seats and gather near the door. Just as we did that I heard an audible shriek from one of the girls in the front of the cluster, and as I looked outside the classroom I understood why. There were almost ten soldiers dressed head to toe in fatigues, wearing SWAT armor and carrying assault rifles.

It was worse than I could have predicted, and I was expecting it to be pretty bad. Something about a gun just shoves the reality of life and death right down your throat. We think of them as being on opposite sides of the world, but really, they are more like neighbors. For a large majority of the class this was going to be an extremely harsh reality check. For me, well, I was somewhat used to this sort of thing, but it would be a lie to say I wasn't a bit startled. After all it had been almost two years since I escaped the environment of the White Room and disobeyed my father. I wondered, had my instincts really began to dull that much, or was this all just too sudden, even for me. Perhaps I had gotten too used to the casual and mundane school environment. Regardless, one thing I knew for sure was that in a situation like this, being able to adapt quickly to your surroundings was a necessity.

Mentally I prepared for the worst. Everything about this situation reminded me of my time at the White Room. From the model of gun that the guards were holding, to their outfits, to even the way they walked. I highly suspected they played a hand in this, which was pretty much a worst-case scenario. That facility has no code, no rules, much less any semblance of ethics. They will go to any lengths to achieve their objective, nothing is off limits, which can make them rather unpredictable. Luckily, I've spent enough time around them to get a feel for what they are trying to accomplish, and how they tend to go about it. But this was extreme even for them. I was quickly taken out of my reverie when I felt the sensation of a small hand grab my sleeve on my right, it was my girlfriend Kei Karuizawa. At first I didn't know how to respond, so I lightly clasped her hand in mine and squeezed to comfort her. I noticed to my left Horikita also seemed to drift towards me, but quickly steeled herself and crossed her arms in an attempt to hide her anxiety. She was grabbing herself too tightly however, which told me she was indeed a bit scared. Regardless, I had a hunch she was going to speak up and say something about this.

"This is ridiculous, assault rifles? This is a school zone and is therefore weapon free, no exceptions. This isn't America you know."

I could tell she was trying to sound defiant but her voice quivered ever so slightly in a way only someone who was used to her speech patterns, like me, would notice. Some other girls from the class spoke up as well. Emboldened by Horikita's dissent.

"Yeah, what the hell?"

"This is not okay!"

"Totally!"

Horikita gathered herself then spoke again.

"Unless you can prove you are affiliated with this school we have no obligation to listen to what you have to say."

The man in black who spoke earlier slowly turned around to face Horikita. He gave her a piercing glare before pulling out a badge of some kind.

"Did you not listen to your sensei? This school is 'under new management' and that management is in the highest echelon of government. You will obey us as you are compelled to by law. Oh and, don't worry about the guns. They're for your… protection."

Horikita seemed dissatisfied.

"And if we still disobey?"

She asked. The man in black paused for a moment.

"You won't like what happens then… Now follow us we haven't even got to the place where the exam will be explained to you. That's the first step. Hold your objections until then."

He said as he began walking. There were soldiers in front and behind the group of students so they had nowhere to go. Sudo, who had been quiet up until now, said.

"Yeah right.. What the hell is going on here."

At this, some of the other students began expressing their concerns.

"This is insane. What's going on?"

"I know, I'm scared."

This sentiment seemed to be shared among the rest of class 2-D, including Kei who mostly reacted with fear and confusion. I didn't blame them, but as we would soon find out… Things were just getting started. I gave Kei a look and squeezed her hand again for assurance.

We were eventually led to the gymnasium where the rest of the classes were also taking their seats. Unfortunately, we weren't allowed to stray too far from our class groups, with the guards shepherding us to our section of the gym. I would have liked to talk to Sakayanagi to get her take on the situation, but it didn't seem like that was an option at least for now. As soon as we sat down Kei looked at me and began asking questions.

"What's going on? What is this and what's up with the guns?"

"Anxious?"

"Anxious? I mean who wouldn't be I'm terrified. Do you have any idea what's going on here?"

