fakekoji

by vamer

mk

FakeKouji
MrS

Published: 2023
Source: https/

𝓢1𝓒1:𝓑𝓤𝓢 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓜𝓸𝓷𝓸𝓵𝓸𝓰𝓾𝓮

S1 C1 : BUS and Monologue

Ayanokouji's POV

Equality is a hindrance and equity is idealistic, what remains is a meritocracy.

We are not equal, nor are we clear about anything. At this moment I could have a million dollars raining from the sky or lose my life by getting in an accident and dying in the bus driving to my desired destination

ANHS, the school of elites

On further thought, both this school and death, do clear the boxes that define freedom from my past. So I suppose it wouldn't be too bad. The unpredictability of life is such a fickle thing that is whimsical and fantastical in nature.

Hey you, the one reading this Wattpad fic right now, do you know which part of you is more real or more fake?

Whenever we are acquainted with anyone, we put on a facade to complement the ongoing conversation, this facade is subject to change depending on a lot of variables that are prone to change.We probably won't talk to a kid in the same manner as to an adult because we need a different approach to get what we desire from them, which leads to a further hypothesis that our personality changes with the environment and person we are talking to, minutely but it does change. Similarly, it works with people with like or dislike, strangers and friends, happy or sad and of course, what we really want from the person we are conversing with. Everything shapes our personality and the way we carry ourselves.

So why do we shun people when they act or when they don't show their true face? Is it our twisted sense of self-love and belief that we are purer than thou? I believe that it is just human curiosity that leads to this malice when we realise that the person we met, was a lie or A FAKE.

But, that also makes us, a hypocrite.

As I was monologing I was interrupted by a pleasant voice," Excuse me, don't you think you should give this priority seat to this sweet old lady?"

This beige hair, short and friendly-looking girl exuded an aura of kindness which had spread through the bus as her smile enchanted the atmosphere. It seemed she really did care for the old grandma there, I wonder, is that how humans of the outside world are? If my intuition is correct, it may be a farce, given the extremely perfect sense of purity. But I suppose, it's just me being paranoid.

She directed her holy gaze towards a regal-looking boy who this stifling sense of superiority around him as he spoke in a self-indulgent voice," Listen here girl, why should I give up my seat? I have no legal reasons and I don't care about the ethical ones. So stop disturbing me and let me continue my manicure" as he rubbed his nail file over his fingers.

The girl was taken aback by the immediate and crisp refusal of her pleas. It seems she isn't used to people saying no to her, as she didn't take the no and proceeded to the next target of emotional blackmail, rather she stayed there and pleaded" But this lady is your superior. Hence shouldn't it be your duty to give her your seat?"

The boy smirked, "Oh, and which written law states that? You are simply applying your sense of perfect ideals and considering it to be the law. Not just that, considering there are other people around me. Yet you chose me, even when I refused, just to prove your sense of righteousness to the others here to be superior to mine, quite a narcissist aren't you?"

Quite a turn of events we have here. The irony of the situation is something that might have left a comedic undertone, if not for the reaction given by the girl. The girl flashed a slight face of disgust but reverted back to the bright smile she had adorned and backed off, realising she was barking at the wrong dog. But she ended it with the last bark, "Didn't you waste your priceless breath, talking so much to a mere lowly narcissist like me?"Without waiting for a response, she took a step back and searched for another prey.

The awkwardness made the air somewhat toxic until an office lady gave up her seat. Was I supposed to get up? Well, I did agree partially with what the boy said but who am I to judge? After all, I was simply a regular boy, going to school on this bus. I had no intention of being an advocate of right or wrong. After all, a novice in this field can't be expected to be an advocate of righteousness.

As I turned my face, I was magnetised by the view of a long dark haired girl seemingly resembling a princess who was reading a book completely unaffected by the surroundings. I unconsciously stared at her for a bit too long trying to gauge her reason for such a lack of interest in the surroundings but I had a moment of self-reflection and turned around to not look like a creep. Yet, it seems, she caught a glimpse of my actions. She might have caught me with my hand in the cookie jar, but if the cookie were so intriguingly captivating, it was worth it, I suppose

I hope this doesn't lead to any future unwanted interactions else I will have to fabricate a sense of guilt, just like I have been trained.

After all, as they say, fake it till you make it.

But the question is will I ever make it?

This school might have the answers.

-- AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Hey,

Dear readers

Good to make your acquaintance

Hope we get along

This will be a long ride, I hope

And I don't wanna be lonely

And comment your CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM

If u want to, u can also vote

Have a good day, even if u aren't having one--tomorrow might be a better one

Thank you

𝓢1𝓒2:𝓓𝓮𝓼𝓲𝓻𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓶𝓪𝓼𝓴

S1C2: Desire to mask

Ayanokouji's POV

I got down from the bus to see ANHS in it's full glory. It has many speculated advantages which made me shortlist it but the main focus was isolation from the world and to me the devil himself.

As I walked with slight anticipation of living a peaceful life in this abode, I was bothered by a beautiful yet aggravated being. She stared at me with glaring scarlet eyes. I could feel a sense of anger and disgust emanating from her as she asked, " Hey! Why were you staring at me on the bus?"

I could ignore her and end this dilemma of bothering this creature, but I decided to humour myself. With a slight smirk carving it's way on my face, which I was trained to mimic, "Ohh! I am so sorry, I was just entranced by your elegance with a bit of curiosity about your reasoning to not give up your seat."

I could detect a faint pink on her cheeks immediately dispersed by a look of indignation and entitlement, "I feel no obligation to give up my seat, on the other hand, why didn't you give up your seat Mr Pervert?" She spoke ending with a stinging insult as a cherry on top.

If I had emotions, I would have rebutted that comment. I remember my past hatred towards perverts who let things like rampant hormones control their lives; regardless I didn't comment on that. Without trying to stir the pot which will increase this pointless argument, I replied with a fake grin, "Oh I hadn't done so since I partially agreed with the other boy's comment, after all, everyone has different sets of ideals, don't they?. Would you mind sharing that book's name though which you were reading?"

She looked at me with slight curiosity and dilemma," Alright, that's fair I suppose and the book is called Crime and Punishment but I suppose a person like you hasn't heard of it."She smirked at the end quite condescendingly. I had read that book in the White room to try and formulate reasoning for the elimination of students in the white room, it provided me solace when I did have many emotions.

Of course, telling her the truth would cause problems hence with a manufactured smile I expressed a request, " Oh! You are right I suppose it seems I haven't. Do you mind if I walked with you while you educate my measly mind about this book? You are free to reject the offer and walk your merry way! But considering you were reading it with such vivid attention, I can't help but wonder, what caught your eye."

She looked at me with slight concern?...no I think it's annoyance with a tinge of kindness??

She quickly spoke, "I suppose it isn't a problem."

I suppose my smile had worked, well it had to I had to work hard to at least make it bearable

She continued, "But stop smiling, it's unsettling."

Or not, hmm, I think I have to return to my apathetic expression

I said in monotone yet slight annoyance, "Alright, I feel you are right"

We walked as she explained to me the contents of the book, which even if I had read gave me a fresh viewpoint, I remember a lesson I learnt at the White Room,

'EVERYONE IS A TREASURE OF KNOWLEDGE, GAIN IT AND LEARN'.

According to her, this book elucidates various ideologies which lead to a central idea of murder and the reasoning behind it and this book tries to humanise it. But I silently disagree, murder is an objective concept that is then applied to the subjective view of society. While it is generally frowned upon in that book, almost all the time, this book forms a chaotic viewpoint that distorts the truth. At least, from a common respective, it is so. But the answer is quite clear, it's a crime and is followed by a set of noble actions that simply cover it up, like a blanket of goodness surrounding the deeds of a person.

Should this crime be forgiven, considering the noble actions? Should the crime be punished, since it's still a crime at the end of the day? I am not the judge of that, it is all subjective.

Never has there been objective good nor objective evil. It's all relative to the situation and context provided. It's how the world works. For reference, if you see a person helping a grandma across the street, you might think, they are a good person. What if I gave you context, that the person is a thief who is simply taking her to the other side, in order to group up with their allies present there and steal all her possessions. It's evil? Well, what if I told you, that this grandma beats her grandchildren when the parents aren't at home and she had the money to buy a new cane after she broke one, as she had hit the kids? So, now we are at the junction of, which is the greater evil?

Hence, a correct analysis is made with a proper context added to the ideals of the judger.

Raskolnikov, who was the main character, still murders hence the only thing changing our view towards it, is his other non-correlated actions due to his dual personality which I may relate to, whether it is right or wrong...is the desire to mask the reality of the complex situation, where the lines of good and bad are smudged. A crime is a crime, yet humans tend to tilt towards emotions on such accounts if given enough of the so-called 'reasoning'.In my personal opinion, I have no care, if that person tried to be an obstacle in my interest, then, regardless of their intent or reasoning, I would consider them as a threat and would remove them. Quite a read, given this, was the first book of Russia to have this genre in. This was literally, a flagbearer of crime thrillers, often cited as one of the greatest pieces of literature of that era.

As we talked about it, we reached the entrance ceremony. This begins the first chapter of my life... I hope I can convert this fakeness into my truth...and destroy the devil's masterpiece or fail to try...

Who am I kidding?

I never lose

----

Dear Readers,

I may have made Horikita a bit different,

I think she is a smart person but highly deluded and overestimates herself, I will try to improve her character a bit in this novel NOT A DRASTIC CHANGE...but a little...

And Ayanokouji, well he is worse...broke...curious...FAKE

I have not read the book (Crime and punishment) completely but I feel I understand it a bit

Thank you

P.S. If you feel I did decent writing, could you please vote

Also if you feel any issues feel free to comment and belittle me :)

𝓢1𝓒3: 𝓐𝓷𝓪𝓵𝔂𝓼𝓲𝓼 & 𝓓𝓲𝓼𝓰𝓾𝓼𝓽

FAIR WARNING: CONTROVERSIAL AND VERY DIVERGENT FROM CANON

Horikita POV

Since time immemorial I idolised my brother. He is everything I yearn to be, I devoted my entire childhood trying to catch up to him but I failed EVERY SINGLE TIME.

Every time I looked in the broken mirror in my room, I saw myself with disgust. No matter the effort I always lose, the outcome never changes. I have never tried to make a friend as I am always focused on trying my very best. After all, I am so much better than these dirty mongrels playing and having fun, while I spend the entire day studying or practising swimming. I don't need these pathetic fools to be my pawns. Since more effort means more success... right?

None of these pathetic classmates ever tried to bully me, after all, if they hurt me...who would do their homework? Almost always, I was alone and with my books, I didn't even talk once to the most famous girl in school who was supposedly friends with everyone. I even forgot what her name was but later on, something happened that broke her class down, not that I care to wonder.

My Nii-sama has become so distant from me and I had to chase him all the way to ANHS where he is the Student Council President. I am at least better than these so-called elite going to this school, I will prove to my brother that I am capable, no matter the cost.

All people are nothing but pawns to me

It doesn't matter how it is done

It doesn't matter what needs to be sacrificed

All that matters is to please Nii-san

That's all that matters

While on the bus I was reading a book named 'Crime and Punishment' while there was some form of commotion going on in the background with a short, average-looking and brown hair boy (A.N: read author's note)staring at me.

Yet for some reason he has an aura of...calmness...which I felt from my Nii-sama. I glared at him, to which he immediately turned his head.

As I get down from the bus I start looking for that creepy boy; I see him walking towards the school. I start questioning him for his DISGUSTING stare to which he replied with a somewhat...cu-...No DISGUSTING smile, which even though made him look a little more decent... just didn't feel right.

What's even more strange are his answers, they are vague and the compliments also seem forced. Something isn't right...but he seems more gullible than the people I have met in my old school. Not only that but when I called him a pervert his eyes widened slightly...strange indeed.

I stubbed him to stop him from smiling since it feels so strange. Immediately all signs of life went away from his face but his eyes remained the same as always...hollow...

When he Inquired about my book I was somewhat surprised, since I didn't realise he was the kind to be interested in books. Furthermore, I noticed he was paying close attention to what I was saying, even when his face is so apathetic.

As I walked with him, he just seems so ordinary, yet unique...Huh...he is...

A WALKING CONTRADICTION

Regardless, I will make him my first pawn, even though it feels unsettling to say for some reason...be ready Mr...Wait a sec... I don't even know his name...

--

Dear Readers,

You must be curious why I made ayanokouji look...average

All I aim to do is make him perfect in things he can CONTROL

height, face shape, colour, size etc-- genetic hence can't be controlled by kiyotaka, his father and supposed mother were average in genetics, so I made him look average/below average.

Trust me, I made him capable enough in this fic to overcome all these insecurities(upcoming probable arc).

Since white room's purpose is to over genetics(talent, body etc) with willpower

Not make magic

Hope you realise, if not, IDGAF/Its my fanfic I do what I wanna :)

Thank you

Ayanokouji features:

Body structure-- slim-muscular

Height-- 5ft 6-7 inch

Age-- 15 yrs

Face- same as LN

Colour- same as LN

Injuries--Psychological, intense scarring In certain body areas

Emotions-- Nil

Quirk-- fakes emotions

POLL

Dear Readers,

I just want to confirm

1. My version of horikita(With the monologue and sensibility but emotional)--:

2. LN horikita (the strangely independent idiot)--:

Which one do u want me to continue?

Reader's decision may change future events IN A MAJOR WAY, chose wisely

Time till today 7 PM GMT

Chose wisely...

comment along with the side

Thank You!

--changes: I AM SORRY I JUST CAN'T WAIT TO WRITE MORE, SO I AM GOING WITH THE MAJORITY VOTE, SEE YA SOON (MY version of horikita wins)

𝓢1𝓒4:𝓘𝓷𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓭𝓾𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 𝓸𝓻 𝓓𝓮𝓭𝓾𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷?

Ayanokouji's POV

That introduction ceremony was considered boring since I saw many students yawning and talking nonsense; on closer inspection, though I noticed something odd. My class had the most students showing this unruly behaviour which in a decreasing manner was shown as the classes ascended Alphabetically, huh, I wonder if something is going on here.

As I went into my classroom having an overhanging 'Class D' plaque, I noticed 5 cameras all monitoring the events of the class and were hidden skillfully. As I sat down next to my neighbour who was coincidentally the black-haired ice queen.

She looked at me condescendingly," Ugh! What are the chances, well at least it is better to have a human among monkeys as my neighbour." She let out a sigh of overdramatic relief.I just nodded, not wanting to argue, and stared at the world outside from my window seat watching the dove flying and envying it. Sadly my peace didn't last for long as a sting spread though my forearm.

She poked me with a compass and asked haughtily," Don't you think it's rude to not tell your name to a person you were gawking at earlier?" This is abuse, I need to call child support.I sighed deeply, "My name is Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, what's yours?" I decided to comply with my abuser. She smirked," Oh, my-my, Mr Ayanokouji, aren't you getting ahead of yourself asking my name, who do you think you are?" She loves playing with words, why don't I play with her?

I made a smirk back, "Alright, failure-chan!! Suit yourself."

This got quite a reaction from her, she somewhat started shivering but calmed herself down. Huh, guess I was right, she has a bit of a fear of failure, which I noticed while I was at the ceremony as she was looking at the stage with a desire, unlike others. Not just that, I remember how judgement and superior she acts, hence I deduced she must be very foreign to the idea of failure, which lead me to use that as an advantage to enter her mind space and break her cool.

She said in a low cold voice," My name is Horikita Suzune, don't dare call me a failure!"

I accepted with a small act of regret," I didn't mean to offend you, I apologise for being rude!"

This should keep her off my tail for a while and then the teacher entered. The teacher introduced herself as Sae Chabashira and in all honesty, she was beautiful, not just her body but her confident and domineering aura made her attractive.

She soon explained the S-system( Read novel), which had some gaping holes in it, disappointingly no one pointed out.I can't let that happen, I need answers. I can't raise any suspicion regarding my capabilities as it will make me a central figure, it will be too much of a bother, thinking so I raised my hand

I said, "Oh! wow so many points, so Maam, is it true I can buy anything like..oh I don't know maybe I can bully someone and buy your silence", I then started chuckling insinuating that it was a joke.

This question asked two important details.

1. Can points change the rules?

2. What's the limit of point usage?

People in this class started giggling, while the teacher had a sense of surprise and expectation attached to me

She said in a monotone voice with a subtle excitement," No it is not possible, there are limitations."

No answer huh, So the school might be hiding something from us. I think my questions were successful in getting a reaction, hence they are accurate.

I probed further," Is that so, lol looks like killing myself goes down the drain, well anyways can i maybe change my class after I embarrass myself further?"

This question, asked whether I can change the classes of my own will?

A few boys made an OOOFFFF!! sound.

She looked with glee," I can't answer your non-sensical questions, if you have any further questions ask them quickly."

Still no answer...

I animated myself," OHHH!! so like can buy a lot of games next month with like 200,000 points and then go out with my non-existent friends?"

This question pinpoints whether we can get 100,000 points next month.

A boy from the background said, "Hey, I will play your games!!"

Some students were laughing at my self-degrading jokes.

The teacher was still in anticipation," I can't answer your questions, do whatever you want"

This is useless, the school is definitely hiding a lot from us, I wonder why?I sat down with a look of apathy as soon as I was done asking. Looks like I got all the information I needed.

After the Sae-sensei left, a handsome boy with a cheerful aura, who introduced himself as Hirata Yousuke politely requested the class to introduce themselves. All of them introduced themselves slowly, except a few, like Horikita and a muscle boy until a girl with blonde hair said," I am Kei Karuizawa, I like shopping and fashion!! I like totally would wanna go and buy some of the hottest clothes, so is anyone in??"

Her features reminded me of someone I cherished a long time ago before she was slaughtered by the chains of misery and hate. She livened up the atmosphere quite a bit. The next was the beige hair girl from the bus, she exclaimed," HII!! I am Kikyo Kushida, I hope for a fun and exciting year together. My goal is to be everyone's friend, so could we share our contacts with everyone??"

Most boys started lusting over her, I felt like vomiting in this nauseating atmosphere. It's fine to have those thoughts in your head, but can't they keep their gazes down, at least have some respect for her as a human.Well, it seems like these three will be having a lot of power in the future... things will get interesting indeed.

It was soon my turn, I decided not to smile as it is supposedly unsettling and kept an apathetic face while mimicking an animated voice from the 2 girls," Oh! Hi, My name is Ayanokouji Kiyotaka and I am the definition of average, lol, the only thing I am talked about is my apathetic face...I still don't know if it's an insult or a compliment. Hope we get along!!" I ended with a bit of a forced happy voice.

Some students clapped and laughed at my introduction.Hirata smiled," I am sure you have other capabilities. Also, your questions were hilarious, thanks for livening up the mood of the class"

Some students smiled at me with affirmation; it seems I did a decent job.

I exclaimed," Thank you, Hirata, your introduction was quite articulate and lively as well!"

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

I won't write anything tomorrow, I am going out, sooo enjoy

Thank you

ONLY IF you like my story, please Vote

Regardless, have a good day!!...if you can

1K readers

AYYOOO!!

LEZZGO, 1K READERS In 12 HOURSS!!

Hope you guys are liking the story so far

I will update if I can today, but since I am going on a trip(~EXPO~)

IDK...MAYBE TOMORROW

Also...um.. if i made any errors in writing or if some logical inconsistency is there please comment alongside the story, i am trying to improve my skills, that's one of the reasons I joined Wattpad

Changes: i can switch between formal and informal tone of speech depending on my mood

𝓢1𝓒5:𝓒𝓸𝓷𝓿𝓮𝓷𝓲𝓮𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓑𝓵𝓾𝓮𝓼

Ayanokouji's POV:
As I left the classroom, Kushida followed me with a face seemingly wanting to make a request.
She then hurried infront of me and pulled her hands together in a cute manner," Ayanokouji, I saw you talking to horikita, are you friends?"

How did she know horikita who didn't introduce herself, did they know each other before?
I replied with a slight annoyance," Oh no, sorry kushida I am not at all well aquainted with her"

She then pleaded," Ayanokouji, I saw that she didn't talk to anyone but you the whole time, could you please help me be friends with her."

Alright, something is wrong here, she is forcing herself to be friends with her, not just that I feel a desperation seeping throught those friendly eyes.

This girl is hiding something but I don't know what,nor do i have enough evidence.For now the best action is to stay away from this threat but i have to be nice, since her social pull has increased exponentially with that amazing introduction.I have to carefully plan this out.

Thinking so, I replied,"Kushida, I would love to help you out once I get to know horikita well, why don't we both try to be friends with her!"
Kushida smiled,"Alright but could you tell me how to make my move?"
I appeared to be thinking deeply,"Hmm, I suppose you could ask her for coffee?"
Kushida clapped her hands together," Oh that's a wonderful idea, so umm..ayanokouji could you please bring her along to come to pallet cafe at 6 pm today?"
I said with a tone of disappointment, "Kushida as you know, I am not well aqauinted with her, hence I am certain she will reject the idea. So why don't you,oh..i don't know...maybe... change the situation to your favour which might force her to come to pallet cafe?"