"I have a hunch but it has yet to be confirmed. I imagine they're going to tell us here soon."

Just as I said that a mic came on and our attention was directed to a stage at the front of the room. It was Tsukishiro.

"Good morning. As you might have heard, the Advanced Nurturing High School is under new management, one with different goals. Chairman Sakayanagi's temporary suspension has become… Less temporary. As it stands I will be the acting director for the foreseeable future. Now I'm sure you're all wondering why we gathered you all here today, and just what the next special exam consists of. But before that there are some things I want to address. I'm sure you're all wondering about the.. Increase in security as of late. And unfortunately, it's here to stay."

At this remark there was an uproar among the crowd of students. Tsukishiro simply raised his hand and waited for them to quiet down.

"This change is simply a result of a shift in philosophy for the school as a whole. One in a far more serious direction. To put it simply, classes as well as class points are being dissolved entirely. There will be only two types of students at this school from hereon: winners, and losers. The next exam isn't about academics, sports or anything like that. It's an.. Elimination game. And the stakes, are higher than they've ever been. It's an elimination game where the winners survive, and the losers well, not so much. All that was a roundabout way of saying, this is now life or death."

At this there was another loud uproar with multiple people standing up and outright shouting. But before it could get too out of hand a gunshot rang out in the gymnasium, blowing a quarter sized hole in the roof. At that everyone got quiet, and the reality of the situation seemed to dawn on everybody present. Once everyone had sat down Tsukishiro continued.

"I know you're alarmed. This is a big change from how things used to be. But please hold your tongue for now. If you continue to talk out of turn, I would question whether or not you-"

At this a girl from one of the first-year classes stood up and began to run towards one of the doorways leading out of the gym. Just as she did some of the men in black went to apprehend her, but before they could another gunshot rang out.

"Understand the seriousness of the situation."

As he said that the girl in question fell to the ground and a pool of blood began forming around her. Some students began to scream but soon quieted down as they realized if they said anything, they could be next. Despite what Tsukishiro had said this was no "game". As I turned to my left to look at Kei her expression was one of pure terror. Her eyes were locked forward, but she was not seeing what was in front of her. She began to turn to look at the girl who had been shot but I put my hand on the side of her head to stop her. She didn't need to see that. At this her eyes widened and she began to look at me as she started to cry. I held her head to my chest as she broke down. I wanted to comfort her but at the same time I was keenly listening for what Tsukishiro was about to say next. Horikita was sitting to my right looking equally as terrified, but I didn't really have the liberty to worry about her at this point in time.

"Like I said, this is life.. or death. Choose wisely. At this point in time you will notice our security personnel handing out metal bracelets. Please put these on willingly or we will be forced to.. Compel you to do so."

As he said these bracelets indeed were being passed down the rows. Kei looked at me to ask what she should do and I told her to put it on. It was a good idea not to attract any unwanted attention for now, so it was best to just do what they asked to avoid any "consequences".

"These bracelets are set to release a lethal dose of poison into your bloodstream at the push of a button. This is so that we can quickly and easily deal with anyone who breaks the rules of our 'elimination game'. As far as those rules go, there is only one so you can rest easy. The only rule is that you cannot leave the school premises. Aside from that everything is on the table. We've received a special exception from law enforcement in the event that a student is injured or killed by another student. There will be no criminal charges pressed as a result of this, or anything else you do during the duration of the upcoming exam. I imagine most of you are having a hard time coming to terms with this information so I'm going to be blunt. By the end of this exam you will likely either be dead, or have killed someone you see here today gathered in this room. As a result, this will be the last exam taking place at the Advanced Nurturing High School. Those that survive will be granted a position at the highest echelons of government. It's the job of a lifetime. So it's only fitting that some lifetimes get.. Snubbed out on the way. In addition, you will get a trust fund worth 100,000,000 YEN (1,000,000 USD) which you will get access to upon turning 18. So it's safe to say we are not lacking when it comes to.. Incentive for you to compete, if your life wasn't already enough. If you would be so kind as to pull out your tablets used to keep track of your individual OAA, you will notice there have been some changes to the user interface. You can now use it to see which students are still alive and which have been 'eliminated'. There is also an interactive map of the school campus that has important locations labeled such as buildings and monuments. The Keyaki Mall had been closed as of today and all employees have been evacuated. The products from the shelves have been collected and redistributed around campus as indicated on your map. Every day starting tomorrow there will be a number of supply and weapon caches airdropped to different spots around campus, also indicated on your map. Like I sad previously, classes have been disbanded. There is no class 1-D or 1-A anymore, only those who survive and those who do not. You are free to work and group with whoever you want, though you may want to stick with your former classmates simply out of familiarity. For now you are free to return to your dorms. Rest well, because when you wake up tomorrow, this school will be a warzone."