My reasoning for asking her to do so, would affirm her skills of manipulating the environment, hence acertaining her acting skills which might be enough proof to confirm my hypothesis

Kushida appeared to be thinking,"Hmm, I will have to give some thought to that, anyways can I have your number?" She said while smiling
I don't want to be in contact with a ice devil and a masked clown.

I looked at my watch," Oh, did you say something, I wasn't paying attention.Anyways I have to go pick up groceries, bye!"
I briskly walked away from that precarious situation before she said anything else.

As I entered the convininience store i noticed horikita picking up essentials, I decided to ignore her and carry out my intended purpouse.
While selecting groceries, she came upto me and said," You know right, that cup noodles aren't healthy. Yet you are buying them and here I thought you were mature, guess I was wrong." while smirking.

I rebuked,"Oh my, horikita I didn't know you were a mom, where are your dead children?"
She had a visible irking," Ugh!! Is this how you respond to your only aquaintance?"
I apologised,"I am sorry I didn't realise The Horikita was my aquaintance."

We bantered back and forth for a while while i noticed something from the corner of my eye,"Is that free?" I exclaimed.
She turned around,"It seems so, Do you think it's for the people who squander their 100k points?Way too generous but
I suppose it's the only means of survival for people such as yourself."

I ignored her comment and focused on the details,so free goods-100k points/student-30 students-4 classes/standard-3 standards- 36 million yen/month...huh, doesn't add up, unless my hypothesis was right...still I am not 100% sure.

Now I could inform her on my hopefully accurate hypothesis but I would rather not, I want the idiots to suffer and learn.
I said in a monotone,"I don't know, I am not as smart as you horikita" and I walked past her to the checkout where I saw the muscle guy arguing with the cashier.
Looks like I can try something interesting here. I threw my voice( ventriloquism) and spoke in a female tone,"Ugh! This dude can't even remember to bring his phone, What a Muscle head."
The boy turned around and started shouting," Who said that??"
I then went infront of him," Hey buddy, there were a few girls here who were shaming you, but I made lied to them saying that I just borrowed your card and forgot mine at home."

The boy looked at me for a while and exclaimed,"Oh you are that boy who wanted to kill himself.Thanks man!! You saved me from embarrasing myself in front of those cute girls by the way I am Sudo Ken."
Those girls don't even exist..how does he know if they are cute...Nevermind.

I replied in an mimicked energy filled voice," Hi I am Ayanokouji Kiyotaka" as I shook his hand.
Sudo then said with a bit of emabarressment,"Hey, could you help me out here I forgot my phone in my room."
I replied," Alright sudo, but remember to pay me back as soon as you reach your room, along with a 100 point interest. Is it a deal...I had you back didn't I and we will get so many points next month too."
Sudo looked with a bit of panic," Alright fine! It's a deal pay quickly, please."
I payed for his item and followed him to his room. It was super messy and what are those tissues for...

He then took his phone and paid me with interest.
I left quickly and as soon as the elevator door opened I came face to face with Horikita.
She was suprised and was blushing,"Ugh..creep were you stalking me?"
I asked in apathy," How is going in an elevator stalking?"
I then zoned out her nonsense talks and walked out of the elevator towards my room.
I felt a tap on my shoulder and turned around to find 2 senpais they asked," Hey kouhai, don't you know that walking in the hallway so late is not permitted, so if you don't want trouble, give us 1000 points each, now."
If they get 100k points each month, why would they need more..
I made a apologetic tone," I am so very sorry senpais, but are you fron class D?"
They moved a step back and grimaced, one asked " Ya! SO WHAT?"

I bowed,"Oh nothing at all, i just wondered what would happen if the camera behind you got you both expelled? It would be unfortunate if I reported...don't you think so?
They panicked," What do you need to keep your mouth shut?"

I made a grin I learnt from Joker,when i had to watched clips of famous movies before entering the school to stay up to date and said with a cold voice" Oh maybe, all of your points and 1 favours each?"

They looked at me in dismay, " You will pay dearly for this if Nagumo finds out."as they accepted the deal.

I then went back to my dorms and revised the things i read in the white room, since even if I memorised everything, it's still at the risk of being forgotten as I have a brain not a hard drive. Took a few minutes to brush my teeth while closing my eyes.
Then I went to bed waiting in silence for the next day

‐--Author's Note--
Dear Readers,
I made major changes to certain events to make them exciting.
Horikita is being even more assertive to make him her pawn.
Ayanokouji know ventriloquism!!
I wrote this while at the ride to expo
So it might be a bit wonky, but i was bored as hell.
Thank you

Very quick poll

Should I diverge
more from canon(like in the previous chapter)
Or stick to it?
Please tell me fast...or i will choose one myself.
Thank you

Changes: if u guys are wondering why i am not adding fun parts immediately like horikita suffering or drama or action..because i wanna make progress in a natural manner...because abruptly going to the good parts makes the story wonky!! Have patience...it will be worth it!!

𝓢1𝓒6:𝓢𝔀𝓲𝓶 𝓣𝓸 𝓨𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓓𝓮𝓶𝓲𝓼𝓮

Ayanokouji's POV:

It seems Karuizawa has made hirata her boyfriend which is shocking...not the boyfriend part..but the fact it took 2 days...
I wonder...meh...humans are weird...

Horkita as usual stubbed me,"Oh hello Mr NoticeMeKouji didn't see you there, whatcha doing...mourning on your lonlieness?"
As soon as she ended her sentence hirata and simps...I mean friends, came to my desk and asked,"Hey ayanokouji, want to eat lunch with us."

Upon hearing that, i looked at his loyal b*tches...I mean slaves...ugh I meant friends..ya...that and they had no hatred in their eyes...interesting.

I acted gleeful,"Sure hirata, Let's go! You guys just saved me from hypothermia from miss ice queen over here" as I looked over to her.

She gave one of her infamous glares and I skirted out with them.
While at the cafeteria, I noticed there were 4 lunch variants based on cost and 1 free set, looks like my hypothesis has been proven.

As I sat with them, a brown hair girl named Matsushita asked," Hey ayanokouji, you were quite funny yesterday, though some things you said were concerning and alarming. Are you okay?" She asked with concern...and a hint of curiousity.

I reassured," I am fine matsuhita, it was just a joke I watched in a youtube tutorial on how to make friends but considering it has like 10 views...it didn't work..huh"
They stared at me...and then...burst laughing, Matsuhita exclaimed," ayanokouji you say the weirdest stuff sometimes it's as if you never had friends."
But I...did'nt...

I added jokingly," I just wanted to lighten the mood."
Matsuhita the questioned," Was there a reason for your weird question?...maybe something about the school?"
She is smart, she will be useful in the near future.
I said in apathy,"Not at all Matsuhita, you are being delusional, I was just joking around but I wonder, why were you paying so much attention to me?"

To this Karuizawa added," Ya lol, no offence, you are just so average looking not to add you are short."
I smirked," I am closer to hell, shut up or I might pull you in it and even if I am average,anyways is your theatrics going to an intermission soon? I need to use the bathroom."
A girl Mori Nene said," Oof, put an iceback on that 3rd degree burn."

Karuizawa started fuming,"ugh, ayanokouji stfu...good one though" she whispered the last part which only i heard...huh she ain't actually a bit*h...it seems like she is putting up an act.
Thankfully, my planned commotion made Matsuhita forget her question.

As I was in the boys locker room, a boy named Ike along with Yamauchi were making certain perverted jokes and plans but what appaled me was the fact they were willing to go to the girl's locker room and peep, I don't know whether it's bravery or idiocracy.

I quickly hid my body with a rash guard to avoid questions and went to the pool where Karuizawa was not present...I wonder why?
The pervs were still increasing their objectification to the limit.

As i sat down by the pool I was bothered by Horikita again," Hey, what are you so involved in huh...thinking perverted again?"

I rejected the notion,"Horikita why should I think of such things when I have you...seems pointless don'tcha think?"
She seems to be blushing...looks like she is a normal girl after all.

She sat down next to me and exclaimed," These monkeys seem to be enjoying youth to the fullest."
I was just silently observing while kushida was buttering horikita up to bring her to the pallet cafe, a reasonble stratergy but it won't work on horikita.

Then the swimming coach called us together," Everyone I will divide you into groups, and then whoever wins at the end gets 1000 pp."
Everyone was excited and i heard ike say he is a flying fish ...soon...it might just come true.

Anyways let's be average

When it was my group's turn it had koenji, the blonde narcissist on the lead with sudo in 2nd, as I was swimming I noticed ike and yamauchi lagging behind...as expected.
Looks like..it's time.
I slow down enough amd submerge myself in the pool and then as ike and yamauchi pass me, I quietly pass onto their lane and pull out the strings of their trunks and swim back to the middle and end the race.
As they reach the end and try to pull themselves out of water..it seems their trunks were floating on the top of the water.
I wonder how did that happen? As both of their trunks came of simultaneously... coincidences can be freaky.
Anyways I also took a pic...which i may use later..who knows?
The girls turned their heads utterly revolted and boys were laughing hysterically.

I hope this utter humiliation keeps them away from perversion for a while.

The loudspeaker rang,"Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, please report to the principal's office immediately."

--‐-‐--‐--AUTHOR'S NOTE--‐--

Dear readers,

This is the baseline of ayanokouji's acts.

He will do much more dangerous tricks soon.
And if you are wondering why he hates perversion.
It will be discussed soon, keep reading.
And if you liked it post comments...and vote...and most importantly, have a good day!!

Thank You

RANKING???

WHY...IT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE...I DIDN'T REACH TRAGEDY YET...BUT UMM...OK IG...

Don't get me wrong I am super glad...but...tragedy?...meh maybe Wattpad can foreshadow...props to them

Details on the upcoming chapter

Dear readers,

HEY!!

So the next chapter will be the most serious chapter yet, also will have certain clues scattered and a lot of accusations/ Threats. Director doesn't know Ayanokouji, nor does anyone in this school.

The director is not kind like in the LN, he is very dangerous and observant, abnormally so.

And you will see Ayanokouji's first time using his darkness. He is going to do something very...

HOPE THIS HYPES YOU UP!!

Thank You

𝕾1𝕮7: 𝕱𝖆𝖙𝖆𝖑 𝕰𝖗𝖗𝖔𝖗

THE AUTHOR MADE THE HEADER :)

Be WARNED: This chapter is a glimpse of the past, pay close attention.

if you want play some scary music...set the mood.

Ayanokouji's POV:

Everyone looked shocked at that announcement. They started buzzing like houseflies..which I ignored.

I walked in the quiet hallway with my footsteps reverberating, this meeting with a new average student shouldn't make sense to an outsider but me.

It was time to set up the pieces on my chessboard.

I knock slowly on the director's door, he speaks in a deep voice," Come in Ayanokouji and please close the door behind you."

The room was spacious, yet it would soon be suffocating.

I do as told and ask," Director, may I know your reason to call for an average student like me, I am quite certain I have not done anything noteworthy."

He gently smiled, "Is that so, your questions in your class and your marks say otherwise."

It seems he has realised certain aspects of my moulded persona.

I maintained a respectful tone," May I ask, why the director of the school is looking into an ordinary student like me so vigilantly, I am quite certain my life has been ordinary."

He gets up from his seat and walks around his office. Then he takes out his laptop and entered a USB drive into it to show me a file, seemingly recording the details of all students.

He then asked," You are indeed right but that is the issue, you are the only student in the school, whose entire history is completely normal and yet you do such extraordinary things. You may be a blessing or a curse on this institute."

I looked at him with a calculating gaze," Aren't you overanalyzing unless you must know something beyond this file. Also, are you insinuating this school is not for the normal?"

He smiles," You are wrong Mr Ayanokouji, I don't know anything about this, that is the most bothersome of all. I have the records of all the students past, secrets, flaws etc and this school has just one goal and that is to make the elites of this country. So you may be right this school is for the abnormal or the unique."

I boldly asked," Why are you sharing such sensitive information. So you are scared of me?"

He stared deeply," Maybe I am, I have done a lot to make this institution a fine nurturing hub. My experience has shown that no one in the world has a blank past, especially in this school. You are unpredictable, it brings fear."

I remained silent forcing him to give more information.

He spoke," When I interrogated the admission council, they clearly stated, 'This boy has an abnormal social ideology and upon probing with follow-up questions we didn't find a single thing which could have asses the reason for this.'"

I remember attending the interview, which took significantly longer than other candidates, before I knew societal norms after escaping the White room. It seems that caused a discrepancy which led to suspicion.

He continued in a cold voice," You had an interesting sequence of marks: 46, 56, 67, 79, 92 or the Lazy caterer's sequence, not just that your questions were very precise and hidden in such strange phrasings. I had my eye on you since the day of admission and yesterday at the entrance ceremony you had a very focused and uniquegaze on all the students. It was as if you were stripping apart their identities with your bare eyes."

He stopped taking a deep breath," I remember seeing such a gaze only once before, and he was the most dangerous man I ever met he had so much power over this country that he was able to completely mask his identity, thankfully he died last year. Now Mr Ayanokouji, do you know who that man is?"

The room was filled with an eerie silence, only broken by the sound of breathing. His eyes are filled with apprehension and tension.

It seems he met that devil...

I looked at him with an ignorant gaze," How would I know a person you met? Are you perhaps looking for a connection?"

He then sighed with relief," Oh! I was just joking. No one knows his name or anything about him, even his death was so sudden and no one knows the cause. How would you have a connection with him was a probable overanalysis, it's just that your eyes are so very similar to his, that same unfathomable focus and willpower."

He told me in a cold tone and unending gaze which would frighten a normal person out of their wits," I have gained a portion of such willpower only after I suffered the loss of my loving wife on childbirth and desire to protect my daughter from societies pathetic eyes which look at her with pity for her disability I have chosen many dangerous means I am not proud of.

Now it's a reasonable assumption you have faced or done something much worse and have sacrificed a lot to get such a form of intellect, observation skills with your ability to modulate emotions without a single expression on your face. Since there is no problem with your facial nerves and yet your face is paralysed in such an apathetic state begs the question,

WHAT ARE YOU KIYOTAKA AYANOKOUJI?

I looked at him with my cold and unparalleled gaze, I saw him start to sweat from his forehead and crinkles on his forehead. A single drop of sweat dropped on the cold floor underneath. Looks like he has an enormous amount of experience under his belt, regardless it doesn't matter... Let me end his game...

I replied with the most ominous voice he has ever encountered,

DON'T PRY INTO MY LIFE

He looked truly frightened, I realised I had exposed a bit of my dark nature to him. I have to act quick. I am playing a risky game but the chances of loss are minimum. I continued with a calm voice," Sorry sir, for my rudeness. All I ask for is to live a peaceful life and if anything tried to change that, I will have to make sure it ceases to exist. I also promise to not harm this institution, if you let me be. I am just a regular student who came here to learn what I lost."

It seems like he doesn't understand the gravity of the situation. I have to force it.

I said in a threatening tone," I am sure you wouldn't want your daughter to suffer would you?"

As I took out a recorder from my shirt," If she saw her beloved father being taken to jail for violating a student's privacy for his satisfaction on BASELESS speculations and carrying out borderline illegal acts, it would be catastrophic don't you think?"

CHAIRMAN SAKAYANAGI'S POV:

My eyes paled and I sat down on my chair with a sigh, I realised I made a fatal error. My curiosity and speculations led to such an aggravated situation. This 15-year-old boy has been hunting me down like a predator ever since he stepped into the room. I feel suffocated and truly shackled ready to be devoured.

I said all those things to show my power and get some information. It backfired completely, how could I have predicted Ayanokouji's enormous intellect and distinct planning. He had planned the entire sequence of events, I have been played with even before I knew it. I had a tight noose around my neck.

One more wrong move, it's all over in front of my eyes. This school will be completely destroyed if the world knows my past doings. My daughter will lose her father and will be left an orphan, I won't be able to see my daughter's hatred towards me. I am at the mercy of the devil here.

I looked into his abyssal eyes and pleaded," I won't ever lay a finger on you, please delete the recording."

He kept staring and slowly walked towards me. Those slow and fearsome taps of his shoes came close to me, I instinctively took a step back. He swiftly jumped on the desk and sits. He pushed the laptop from the desk shattering it, then he crept his face in front of me and whispered into my ear in the same ominous voice, " SECRECY IS WHAT I DESIRE, No official or anyone outside this school knows about WHO Ayanokouji Kiyotaka is."

I nodded my head slowly. His calm and unchanging face shows how easy it was for him to destroy the school chairman in front of him. I have seen many fearsome humans in my life but I never faced a MONSTER.

I will have to protect his past...even if I don't know what it is I have to protect. What an irony...

WHAT A CHECKMATE

Ayanokouji's POV:

It seems like he realises it. I took the recorder, deleted the evidence and threw it in a trashcan near him. I swiftly got off the desk did a respectful bow in front of him and said," Thank you for understanding. Hope you have a good day ahead."

I exited the room and walked back to class as I pulled a USB drive out of my pocket, "Looks like I procured a valuable piece of information. This should prove useful."

I turned to look behind and said a bit loudly," Isn't that right, Arisu Sakayanagi..."

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

DEAR READERS

Hope this lived up to the hype.

Chairman Sakayanagi, was just way too curious like ...Horikita and Chabashira.

He paid the price.

...Arisu, will enter soo.

THANK YOU

𝓢1𝓒8: 𝓐𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓱 𝓐𝓷𝓭 𝓒𝓵𝓾𝓫

Arisu POV:

When I heard my father's announcement, I was shocked. My father never calls a student to his office unless they are getting expelled or something drastic. I walked slowly out of the class to see who this boy is.

He was an ordinary boy at first sight, but I know better than to judge a person on first impressions.

Mashima Sensei came to class and taught us maths, but I was restless with questions. Immediately after the class got over went over to my father's office where the boy came out I hid behind the wall to avoid being seen.

He then spoke certain things I couldn't quite make sense of but I heard him call my name, did father tell him my name?

Who is he? Which class is he in?...so many questions but I have to calm this hereditary curiosity. My father always said that his curiosity was a double-edged sword.

I walked into my father's office when he suddenly enveloped me into a hug and I heard him crying for the first time after my mother's death. I felt my mind running haywire trying to figure out what this boy said to make my father so vulnerable.

He calmed down after a while," Arisu, please don't hate me. You are the only one I have, I have done many things to build this school. Things that haunt me, I tried my best to repay those moral debts by nurturing future leaders in this school. If you ever come to realise the truth, please forgive me."

"Save your tears for another day, father. I know what you are and I forgive you, I don't know what you did in your past. It doesn't matter"... it seems this boy has found father's weakness.

I am impressed, we will

Play soon Ayanokouji Kiyotaka

Hope you bring me some enjoyment in this barren school.

Ayanokouji's POV:

Looks like Sakayanagi's daughter has forgiven him. She seems to love him a lot... wonder what that feels like.

I saw Arisu behind the wall earlier, hope this brings in front of me an important rival and soon to be tool.

Don't disappoint me

As I walked back to the class with these thoughts running in my head, the class was in chaos at my entrance. They asked me questions in muddled voices which I want to provide an ultimatum to, "It was family matters, I don't want to discuss any further." and quickly signed Hirata, to which he nodded and said," Guys! I think we shouldn't meddle in someone's personal life."

The girls chanted their religious hymn" If Hirata-kun says so!" and the boys begrudgingly agreed.

I walked back to my seat ignoring Horikita's curious stare.

In the evening I was training in the gym when I meet a person and greeted him in English considering he is a foreigner," Hello!"

He turned around and looking surprised replied," Hello, I didn't know someone in this school knew English without an accent. I am Albert Yamada, it's a pleasure to meet you."

I replied back with a friendly tone," I am Kiyotaka Ayanokouji, Do you train here often?"

I decided not to share classes, since it may cause distrust.

He replied," Ya, I hope to meet you often then? Also are you the boy director called?"

I just nodded, to which he didn't ask any further questions.. .I like him. We carried out our respective exercises.

After completing he complimented," You do some really impressive exercises. Those superman-pushups were perfect."

I replied," Why thank you. You were also heavy lifting and have an extremely robust body."

We talked for a while and then we went our separate ways. As I walked back, I decided to form an insurance plan and buy a few cameras and recorders for future endeavours. It cost me quite a lot of points (30,000 pp).

I then went back to my room when I heard the announcement for the club meet and decided to visit it out of curiosity.

The SCP was a tall serious-looking boy with a piercing gaze along with his secretary who introduced themselves as Manabu Horikita and Akane Tachibana. He seemed to have an analytical gaze that narrowed down on me for a while, to which I remained apathetic.

What was interesting was the way Horikita was looking at him, same surnames...huh.