He let the eerie silence hang in the air for a second as the student body digested the information that was just given to them. Needless to say, few took it well, and most were on the verge of panic. Holding their head in their hands and rocking back and forth. Before he let us go, Tsukishiro made one more closing remark.

"Oh and.. Don't trip on your way out."

He said referring to the pool of blood left over from the girl that tried escaping near the beginning of the lecture. Several guards had since carried her body away from its spot on floor, the puddle of blood still remained. They seemed to postpose cleaning it up, leaving it as a reminder of just how serious things had become.

—/—

As we left the gymnasium we agreed that for the time being we would stick together as class 2-D and agreed to meet up in the classroom to discuss a plan of action. There was no longer any sign of Chibashira-sensei, so we were truly on our own. As soon as we gathered in the classroom a deafening silence hung in the air, the sounds being sniffling and panicked breathing, until someone spoke up. It was Hirata.

"What. The. Hell. How are we supposed to respond to that?"

Unfortunately, no one really had an answer to that question.

"Like I just saw someone die for the first time right in front of my eyes, and I'm not even worried about it because I'm too busy wondering if I'll be next."

At this point I was weighing my options. My decision to keep a low-profile has become considerably more complicated. While originally, I had intended to stay out of the spotlight while influencing my class from behind the scenes through Horikita, a situation this dire would require a more direct kind of leadership if we were going to have any chance of making it out of this thing in one piece. If we had any to begin with. Additionally, if there ever was a time to drop the facade of mediocrity it would be now, things had gotten about as bad as they could ever get. Lots of my reasoning for staying out of the way inf the first place had become obsolete. Additionally, there was no telling if the small number of people who knew my true capabilities (Sakayanagi, Ryuuen, Katsuragi) were going to keep quiet about it when doing so could mean life or death. I was going to have to give them a call later to figure out what their plans were. In the meantime, I figured I'd ease into a leadership role slowly so I can lead the class without attracting too much attention as doing so could put a target on my head. As I was busy thinking to myself students had begun arguing with each other, likely out of anxiety and frustration at the situation rather than legitimate debate over something, and Horikita was looking at me with eyes that pleaded for help. Even Kikyo seemed to be expecting me to take a leadership role. I sighed, and then began to speak.

"Guys, guys. C'mon let's not fight amongst ourselves."

Yamauchi quickly yelled at me in frustration.

"What do you expect us to do?! Just be completely okay with the fact that we might fucking die! No one is safe anymore!"

At this, I kept my cool. It wasn't that he was actually mad at me in particular, there just wasn't a good outlet for his emotions and as a result they can just explode on whoever is nearby. I would be nicer than usual considering the situation.

"Listen. I know things are bad and you have a right to be upset but yelling at each other isn't going to solve anything."

He seemed a bit taken aback by my levelheaded response.

"What do you propose we do then?"

"Well, I haven't had enough time to come up with a complete plan as for what to do. But I think I have a place to start."

I briefly looked around the classroom, and it seemed all their attention was on me so I continued.

"This change, 'elimination game' as they called it was devastating news to most of the students at this school, but for some it wasn't nearly as bad. Students like Ryuuen from 2-C and Hosen from 1-D who have a predisposition to violence and lack a moral compass are going to become even more troublesome to deal with. In addition, students that are weak mentally might just completely snap in such a high pressure situation and do something completely unpredictable, maybe even violent. These are the people we need to watch out for."