After his speech, we were allowed to visit the clubs, when I met the quiet girl from my class, Kokoro Inogashira, whose introduction was, to say the least terrible. I could have empathised with her, if I hadn't learnt faking, wondering if I could teach her that?

I slowly walked up in front of her, to not surprise her or make her feel threatened. We should never walk up from behind as it may often creep people out, whereas upfront gives a chance for both parties to be ready and leaves a chance for the uncomfortable party to leave.

(A.N: Personal observations, may be subject to opinions, what do you guys think?)

I ask in a soft voice," Hello, you are Inogashira right?"

She looked up nervously," Y-Y-Yes, and you-u are A-Ayanokouji r-right?"

I kept my gentle tone,"Yes, Are you planning on joining a club?"

She stuttered at the question," U-Umm, I-I-I" she kept avoiding eye contact, this is worse than I predicted.

I say," Take your time, it's alright to feel nervous when a random classmate walks up to you and bothers you."

She looked up wide-eyed," Thank y-you! I-I will be trying-g to j-join the debate club, to t-try to get rid-d of this n-n-nervousness. Y-you must be thinking this girl is too shy or dumb to join." with a self-deprecating tone.

I simply nodded and said," Who am I to judge, if you feel you want to do it go on...if we get nervous we often regret it on our deathbed. The fact that you are acknowledging your shortcomings and challenging them is worthy of admiration."

This is classical psychology, complimenting someone when they need it before removing the reason for stress, draws them to you and makes them dependent on you for validation in the future.

(AN: Based on personal experience, valid for debate)

She looked up concerned and thankful, "I never thought of it in that way. You m-mention d-death a lot."

I looked at her quietly and then left her to ponder on her own.

I saw the piano in the music club, I felt like playing it...

I go up to the music club senpai and ask him in a nervous tone, " S-Senpai, c-could I-I p-please try the piano but draw the curtains."

Senpai looked at me with bewilderment," I could but may I know why draw the curtains?"

I look down," It's because I am not comfortable playing the piano with so many people watching and I really yearn to play the piano."

He nodded and did as I asked, the crowd was obviously looking at this act strangely. Thankfully no one noticed me as I got onto the piano.

Thehard maple wood scent and the keys as they grazed my rough palms gave me nostalgia for the false hope I had of freedom while in the White room. Piano keys are like the good and bad of this world, I started playing slowly as I pressed the keys in perfect harmony, these keys codependent on each other make a beautiful symphony called life.

I started with a bright tone having higher harmonics...which then transitioned into a low s ad tone by using a lower tempo with minor harmonics and then it went on and on and on...till I switched to the lower octaves for the darkness in my life...and then I stopped...there was only silence vibrating in my ears. I then got up, left the stage and went back to hide in the crowd.

(AN: Never played the piano, used google and concerts)

I saw them talking among themselves

"Who was that?"

" So many emotions in one song"

" It's an original isn't it?"

"I can do better than him"

"Sure you can Yama-hahah" (AN: Pun)

Some of the girls were weeping...it was that sad?

I went back to my room. inserted the USB into my laptop and memorised all the info in it. Then I flushed the crushed USB.

Huh, this school...will be indeed exciting.

My phone beeped and I got a message from an unknown number, " Let's play chess, I will be waiting for you Ayanokouji."

I had a fair idea of who it was and sent a reply," I will mate you soon Arisu Sakayanagi."

(AN: don't get the wrong idea...hehe)

I then blocked the number and went to sleep.

- --AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

Arisu will be doing cameos, for now, she will play an important role in later arcs.

I will try to flesh out the side characters.

Some of the moves Kiyo made were made based completely on personal experience and It may be not at all relatable or completely relatable. (If you guys feel like it, share some of your thoughts on those parts, I want to know an outside perspective.)

Also, Kiyo knows every 1st-year class students secrets but the info is very vague.

For example Student #504: Ryueen: Napolean. (The reason is to avoid suspicion of the chairman if the info ever leaked)

Please vote and comment(If you enjoyed reading.)

Also if you can try to vote on other new stories of COTE authors as well, it makes us feel validated (at least for me...I am shallow...I know).

Thank You

𝓢1𝓒9: 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓣𝓾𝓻𝓷𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓟𝓸𝓲𝓷𝓽

AN: DON'T TAKE MY EDITING WITHOUT PERMISSION.

Ayanokouji's POV:

It's been a month since that incident, Director has kept his promise. I have been on friendly terms with Inogashira and was able to maintain my strange popularity as a depressed class clown.

Sakayanagi has for certain factors not been targeting me, I will have to investigate it soon.

The class was filled with tension and fear, today was the turning point for class D.

I sat down at my seat and Sae-sensei enters the room with a gloomy aura around her. She then looks at us like we are trash and says in a sadistic voice," Hello defects, you must be wondering on why you didn't obtain pp."

Ike yelled," Sensei, how dare you call us defects!!"

She smirked and opened a chart showing pp received by individual classes and as expected

Class D was at 0 points.

She then explained the reasoning behind this which broke the class into utter chaos.

Hirata argued about the unpredictable and visually unfair behaviour of school, beautifully countered by Sae-sensei. (AN: Read novel)

I then stood up and acted sad while asking," So sensei, is there any way we can gain our points back, please sensei I can't live without my supply of ice cream, I have almost no pp."

Some people snickered while others supported.

Karuizawa backed me up" Ya sensei, how will I buy my Dolcache and Gababana now."

What are those even?...

Sensei smirked at me with satisfaction," I don't know Ayanokouji, why don't you play those games of yours, maybe even invite me?"

She then callously continued belittling the students," Listen here you pathetic morons. You all are the worst defects of this school's history. Congrats, you guys achieved a record, how does it feel to be trash?"

She laughed harshly and continued," This class has made an utter mockery of itself. Even more so when truly talented individuals are hidden in sheep's clothing? Isn't that right Mr Ayanokouji?"

She is trying to expose me...let's see if she is successful in her endeavour.

Matsushita questioned," What do you mean, Chabashira-sensei? What does Ayanokouji-kun have to do with this?"

The whole class was paying close attention to her. I also didn't expect her to have such a direct approach... a minor miscalculation.

She then continued," The questions Ayanokouji asked were very valuable questions...if you imbeciles can't understand that much...forget Class A and I will soon welcome you all to Class E."

I looked at her with a fake ignorance," So sensei, are you suggesting that my jokes were good questions, how hilarious can you even be?"

She looked at me with a sense of pleasure," Oh! Maybe I have been mistaken but intentionally or unintentionally you asked really precise questions."

She then looked at the entire class with a grin spreading across her perfect face," If you want to even have a slight chance of reaching class A. Make sure Ayanokouji keeps making such lucky jokes."

She left almost everyone bewildered and silent.

Koenji broke the silence," It seems like Ayanokouji-boy has figured it out. Maybe you are indeed better than these insects, consider this a blessed day to be praised by a perfect being."

I spoke in a monotone voice," Do us a favour and jump off your cliff of ego."

Koenji ignored it and went back to combing his hair.

Then I looked at sensei and spoke," Sensei you are being delusional, maybe it's time you retired after all you will soon hit menopause."

I stopped to catch my words while my classmates giggled livening up this environment

I then said apathetically, " Coincidences can be freaky any those jokes were gathered from a youtube tutorial, want me to forward them to you. It will help you be a friendlier teacher."

She glared at me with so much hatred, it was interesting to watch. Her glare is so tantalizing.

She then ignored me entirely and said,

" Suffer defects."

Then she walked out of the class with a grin not reaching her eyes.

The class was distraught with rage and anger, Hirata failed miserably trying to handle the situation.

Soon in this commotion, an announcement came," Ayanokouji Kiyotaka please come to the staff room immediately."

I am experiencing an odd sense of deja-vu.

I then left the class without any delay and entered the staff room where oddly the cameras were inactive. I clicked a switch in my pocket.

Suddenly a teacher wrapped her arms around me. Her breath reeked of alcohol while she asked," Hey there, what's your name? I am Chie Hoshinomiya teacher of Class B."

I moved my head a bit away which was forcefully pulled by the teacher towards her, I replied mimicking cordiality," I am Kiyotaka Ayanokouji and Sae-sensei called me. So if you would please let me go."

She didn't pay any heed to my words and continued," Oh I didn't know Sae was interested in ordinary younger students. Ara ara~She is getting naughtier every day. Why don't you come with me..and tell me how your class is doing. I might just give you a reward." while biting her lip in a provocative manner.

Why is she blabbering such nonsense and trying to sexually tease me? she also seems to know Sae-sensei closely who doesn't seem like the type to make friends?

I looked at her pathetically and replied," I would really appreciate it if you could take your hand off me and I would rather not have a person like you near me who manipulatesstudents of other classes using sweet talk. I don't think that would sit well with the School policies..don't you agree?"

She had a slight look of panic quickly shadowed by a crooked smile," Oh! Come on Ayanokouji I was just messing with you. I am sure you wouldn't do that. Here how about we talk about this after lunch.. just you and me. " saying this she removed her shaking hand from my neck.

I then quickly grabbed her hand and pushed it on the wall, I then whispered into her ear," Follow my instructions and I won't file a report against you."

Hoshinomiya started showing her true colours and growled," How dare you blackmail a teacher. Do you have any idea about the consequences of your actions?"

I then let some of my darkness seep out and told," I am well aware I was molested by a teacher to whose advances I refused and she was clearly drunk at work. Not just that your lipstick mark was imprinted on my shirt when you pulled me. I also assume that the school doesn't condone teachers affecting student affairs. The cameras here are non-functional but my phone is recording every second of the conversation we are having, the choice is yours:

Follow my command or Get fired.

She will now realise the true predicament she is in. Her 'innocent' playful actions have taken a drastic turn which now gives me control over her entire career in my palms which can be crushed by me at any instant. I now have to control this blooming fear.

There is a slight chance this situation can turn over and I might have a bit of trouble, but taking her weak mental fortitude and her state of panic, it is highly unlikely she will be able to wriggle her way out of this.

She was shivering with fear and crying while mumbling," This can't be happening...no...no..no...stop it ...I don't deserve this...I can't let Sae win... No...NO...NEVER."

So it seems there is a bit of jealousy here, perfect.

I softened my gaze and said," It is a single order, then I will let you delete the recording. Hurry up time is ticking."

I have to act quick, anyone could open the staffroom door and it's over. I can't lock the door, as it might incriminate me.

Since a situation with a drunk teacher and student locked in a room doesn't paint me in the best light.

I have to let her know she is in ' control', I then let her go as she sits down on her chair and bring her some water to calm her down.

I then sit next to her and with a soothing voice, I gently say," You will be able to defeat her completely, she will be dancing on your hands. Don't you desire that? All you need to do is follow a simple order and it can be yours. NO consequences, only benefits for us."

She nodded with relief on her newfound 'control' and a slight glint of desire in her eyes.

I then whispered a specific set of instructions to her and I handed a device to her.

She was still staring at me in a daze as I heard the door of the staffroom door unlock.

Let's begin

--Author's note--

Dear Readers,

I always had a slight distrust towards Chie's character, her over flirtatious remarks and her cold war against Sae...was always something I wanted to dive in.

Kiyo is getting colder and more dangerous, he is starting a bigger game. For now, he is gathering tools and making small plays based on situations.

Tighten your seatbelts.

If you feel this is good, please vote and comment if you have any queries on plot or anything funny.

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓒10:𝓘𝓷𝓽𝓻𝓲𝓬𝓪𝓬𝔂 𝓞𝓯 𝓗𝓪𝓽𝓮

Chabashira's POV:

Ayanokouji is a true mystery. At first glance he seems to be a regular high schooler, enjoying his youth. This illusion he set up has its chinks and cracks showing it's imperfections.

His switch of attitude, those well-crafted questions are abnormal for a 15 year old to have.

On the first day, I couldn't answer any of those questions. Truly disheartening of a sight, when none of the defects was able to find out the true reasoning of those questions, even when I hinted at them of his worth in class. These morons are completely oblivious to these hints, how truly defective. What did I ever do to deserve this stroke of utter bad luck?

Did Ayanokouji truly just get lucky with those questions? Am I truly being delusional? This has never happened in the school's history where on the first day a student has figured the S system out to such an extent...how did he do it?

He is a defect after all...but what is it his grades, his jokes, his character?

Today as I was mocking the class, this brat stood up utterly humiliated me. The anger I felt at him could have risked my career. If the cameras caught me cursing in the class, my teaching license would be swiped away from me. Also, I can't let a potential chance of reaching class A slip out of my hands.

How dare that boy called me old, I am 27 for god's sake.

Just wait, I will teach this impudent boy his true place and use him to reach Class A if I find him worthy.

Thinking such thoughts as I opened the door of the staff room I saw Ayanokouji sitting next to Chie while she was just staring at him in a daze.

I immediately rush up to them and exclaim," Hey! Chie, Stop ogling my student and YOU, Ayanokouji follow me."

I then threaten him with expulsion and order him to stand behind the door, to which he agreed while I entered my office room."

Horikita soon arrived and started complaining about why she is doesn't deserve the title of a Defective. How naive can she be? This superiority complex of hers is utterly repulsive, yet I can still sense a strong belief and focus towards her desire to be in Class A. She may be useful to the Class after all.

I then called Ayanokouji into the room asked him," What do you think Horikita's defect is?"

He replied nonchalantly," How should I know and why should I care."

I then ordered him," Listen here Ayanokouji, reply to my question and I will remove her from your sight. Quite a good deal, isn't it? Or should I expose you even more in front of here?"

He took a deep sigh and turned to horikita and said in a monotone voice," Alright, Horikita your grades are excellent but that doesn't make you ideal. You have an extreme superiority complex, which makes you utterly delusional and ignorant of your surroundings, if you truly are capable then why didn't you figure out the S system. You are a defect like the rest of us."

Horikita glared at him while countering," How dare you Ayanokouji. Who are you to talk to me like I am on your level? You are average at everything so isn't it right for me to say I am superior to you in every manner? I deserve to be in class A, S-System was not figured out by Class A either so what makes you capable of such bold comments."

Ayanokouji yet again flawlessly replied," Horikita I am the jack of all trades, I may not be the best but I am average in everything. Which makes me superior to you in certain aspects which you have never heard of.

Tell me Horikita, would a company choose you, a meritorious student without the ability to properly communicate and always insulting or me an average student who can learn and is able to properly follow work ethics?"

She was noticeably stumped, I then stopped the situation from escalating," I hope you realise the reason for your placement. Now stop wasting my time and leave. Ayanokouji stays back."

She then went away with a red face full of anger, overemotional teens...how immature.

I then asked him," What was your reasoning behind those questions? Answer me honestly or else I will have to take drastic actions."

He again gave a vague answer," I don't know sensei, it was just a coincidence. This is becoming a bother, can't I just have been lucky with my jokes. You are just experiencing confirmation bias."

I nodded in agreement," Alright that may be true, then how did you ask me another of such questions today in the commotion of the class? Was that also a coincidence? Don't play games with me Ayanokouji...else I will make your school life hell. You do realise that I am your teacher and I have the capability to make a false claim to the director and expel you."

He then looked at me a drooping eyes, banged his hand on my desk.

Ayanokouji's POV:

The door creaked open while I continued my conversation in a pitiful tone," Sensei y-you can't do that, you are t-threatening me."

She made a slight grin pulling her cheek back in a condescending manner," I could very well do whatever I want. So tell me the answer quickly, were your questions intentional or not?"

Sigh...I am bored.

I looked at her with disinterest," So what if I did? Are you going to force me to work for class A?"

She then walked up to me and said," I won't force you but you should realise what I can do. 1 call and an accusation that you are suicidal, will lead to an investigation of the cameras. Your jokes will backfire on you, and you will be sent to a psychologist OUTSIDE SCHOOL."

Were my jokes really that bad?

I will have to end this soon.

I bowed to her," I understand sensei, now can I leave?"

She nodded with a gleam of sadism in her eyes," Hey, say sorry for the things you said in class, then you can leave."

I looked at her with a frown," I am sorry sensei, it was incredibly rude of me to insult you on your old age. Now can I leave?"

She started fuming...better leave.

I walked out of there with hurried steps and closed the door.

I then looked at the person behind the door and asked," Give me my phone back. I hope you followed my instructions."

She nodded with a smirk and handed me my phone, I took it and put it up against my ear,

" Don't take action until I say so."

I cut the call and kept my end of the deal to her by deleting the damaging evidence, she looked elated and said," Thank You Ayanokouji, I can finally get back on Sae."

So she was completely disinterested in the fact I could have gotten her arrested...and more excited that she was able to get rid of Sae-sensei...how deep does her competitive nature run?

I asked out of curiosity," Hoshinomiya, Why do you target Sae-sensei to such an extent?"

Her face distorted into a gloomy look with pain in her pink eyes," Ayanokouji, this is not rivalry but hate something stemming from a reason much deeper and complex...I won't be sharing such information here. How about I take you out and we can talk about it in detail." She looked at me expectantly.

This time it was pure...

This woman...

I sighed," Alright maybe in the future, I will give you a call when the time comes."

She nodded in understanding while giving me her number.

Before leaving I said some parting words, " Hatred is self-torture, only creating problems yet never solving one."

I then turned around and walked out with my hands in my pocket, I have to know the reason after all...

Our deepest desires give birth to the deadliest hate.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

Hoshinomiya, will in the future form a closer bond with him, it will be completely platonic, at least from Ayanokouji.

Sae will be a part of a bigger play

Things will get confusing.

Some of the chronological events are changed for plot purposes

The desk banging was to prevent the noise of the door opening to her ears.

if you enjoyed reading, please vote and comment if you feel any discrepancies regarding

the plots

Thank You

Certain questions(Comment pls)

1. Do you guys feel I am making Kiyo too vicious in his attacks?

2. Should I make Manabu also suffer?

3. Should I change the location of the 1st special exams?

These questions will help me shape my story in a better format, so If you can please drop your response.

𝓢1-𝓒11:𝓟𝓻𝓲𝓬𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓪 𝓶𝓪𝓼𝓴

AN: Pic is mine, use if given explicit permission,

WARNING: Very heavy chapter ahead. Please done skim read it.

Kushida's POV:

Ever since I entered this school I have been able to make so many friends! So many secrets, so much power, it's intoxicating.

But this b*chy Horikita just doesn't comply. It's so f*king frustrating ... UGHHHH!!!.

The moment I saw her on the bus, I started shaking, how did she get here.

I just can't escape my shitty past. I had one f*king chance in this school to start afresh. But No, this snob got into this school. Even in middle school all day this girl would f*k with books all day and never talked to anyone.

I have to find a way, I can never let her expose me.

I lost everything my friends, secrets, happiness.

I worked too hard to cover things up.

Lost everything... Not again... NOOOOOO!!!!! PLEASE NO!!

Just as predicted this b*ch made herself the ice queen in a matter of f*king seconds as stepped into this class.

Do my eyes deceive me????

That skank is talking to with brown hair joker in the back. I tried every single day to be her fucking friend in middle school and this guy literally in a day is talking to her like f*king old pals???

I have to know, I have to make her my friend...I have to get the secrets.. .Anyhow at all costs.

I ask him for help, I push my chest forward, chin up, hands held together.. just like always, to cutelyrequest him, I am sure this guy will also try to lewd me. This always works, dumbasses.

This apathetic fool, he f*king rejected me but he gave me some good advice at least..

How, did I do something wrong?? Is my body not good looking?? This virgin scum didn't look at my body once? Is he even a he??

The first month went by with me f*king begging her to be my friend and asking her to join me for coffee...it's one coffee, ugh I hate you so much Horikita why can't you just die!!

What I don't understand, why isn't she exposing me by now???

And that boy, he is involved in the strangest sh*t, first called by the chairman for some family drama and then accused by the sadist teacher?

Even after all that this guy has guts, he roasted the hell out of that b*ch teacher even though he was later called by the teacher to the staff room looks like he will get f*ked up.

How I wish I had my hands on that juicy information but whenever I tried to approach him he would just ignore me. BUT WHY??

I don't even know whether I should be happy or disappointed he doesn't ogle at me...I lose one of my power cards over this guy, but I feel a bit safe around him...maybe he can...NO FORGET IT, no one ever will.

This entire month was soo draining, and today was just unbearable. Their continuous wallows and complaints continue to ring in my ears. Their messages flood my phone screen. Some begging for points, others asking me to hang out to listen to them.

After I reached my room I sat down on my bed crying till the point I vomited in the washroom. Then I take out a small blade from a box under my bed and make a slit on my upper thigh littered with white lines,

"It's ok I am still human. I bleed red just like everyone, this blood isn't fake like me."

I lay down here where I am all alone in this red sea of sorrow in a silenced scream.

I look at my thigh with disgust, at the words carved into it LOSER in thin faint lines. There is no beauty in scars, they don't make you stronger...they just show your weakness.

The world doesn't work as movies do.

It never gets easy, I have been doing this for the last 3 years, it just never does.

I can't even vent due to the risk of people hearing. So I scream in my pillow hoping it will stop the sound from reaching unwanted ears.

Everyone continuously barking like dogs around me, boys ogling my body. Listening to everyone's rants...AND ALL I DO IS GIVE THEM A SMILE, SMILE SMILE, no other emotion is acceptable. I pull my cheeks in the mirror till they become bright red throbbing with pain.

SMILE SMILE...please.

This ugliness of mine only a mirror can see, even my own mother, MY F*KING MOTHER was disgusted by me the one who is supposed to accept you. She sent me to a psychologist, who just said this is what teenage years does to everyone.

DOES EVERYONE suffer this much?

DOES EVERYONE always wake up with a wet pillow?

DOES EVERYONE vomit every day out of disgust?

DOES EVERYONE hyperventilate till they have no breath left?

IS everyone as useless as me?

What a joke...everyone is good at something, I am just good at hiding everything behind a smile...I am just a clown, weeping on the inside finding pleasure in people's secrets.

These secrets fuel my self-worth. It is what keeps me breathing.

People trusting me gives me happiness and makes me believe I matter.

I lose in sports, I lose in studies but there is no way in f*king hell will I let anyone take this away from me.

I am the best in this, I will destroy anyone who gets in the way.

Horkita...you just wait and see.

If I show my true self, people will judge me, scrutinise me, hate me. When all these wretched souls themselves are wearing a mask but ostracise me.

They do it unknowingly, I do it knowingly. That's all the difference is.

I do it to survive, why do you people watching and mocking me behind your screen do so?

I have to keep on trying, it's the only thing I can do, I am worthless otherwise.

I don't belong in this world if I can't even do one single thing properly.

I can't get exposed this time.

This is the price I pay for the mask I wear.

I am never alone, yet I am lonely

...what an irony of this wretched

fate I engraved in my life.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers

I was inspired by@Debankle

To try and make a Kushida POV

For me, Kushida is a type 2 narcissist (unlike koenji who has self-love, she has self-hate.)

I have no idea about these feelings I wrote, I tried my best to imagine what it feels like and used various google experiences to jot this down. I am sorry if this is not what it actually feels like.

If I did any mistakes please tell me

The 4th wall breaks help me add reader connection.

If you liked this, please vote and comment.

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓒12:𝓥𝓲𝓸𝓵𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓬𝓾𝓹 𝓸𝓯 𝓑𝓮𝓮𝓻 𝓐𝓼𝓼𝓮𝓼𝓼𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽

AN: The title may seem weird but it includes all parts of today's chapter

WARNING: Long Chapter ahead.

Ayanokouji's POV:

Good Morning Ayanokouji-kun."

Horikita seems to change her mannerisms. It seems like she realised a bit of what I said.

"Good Morning Horikita"

Sae-sensei walked into the class and announced a non-marked surprise test.

I raised my hand and asked in a joking manner," So sensei is possible to maybe skip the test? I don't feel like writing it."

Everyone looked at me with widened eyes.

She simply said," Even if that is true, I would advise you all to write this test properly."

I simply nodded and sat on my seat, the test started and I thought of all the answers. I should get 50 this time since previously the Chairman noticed the sequence I used, this should be apt.

I noticed something interesting, most of the questions seemed relatively simple, but a few of them were disguised as simple questions but a simple word change made it complex, especially the last 2 questions which are included in 5 mark questions along with 2 long questions.

I wonder how many of them will be able to solve it.

I could probably solve the easy questions and leave the tricky ones but it might raise suspicion, as to why I left those questions since they looked easier compared to the previous questions.

If Sae-sensei checks the papers she will then immediately realise that I was faking my idiocracy and increase her expectations further.

I am not like Horikita or Keisei, who both excel in academics according to the school

I looked at her, and she smirked back at me with a gleam of pride in her.

Seems like I know who set this question paper.

I could attempt the 2 tricky and answer wrong, if I do so it might avert the issue but my overall score would be reduced to an extent to which I may be considered a liability to the class.

I will have to attempt all the sections which increase the complexity of the issue.

There is a loophole to this, I could answer 1 long and 1 tricky question correct.

There is an issue though if I just make a conceptual error in any other question, it could question the legitimacy of my ability to solve the tricky question which includes the concepts of all the other questions.

So I probably have to make a lot of silly mistakes, which could then question my ability to solve the long question as it has a lot of steps and the chances of error are high.

Sae-sensei has set this question paper to trap me completely it seems.

Now there is only one method I can follow, I have to make mistakes that seem to be conceptual errors but are silly.

For example in question 25, I could make a silly mistake in the theorem and carry out the steps as if I know the correct theorem then make an error in the last 2 steps and the answer, in particular.

This will confuse Sae-sensei whether I intentionally made an error or not.

The questions skipped have to also be well monitored.

I have to attempt the number of questions in descending format, alongside choosing questions that are related to the 1st tricky question but not the 2nd tricky question.

For assuring the legitimacy of the long question, I have to make sure my silly mistakes are mixed with conceptual mistakes in the same question.

This should completely avert the risk of detection by sensei.

After completing the paper in this format, I still had 30 min remaining in which I acted as if I was cross-checking the paper, during this, I was observing the other students.

I then noticed something odd, Matsushita was cancelling many of the answers which are probably due to an act of appearing average as suffering from a similar problem but at least she didn't have a looming threat over her head.

The reasoning for that will have to be investigated by me at a future date.

Horikita on the other hand was answering all the questions without stopping until she reached the last 2 questions.

I presume she caught on to the tricks used by Sae-sensei but regardless of whether she answers those answers correctly or not it won't cause any issues.

As for Sudo, Ike and Yamauchi, their facial expressions dictate utter confusion and stress. I think it is safe to predict they will be in the lower half of the scoreboard.

My train of thought was stopped by the loud sound of the bell. I walked to sensei and gave her my paper, when she asked with an aura of victory oozing from her," Was it an interesting paper?"

I simply shrugged my shoulders and said quietly," I have no idea."

I swiftly left the class to avoid follow-up questions.

Timeskip-2 days:

My classmates were chattering as usual, while I was talking to Mori and Inogashira, they seem to have gotten closer to me since I was according to Mori, a good listener and Inogashira, an understanding person...which even though I disagree with, I chose to keep quiet on it.

I heard tapping coming from the door to the teacher's desk.

*BANG* *BANG*

It looks like the class went silent and scurried back to their seats. She then unrolled a paper in her hand and attached it to the blackboard, it seems our results are released.

I got 50 as expected, Horikita got 2nd(90) whereas Koenji(95) was 1st, it's good that he can back his enormous ego with actual effort.

Even if he is an extreme narcissist it's clear he did work hard for what he achieved.

She was stumped that Koenji got higher than her, I hope this humbles her and makes her a better human...I am getting better at jokes.

Again, I was right that the infamous 3 idiots of the class failed with a pink hair glasses girl, Airi Sakura.

When she looked at me her face changed from a look of calmness to a feeling of utter disappointment.

It was inevitable, she had no more grounds to suspect me on, academically at least.

Hirata spoke," I think we should set up study groups with the teachers as the smart students of the class."

Horikita surprisingly agreed," I think that's alright. Especially the 3 idiots over there."

More students agreed but it seems like some of the students including the 3 idiots revolted.

Yamauchi said with anger," How dare you call me an idiot, I was just not prepared for the surprise test, I am actually super smart. I was even called by Harvardl University to skip classes and join them."

I couldn't control myself and said," I didn't know Harvardl had a shortage of toilets."

The class started laughing and Yamauchi was the definition of a living rotten beetroot.

He screamed," F*k you Ayanokouji!!" and rushed at me.

He was extremely slow, as he was screaming and rushing I had more than enough time to accidentally drop my pen and turn my chair at an angle.

Let's just say, he got a bleeding head and a broken nose, as he was taken to the nurse's office.

It also seems like everyone was shocked at the scrimmage.

Kushida asked in her concerned voice," Ayanokouji-kun, are you okay? One moment Yamauchi was charging at you and the next he was on the ground. Were you hurt?"

I said gently," I am fine Kushida thanks for your concern. I appreciate it."

Huh, it's been a while since I talked to her. As far as I remember she failed to bring along Horikita to the cafe. If she is planning to be her 'friend'.

I guess I might give her a hand, as I want to see what Horikita will do In a forced situation, which will be advantageous in a future scenario...

I also can confirm that Kushida isn't as smart as I estimated, she couldn't take any other approach except pleading to her.

It shows that she has practised only pleading and acting kindly, nothing more... what a waste of social power.

All is not lost, I will be able to first hand witness her communication skills and hopefully be able to mimic them.

While thinking so, other students also joined in with their supposed care for me.

Sudo exclaimed," I am so sorry Ayanokouji, that Yamauchi is just hot-headed."

Ironical..Dont'cha think

True concern was shown by certain individuals like Mori, Inogashira and obviously Hirata.

What feels strange is why, Hirata's name in the USB drive was alongside the alias, Remorseful tyrant.

This little scrimmage gave me a vague visual of people's internal moral compass and their views towards me.

Even Horikita joined in," Are you okay?" her tone was of genuine concern, uncharacteristic of her.

I replied in a slightly playful tone, "When did you start to care, regardless thank you for your concern."

She then looked a bit panicked as she quickly rejected the notion," I just didn't want to see your deformed face when he would have punched you."

I continued speaking in a monotone voice," Hey Horikita, could you accompany me to the Pallet cafe?"

She looked at me incredulously, and said in a wary tone," Why? Are you asking me on a date?"

I rejected it and said," I just want to visit the cafe but due to the high ratio of girls it's very uncomfortable since you are one of the few people I know. I thought of asking you."

She then put her hand on her chin and gave it a thought...she looked cute.

She then nodded and said," I will do so if you eat lunch with me tomorrow. Don't worry it's on me."

I looked at her a bit shocked but agreed quickly.

After classes get over, I walk over to Kushida who was talking to Karuizawa's clique.

I tapped her shoulder to which she shivered. As a popular girl, shouldn't she be used to touches? Maybe I am being too judgemental.

She turned around and asked in a cheerful tone," Hello! Ayanokouji-kun, Do you need anything from me? If so I would love to help!

I nodded my head and asked," Could we talk in private?"

She nodded started to follow along when Karuizawa halted her and asked me," Do you mind telling us..like where you are taking her... like we don't know whatcha gonna do with her?"

She didn't try to verbally abuse me this time... before accusing me, is this an improvement from the previous encounter, maybe she is just wary of me.

I said in an amicable tone," I think, even if I wanted to, I won't be able to put a finger on her. So don't worry."

I then started walking, yet again to be stopped by a brown hair girl, Satou Maya, "So you are saying you don't find her hot? Damm, Ayanokouji-kun what's wrong with you?"

I looked at her and replied," Just because a person is attractive, doesn't equate to me trying to do drastic actions to her.

Isn't it you two, who were insinuating such bold accusations on someone wanting to talk to her, just because I want to talk to her?

Isn't that being overly judgemental for someone you are barely acquainted with?"

I stopped talking, looking at their shocked faces, it seems I went on a rant.

I quickly apologised and signed Kushida to follow me outside. After we went outside the class I spoke," Today at 6 pm, Pallet cafe. Be Ready for Horikita."

I then went back to class without further involvement in the conversation, leaving a dazed Kushida alone.

The day passed by as usual. When the school ended, Karuizawa and Satou came along and apologised even if it was forced, especially for Karuizawa...yet there was a slight glint of remorse. I accepted their apology in a friendly tone and ushered Horikita to take me to Pallet cafe.

As we walked into the cafe, I noticed some girls staring at me and Horikita. Considering, my facial features are quite ordinary there should be no reason to do so unless...

I started grasping Kushida's plan, which would be successful but she failed to account for Horikita's instinct.

I then ordered a cup of coffee and sat down with Horikita. I then tried to fix Kushida's plan.

I told Horikita," What are you planning for the midterms? Any ideas about the study group?"

She responded," This is surprising, that you are interested in studies. Your grades don't reflect that, how unfortunate. As for the response to your question. I plan to force the 3 idiots to join a study group with me."

I then asked," How do you plan on doing that?"

She looked at me with a devious grin," You will see my plan soon."

I nodded taking account of the sinister smile, then I spoke," Don't you think asking a person with a strong social pull be beneficial for this task?"

She looked at it and gave it a slight thought," It would but I seem to be lacking in that area. I can't ask any of those chicks to be my pawns." She said the last part in a whisper.

It seems I am going to be the one to be her pawn.

I don't want to bother with Horikita's misadventures in this matter, I will have to transfer this matter soon.

Then I cued the entry of Kushida, to which the girls in the background got up quickly and then a faint scent of lemon invaded my nostrils as Kushida sat down with a plop and exclaimed," Hey! Ayanokouji-kun and Horikita-san. What a coincidence; mind if I join you?"

Horkita immediately got up and said," I am leaving. I don't have time for talking."

It seems I had successfully diverted her attention from the background and prevented her from noticing the original plan Kushida concocted by using midterms as bait, yet it seems that's not enough to subdue this stubborn girl.

Thinking so, I quickly grabbed her hand and pulled her close to me. Then I whispered in her ear,

" Listen up, Kushida can be used as your pawn for the midterms.

Just one cup of coffee and all your problems will be solved.

Just leave your personal feelings behind just this once and think about the long term benefits of this one conversation."

She seemed to be flustered by this interaction and glared at me sharply.

She then paused and looked at Kushida who seemed to have inherited puppy eyes.

She then sighed and sat down.

Kushida looked at me, with a tinge of thankfulness which seemed quite genuine. She then said,

"This is perfect, Could you please be my friends Ayanokouji-kun and Horikita-san."

She begrudgingly said," Only if you bring Sudo, Ike and Yamauchi to the study group will I even consider this offer."

I simply nodded at Kushida, who skillfully understood my gaze.

She then turned to Horikita and smiled," Of course Horikita-san that's what friends are for. I will ask them, I am sure they will accept my request but in return, I want to join the group too."

Horikita looked at me with a glare that could have killed a normal human.

Horikita was going to reject her but I quickly gripped her silky arm to prevent her from making this folly. She looked confused but decided to accept this proposal.

Kushida then requested for both of our numbers to which Horikita agreed and gave but warned,

" Never call me, unless it is absolutely necessary."

I simply exchanged my number with Kushida without question, which Horikita looked at with a tinge of jealousy??...as she poked me and said," Hey Ayanokouki, you too call me only if necessary."

She then took the paper with her phone number on it and shoved it in my hands... but I never asked...

They then talked... well mostly Kushida

I drank a few cups of coffee while trying to remember Kushida's voice patterns and mannerisms.

We then went our respective ways. I then went to the gym and worked out with Albert.

After the workout, I left the place to suddenly feel a vibration in my pocket, to which I then responded with," Who is this?"

The voice at the other end replied in a smugness," Fufu, forgot me so soon, you wound this poor maiden's heart."

Didn't I block her...

I asked," Sakayanagi, didn't I block you?"

To which she fufu'ed harder... creepy loli.

She then replied," I am still the headmaster's daughter. Give me a chess match and I will leave your class alone for a while, consider it a wait for the inevitable crush of you and your class."

I prodded," Why chess specifically? and isn't your class in a civil war?"

The line went silent...

A flashback-1 week back:

I was at the Keyaki mall buying supplies, where I noticed a violet hair girl, shoplifting.

I walked up to her with a button press in my phone, I appeared in front of her from behind an aisle.

To which she immediately jumped back and looked at me with shock.

Her hand holding the beer bottle started to tremble. Her pupils tapered as she spoke in a rough voice with a trembling undertone," What are you going to do now, huh? Snitch on me? Go ahead, I dare you to, creep."

As she was blabbering this nonsense I got a chance to think...are every single girl in this school models...no wait...there is Shinohara.

Then again...I can't judge a person based on look...but... all their personalities are ugly.

Yet at least they are not like me,

A HORRIBLE HUMAN BEING

I replied," Nothing of that sort. I will just report this to the Student Council and they will handle the rest." ...as I took my phone out and showed the phone recording.

I know that SC is a powerful body in this school. If I reported it to the store clerk, at most they would ban her from here.

I continued," If you don't wish to experience expulsion, I think you would want to hear me out."

She kept the beer bottle back and nodded. I then asked," Which class are you in and what is your name?... Also, don't lie..consequences may be severe."

She said in a low tone," Kamuro Masumi, Class A"

She was still shivering and had goosebumps on her hands. I took her hand and pulled her out of the mall. I then went to the nearest vending machine and offered her a can of coffee.

She looked at me with distrust. I just shrugged and said," Drink up, you are shivering with fear."

She widened her eyes and then glared as she got up," Whatever, it's just my nerves! It has nothing to do with you. Got that."

Then she snatched the can of coffee and sat back down. I sat beside her and drank from my can. After a while, she asked," What do you need me to do?"

She is quite forwards, much easier to deal with.

I replied," Do what you normally do. Don't change, if changes happen around you inform me. Misinformation will lead you out of school and straight to juvenile court."

She nodded, I continued," Give me your phone."

She held her phone close to her chest as she said in dismay," What do you need my phone for perv."

I sighed deeply," GIVE ME, I won't repeat."

She grunted and shoved it in my hands.

I said," Drink your coffee before it gets cold."

She nodded and said," Oye, hurry up!! Ugh...why did I get stuck with this creep."

I quickly typed my phone number and when she put the can up to her face to drink I quickly implanted a certain amount of data.

Flashback end

Ayanokouji's POV:

There is a chance she might figure out who is the mole but in the class internal battle it will be a challenge.

Sakayanagi soon broke out of her current dilemma on how that piece of information has leaked. She then spoke," Fufu, Ayanokouji-kun you don't fail to amaze me.

You are right, for now, I can't focus on you. I will have fun with you soon.

hence I request you a chess game then, if you can it will be worth your time. Also, call me Arisu...Kiyotaka"

I didn't see a problem and complied," All right Arisu, I will inform you of the timings."

Arisu then exclaimed," This time don't block my number, it was a hassle to get it."

I spoke in a bored tone," All right Arisu, have a good night."

Arisu replied," Fufu, you too Kiyotaka."

I walked back to my room and went to bed, exhausted.

11 PM

11:15PM

11:30PM

11:45PM

12PM

...It seems I shouldn't have drunk those 5 cups of coffee.

I left my room to go to the vending machine outside the dorms to buy a can of milk.

The milk was cold, this should help me sleep.

I heard faint noises in the corner peeped. My eyes widened, the shared surnames wasn't a coincidence after all.

I pulled out my phone and started recording while sipping my tasty can of milk.

Horikita said," Nii-san, I will reach Class A. It's not my fault class D is behind. It's my dumb classmates."

SCP said," This is the reason why you should forget Class A, you are just a pathetic kid blaming everyone but yourself."

Then the SCP pushed her to the wall and said,

" YOU ARE A TRUE FAILURE, JUST A LOSER ."

SCP continued his barrage of insults," Because of giving birth to you Mom died. You should not even exist, you ungrateful mistake."

Horikita was bawling her eyes out while saying," I-I-I k-know t-that's why I-i am trying everything I c-can to reach-h c-class A. I will p-prove to you I w-was n-not a m-mis-stake."

I can see now why the USB commented, Suzune Horikita: Tenacious Failure.

I have enough evidence, I swiftly ran over to them with my milk in my left hand and held SCP's robust hand which he would have driven into Horikita.

SCP said," Let me go."

I replied apathetically," Leave her."

Horkita said between sniffles, "Please, please let him go."

I let his hand go to which he brought his hand to my face with extreme velocity. Thankfully I dodged it by shifting my head back and throwing the milk at his face, which covered his glasses.

With his left leg, he tried to kick my solar plexus but since he was momentarily blind.

I countered with a light blow at the base of his calf and quickly shifted behind him as he fell and put my leg below him as I crouched, twisting my hands held his head in a lock to save him from the fall but managing to hit his spine at the same time.

He screamed in agony, it has to hurt after all I attacked the pressure points.

I whispered into his ear," Your position as SCP and as a human is in danger, be careful."

It seems he caught on to his precarious situation and nodded. I let him go as he got up. I then took out a tissue from my pocket and nudged him," Wipe your glasses, it must be hard to see."

He looked at me with an unreadable expression as he took it and wiped his glasses while talking," You are an amazing fighter, what did you learn?"

I replied in one word," Biology."

He simply nodded and probed further," You are Ayanokouji, the boy Director had called, if I may ask what was the reason?"

I lied again," Family Matters."

He continued but with a glare," Let's talk at the SC office tomorrow at 10 am about what you whispered."

I nodded as the crying horikita now calmed was focusing on our conversation.

He then left as I picked up Horikita from the ground and made her sit down on the benches next to the vending machine.

It seems she is still crying, so tiresome.

I walked over to her and took a tissue and wiped below her red clouded eyes and gave it to her,

" Here is your pain."

She then stopped weeping after a while and asked," My Nii-san is a karate black belt. How did you defeat him? I didn't even see the fight properly...since I was crying."