I looked to Horikita to signal that I wanted her to speak up. The class already considered her their leader so if they wouldn't listen to me they would listen to her. I wanted to her to continue acting as the figurehead for class 2-D, I would just have to get a little more involved than usual.

"I agree. I was also worried about students like Ryuuen. He came to my mind as soon they told us there were no real rules starting tomorrow. He always seemed like he was willing to do anything to get what he wanted, and now he pretty much can. It's a scary though to imagine what he would do if put in an environment without rules, but now that's become a reality."

I could tell Horikita was trying to put on a strong face, but she was clearly feeling scared and hopeless at the situation, like much of the rest of class 2-D. Luckily, I didn't intend to rely on her too much during this initial discussion.

"Thanks Horikita. Like I said these are students we need to watch out for, so I think we should brainstorm a list of people that fall under this category of being dangerous or unpredictable. I also think we should establish a buddy system as being spotted alone could make you stand out as vulnerable. Not to mention you'll feel safer, strength in numbers right? Next, we need to choose a leader who in times of duress we will listen to immediately and without question. No matter what. If we do not do this our leadership structure will collapse at the first sign of trouble. Personally, I nominate Horikita."

She glanced at me seeming unsure, but I whispered to her that it would be fine. Horikita was widely already seen as the unofficial leader of class 2-D so I didn't anticipate any objections.

"Horikita it is then. Lastly we need to establish some kind of 'priority'."

This was the part of the discussion, though it was more like a speech at this point, that I was looking forward to the least. But it had to be done if we were going to move forward. At some point I had to address the elephant in the room, and I suppose now was as good a time as ever.

"What I mean by that is we are going to have to take risks to survive from this point on, and we need to establish a system by which we are going to do that. For example, gathering supply drops, how are we going to decide who to send out into no man's land to grab food and maybe even weapons."

"What are you getting at?"

"What I mean is that we need a division of labor. And some people are more valuable in certain positions than others. I mean we wouldn't send out our leader Horikita to grab a basket of snacks where she could be injured or even killed right?"

"Are you saying some people's lives are more valuable than others?"

Hirata was clenching his fist as he spoke up. I was expecting him to say something like this, but unfortunately I simply didn't have the patience for his misplaced altruism. Attitudes like his were going to get people killed far more than making tough decisions ever would. We can't save everybody, and not everybody is equal anymore. That's something we just had to accept.

"In short, yes. That's exactly what I'm saying."

Before the class could break out into yelling I continued.

"You heard the director. Classes are officially dissolved. If you aren't willing to make the tough decisions that we need to make to move forward, you can leave. No one's stopping you. Just know you are forfeiting the protection provided by our system, which we are laying the foundation for now. We could honestly probably do without the dead weight plain and simple."

There was nothing but silence for a moment in response to this, until Hirata spoke again.

"Are you okay with this Horikita? I mean what Ayanokouji is saying is crazy."

I glanced over at Horikita, and for a moment she looked unsure before steeling herself.

"What Ayanokouji is saying is true. Whether we like it or not this is the world we live in now. It's probably in our best interest to just accept it so we can move forward."

"What the hell is the point in moving forward in a world like that?"

Horikita looked shocked for a moment, before responding, in almost a whisper.

"We simply don't have a choice."

Hirata's eyes widened, before he closed them tightly and walked towards the door.

"Screw this. You can count me out if you plan on being like this. Everyone's life is valuable to me, equally."

He said as he left the classroom. Some of the girls looked like they were going to go after him, but quickly realized what that meant. Mei however, stood up and followed after Hirata, she clearly still had some kind of feelings for him. She left silently but gave me a glare before she did. I honestly couldn't care less, but good luck to her and Hirata. Lord knows they'll need it. Horikita spoke up on her own here, as if to assure the rest of the class me and her were on the same page.

"Alright. Anyone else? Please continue, Ayanokouji."

"Thanks. The way I propose we do this is through the OAA evaluation. That is to say those with a lower score may be sent out on more riskier errands."

At this Yamauchi spoke up again. He had one of the lowest OAA's in the class so it only made sense.

"Woah. Woah. That's like totally unfair!"

I looked at Horikita again to respond to this one.

"Says who? This whole situation is unfair. It was your choice to disregard your studies even when you knew it was important. It's just become a little more important as of late. Regardless we are going to need to decide who does what using some system or another, and I don't think you're going to turn out near the top no matter how we choose to do that. Like Ayanokouji said, if you don't like it you can leave. It may sound harsh but we need to be at least that strict to have any hope going forward."

This seemed to be enough to shut Yamauchi up, at least for now. Well said, Horikita. I continued.

"In my eyes this is the fairest way to do things. If you're still unsatisfied, I personally volunteer to be part of the first group that goes out to gather supplies tomorrow. Besides me, it will be decided by lowest OAA. All right, that just about covers everything but there are some people I want to speak to individually. Kouenji, could you stay around here for a sec after everyone goes back to their dorms."

"My, my Ayanokouji-boy what could you want with me of all people?"

I gave him a weary look as I waited for the rest of the students to clear out. They were all traumatized in their own way from what happened today, but no one was having a full-on psychotic break, at least for now anyway. After a minute or two it was just Kouenji, and Horikita, and I left in the room. I had told Kei to wait for me outside. Not that this was particularly secret or anything, but she didn't need to be present either.

"Kouenji, it wouldn't be a stretch to say you've been unpredictable until now. We've put up with it until now because of your potential, but we're not in a position to do that anymore I think that much is clear. I'll be blunt, can we trust you?"

"Mmmm. Pray tell what is it you mean, Ayanokouji-boy?"

"Like I said earlier we need absolute obedience when the going gets tough and shit hits the fan. Can we count on you to do that. Listening to others isn't exactly your specialty."

Kouenji seemed to give this question some serious thought for a moment, which was a rarity for someone like him. Eventually, he responded.

"Yes, I suppose I can acquiesce to that much if that's all you ask of me. Just don't expect me to do anything extraordinary."

"We're just asking you not to create any unnecessary chaos."

But Kouenji seemed like he was done with the conversation and was already heading towards the door. It seemed like he still planned on being a pain in the ass even with a battle to the death on the horizon. Some things never change I suppose. Just as I was about to turn to talk to Horikita.

"Oh, and one more thing. I refuse to have a so-called 'buddy'. It's unfitting for someone like me, I've always been a solo act anyways."

"Suit yourself then."

That was more of a guideline we gave people for their own protection anways, if he could do without it, then so be it. With that he left me and Horikita to our devices. She seemed to be struggling to find the words so I decided to break the ice.

"Pretty stressful, huh?"

"Yes, extremely so! How is it that you can keep your composure in a situation like this. I'm scared out of my wits here. Sometimes, I wonder if you're even human."

I was almost about to crack a smile at that, until I realized tears were beginning to show at the corners of her eyes. I briefly approached her before realizing I didn't know what to do. Me and Horikita had never been particularly close, at least not the way I was with Kei. I'm not sure I can remember us even doing so much as hugging. So eventually I just settled on placing my hand on her shoulder from a comfortable distance. But I was taken aback when she closed it and began sniffling on my chest. I silently hoped Kei wasn't watching from outside the classroom. I slowly wrapped my arms around her and began patting her back. Yeah, I suppose this was the normal reaction to what was going on right now. Yet another reminder that I will never be normal because of my experience in the White Room. Horikita eventually spoke up amidst light crying.

"I don't want.. I don't want to die."

After a moment, she quickly pulled away and began wiping her eyes.

"I'm sorry. You probably think I'm being a baby don't you?"

At this point I realized, I don't really know how to comfort someone during times like these. I mean, it's never something I've had to do until now and recently it's been coming up a lot. I suppose all I can do is tell them what they want to hear, but that didn't seem like it'd work, not on Horikita at least. So then, all I can really do is be there, can't I? As I was pondering this I was drawn back to Horikita's question.