I said in a gentle tone," As I told you before and I also learnt piano and calligraphy."

She glared even at this pathetic state.

I continued," It's ok to cry, it releases oxytocin and endogenous opioids .If you are ashamed of crying, then you are just shackled by societies constricted views."

She replied," Don't need to tell, I already know. I feel good after I cry it helps calm my mind...so don't tell me what to do and what not to do, anyways I am leaving."

I held her hand for the second time today, this time it was...softer to touch.

I asked her," Do you really feel you can reach Class A?"

She looked at me with a determined look," I will if I fail. I will try. Till the end of these 3 years, I will reach class A, no matter what. I will remove the black mark on my name."

I looked at her, with a hint of admiration. Even if she is a very irritating, pretentious person... .her will is commendable.

In the white room, she would probably die early but I think she would be recognised for her willpower.

I decided to give her a reward in return for showing above-average willpower...

I said with a sigh," Tell me, what will you do if the study group goes wrong? You do realise the school has consequences if a student is expelled."

She calmly nodded and said,

" I will just bring them together again if it fails again.

I will write personalised notes for them. I will do my best to make them pass.

These idiots are baggage to me and the class but still they are worth class points, I can't let them get expelled."

I asked one last question," Do you really think they are useless other than class points?"

She nodded immediately," They are trash for me."

I explained," Horikita, remember what I told you in the class, humans are unique. They can be better at things you are not. Tell me, who would win you or Sudo in basketball?"

She was silent

I barraged on," Who could communicate better you or like?"

As for Yamauchi... I ignored it.

I continued in a monotone, "No human is perfect, flaws give us a reason to live. Just because you are academically better it would never equate to being a better human.

If you forget this fact, then let me advise you. FORGET CLASS A. Your narrow-minded nature will be your demise.

No one cares if you work hard or smart. What matters is the results. if you think others are pathetic look at yourself in the mirror.

I see a weak girl crying because her Nii-san made some baseless accusations and Just because she was born, she considers herself a mistake. Such an idiotic assumption. Utterly revolting. "

I didn't give her a chance to speak.

I went towards her pulled her by her neck and shoved her towards the vending machine,

" I see a studious, hardworking, persevering, crying, b*chy, uncooperative, narcissist, annoying, arrogant, pretty classmate.

Nothing else. In this school, your past won't help you. It will drag you down. Let it get hold of you, and no one will save you from utter despair."

Saying so I let her go. It seems I said too much. I stayed quiet and let her cry for a while.If we wait longer she might catch a cold.

I tried to shake her from her crying cycles. It looks like it won't work.

So I removed my hoodie and covered it on her, then left.

Let's see what she is willing to truly do.

PROVE TO ME YOUR WORTH, MY FIRST TOOL

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Here is the basic format of Kiyo answering the exam

Dear Readers,

Did you enjoy long chapters or my want me to revert back to short ones?

Kamuro will have an arc later.

If You noticed any plot inconsistencies, lemme know

No one is super dumb in this fic...except certain char.

Also if you enjoyed reading, pls vote and comment if any plot discrepancies or queries..

Thank You

QUESTIONS

Dear Readers,

1. Should I make a Horikita POV on what happened afterwards...with depressive stuff like Kushida?

2. Do you guys want long chapters or short chapters?

3. Should I include more...romantic..gestures(Hand holding, gestures to classmates)? Ofc there will still be a lot of vicious things Kiyo will do(humiliation, roasting, violence, manipulation etc..)

4. Should I continue making characters smarter, like Sae-sensei in that chapter?

Please respond, it helps me plan out my chapter. Or else I get kinda nervous when I post a chapter, as I tend to experiment... a lot ...

So ya...umm...

NO SHIPS FOR NOW...as I will experiment with this too...

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓒13:𝓑𝓻𝓸𝓴𝓮𝓷 𝓫𝓸𝓷𝓭𝓼, 𝓢𝓱𝓪𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓮𝓭 𝓓𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓶𝓼

Warning: Dark chapter ahead.If you can't deal with Kushida ch, I advise you to not read this...lol I think it's worse.

Horikita's POV:

So Cold

So Alone

So very lost

I am sitting here talking to the moon and the faint stars.

This hoodie Ayanokouji-kun gave me is the only source of warmth on this lonely night.

I walk back slowly dragging my feet and opening my room door I drop on the be, utterly exhausted.

I force every step to the washroom. My face looks so hideous from the mascara lines running down my tear-stained face.

Splash* *Splash*

This cleared up my face, maybe one day it can clear my ugly heart one day.

I drop down on my bed utterly exhausted from today. As I toss around my uncomfortable bed, I get these vague flashbacks of my disgusting self, all those pretentious things I did, the rudeness, those old wounds.

My failures...my unachievable dream...

I slowly drop into slumber in this dreadful night

FLASHBACK-10 years back(5 yr old Suzune)

"Suzune, let's play catch"

"Alright, Nii-san."

Nii-san is the best. He always plays catch with me. He brushes my teeth, combs my hair.

"Suzune, you have long shiny black hair. It looks good on you."

My mother had long black hair...

Whenever I missed Daddy, he tucks me to bed.

"Nii-san, can I ask you something?"

"What is it Suzune, ask quickly it's almost bedtime."

"Why doesn't Papa come home. I never see Papa, I miss him!!"

I hugged him weeping.

He comes back home very late at night and leaves early. Papa never talks to me but only to Nii-san.

I want to be a good girl too, I want hugs from Papa too.

I also know Mama died, when I come out of Mama.

IT'S NOT FAIR. I WANT MAMA. I WANT PAPA...

He patted my head and said," There-There, Papa works extremely hard for us, you know that right?"

But he was lying... whenever he lies, he touches his hair.

I simply nodded. I am a big girl I am 5 years old.

I can't cry, I can't be a burden more than I already am.

But I want to know...even though Nii-san said me to never mention Mama...

"Do you miss Papa and...Mama?"

He looked at me with those scary eyes whenever I mention her. He looks at me like I am a monster in the Fairy tales.

He never says anything about Mama, I want to know more about her.

He closed his eyes for a while...after that, I heard a sniffle.

"It's nothing, go to bed."

He banged my bedroom door and left. The whole night I was awake tightly gripping my bedsheet hearing screaming and crying from my brother's room.

He didn't look at me with that same kindness again...

I lost him...my sweet Nii-san.

That night, Daddy brought home, someone, I didn't know.

Flashback end

Flashback- 8 years back(7 yr old suzune)

New Mama is not nice, she beats Nii-san when Papa is not home. One day she tried to beat me too but...

" You touch Suzune and I will tell father about your affair. I will expose you."

She screamed, "Shut up f*ker is this what your father taught you!!! You 2 are disgusting leeches in this house. That is to be expected when all he thinks of is that swine who gave birth to this mistake of a pest."

She continued," Your f*king father is a useless pawn for me, he is nothing but a piggy bank. You f*ker will expose me...huh.I will show you what hell feels like."

What's an affair?

Nii-san stops her. She beat him back a lot, he had so many bruises on his body.

His deformed face from the punches...

(AN: Connected line to prev chapter...may signify something...)

His swollen eyes...

His bruised lips...

His broken heart...

His love turned to hatred...

I HATTTTEEEEEE HERRR !!!

If I try to stop her, she glares at me scarily.

I never tried to stop her, I was so scared of her glare.

I know, I will learn to glare back, then I can scare her away, then Nii-san will not be hurt.

After that day, I never saw the new Mama again.

From that day, my papa started drinking something red from a big bottle. He also stopped coming home.

Nii-san became even quieter and started learning something called Karate. I think it's about fighting. He wears these white uniform when he goes there, he looks so cool.

Maybe...

"Nii-san can I also come."

He said coldly, " NO"

I went back to my room crying.

Why is he so mean like daddy?

.

.

.

.

"Nii-san, look-look I got first place in school exams. Can I get a hug?"

"Later Suzune, I am busy."

I look down, walk to my room and shut my door.

I look at the report card. I crush it with my hands.

I cup my hands to my face and cry.

"W-why a-am I-I c-crying? This has been happening for the last 2 years...I-I never get h-hugs nor b-bedtime kisses.."

He has been so aloof and always in his room studying.

His grades have improved a lot, he has even been selected as head of his class... he looks soo cool.

Maybe if I am like him, my old Nii-san will come back...

Yes, I will be the best in the school...you just wait for me Nii-san.

I will give you a big hug, just wait...

Flashback end

Flashback-3 years back(12 yr old Suzune)

I failed...

Nii-san became the Student President of my school. He became a black belt 5th-Dan in karate and a 4th-Dan in aikido.

I stopped talking to everyone. I don't care, I have to make sacrifices to stay focused.

I was rude, I didn't want anyone to get close to me... after all, I hurt those closest to me.

I aced my exams and became a star student.

Nii-san didn't care

I was first in all extracurricular activities. I even started learning Karate.

Nii-san didn't CARE.

I even kept my long hair, I don't like it but I did.

Nii-san DOESN'T CARE.

I learnt to cook food. I always cook him food before going to school.

One day I saw him throwing the food in the trash outside school.

NII-SAN DOESN'T CAREEEEE!!! HE NEVER DOES!

Nii-san left to ANHS...he left me...all alone...no friends, no brother... no one

Flashback end

I woke up dripping with sweat. My body was shaking.

I went to the bathroom and washed my face. I then sat down on my chair.

Maybe I should study for a while, that will help me sleep.

...

...

..

.

*Clank*

I threw the pencil across the room. This is not working, I am getting so many thoughts.

Instead of my brother this time, it's Ayanokouji-kun.

The way he defeated my brother so fast. I couldn't see properly but the way he held my brother in a headlock and a knee slam.

The position and the attack were completely unnatural, I have never seen any move so dangerous and quick in my life.

I never heard my brother lose...yet to an average boy..how??

The height difference between my Nii-san and him was also significant yet...

Maybe he just got lucky...ya that's what must have happened...there is no way my Nii-san can lose to someone.

What about the things he said...the way he scolded me like I am a little girl. The way he argued with me. The way he shoved me and dragged me by my neck...

How dare he...

The things he said... were right. I have to learn, if I don't I will fail Nii-san again...

I don't want to fail anymore...

I am not a mistake...

I went back to bed, this time with a hoodie covering me in my slumber.

--Author's note--

GOODBYE

this is my last night on wattpad :)

It was fun.

I learnt a lot from authors

This was an experiment to be honest

I came here to improve my writing skills

I achieved that

Have a good one!!

I AM BACKKKKK

Lol, basically I lied in the last ch about the reason

I had to go the psychologist, who advised...

I was supposed to be in the hospital for a very long time

...I was super sad...so I simply deleted wattpad since I didn't feel like writing...

...Turns out it wasn't a right diagnosis...

So I am back...and mentally happy enough to write again

It's very vague...but just know I am back

𝓢1-𝓒15:𝓟𝓸𝔀𝓮𝓻?

Ayanokouji's POV:

"G-Good Morning"

Horikita is acting nervous today.

It seems I have made her face reality a bit too ruthlessly yesterday. If what I planned works out, this will be a good asset for the class.

If not

I WILL DISPOSE OF HER

Thinking so I replied politely," Good Morning Horikita." as I sat on my seat looking out of the window.

Why am I doing this? Is it because I want to reach Class A?

Is it because I want to create someone strong enough to defeat the Masterpiece and destroy the Demon's ideology?

Is it even worth losing after the Demon is dead?

Regardless, I will win either way.

Classes soon got over and I headed towards the SC room.

As I went inside with a slight knock I bumped into secretary Tachibana.

I bowed and apologised with slight regret," I am so sorry. I was not paying attention."

She replied in a hurried tone," No. No! It's fine I was also equally at fault.

Anyways, May I know the purpose of a kouhai visiting the Student Council Office?

If you are here for the post of the Secretary, I am sorry to inform you about it's unavailability."

I shook my head and said, " No, The SCP called me and said to be here at sharp 10 am."

I flicked my wrist and showed her the time in a matter-of-fact manner.

She stood shocked," Oh! What would The SCP want with a kouhai?"

She then calmed herself down and replied," All right stand here, the SCP will come back soon."

After she left I walked around the room, It was a clean and well-organised room.

The SCP's desk looked a stunning fit for the royalty.

This is what Power gives you, must be nice...

I wonder what he sacrificed for this...

My thoughts were broken by the opening of the door. I quickly turned my neck to be greeted by the smirking SCP.

He walked and sat on his chair and ushered me to a seat in front of him. Secretary Tachibana soon entered to whom he ordered

"Close the door behind you, Tachibana"

She followed his instructions and asked

"President, why is this Kouhai here?"

"Tachibana, Whatever happens between me and Ayanokouji here doesn't reach any ears...Do you understand?"

"A-alright President...Wait this is the kouhai the Director called the other day...Is he a delinquent?"

Why are they talking like I don't exist?... It hurts a bit in my non-existent heart

I coughed," President, I think we should get back on the topic I was called for."

He looked at me and nodded,

" Yes, sorry Ayanokouji, I will get back on topic.

As for the thing you said during our altercation, elucidate further."

I got up and pulled out a recording of him attacking his sister.

I returned back to my monotone voice,

" As you both can see, The SCP has assaulted another student.

This is highly unbecoming of the SCP and will result in a minimum removal from the SCP seat to expulsion at the extreme.

That would be a severe blow to the school's morale."

He remained calm even if he has been subjected to such destructive news, truly worthy of this position...

I wonder how he achieved this nature...

He replied," Alright what are your demands?"

Secretary Tachibana intervened," President you can't be serious letting is Kouhai have his way"

"Tachibana, I have made a careless error, Now I face the consequences ."

He looked at me

"Continue please."

I nodded after being rudely interrupted," As I was saying, I want 1 million private points."

Whoever places the bidding first in a negotiation always wins, along with my evidence I have an overarching to drive this negotiation towards my interest.

Tachibana again intervened," You can't be serious, don't you have any shame trying to blackmail the SCP."

I looked at her with slight annoyance," One more word out of you, the price goes up to 5 million pp."

SCP signalled her to stop and replied," I will transfer the points immediately, but I want that recording deleted in my hands."

I added," Wait, I have one more... request...not an order."

He looked at me with suspicion," Continue."

I looked at him with a small shrug," I want you to play video games with me every Friday."

Pindrop Silence

...

...

..

.

I broke the silence," It's ok if you don't want to, anyways transfer me the points."

He regained his composure and Tachibana was looking at me like I am an alien.

He coughed as he said," I was certainly taken aback by your request but I accept it."

This should be a step forward in my primary goal to regain these fake emotions.

Then he transferred the Private points and I deleted the recording.

As I was about to leave but was stopped by SCP," Ayanokouji, join the Student Council. The position of general secretary is open."

I looked at him with slight curiosity, " Why are you asking me to be the general secretary, I am an average student with average academics and physical prowess."

He scoffed," So you are saying that fight was just mere luck."

I nodded," Coincidences can be freaky, biology can be amazing."

He smirked," Alright Ayanokouji, I understand you have no interest in joining the Council. Though I don't know the reason for refusing this power I won't probe further."

I spoke," You are lying president, the seat doesn't have much power. The bearer does.

This room seems to be a very ordinary room but well organised and clean, which lets me make an assumption that your secretary must have cleaned this room to keep it in proper condition, even when it is not her job.

I even noticed her clothes having dust marks when I entered the room with her in a tired form, further proving my hypothesis.

Not just that, the only thing out of place in this boring room is your desk. I have seen the same desk in Keyaki Mall, hence was brought with private points.

Considering it has wear and tear, it's safe to assume it's old.

Since your character, you would have not made such a hefty purchase and rather use it for the students.

Hence the only possible reasoning could be that a group of people who respect you have gifted it to you."

Looks like I blurted too much of my thoughts. SCP looked at me with amazement and a bit of fear in his eyes.

Secretary Tachibana stood there silently, I presume she is trying to understand me.

Thinking it was my cue to leave," See you on Friday Prez."

As I walked back to my class I was famished I missed lunch for this, I walked past Class B.

Hoshinomiya sensei called me," Ayanokouji! Is that you? Come inside."

I tried to escape this troublesome situation when she dragged me into her class.

This class seemed to be very friendly in nature, considering no one was in cliques or were alone...except a girl with violet eyes and violet hair that is tied up in twin tails.

I wonder why?...

"Ayanokouji, stop staring at Himeno like that, I am here look at me."

I turned to look at her frown and fake tears welling up her eyes. What an actor...

I simply shrugged my shoulders and said," Sorry Hoshinomiya sensei, I was just shocked that how this class allows a drunk teacher to teach them."

I then realised, the entire class was staring at me with curious eyes, probably wondering what another class student is doing wrapped up in their teacher's arms.

A beautiful girl with back-length strawberry-blonde hair and blue eyes questioned the elephant in the room," Sensei, who is this boy?"

" Ichinose, this boy here is Ayanokouji of Class D, I met him when I was alone trapped in the staff room with him where he...."

I interrupted with a cool tone," asked where Chabashira sensei was. Please don't insinuate anything else Hoshinomiya sensei. By the way nice to meet you Ichinose-san." as I put my hand forward

It was immediately taken by Ichinose in a firm handshake," Nice to meet you, I am Ichinose Honami. I apologise for my teacher's misdemeanour."

She seems to be a confident person judging by her handshake. She even seems like a kind and friendly person. Even when I entered the class, most were surrounding her. If I had to guess, she may be the class representative.

I copied her mannerism and replied," No, It's alright, I realised it the day I encountered her. Anyways I have to go back. Have a good day."

Ichinose smiled and nodded as I left.

The rest of the day went by normally. As I went back to my dorms I noticed Sudo playing alone on the basketball court.

There were basketballs around him. He was drenched in sweat, yet he didn't show fatigue.

He was extremely focused in his sport. His dedication reminds me of certain white room tools.

The white room was unreasonably cruel in it's means, yet it was capable to show the best characteristics in those tools.

Survival truly is the strongest motivator

I called out to him," Sudo, want to have a match?"

I am curious about his playstyle, maybe I can learn something about him in the process.

He was broken out of his focus when he yelled," YA! Sure Ayanokouji, Do you know how to play though? No offence you are a bit short "

I shrugged, "None taken, I am pretty okay at it."

Sudo is right, he is about 6 ft.

I have been commented on my height a lot...

Flashback

"Subject 007, come forward"

I walk up to him.

"Subject 089, come forward"

A 5'11" 12-year-old kid walks up to me. He is towering over me.

"Both of you, Take your positions and spar for 2 minutes. If anyone of you is unable to continue, punishment for the loser will be 5 hours of intense exercise, followed by another spar. This will be done until the opponent has perished."

We take our respective positions. I took a passive stance, while he took a forward weighted stance.

He is too big for me to reach and his range is large, I have to be careful.

"Damm tiny brat, I will crush you. When you lose your dad will let us go. I will be able to see my family..."

"I don't care."

"F*k you shorty."

He forgets his stance and pulls my collar with his left hand.

I lift my hands to block an incoming left hook.

I grab it with my free arm, simultaneously using my right arm, trapping it around his left hand and grabbing his elbow.

I continue a circular motion while pushing his triceps from the back in a forward down position as twist my body simultaneously as I leave my free hand and use my knees to attack his face as he falls down.

I then continue the forward motion and dislocate his shoulder.

5 seconds, the match is over... time for pain.

( AN: Never try this with anyone, since this actually works. I myself have never let a fight last longer than 7-8 seconds. I am sorry it's not exciting or deadly. It is how reality works, fast and efficient. The longer you drag the fight, the more tired you are and weaker your attacks.)

He howls in pain. I then twist his dislocated shoulder blind him with pain and kick his skull with my legs.

Before he falls unconscious I whisper," 7 ate 9."

All of them underestimate me, a perfect advantage.

I walk back to the instructor," Subject 089 unconscious."

As I try to leave. The instructor yanks me back," How did you defeat him, He is the tallest in the generation."

I replied with a cold voice," Giraffes aren't the king of the jungle."

Flashback end

Sudo quickly says," Sure as you say. The score of 5 wins"

I nodded.

The game starts as he uses his long hands to pull the ball first as he dribbles it across the ground. I follow him at an average pace. As I reach him and try to steal the ball, he pivots and shoots.

1-0

I analysed his movements. He is not just aggressive but he is directional. He can't change his movement's abruptly. The main reason could be his lack of control.

I remember the basketballs being scattered on the ground around him but none around the hoop. It means he was practising ball control.

In other words, it's his weak point.

The next time Sudo did something similar. I increased my speed slightly and stole the ball.

I dribbled it across the court. He ran after me at a decent pace.

I then try to shoot but he defends I then pound the ball and bump him. He instinctively moves back, giving me enough time to slip past him and shoot.

1-1

"Great work Ayanokouji!! I didn't expect such a move. Using my own instincts against me, Brilliant."

I simply nodded and we continued.

He then tried to attack the ball head-on as I snatched it and dribbled it.