"No actually it's the opposite. News like this would make anyone scared and sad enough to break down completely. I'm just a little weird so don't bother comparing yourself to me."

When I said this I swear I saw a smile behind her hands as she kept wiping her eyes, but I may have just been imagining things.

"Somehow you always know what to say, Ayanokouji."

"Is that so? Sometimes I think it's the opposite."

"No. Thank you. I feel a bit better now."

I nodded and there was a brief silence between us.

"Sorry I grabbed onto you just there. I know you probably weren't expecting that. Plus, you're dating that.. Oh, what's her face.."

"You mean Kei?"

"Yeah, that Kei girl."

"Well yeah, we're together but I'm sure she wouldn't have a problem with it given the situation. Speaking of Kei she's probably waiting for me outside in the hall so.."

"Oh, yeah. Goodbye Ayanokouji."

"Bye, Horikita."

I said as I walked out of the classroom. Outside Kei was waiting for me, but it didn't seem like she had been eavesdropping.

"Hey." She said.

"Hey." I responded.

"So.. What did you guys talk about."

"Just plans moving forward. Stuff like that."

"Is that so?"

"Yup."

"Well, okay.. Can I go back with you to your room with you today Ayanokouji?"

"Yeah, I was actually just about to suggest that. So I can keep an eye on you."

I winked at her and gave her a little nudge.

"No, I'm gonna keep an eye on you!"

She laughed for a moment before becoming somber, like she had forgotten for a moment about everything that had been happening up until now.

"Is it okay to laugh like that now? Is there any point in being happy like that when it could be taken away from us at any minute?"

"I know things are bad right now, about as bad as they could get really. But I guarantee you that I'm going to do everything I can to protect you.. And, look at it this way, we could die at any moment so we should take the good with the bad, and enjoy what we can."

Upon saying this, she didn't seem as reassured as I expected. She seemed even more upset.

"Sorry. I guess that wasn't as helpful as I thought it would be."

She seemed to think for a moment before shaking her head.

"No. It's fine. You're right after all, per usual."

"Really? Sometimes I wonder about that. You know I'm not always as good with my words as I'd like to be."

"No, I like that about you too. It's cute sometimes, it makes you seem more human."

"Ah, I'm glad. Well then, shall we?"

I said, as I held up my hand. She giggled and I was glad to see a smile on her face. Since when did I care so much about other people's.. feelings? It had always been something that seemed so worthless to me. But I suppose, if it mattered to her, then it mattered to me at least a little.

The future was bleak to say the least. You never really knew what tomorrow would hold, and it was uncertain now more than ever. But at least, for the moment, things appeared to be okay. And I was going to do everything I could, to keep it that way. At least, for the people closest to me, everyone else was more or less disposable.

—/—

Me and Kei had gotten back to my room and had fallen asleep when I awoke to a knock at my door. I took a look at the clock only to see it was about 3 AM. I had some suspicions about who would be visiting at this hour, but against my better judgement I walked to the door expecting some kind of emergency. I opened the door a tad to take a look through the door guard, when I saw who it was I narrowed my eyes.

"Do you have any idea what time it is?"

"I'm aware and I'm sorry. Please, let me in."

I closed the door shut.

It was Horikita. I had been anticipating her visiting me sometime soon, but this was about 5 hours too early. I unlocked the door fully.

"Come in."

As I turned around I realized Kei had woken up and was not sitting upright on her floor mattress rubbing her eyes. I opened my mouth to explain to explain to her the situation, but then I realized Horikita hadn't even explained to me why she was here.

"What.. Horikita? Why are you here? And what time is it anyway?"

"It's late. And yeah why are you here anyway?"

It was at this point I realized she was carrying her sleeping bag and a pillow, and was about to object before she started to explain.

"I'm sorry to bother you so late, but I couldn't sleep. Recent events have been weighing on me and I've been tossing around with worry for the past several hours. I was going to ask if I could sleep here but it seems like you've got your hands full so I'll just-"

"Wait."