As we reached the 3 point mark. I quickly switched my direction causing him to fall as he tried to get the ball and shot it, scoring another point.

1-4

Realising that he was about to lose, he lost his cool.

"AYANOKOUJI, argh!!"

I decided now he would play worse and I was right. His dribbling became inconsistent.

But...

I let him win

2-4

The next one was also won by him.

5-4

He said, "Good Match, Ayanokouji!!"

I nodded," You were too good."

He patted my shoulder as he came to my height and said," Next time, don't give me a pity win. It hurts a lot."

Huh...he figured it out.

He is going to be a great player one day.

I am just average...

I walk back to my dorms with such thoughts and I went to sleep.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

Glad to be back.

Lol, I still love writing

I took a different approach to showcase Sudo's dedication.

Manabu wanted friends in the LN. Kiyo wants friends here. They are compatible.

As mentioned in previous chapters, video games are enjoyed by him.

The martial arts used by Kiyo is Krav Maga, I remember watching a youtube tutorial to learn the move he used

I made this chapter a bit technical and focused on Kiyo's observation skills more.

The flashback was inspired by a personal experience, though not as cool as Ayanogod here.(I can't dislocate someone's shoulder)

Lol I am short

Have a good day, if you enjoyed it, vote and if you have any questions comment

Thank you

More Q

1. Fight scenes: More or less realistic...basically do you want me to prolong the fight like in the movies.

2. Should I make side characters important as I did with Chie sensei?

3. Should I make more really sad arcs like Horikita ones, with more backstory FOR THE MC's?

4. Should I make Ike and Shinohara a redemption...it will at least make them more humane?

5. Should I make the supposed antagonists of this story a bit more complex on the right or wrong scale...for eg: In spiderman Multiverse villain kinda stuff

A few upcoming spoilers

1. I will be changing the location of the island exam a bit, it won't be super drastic...but ya there will be certain changes.

2. I will be making certain Side char sad arcs, but they will be Kushida level, not Horikita level.

3. Yamauchi will get expelled soon...So ya...and It will be brutal i presume

AN: I know I ask a lot of questions since I want to write a proper story and am not that high IQ on writing...so ya bear with me

𝓢1-𝓒16:𝓜𝓪𝓼𝓴 𝓸𝓯 𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮

Ayanokouji's POV:

"Ayanokoji, Will you join the study groups?"

"I appreciate your concern, Hirata. I have to reject the offer, I will not be a liability, so you don't have to worry."

I tried to sound positive in the end.

Matsushita suddenly jumped into the conversation.

"Ayanokouji-kun, why won't you join though? Didn't you get 50 in the surprise test?"

Matsushita is still trying to gain some information about me. It's unnatural to see someone so heavily interested in my average life.

I replied," How do you remember I got 50 Matsushita?"

She was taken aback but said," It's a half, easy to remember."

I simply nodded, I then looked at Hirata who even though sceptical said," Alright I believe you Ayanokouji. If you face any issues, ask one of the mentors we are assigning."

Hirata is so caring even though I am a nobody. I wish everyone was like that.

I have to handle Matsushita before she becomes a threat with her overflowing curiosity.

I then turned to Matsushita," Are you free after class?"

She looked at me with a joking expression," WHYYY?~Ara-Ara~Ayanokouji-kun getting bold it seems."

Time to develop the pieces.

I have almost no charm points on my looks. I have to fake honesty it seems.

I continued with the politest tone I could muster," If you are not free, it's completely fine. I was just wanting to select apparel from my wardrobe. I wanted a beautiful girl's opinion on it."

She was slightly flusteredbut it seems like she is setting down her walls. She then suddenly looked at me suspiciously

"How so Ayanokouji-kun, there are much prettier girls here take for example Karuizawa-san or Satou-san. Why didn't you ask them? Is it because you are shy? I can help you if you want."

It seems she wants to know more, I will have to flatter her.

I replied in an innocent tone,"I would have to say your statement was subjectively accurate, while both of them are beautiful in their way, neither of them is you.

The way you carry yourself is poise. Your blue eyes have an alluring aura of maturity in them. Your brown caramel hair reminds me of autumn trees, marking a new beginning of life.

I would run out of breath talking about your visage and appearance.

BUT...

Your beauty is not your outward adornment such as your hairstyle or the clothes you wear. It's your inner self, the unfading gentle spirit that's of great worth.

It's your personality that truly is paramount, the way you just thought of your friends before yourself, shows care. The way you regard others without any malice or selfish desires. Your curiosity about others, adds to your sweetness.

I want Matsushita to help me because of who she is."

I then got close to her ear and whispered gently," Especially since your mind is as pulchritudinous as you."

( AN: I just thought of what I would say to someone if I had a crush...I am an inexperienced teen...so take what I said with a grain of salt... if cringe, then I am sorry. I am also not comparing any of the COTE girls. Don't flame me.)

The last part was risky, I could have been slapped for being a creep since I am not an ikeman.

Why is everyone so quiet...

.

.

.

I seemed to have said too much...

I apologised," Sorry if I said too much to make you uncomfortable. It was not my intention."

She was just looking at me with bright red ears. Her face resembled that of a ripe strawberry.

Yamauchi screamed in mockery," Agh!! This normie fool flirted with one of the hottest chicks in class. F*ker will get rejected so hard, will be fun to watch."

It seems the class didn't share his mentality. Most of them looked at me in shock and loud gasps, probably due to my uncharacteristic behaviour. Some admiredtheir eyes.

Matsushita got out of her trance as she said with a blinding bright smile stretching on her visage," U-um! T-thank You-u t-that's was very sweet of you. Here is my number, text me the plans before school ends."

She gave me her phone number before hopping back to her seat where she was bombarded by questions.

Selective honesty is such a vicious blade in disarming an unsuspecting victim.

"Alright Hirata, are we done?"

"Y-ya Ayanokouji we are done, anyways you are nicer than I thought."

Hirata said while patting my shoulder in a friendly manner.

Thankfully I controlled my instincts before involuntarily twisting my body and cracking his hand with my upper arm.

( AN: If ever in such a situation, hold the person's arm on your shoulder tightly before twisting your body and the person should be behind you...Don't try this unless for self-defence.)

"I said the truth, nothing else."

I then slipped out of his gentle grip and sat down on my seat to be greeted by a glaring Horikita who was visibly boiling in anger.

"Wow, I didn't know you were so bold as to creepily stalk a girl and blabber such repulsive content out of your small mouth."

"At least it's big enough to shut you up."

She twitched, then pulled something out of her bag as she pushed back her seat in a clank, she shoved the soft clothing into my lap and quickly retracted back her delicate hands.

It seems it's my hoodie and visibly it is cleaner than before. That was an oddly considerate thing for her to do.

As the clock ticks to 2 pm, the love coloured bell rings marking the beginning of the middlegame.

Matsushita's POV:

I was intrigued by Ayanokouji from the start. His looks may be completely ordinary and his facial expressions close to null or picture-perfect, almost as if a repeated practice.

I remember his questions during the 1st day of school. His jokes in the class did bother me. I made an error by undermining it.

I realised at the end of the 1st month about the true meaning behind those questions deceptively hidden in those jokes.

I started to notice his actions more but they were all average...

Even his marks today were average... an exact 50...

Is he making an illusion of ordinary? If so, then why?

Is he like me?

My classmates are very beautiful and fashionable, which had caused a dip in their PPs in the 1st month. I usually am nothing like them, but they are popular hence choosing to be a rebel here was a threatening move on my social status.

Sure I am beautiful and sociable enough but not the best, hence my power over the class is uncertain.

Today Ayanokouji-kun surprised me with his astute observations of me when he complimented me, what was even more surprising was the way he was more focused on my personality.

After all, personality is an everlasting beauty, unlike glamour withering like a red rose.

His maturity truly is unparalleled. I think I am charmed right off my feet, never thought I was an easy girl...maybe I can make an exception with him.

I was so euphoric upon his shower of compliments that I was unaware of the peeping eyes, who continuously bothered me with an unending spiral of questions.

I was pushed by Karuizawa-san," All the best!!"

I then walked in a wobble up to him," U-um, Would you want to walk to the dorms while discussing the plans for tomorrow?"

He simply nodded and walked with me. My body was shivering slightly and it felt hard to walk. My heart is beating with a loud lub-dub continuously buzzing in my ears.

I had unconsciously been walking very slowly, what's surprising is that Ayanokouji observer this and slowed down his pace... Sweet.

He spoke in a gentle tone," So, As I was saying, Do you recommend any particular brand?"

His voice sounded like the gentle breeze, but it's just too perfect...

I looked at him with a smile, "I don't think the brand name is a significant part of the equation as long as it is comfortable and pleasing to the eye. "

He looked at me with widened eyes," Your speech pattern has changed considerably. Is this the real you or the one in the class?"

I seemed to have forgotten to switch my voice...

I replied honestly," Both are parts of me, I have to say though I am more comfortable with this. I hope you don't mind."

He looked at me with understanding as he replied," I think I have to update my list of things that make you beautiful."

...Did he just... .He is quite proficient at this.

I then requested him," If you don't mind, could you do the same? Your tone of voice seems unnatural as if you are forcing it."

He looked at me for a while then, he replied in a blank monotone voice," I have difficulty showing emotions so to fit in I have to mould it to others' liking. I am pleasantly surprised you found out."

"Hehe, I have always been a rather observant person. Just like you..."

"I have done no such thing worthy of recognition."

I slowly got closer to him and poke his arm

"You have done so, accept it."

"If you say so, Matsushita...I think we reached our destination."

I smiled at him, even though his voice is utterly monotone...his words are still like hot chocolate on a cold day.

Ayanokouji's POV:

Matsushita is indeed a formidable person, her astute observation and well-crafted gaze caught on to my facade quick enough, just like I caught hers...

She is different from me, I made my facade to fill the emptiness of my void...She did so to fulfil her satisfaction and curiosity of normalcy... 2 sides of the same blood-red coin.

"Ayanokouji-kun wears this, I have handpicked it. I think you would look quite attractive in them."

The dresses chosen by Matsushita looked simple at first sight, a blue shirt with peach jeans.

Upon wearing them I realised their essence on my body. The bright blue is certainly eye-catching and contrasts the Peach coloured jeans quite well. It even was pleasing to the eye due to my brown hair.

I reviewed it with Matsushita who simply beamed while saying," Wow, it looks certainly great on you!! It far exceeded my expectations." She said in a teasing tone.

I kept it at the back of my mind as we walked down the aisle choosing apparel.

Upon crossing the female aisle I notices Matsushita eyeing at a vertical striped white shirt and a cyan skirt we came across.

"Matsushita. Can you go along and wait at the checkout while I use the washroom?"

She broke her stare and nodded. After she went out of sight I asked the clerk

"Excuse me, could I have this set for the girl's size who was with me right now."

"Sure sir, I will do so immediately."

He soon selected the appropriate size and gave it to me," Here you are sir, I am sure your girlfriend will like it."

It didn't seem necessary to correct him as I hid it inside a men's wear box.

I then went up to meet Matsushita.

"Ayanokouji, what's that box in your hand."

As I handed it to the clerk I simply said," Just something that caught my eye."

She didn't question further probably assuming it was another shirt.

The checkout lady seemed to have realised the situation and skillfully hid the true contents of the box.

I paid her extra for that.

After we left the cashier Matsushita went to the washroom while I again switched the men's set in one of the boxes with the set of the box I brought.

This should do...

After she came back from the washroom she questioned

"Ayanokouji, can you show me what was in that box? Was it another shirt?"

Predictable...

I nodded and said," It is. Also, it seems the clerk made a mistake and gave us a different set in the dress box. Should've guessed so when the bill was more than expected."

She looked surprised,"How did that happen? I think we should return it. I also should've paid more attention."

I simply shrugged while putting the box in front of her," It's alright, no need to bother. I think you should see what's in it."

She opened the box to find the same set of clothes she was eyeing," A-Ayanokouji, h-how? I can't accept this it was over 10000 pts."

I have over a million points thanks to the SCP.

I declined," I got it for free since they made a mistake. When you went to the washroom I complained regarding the mistake, and they gave it to me for free. So take it, you helped me out a lot."

I knew she would bring money up into the picture, even when she hung out with the Karuizawa clique infamous for spending, she didn't spend more than necessary.

Also, this should be a payment for what I am about to do today...

"A-Alright, Ayanokouji-kun if you say so. I appreciate you for buying it for me."

She looked at me with a small smile...and a strange nostalgia in her eyes.

"I didn't pay for it. It was just a coincidence, I am glad you liked it."

We walked back to the dorms.

Time for the endgame...

"It's super late, isn't it. I had fun today, thank you Ayanokouji-kun."

"I had fun too, also can I call you Chiaki?"

She smiled while her cheeks reminded me of sun-blushed apples.

"Ya sure, only if I can call you Kiyotaka."

"Thank you Chiaki...did you hear that?"

"What is it Kiyotaka?"

I pulled her along to the park side and hid behind a tree.

" F*K YOU!!! F*K YOU HORIKITA!! ROTTEN SWINE, how dare you steal my spotlight in today's study group. YOU F*KING SMARTASS BRAT. Those 3 IDIOTS, F*KING LEARNT SOMETHING...How does that make sense????? SHE WAS NOT SH*TTY??? What voodoo magic is this?? That b*tch. JUST ROT IN HELL!!! That Ayanokouji as well, F*K HIM, SMOOTH F*KIN BASTARD. After that stunt he pulled, PEOPLE STARTED LIKING THAT WEIRDO EVEN MORE."

We heard the entire conversation which I made Chiaki record.

As we tried to leave, Chaiki's shoes hit the tree.

"WHO IS THERE?? COME OUT!!!"

I signed her to stay as I walked out," It's just me. You scream a lot."

She looked at me with such hostility. Her voice was hoarse and raspy from all the screaming.

She then walked up to me and grabbed my collar," Listen here if this leaks, I will end you."

She was glaring at me with violet eyes and the street lamp was making a shadow across her face perfectly manifesting light and darkness of human nature.

Her eyes spoke hatred, anger and pain. I am very familiar with those eyes...after all, I was in the receiving end of those in the White room.

I hardly care about her behaviour, it is all ordinary for me unlike the rest of the world. They will shun her and scorn her for this. It's how society works, weed out the different destroy the so-called evil.

No matter the radiance of the moon, it always has a dark side

"What will happen if I don't listen to you?"

She pulled my hand and placed it on her chest.

"I will tell everyone you raped me. If you have the common sense, I think you will realise who they will trust."

I simply nodded pulling back my hand, I felt nothing from that soft touch...

"Why hide this?"

She then changed her persona at a flick of a switch

"Oh, Ayaokouji!! Isn't it obvious or else society will devour me! Anyways bye!! Also, keep our secret please!!"

She soon left while I went back to a distressed Chiaki

"Are you okay, Chiaki?"

She looked at me wildly

"YOU are asking ME?? What about YOU?? Why did you go out? We could have run away."

"If we did she would have caught us. I can't let her find out you were here."

"Why not?? She accused you of a fake rape case if I wasn't here you would be trapped. I will send this evidence to the principal. I bet this girl will get expelled."

She was right, the modern world would consider me guilty until proven innocent.

I patted her shoulder," I care about you and I am completely fine. Also, don't send the recording yet. She is an asset to the class. Losing her now will be a severe backlash. I suggest using it after we make her a liability."

"Kiyotaka I will do anything to help you bring her down. I am with you in this"

CHECKMATE

I looked at her and said, "Thank you Chiaki we will make a great team."

She smiled, "I should thank you for worrying about me and sacrificing yourself. IT WAS IDIOTIC but sweet. Never do it again, I am there for you."

As we parted ways, she said," I am glad I met a wonderful person like you!"

...For what it's worth...I am sorry.

Kushida...how naive of you.

Kamuro, you have proved your worth as a tool.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Reader's

Kiyo made Chiaki his tool!!!

WOO!!

1. Matsuhsita realised that ayanokouji payed for it, but decided to keep it

2. Kiyo's goal was to make her a tool considering her intellect

...Sorry if you thought i would make it romantic...

Also sorry if some parts are cringe

I read Romeo and Juliet once, all I saw was infatuation and lust, that ain't love...Personal opinion.

Thank You!

If you enjoyed reading, Please vote.

And if you want to ask about the plot, please comment.

Also how he did this entire scheme will be explained in the next ch.

𝓢1-𝓒17:𝓜𝓲𝓭𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓶𝓼

Ayanokouji's POV:

"Well Done Kamuro"

"Whatever, it wasn't my work in the first place."

"I am glad you did as I said."

"You sent me on a hunt because of 1 word. I thought you were a perv too. Ugh!"

She is right, I only said her to keep an eye on Kushida considering her slip of the tongue when she mentioned Horikita on the first day. And...

The USB stating Kushida, Yin-Yang...

Kamuro doesn't need to know that.

Considering Kushida's friendly nature it was supposed to be an easy task injecting herself into Kushida's social circle. It seems Kamuro caught something interesting which worked perfectly in my favour.

I now see the reason why the USB named her, Thorned Slave.

(AN: Thorn signifies her attitude, Slave signified her ability to follow commands )

"Kamuro, for a while stop all forms of connection with me."

"W-Wait why?? I did everything you said. What if that creepy loli tries to expel me."

"This is a countermeasure for that very circumstance. Even if such a situation arises, I will do the needful."

"Why the heck are always so vague. I am sandwiched between a genius loli and a creepy blackmailer."

"We will talk after the first special exam. Goodbye for now."

I cut the call, as I entered the class. Tomorrow is supposed to be the Midterm, where the risk of expulsion was around the corner.

Considering that I taught Horikita a proper lesson she has properly dedicated herself to teaching those idiots.

"What are you looking at Ayanokouji? Want me to rip your eyeballs out?"

It seems like she is in a bad mood due to teaching those idiots.

"How is the study group going?"

She deeply sighed," Don't even get me started. I tried everything, I wrote notes and even taught them right from the basics.

I even didn't shout at them, you have any idea how hard it was. Somehow I made them competent enough to pass tomorrow's test.

Yet I am scared they might just fail. Especially I am worried about Sudo in English."

"I don't, yet I am sure you have worked extremely hard, that's all that matters. You have changed a bit after that night."

"Do you want me to take out my compass? I didn't change, you just realised how truly worthy I am of Class A."

"No I don't, anyway let's pay attention to class, I have no intention of failing midterms."

It seems I can give her an extra push...

After all losing class points now will cause a reduction in morale.

Chiaki came up to me during break time

"Kiyotaka want to go have lunch?"

"I don't see an issue."

Igonashira squeaked" K-Kiyotaka?? Ayanokouji-kun, I-I didn't realise that you both b-became so c-close in a day."

It looks like all conversations I manipulated Mori and Inogashira to be part of, did reap fruit by reducing her stuttering.

"Well, Kiyotaka was okay with it so I just started calling him like that."

"Kokoro, it's completely fine if you call me by my first name...it's after all just a name."

Chiaki looked perturbed and looked away in a grimace. It seems my response was unsatisfactory.

Not just that, I saw Horikita also eavesdropping into our conversation furrowing her curved brows.

"A-Alright, Kiyotaka-kun. If you feel comfortable I guess it's fine."

Chiaki then asked," Can we go? Break will soon be over."

"Ya lead the way."

Upon reaching the cafeteria and sitting down at the table.

"Chiaki, what are you doing today evening?"

"I am going to study for the test. Aren't you going to do so too? You got even lower than me."

"I definitely will. If possible could you invite me to the class group in LINE?"

"Kiyotaka, didn't you join it? I thought it was shared with everyone, though a few didn't join. What's your reason?"

"I just don't like social media in general. It's too distracting."

Social media is a haven of information. People post every little detail of their life over there. Just from one image, the person's address can be pinpointed by metadata.

Not just that, even texts when screenshotted and used as evidence, are often out of context.

What bothers me, even more, is how emotions are sent through text?

Emojis might be useful to an extent...but even those have limitations. So many misunderstandings can arise from texts, so many things beyond control.

If I was honest she would be suspicious of my paranoia.

"I see, I also find it exhausting sometimes. Hey, I was wondering do you have any other contacts except me?"

"Why ask me such a question?"

"Just curious."

It seems like she is trying to break into my privacy. I can't outright say no to granting this info. I can't let her know I am the one controlling this so-called friendship.

"I have a few but your contact is the most important one. After all, I am glad we are good friends."

She smiled at my comment. I feel there is a slight desire to be something more. Even if it is cruel, I have to use these feelings to my benefit... I don't know how to reciprocate them. The only consolation I can give her is by being there if she needs me...

I remember how Broken I was to see someone I cared for die in front of me

..It's not pleasant.

"Thank you, that was sweet of you. I wanted to ask what will be done about that incident, I find it really hard to look into her eyes without anger and fear."

Kushida has certainly taken a toll on her. I have to break this fear, else it might cause trouble in the future.