I interjected.

"Kei is that okay with you? If Horikita sleeps here for tonight."

"I mean…"

She seemed to think over it for a second or two before I spoke again.

"Could I talk to you for a sec?"

I said as I gestured Kei over towards the bathroom.

"What is it?"

"Let Horikita sleep here. It's just for tonight. You don't have a problem with her do you."

"I mean, I don't have anything against her. But this is like our space, for you and me. It's kind of personal to me."

"I understand that but let her intrude just for today. She's gonna be a total wreck in the morning if she doesn't get the rest she needs."

"Still.. I don't-"

"Horikita is the type of person who doesn't ask for anything from anyone, she's too proud. The fact that she's here right now tells me this is an emergency. Besides, she's your peer, I'd expect you to do what you can to help her at a time like this."

"Well, it's not like you're wrong but.. Why are you so insistent about this anyways? You don't like her or anything do you?"

I sighed. Why did things always seem to come back to this?

"Ayanokou-"

"Hai, hai. I assure you I only have eyes for you. I see Horikita as nothing more than a respected classmate. That being said we need her in tip top shape tomorrow for when we discuss our strategy going forward. I think it's in the best interests of the class that we let her stay the night if she thinks it will help her sleep."

She gave me a quizzical look.

"That's all"

She paused for a moment, seeming relieved before she spoke again.

"You're right again, as per usual. Forgive me for being so skeptical. It's just sometimes I wonder if you like me as much as I like you. It's silly I know but I can't help it."

"Yes. It is silly.. So?"

"So what?"

"She can stay?"

"She can stay."

"Great, I'll let her know."

"On one condition."

"And what might that be?"

"You have to promise to go on a date with me tomorrow."

"I mean we were already-"

"Promise."

I sighed again.

"Fine. I promise."

"Good.. Carry on."

"Alright."

As I entered the bedroom, I realized Horikita was no longer there.

"What the.."

I walked out and took a brief look around. I quickly found her standing just outside the door.

"Oh hey.. What are you-"

"I just thought I'd give you two some privacy."

"Oh well.. Thanks I guess."

"Can I come in?"

"Yeah you can stay."

"Did Kei-"

"Yeah she said it was fine."

"Good."

She said as she walked into the room. She then took a look around and seemed puzzled for a moment.

"Where should I.."

"Just put your sleeping bag in the kitchen.. Now that I think about it did you try asking Sudo if you could stay with him? I'm sure he'd jump at the chance to let you spend the night in his room."

"I did try but I got no response."

"Ah, alright then."

There was a bit of an awkward silence as the three of us laid down to rest, but that was fine. After all, it was late so some peace and quiet was certainly welcome. It might be the last real peace and quiet we get for a while. I closed my eyes as Horikita and Kei began to drift off to sleep.

—/—

(12:30 AM)

The executive office had never looked so menacing, more akin to a fortress with armed guards. I expected them to have a more hands-off policy but some things were clearly still off limits. I calmly approached the main enterance, the guards didn't seem very alarmed as I did.

"I'm here to see Tsukishiro."

They gave me a brief nod.

"He's upstairs."

Looks like they've been expecting me.

I made my way up the stairs and into the director's office. There, Tsukishiro was sitting at his desk, waiting for me.

"Ayanokouji, I was about to retire for the day. You sure know how to keep someone waiting."

"Something came up, nevertheless, I'm here now."

"And what can I do for you?"

His demeanor didn't betray any emotion, but I'm certain he was relishing this so-called victory. Having me at his beck and call must have been very satisfying for him.

"I concede. Tell my father I'm coming back under his wing."

"Hmm.. What about your freedom?"

"I don't value it so much as to put people's lives in jeopardy. Clearly, he does."

"I regret to inform you.. But this isn't the work of your father."

I narrowed my eyes, staring at him intensely. Was this some kind of bluff? To what ends? I can't think of any other person or organization that would be motivated to do something of this nature.