"Why are you angry at her? What has she done wrong, except doing that certain actions to protect herself?"

"Are you out of your mind, she tried to be something she is not? She has been deceiving us, how can I look at such a person?"

"Can't I say the same about you? You are talking to me in a different manner than your other friends.

I myself have been animating my voice, these are all just parts of us...If it's a sin to be a fit in this world...then aren't we all sinners?"

She looked at me quietly, then started bubbling her juice with the straw... I want to do that.

" You are right.

We should not be upset when others hide the truth from us when we often hide so much ourselves."

She caught on quicker than I anticipated. I was right about choosing her.

Her alias in the USB was after all, Veiled Vigilante

(AN: Veiled signifies-hidden talents, Vigilante signifies- observation skills)

=

After classes the dorms were quiet, everyone was busy studying.

I have to execute my plan properly. I need to save just 1 student. The rest will be fine.

I walked to the seniors' dorms.

I knocked on room 403, opened by a yawning boy," WHO ARE YOU? What do you want?"

"Forgot me so quick? I wonder if I should leave a lasting impression on your mind."

"Oh, you are that Kouhai who took our points. What do you want this time?"

"Call your other friend too, I came to redeem the favour you both owe me. Remember the consequences before saying No."

"Alright fine, Why the heck did we even mess with you? I will call him."

As he went to take the phone I quickly searched through his belongings and took a picture of his ID. It's safe to presume his friend was in the same class. I went back to my seat.

After a while, he came back when I heard a knock at the door

"That must be him. I will open it kouhai."

As the door opened

"Why the f*k did you call me at 11 pm??"

"Dude that kouhai came to collect his favour, let's get it over with."

"So Kouhai, what do you want from us."

"It's a simple task. One of you, give me your last year English midterm papers and the surprise test papers as well."

The first boy quickly rushed to his drawer and started searching.

"What did you want from me then?"

"I want you to be an alibi, also I want your this month's points as well."

"I am in no way going to give you my points this month, I will go super broke."

Soon the other boy returned with the papers.

I checked the papers... I was right, all the questions were the same except the key difference in the surprise test the previous year and this year, were the last 2 questions.

I was right about Sae sensei changing the questions to trap me.

"Here you go, Now I am free right?"

"Yes you are"

I got up and started patting my left pocket

"Oh no, It seems I left my phone in my dorms...Hey you... Help me out here and you are also off the hook. I am too lazy to go back and get my phone."

He immediately took me up on that offer

"Ya sure!! Anything is better than that."

... Perfect

"Alright give me your phone for a sec. I will send the QP to my friend and return it."

"That's it. I was scared you will ask something more."

So naive...

The door-to-face compliance method worked flawlessly. I asked him an unreasonable demand first which he would turn down and then ask another demand disguised in a simple request which they are more likely to agree to, rather than if asked directly.He didn't realise in his joy, he fell into my trap.

(AN: I am guilty of using this...more than a few times :) I am not a bad person...it just works well.)

Using the class group chat thanks to Chiaki, I had memorised the numbers of the useful students.

I quickly sent the required message to this person and sent another message, after deleting the previous one. Sending it to the entire class would be idiotic since the class average would rise causing a risk of failing.

"Here you go."

He checked the message and said," Thank god you didn't send anything weird from my phone. But is this person even your friend as you just wrote 'Eng QP' without saying your name?"

"Ya we are close he knows I did it. Alright looks like we are done here. Goodbye"

"Hope we never have to see you again."

You won't...

I then went and knocked at Sudo's door.

KNOCK* *KNOCK*

He didn't open the door.

I banged harder

*BANG*BANG*BANG*

" NBA IS CANCELLED DUE TO A PANDEMIC."

Sudo rushed at the door

"W-WHAT??How is that possible What pandemic? NBA 2017 can't be cancelled."

"I wanted you to open the door. Horikita wanted me to check up on you to see whether you were sleeping or studying for English."

"Hehe, I may have dozed off. Horikita..cared?... She was so nice to me in the study group."

"Sure she did. Anyways do you want Horikita's number?"

"YEAH...I mean yeah I guess"

"Take out your phone."

"Yeah sure"

Sudo checked his phone and as expected looked shocked.

"A-Ayanokouji, look at this some senpai sent me the English QP. He asked for points. I never asked him though. Is he blackmailing me?"

" Send me a screenshot of it. I will ask Horikita to look into it. For now , memorise the question paper."

"Thanks I will quickly complete learning the paper."

As soon as he sent me the screenshot, I left the room immediately and closed the door.

"Hey what about her numb-"

Why are these dorms so big??

I then walked to the SCP's room and knocked.

TAP*TAP*

I was greeted by a surprised SCP

"Ayanokouji what are you doing here so late? I thought we were planning to meet tomorrow."

"SCP I am here to register a complaint. A senpai has sent the previous years question paper and has tried to blackmail my friend for money. "

Senpai turned serious as he cross-questioned

"Did this boy sign a contract about buying the Prev year QP from the 2nd years? If so it was completely allowed and I can't help you with it."

"No senpai, he never signed the contract. Not just that this senpai asked for 100,000 private points or else he will have to take them by force."

I showed the screenshot to senpai.

--

'QP PIC'

(AN: message which was deleted from that boy's phone )

'SEND US 100K POINTS BY TOMORROW OR WE WILL BEAT SOME SENSE INTO YOU'

'Eng QP'

--

He nodded," Alright, I also noticed the profile name doesn't match the question paper name. I presume 2 people are involved in blackmailing him. Since you gave me sufficient proof they will be expelled. This school doesn't tolerate such behaviour at all."

I agreed, "Thank you senpai. I will leave now, also we should play some Minecraflt tomorrow."

He looked at with a certain expectancy, "Alright, see you tomorrow. All the best for exam."

"Thank you"

This will certainly be interesting...

=

The exams began. This time Sae-sensei didn't set the paper. Therefore, it was no trickery like last time.

I should get a 60 this time...so that Chiaki doesn't get suspicious.

After completing the paper in 30 min, I still had 2 hours left.

I started looking at others. Horikita was erasing her answers...probably to reduce the class average.

Sudo was writing continuously...looks like he studied properly. If not it would have been troublesome...I would have to find another way...

I might have to test a theory soon.

The exams were over and classes went on as usual.

Sae sensei came in the class on the last period and said

"None of you actually failed. I am impressed. You morons picked yourself up from the trash."

There were squeals of joy. Horikita seemed visibly relieved and Sudo and the other 2 were in heaven.

Yamauchi opened his filthy mouth while saying, "Thank you Horikita!! You are not always a bitch...Next time give us something in return like...some pics.."

Ike screamed,"Thank You Horikita you saved our asses"

Sudo nervously said, "Y-YA ! Horikita...can you teach me more?"

Horikita reduced her score it 82 while Sudo got 58, well above the average.

I tapped her shoulder

"Good Job. Your hard work paid off."

She looked at me with a small genuine smile

"It was nothing, I could have done it easily."

"Also I checked up on Sudo to keep him studying."

"That was oddly nice of you. You are a useful pawn"

...Seriously...you are joking, right?

"Ya sure I was and I used your name as the reason."

She immediately glared at me

"I am going to the washroom."

"Ayanokouji, GO TO HELL!"

" Will you come along?"

I quickly escaped before she could retort and headed for the rooftop to find sensei smoking...hot.

"Sensei!"

"Ayanokouji, good job! I heard from the SCP regarding the incident and those 2 got expelled today and Class C lost 100 cp. I knew you would be valuable."

...Looks like she found out...should have predicted that.

This also confirms the earlier bluff I used on Horikita that day of losing class points if a student is expelled.

"Just got lucky. Anyways, sensei, I have a question."

"What is it?"

"Is this school fair? If so how did it expect people capable in other areas but not in academics to pass this test?"

"Good question. Why don't you figure it out? Use your so-called LUCK"

...This teacher doesn't know when to give up.

"I don't maybe we could buy marks lol...that was a joke.."

Her breath hitched and her left palm scratched her other palm... Nervous...

"It's a joke right sensei..."

"Maybe, but if such a situation arose it is possible."

"If so, could you sell me one mark and transfer it to Airi Sakura."

This should confirm my theory and prevent suspicion. As Sakura only got 1 mark above average.

"I don't see the point but you need to pay me 100k points"

"All right, I will transfer it."

... Saying so I left.

Everything should have ended well only if...

This shadow didn't follow me here

=Author's note=

Dear Readers

I am making Ayanokouji make an effort to be human...you know like at least acknowledging his wrongdoings...else this makes this fanfic pointless

That manipulation tactic is actually real...

This ch took a lot of brain cells to write.

If you enjoyed it...please VOTE and COMMENT if you have any queiries.

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓒18:𝓛𝓸𝓸𝓴𝓼? 𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮? 𝓦𝓪𝓻?

Ayanokouji's POV:

"What are you doing here Chiaki, come out."

"I am sorry Kiyotaka, I was just really curious when you said you are going to the washroom but went the opposite way. So I followed you."

"What did you think of the situation which transpired."

"You just prove to be amazing every single time. I still don't have any idea how 2 people got expelled or what you did, so that's something I will have to look into."She said with a smirk.

"You don't have to do anything like that, they were simply bullying me as they were senpais and they got expelled as it was caught on camera."

"I see. I have another question, why are you so normal yet... abnormal. I mean, you are just so average in your appearance...no offence...yet everything else is so extraordinary. Usually, it's good looks and good brains as a part of the norm."

She is right...the world considers people like me a complete run of the mill average player of the rat race.

This is often seen by normal people as a curse...for some, especially me, it's also another power.

We tend to judge people when we first meet them on their appearance, which often led other white room students to think I am weak...and underestimate me.

"Maybe because what you heard is wrong. You quote me to be 'extraordinary', let's assume you are right..yet the things I allegedly do has nothing to do with my appearance . It can be done by anyone."

"Y-ya, you are right. It's just that I have watched so many movies and shows of attractive people being good and smart or the HERO.

It has skewed my sense of reality, where there are no such boundaries. To be honest, I like this." She said while being embarrassed by her previous comment.

I simply patted her shoulder," nothing is stopping you from forming the world in a shade of pink to distract you from the truth. It's often beneficial...but never forget its existence."

She smiled, " Ya you are right...after all in this way no one can take you away from me."

"I couldn't hear the last part, can you repeat?"

"Oh, it's nothing of importance. Anyways let's go back to class."

I nodded as we went back to class.

=

After class as I was resting, I heard a knock on my door. It seems the time is here

"Good evening Horikita-Senpai"

"Call me Manabu so that you don't confuse me with my sister."

"Alright, Manabu-senpai. Please enter, also do you want coffee or some tea?"

"Coffee will do fine, thanks for offering."

"The console is right in front of the TV."

Manabu senpai sat down as the game was booted in, I served the coffee.

"Now tell me Ayanokouji, what's your true purpose for inviting me today. After all, nothing that you do is literal."

"My only purpose is to make a friend, since I noticed you are more capable than the rest, I gave you that offer. Of course, the door is open if you want to leave."

The other reason is...

After all, I can't tell him, I was curious about his USB alias, Solitary Lionheart

( AN: Solitary signifies his friendless self(LN) and dark past, Lionheart signifies his bravery and willpower.)

"I have no wish to do so, I would rather stay."

I nodded as we played the game for a while...it was calm

Maybe because the game was intriguing, the coding behind it must be phenomenal considering the capabilities of Minecraflt.

"Senpai, what are you doing with the Redstone?"

"I thought that since this works as a circuit, maybe I could use it to create a better management system to monitor the house from threats like creepers. Though I am not able to get the delay right."

"I think the delay should be set using a pressure plate so that if a threat walks on the plate it starts the sequence. In that way, the delay will become automatic."

"Smart as always"

...After an hour we stopped playing and started talking.

"Ayanokouji, Did you set those 2 students up? There was evidence and the reasoning is sound...yet my experience says that something else is at play here."

I could lie...but I think I will try to keep it vague.

"Even if that was the case, would there be a problem?"

"No, since the school has already taken a decision it can't alter it. It will hurt the school's reputation."

"I may have had something to with it."

I have to build trust...the best way is to share secrets...but secrets can also be half-truths.

"But mostly it was sheer luck I came across this situation."

"Ayanokouji, the reality is 10% things which happen to you, 90% how we react to it.

Just because we come across a certain situation, we won't necessarily take the right action. When we see someone falling on the street, we always think the next person will help them, but that person doesn't exist.

If I consider your statement true, even then the way you acted on it, makes you different."

...He is smart, I can't let him know more

"Maybe you are right. I can't argue against experience. Anyways, do you have any hobbies?"

He smirked," Diverting the topic...Alright, I usually do martial arts practice in my free time...What about you? What do you do other than playing video games and being LUCKY?"

... Touché

"I watch youtube tutorials on how to crack jokes and read Biology...you must remember it quite well after I personally taught you."

He grimaced while grazing the area I beat him...then smiled, "Ya, I learnt it enough from you, I don't need to learn it ever again."

After a bit more back and forth Manabu left...

I feel a tinge of disappointment on his departure...

=

I then took out my phone and called a number to be picked up immediately and heard a soft yet smug voice

"Ayanokouji-kun, Is the world ending? Why are you calling me?"

"Let's play a game, what's your room number?"

There was silence...to be replaced by a laugh

"Fufu, Sure let's do it. Today is amazing, my room number is 503. Come quickly, I can't wait to crush you."

... Loli and a sadist...

"Alright."

I quickly changed my clothes and walked to the girls' dorm rooms.

I have to be careful if anyone sees me going to a girl's room it will tarnish my reputation and considering she is from Class A, it will cause a lot of unwanted attention.

=

As I walked out of the elevator, I was met with the sight of Ichinose.

This will be problematic...

"Ayanokouji-kun, Hello! What are you doing in the girls' dorms? Ara~Are you meeting your girlfriend? You don't look like a playboy...Is it Matsushita-san?"

"Hello, Ichinose...I am not a playboy or dating and how did you know about Chiaki?"

"One of your classmates sent the recording to the school group, a lot of people liked it. Here look"

--

ANHS UTUBE

'RECORDING'

120,000 views--70K likes--15K dislikes

Comments:

'What is his name?'

'Idk girl, smh they don't mention who this dude is. He is from the Defect class though.'

'Damm that's sweet, never expected anyone else other than Hirata-kun to be this sweet.'

'His confidence is so amazing.'

'He is cool, only if he was a bit taller'

'Ikr, only if he was as hot as some of the guys in my class...Pity such sweet honey comes in an ugly pot.'

'I stan a sweet king. He is the literal definition of don't judge a book by its cover.'

'Ngl, I would choose him over any hot guy in my class. His words are too sweet.(*)'

'He is quite nice with his words..but just soo boring to look at.'

'SMH, ppl these days think the world is some otome game and everyone is a model. Idiots, this guy is a fuckin diamond in that defect class.'

'LOOK AT HIS BODY, that boy is the short hulk. I love it'

'He looks like half the population...but so much better. q(q)'

'Nah, I would rather have someone taller. He still a sweet though.'

'Fufu, He is one of a kind 3'

'He can flirt well, which means his confidence is attractive, me likey. (‿) '

'He is mine, so back off thots.ψ(')ψ'

'He did say those things to me( )...not to you delusional fools. I would choose him over Hirata-kun in a heartbeat. (''ʃ ƪ)'

'Fufu, he didn't confess to you. So he is still around'

--

Why do people have so much free time to comment on other people's lives?

"I see your point."

"I think you were nice when you said those things...yet it seemed forced as I felt you meant it but the reason why you were saying it was not to flirt with her."

She is extremely sharp...She is Class B's leader after all.

"You are overanalysing it. You have been talking a lot to a person you met once a bit strange don't you think, do you need something?"

Her amethyst eyes looked at me and then widened slightly," Your theory is quite on point. I need some help, it's not anything related to classes. Just a personal one, could you please assist me. I promise to repay this debt."

Her hands came together as she looked at me with pleading eyes.

Class B's leader owing me a favour...doesn't sound like a bad offer.

"Alright I will help you."

"Thank you. I think we need to right now."

I followed her to the back of the school.

Isn't this where confessions happen...

Am I going to be confessed to... my jokes are getting better.

"Why did you bring me here Ichinose?"

She was rubbing her right arm and shaking her head. Her beautiful pink hair fluttered like the Beautiful leaves of Chinese Mahogany trees on a windy day.

She pulled a note out of her pocket and she placed it in my hands. Her palms are slightly sweaty but extremely soft.

"I think someone will confess to me. I am scared of rejecting them so I want you to be my boyfriend for a while."

A strange request indeed. It would be an honour to be her boyfriend.

But

I won't

First, It will cause Chiaki to be hurt, which will cause my tool to break...

I can't let that happen...

Also, it's objectively wrong, using a lie as a sword and not a shield...is not its purpose.

Ichinose unconsciously is using the wrong weapon for this task.

False hope- a powerful weapon in the arsenal of manipulation often used in the past army generals to boost their soldier's morale. It improves the morale... but

It's double-edged, if not used properly the user will harm themselves. They will sever all forms of connection with the user

It can also completely crush the victim's willpower and throw them in pits of despair if used perfectly.

She will produce false hope in this person that one day if we break up, they will have a chance. If this person ever realises this was a sham, they will hate themselves and her.

Thinking of such scenarios I opened the letter to find out this person has beautiful handwriting. If only I had such beautiful handwriting...apparently Whiteroom didn't think handwriting was an important aspect of life.

"Ichinose you are a beautiful girl, so if you don't mind my assumptions...Aren't you adept at such situations?"

She looked down," No, I have never faced a confession before. Maybe it was because I was too focused on class activities in middle school."

I presume it was because people were too scared to approach her romantically considering her beauty and social power, a rejection would be a social fatality. Not just that, they may have also assumed she was already in a relationship.

"Ichinose-san W-who is this boy??"

I turned around to see a short girl with a pink flower adorning her hair. She had probably done so to impress Ichinose

Ichinose looked uncomfortable lying to her.

"T-this is A-ayanokouji."

"You are that playboy..."

...Seriously...

"No, he is a nice boy...and he is my -"

"Friend, I am just her friend."

I turned to a surprised Ichinose," Love is hard. Chihiro must have gone through immense emotional turmoil and bravery she had to muster to lay her feeling bare in front of you.

What you were about to do would be insulting her emotions and tainting the purity of her innocent confession. It would not just be shattering her heart but be condescending as you are assuming she is a weak girl who can't accept the truth.

In things as beautiful as love don't taint them with these colours of deceit."

...I never experienced this emotion...Ichinose is blessed

...Yet thanks to books, I know the brutal irony of it

We fear committing in love....

We also fear never finding love...

I look at a weeping Chihiro falling on her feet

I walk up to her,

" It's better to have loved and lost, than to never have loved at all."

Ichinose came up to her and sat down," I am really sorry Chihiro, I was disgusting and pathetic of me to try and lie to you. You are such an amazing friend yet I hurt you so much."

Chihiro wiped her tears and looked at her in the eye

"I really like you Ichinose-san. You are so amazing, you are so nice, so good at talking to people, you are a strong leader.

I may find someone worse than you, I may even find someone better than you, but I will never find someone like you... You are truly special to me.

Even if you don't reciprocate the feelings, I am strong enough...just like Ayanokouji-san said..."

" Souls-like you deserve to be loved Chihiro, maybe not Ichinose but...I wish you all the best"

I walk away to them reconciling with each other.

Wrong

It's not true love Chihiro it's an infatuation... it's a delusion

Listening to her reasoning...She mixed admiration with love...

Infatuations are a trap...we see it's light, not its shadows

After all, true love stories... don't have an ending...

Hopefully, Chihiro will mend her broken heart and try to give her heart again...

She should never realise... She will never be good enough for Ichinose.

Ichinose...She has never fallen in love...She is like me... yet different...

Does she not love herself...?

( AN: Since if you don't love yourself, you can't love others)

I have some evidence to this theory due to the USB stating her as, Weeping Angel

( AN: Weeping signifies her guilt, Angel signifies her attitude)

Thinking such thought I went back to the girls' dorms and ringed Room 503

It was opened by a grimacing girl

"Next time, ride on a turtle shell...at least you will reach earlier."

"Pardon me, I died out of the excitement of going to a girl's room. Ressurection takes time"

Her room has a lot of pillows and everything was orderly with a chessboard on the centre of it.

"Are you really the one who blackmailed my father."

"Don't know let's begin the match Sakayanagi"

"Fufu, let's not waste anymore time."

I started with the black horse giving me a flexible control of centre before using a pawn and soon carried out Grunfeld defence: Russian variation.

I then made a mistake by not threatening a horse using my queen...instead, I blocked my queen from the white queen.

Sakayanagi...was only playing proper moves... not making a single mistake

She is truly gifted...

I again made a slight mistake of using my horse and attacking the queen, causing her white queen to retract one step back and providing the perfect setup for my horse to then jump and attack both bishop and queen.