"You know better than to lie to me. I know people that worked for my father when I see them, this whole thing reeks of his involvement."

"That much is true. The guards were sent by your father, but the original order came from somewhere higher up."

"Higher up?"

He smiled.

"It was as much as he could do to take care of security, but this wasn't his idea to begin with. Your father is powerful, no doubt, but even he bends to the will of somebody."

"What's the meaning of this then? Why are you here?"

"It's exactly as I said. Officially, I don't work for your father anymore, though I am still sympathetic to his objective. Needless fo say I am shaking with anticipation."

This was worse than I could have predicted. When dealing with my father at least I knew what to expect, now that a third-party has been introduced things have gotten complicated.

"I'm afraid there isn't anything you can do to stop this, Ayanokouji."

—/—

AN: Hey guys! This is my first story in a long while. I was surprised to see I actually already had some that I wrote long ago for Nisekoi, so those were a treat to read. Unfortunately, I don't think I will be continuing those any time soon, but if you need a nice laugh. Hey, they're there. If you're reading this, please leave a review if you would be so kind, even if it's all bad. I take criticism pretty well and it can only help as long as it is somewhat constructive. That being said, I'm writing this AN so I will go over some flaws in the story I am already aware of. First of all, this is meant to be a slow-burn story that takes a while to get going, and I think some of that is just due to the nature of it. It would be a bit jarring if things went from usual COTE stuff to people dropping like flies left and right. We have some of that in this chapter, but things are mostly just getting started. Something I struggle with a little is writing in the usual reactions that most students would have to what's happening in the story, as it kind of seems like a chore. These reactions aren't very interesting (unlike Ayanokouji's which is), and you could likely just imagine how they would play out, but they still serve a narrative purpose to set the scene. What do you guys think? Should I bother including these reactions, or just get on with the story. As of now, I intend to continue writing these reactions but I will try not to dwell on them too long. Second, I know a lot of people are going to think Ayanokouji is totally OOC, and I just want you to know this is something I'm aware of. For me at least, it's more important that I write him as I like rather than trying to stick too much to his established character and failing to even do that well. Just keep in mind he is the same person on the inside, just a bit more likeable and savvy with his words, which I kind of think he already was how he would manipulate people to dance in his palm. Don't worry his ruthlessness will have it's chance to shine and be on display. I think one of the most interesting things about Ayanokouji outside of his astounding intellect and planning is his changes and development as a result of being close to others outside of the White Room, so I tried to play on that a little. He will have a little more emotion in this fic because that is really his only weakness, his connection to others is really his only blind spot that can be taken advantage of by an antagonistic force, and it's not even a very big one. So I anticipate some of that happening. Lastly I don't have a proof reader so grammar and spelling errors abound. I don't know if they still do that on here, but I remember they used to have them I forget what they were called. Now let's talk about pairings. This isn't a romance fic, but there will be romance present if I think the dynamic is interesting. Mostly Ayanokouji x Horikita and Ayanokouji x Ichinose, but it will not be forced and all of the female leads will be somewhat in character so romance will be slow going with little pieces here and there, which is how I like it. There will also be some between him and Sakayanagi as well, because I think they bounce off of each other well. I will just come out and say it, I don't particularly like the romance between him and Kei, even though it makes complete sense narratively. Ayanokouji is nothing if not pragmatic, and that extends especially to his relationships with others, he likely doesn't see a purpose in dating someone if they can't be useful to him, so him dating Kei makes sense. That said, I like his romance more with other characters so I will try to shift towards that without making him some kind of womanizing scumbag. However, at this point in time Kei is closest person to him, and Ayanokouji has a lot of enemies. I'm not making any promises, but someone may use her to get to him at some point in the future. It's definitely a possibility to say the least. Also if you think its OOC for Horikita to forget Kei's name, perhaps it is. Maybe some jealousy is brewing Mwahaha. That's all I have for you for now, I have big plans for this fic and I just hope I have the time and motivation to get to some of these plot points I have stashed in my head. Things are gonna get crazy, so buckle in. Thanks so much for reading and take care.