She countered it by placing the queen in a position of attack if I removed her bishop

After a while, she made a small error...by placing her bishop in line of the queen, which even if gave her protection wasn't a well-predicted move.

Soon I made another attack with my horse on her rook

"Fufu, you made an extremely thought out move"

"You play well, I may have been inspired by that."

She then played a bishop threatening my queen...

I ignored it and set a bishop attacking her Non-threatening bishop.

"Fufu, it's a pity you will lose your queen"

"Pitiful indeed"

She took my queen... Greed.

Doing so allowed taking her other bishop which was aligned with the king, check.

After forcing afew of her moves

"Y ou lost your queen for a pawn? It doesn't make sense."

"My mistake, I guess I am bad at this game."

What she didn't realise was I took her bishopthat took my queen and opened an attack on her queen

Her eyes started to waver...it seems she is starting to realise it

Her purple white hair was moving on her eyes... hiding the inevitability

We pla-... forced a few more moves...and Mate in 5

4

She tightly held her staff

3

She started panicking and her hands were shaking

2

Her violet eyes were in pain

1

... She lost...

She sulked back to her seat. Tears welled up her soft eyes.

I perceive chess meant a lot to her...and seeing a normal person defeat her, crushed her beliefs right in front of her eyes.

"Are you going to wail in despair? If so I will leave."

She wiped her tears and tried her hardest to smile

"No need of that Ayanokouji, I seem to have forgotten how truly unpredictable you are."

"I don't know what you mean."

"All those mistakes you made were planned as a future attack on my pieces. That queen was poisoned. I got greedy and I made a mistake. When I tried something similar, you still averted that threat. Truly well played."

"If you had controlled yourself a bit...you would have won. We may have a match again in the future

"Since I won, you will stop bothering me with class wars for a while."

This is the only reason I asked her to play this game. Thus satisfying her desire to compete...and removing a bothersome piece for a while.

"It seems so, I thought I would win. I would then ask who the spy was."

...It seems she also had a plan...

She is a truly capable individual...maybe one day she can defeat me.

"Arisu Sakayangi

A true queen never bows down"

She smiled...without a smug look, "I will be a true queen...and...fufu... make you my king after burying you. "

I ignored her last comment and left.

Today was indeed interesting.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

The chess battle was a famous one. I remember the key details of it but forgot the other parts.

Ayanokouji is an average looking person...don't forget it. It's not like LN where he is a model/ikeman with a gloomy look.

He is completely AVERAGE in genetics...no buffs...

I felt bad for Chihiro so I provided her with some kind words

If you enjoyed reading, please vote and comment.

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓒19: 𝓣𝓻𝓸𝓳𝓪𝓷 𝓗𝓸𝓻𝓼𝓮

Ayanokouji's POV:

No points this month too... things will get Interesting

"SUDO KEN, a report has been filed against you. If proven guilty, you will be suspended and the class will lose 50cp ."

Sae-sensei always greets us with such jolly good news...

Sudo stood up and screamed," I didn't start the fight those Class C jerks hit me first. It was self-defence."

*BANG*

Sae-sensei hit the table with force," If you don't have any proof to support your claim, keep your mouth shut."

"Tomorrow there will be a trial in the SC room. Plead your case there."

Sae-sensei left the class in chaos

Many started hurling insults at him...even his so-called friends

"Sudo can't keep his hands to himself"

"Always fighting"

"I think even his brain is filled with those steroids he uses for muscles"

"Muscle brain douche bag"

Sudo's eyes showed pain. Betrayal from his own friends must have hurt him.

Kushida said with concern," We shouldn't blame Sudo until we know what really happened."

Yamauchi said," Ya If Kushida chan says so. I guess we can stop talking about this angry gorilla."

Ike said with slight guilt," I am sorry Sudo, I should have not judged so early."

...Ike has humbled down quite a bit, I think I stripped some of his idiocracies with his pants on that day.

Hirata then got up from his chair and used a gentle yet persuasive voice," I think we should gather evidence, rather than arguing. We only have 1 day to prove his innocence."

Kushida chimed in," I think that's an amazing idea"...She then looked at me and Horikita

"Would you both please help us?"

Saying no would cause too many questions... bothersome

"Alright, what about you Horikita?"

"I see no issues. I don't want to lose class points."

Chiaki was staring at me with slight longing. I think she wanted to join this search.

After classes got over we went to the scene of this fight.

Horikita pointed out," There are no cameras here. It could be a coincidence but It's most likely a setup by class C."

Class C...I have no data on it. I do talk to Albert, after frequently meeting him at the gym I did try to bring out class C's info but he never revealed a single thing about his class or his classmates. It seems whoever is the leader of his class must have control over him.

Considering Albert's muscular physique, I can safely presume no one in his class must be stronger by pure brute strength. Hence the leader must be clever and reasonably strong.

Kushida tapped me on my shoulder," Ayanokouji-kun what are you thinking about?"

"My unfinished lunch."

She giggled at my response.

While searching we came across Airi Sakura who was taking selfies.

Kushida waved," Hello!! Sakura-san, What are you doing?"

Airi quickly hid the camera and nervously stuttered," I-I was-s t-t-taking a p-pic."

Kushida then held her hand and said," Wow! That's amazing. Anyways do you take a lot of pictures?"

Airi tried to remove her hand but it seems Kushida's grasp was firm.

"I-I d-don't k-know."

She was getting very nervous and fidgety.

Kushida continued her barrage of questions without mercy. She doesn't seem to be an obstruction to personal space to most but to Sakura it is.

In this commotion, Airi dropped her camera

"I am so sorry Sakura-san!!"

"I-it's-s o-ok"

After saying that she ran away carrying her broken camera.

I walked up to Kushida and said with the sympathy she uses on others

"I just think she needs some time. You were a bit pushy."

Kushida simply sighed," You are probably right."

Meanwhile, Horikita rejoined us

"There were no cameras or eyewitnesses. There is no evidence to prove class C framed Sudo."

... There is

"Let's go back to the dorms. We will have to see what will happen tomorrow."

After they left I went in search of a certain person.

I found that person weeping on a bench in the park.

I then went up to her and passed her a tissue.

"Your eyeliner will be ruined."

She looked up and widened her eyes.

"I-It's y-you...t-thank you f-for t-the t-tissue."

I then gently started making conversation...

"Is this seat taken?"

"N-no p-please sit-t down."

"I am sorry about your camera. I should have stopped Kushida from entering your personal space."

"I-it's n-not y-your fa-ault...I am just a n-nervous w-wreak."

"If you don't mind could I and someone else come along with you for fixing your camera?"

"I w-would l-like that b-but I am-m not g-great at m-making c-conversations as you can s-see"

"It's alright that person will understand."

"A-alright if you say so."

I got up from my seat and called up Chiaki

"Kiyotaka! Hii, why did you call me? Do you want to go on another shopping trip? I will be ready in a minute."

"Chiaki, listen...I want you to come along with me and Sakura-san to fix her camera which Kushida broke in an accident."

Chiaki has a drop in her voice...she was disappointed. I knew this would happen hence to minimize the damage I used honorifics and a direct tone to prevent any implication of friendly relation between me and Sakura.

"Alright I will come along. Give me a minute. I am a little disappointed we can't do fun things again."

"Chiaki, I trust you. That's why I am asking you to help me since I am uncomfortable going with someone else I don't know. Also, I promise we will have another get-together soon."

The phone went silent for a while

"O-Oh, if you say it like that,t-thank you for trusting me."

"My pleasure."

... Trust...huh

I went back to Sakura and asked with a friendly tone

"Sakura-san, what got you interested in taking pictures."

"I s-stutter w-when I talk, s-so I feel t-taking p-pictures c-convey m-my words. T-taking s-selfies m-make me f-feel c-confident."

"I hope that after the camera is fixed, you will be able to take wonderful pictures."

"T-thank you Ayanokouji-san, you are v-very K-kind."

"I am just h-helping a friend."

She looked surprised. I had to play this card in order to win this...

"Y-you c-consider me y-your f-friend?"

"I do."

She smiled slightly and looked down.

"Sakura-san, If you don't mind me asking, where do you often take pictures?"

"O-oh, I u-usually take s-selfies near the S-South block."

The same location where the fight took place.

Chiaki soon came by

"Hi Kiyotaka and Sakura-san! I wanted to come along too. I hope you don't mind."

"T-thank y-you for coming M-Matsushita-san."

"You are very punctual Chiaki."

"Only for you!"She gleamed

"I appreciate the gesture."

We then went to the store during which Chiaki was making conversation with Sakura, to which Sakura was rapidly opening up.

Her social skills are a very useful tool. I have also noticed she carefully chooses who to be friends with and gain an advantage in the school hierarchy. If things went normally she would never have talked to me or assisted me.

We reached the store and were greeted by a clerk who was ogling Sakura's body for the entire time we were at the store. The display camera also was autofocusing, was it on? Why is it zooming on Sakura?

When we were leaving

"Maam, Please give your Name, Address and Ppppphone number so that we can return the camera when it's done."

He was breathing heavily and coming closer to Sakura while trying to touch her as he gave her the notepad.

Sakura took a few steps back and was shivering, while Chiaki was probably in dilemma whether to give her info instead.

I snatched the notepad and wrote my info.

"It's my camera which my friend broke. So contact me... GOT THAT."I ended with letting my stare get deeper and letting my voice drop low.

This should instil some fear.

He couldn't prove my statement wrong as he had no proof or Sakura never denied my statement either further leaving the conversation to end.

He was shaking and said," Y-yes s-sir."

After we left Sakura profusely thanked me

"Thank you so much A-ayanokouji-san and Chiaki-san for c-coming along and also for h-helping me back there."

Chiaki also commented with slight pride, "Kiyotaka you were really clever back there and the way you lie...my-my if I didn't know any better you could trick anyone...Anyways I will go to the washroom for a minute."

... She is not wrong.

We sat down on a bench nearby as she began talking

"I-I want to tell you something"

"What is it?"

"I saw the f-fight and r-recorded it on my c-camera but I was too s-scared to show it. But s-seeing you and M-Matsushita-san being kind, I also w-want to help the c-class."

Using moulded questions and a female third party in this especially someone good at conversations, confirmed my theory.

"Do what you want to we will support you either way."

This gives an illusion of choices.

"I will, just l-like you s-said, that's what f-friends are for."

Chiaki came back and we left Sakura at her dorms

"Thank you for coming by Chiaki."

"It was my pleasure, I was able to make a new friend and spend more time with you."

I stopped walking.

"What happened Kiyotaka?"

"I want to talk to you in private."

"U-um, alright. My room or yours?"

The last time I went to the girl's dorms...I got stuck in a love drama.

"Let's go to my room."

As we start walking

"Alright, also may I ask you something?"

"I will try my best to answer."

"How did you suddenly exude such confidence. I felt nervous from your gaze on that clerk."

"I used to watch thrillers. I tried to copy Hannibal Lecter's stare. It seems it did its job."

"Oh...ya that makes sense. It's like sometimes I try to copy my favourite character in movies."

I ushered her into the room

"Green tea?"

"I love green tea, thanks for offering."

She sat on my bed as she flicked through the TV channels...she seems to be extremely comfortable.

I brew it and serve her. I sat on the nearby chair and got right to the point

"I want you to take credit for this entire thing if Sudo gets saved."

"How??? Where will we get the evidence from?"

"Sakura-san had the photographic evidence on her camera. We will use that as leverage."

"How did you know that?"

"She said so after you went to the washroom."

She looked at me for a while and then tapped her chin for a while

"I may be overreaching...but did you plan this conversation, meetup and helping Sakura-san to transfer control from Kushida to me?"

I should be honest here, she is sharp there is a risk if I lie and get caught... losing her trust.

"Yes, I even called you for the very purpose of making her comfortable. I may have seen an opportunity and with your help, I was able to harness it."

She looked at me with slight shock and admiration in her eyes.

She set down the teacup after gulping down the tea and then said

"You are surprising me every single day. You have been able to successfully turn this lost case in our favour...Just WOW."

"It was just a coincidence I came across the situation. You did all the work."

She twirled her hair and said," Always happy to be your partner in crime!"

... Crime?

After some more back and forth she left.

=

I called Kushida

"Hello, Ayanokouji-kun!This is the first time you ever called me. Anything important? I just came out of the bath so If it is I will talk to you first before getting dressed."

...Tempting offer...but will distract me from the conversation.

"I will call you back. Dress up before you catch a cold."

I cut the call and waited for a while to hear a callback

"Ayanokouji-kun, I didn't know you were such a gentleman, usually boys would jump on that offer...I meant to say, Thank you."

She slipped up...

"No one is listening, drop the act please."

"Ugh! Thank god, this bullsh*t gets tiring as hell. Anyways what the f*ck do you want? Also what I said before was genuine."

"I see, anyways remember Sakura?"

"Ya what about that shivering b*tch"

"Does she have a social media account?"

"Wait what? ...You are a perv after all...I really f*kin thought you would be different."

"I want to know what she worked as before school."

"Oh...so you aren't perving on her."

"Get to the point please"

"What will I get in return?"

" I will delete this call recording."

The phone went silent

...

..

.

"I will be in your room in a minute with the info."

"Pleasure doing business with you"

She was very punctual...

"How the f*ck did you learn to blackmail? Yesterday you were a nervous wimp."

"I became cautious. Anyways did you get the info?"

"Delete the recording and I will show."

I deleted the recording in front of her.

"Now show."

"You know Shizuku the gravure idol?"

"Never heard of her."

"See these pics."

She passed her phone to me as I soon realised what she meant. Sakura is Shizuku.

Her USB alias fixed perfectly, F-fragile S-star

(AN: Fragile denotes her attitude, star is her other life..the double f-f and s-s...well..)

Is that why the clerk was creeping on her? There were many beautiful girls in the store yet he focused on her alone...

"What is Ichinose's dorm number?"

She looked at me incredulously

"Nani!!...I mean what??."

I repeated my question

"I heard it the first time...Why?? How do you even know her?"

"Nothing of that sort. Horikita ordered me to know it and inform her as she wants to make contact with her."

"Oh so are basically her dog...gotcha...it's 505."

"Alright, thank you...anyways how did your day go so far?"

"Why the f*ck do you care?"

"I don't that's why tell me. I don't have my phone with me or have any recording device in my house. Venting outside might get you caught...like with me."

"Alright...I get your point...fu*king fine. It was terrible okay, those b*mbos and their nonstop blabber are like hearing a fu*king toilet flush. They bark all day about their weird af crushes and how they want to f*ck others up. Non-stop gossip like ..."

I tuned her out while I made my plan. After 30 min she was done

"...and that's how I lost my brain cells." *PANT*PANT*"That felt good...thanks weirdo... anyways remember though you try to expose me. I f*ckin eliminate you."

I nodded as I let her out.

I then went up to Ichinose's room and knocked

"Ayanokouji-kun?? Aren't you visiting the girl's dorms a bit too often?... Not that I mind."

"Since I don't have your number, I came here to take the favour you promised."

I kept standing at the front door as I spoke.

"I see your point, anyways as I promised...what do you need me to do?"

"I want you to help me on the Class C case."

She immediately turned serious from her earlier playful behaviour.

"Alright, I can do that. What will be the modus operandi?"

"Give me your contact info I will call you tonight and send you the details...Bye"

"I will be waiting...BYE!!"

After going home I quickly sent the details I wanted her to follow.

Time to begin this game...

=

The next day, Horikita asked me to tag along with her to the SC...which I did.

Manabu upon noticing me slightly smirked...which turned into a frown upon seeing Horikita.

The proceedings followed

( AN: Read Novel till it ends. I am too tired to write that.)

After comforting Airi and being confronted by Manabu I left.

I could have proved the case was a fraud but it would lead me right as a target of Class C.

I need to be completely incognito...

I called up Chiaki," Hey, where are you?"

"Kiyotaka, I was out on lunch... Girls, I need to take this call...Do you need something?"

"Could you come to the south block as soon as possible? Keep it a secret."

"Alright I will be there in 5 minutes... Hey girls, I have to go, I forgot to complete the homework assignment gotta run, Bye!! "

I cut the call and immediately dialled Ichinose

"It is going to begin, be ready. Follow the instructions to the point upon being sent the sequence."

"You sound like a strict teacher."

"I am sorry if it was rude."

"You can count on me. What you are doing shows true care for your classmates...you are really nice."

I wish that was true...

=

"Chiaki follow me."

"Alright, Kiyotaka what should I do."

"I will give you a set of instructions and things to say. You will go to Horikita and dictate the entire thing. Remember to be discreet. Don't let anyone find out except her."

"Is there a reason for being secretive?"

"If you aren't secretive, it may cause you to be a target for Class C. I can't do it since I am already occupied in averting Kushida who yesterday came to my room and threatened me."

"SHE DID WHAT?"

"I tried to record... but she caught me so I could only record a little. Here listen"

I took out my phone

Remember though you try to expose me. I f*ckin eliminate you

She listened at it with seething rage.

"I will handle it. Promise me you won't get involved, I don't want you to be involved in the cross-fire."

"B-BUT-"

"No ifs or buts"

"Alright I trust you, I won't involve myself...I don't want you to be hurt for my sake...I will carry out the other task you assigned me."

"Thank you and don't worry I will be fine...Remember no one should know."

"It's a secret...I will not disappoint you."

She then left to find Horikita.

I then send 3 missed calls to a certain individual

Sorry, Chiaki...you will fail...but I won't be disappointed.

--Author's note--

Dear Readers,

This will be an interesting bit.

So I have divided the Ch in 2 parts.

if you enjoyed reading please Vote and comment

Thank you!

𝓢1-𝓒20:𝓘𝓷𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓽𝓪𝓫𝓵𝓮

Matsushita's POV:

I can't let Kiyotaka down. He is doing so much for me. I can't let anyone find out.

I walk up to Horikita who was standing probably pondering over how to turn this case over.

Kiyotaka is truly amazing. If what he said was accurate Horikita would win this case without a shred of doubt.

I followed Kiyotaka's instructions to the point upon meeting Horikita.

Soon the alleged victims walked up to the South block

"Who f*king called us?"

Horikita came out of her spot and calmly said

"I would take back the case if I were you."

They started laughing at her

"Oh really, why so? And obviously, we did nothing wrong that red hair gorilla started it all."

I also walked out of my spot behind the stairs

"Horikita-san they are right. I think the camera over there can prove it...Isn't that right?" I said while pointing at a camera they failed to notice.

Their eyes widened and aligned with my direction of sight

They started whispering among each other

'How did we not notice that camera over there'

'Boss will end us if he finds out'

'F*ck this crap'

The boy with the broken hand tried to grab my collar with his other hand which was swiftly caught by Horikita

"I wouldn't do that if I were you."

She was stronger than I anticipated...wow

"B*tch who do you think you are."

"The person who can get you expelled for harassment and fake charges on students of another class."

He and the other 2 probably understood the consequences of their actions

"What do you need us to do?"

"Take back the complaint. None of this ever happened"

Their hands started shaking, whoever set this up must be scary.

They slowly took out their phone and called their 'boss' to take the complaint back which he did.

Mission Successful!! Kiyotaka will be proud of me and no one realised our secret.

"Hey Horikita-san, thanks for that save"

"Don't count on it. If you got hurt Ayanokouji-kun would be upset...I don't want my pawn to be in depression, who will do my do my menial work if he is not there."

Is she a tsun-tsun...Hmm...does she like Kiyotaka?...NO, they are just friends, even if she does like him...

He is still interested in me not her.

What am I even thinking?

"Alright, Just remember not to mention to anyone who helped you."

"Isn't it obvious? I don't want to be an important figure in the class. I just helped because my friend was hurt and I don't want to lose any of my classmates so soon."

"I think that's acceptable."

"Also, you did most of the work I did nothing much."

"You are right, anyways goodbye I hope you help this defect class to rise to the top."

"Maybe."

Saying so I left the Block and then quickly called up Kiyotaka to tell him about my success.

=

Ayanokouji's POV:

"Kiyotaka I did it and it worked perfectly, no one came to know anything except Horikita and the 3 alleged victims"

"Good work Chiaki, I too managed to deal with Kushida for now."

"Shouldn't we expel her, she is becoming a major threat."

"Not yet, She still holds immense value in the class."

"Alright, if you say so Kiyotaka."

I cut the call and said goodbye to Sudo whom I congratulated for his success, then went to the South block.

"Come out Ichinose. I hope you did as I told you to."

She came out from the corner on the side of the hallway.

"Yes I did, here is the recording...Though I must say, Matsushita-san did say she didn't want this recording to be leaked. Should you do it?"

"Yes, she is helping the class a lot. She is a very nice person, I want that to be known."

"You are a great friend Ayanokouji-kun."

"I try to be. Anyways, send me the recording and delete it from your phone."

"Why so?"

"If it came into someone's knowledge that a random class D student is in contact with Class B's angel. I will be barbarically chopped down"

She grinned slightly at my reasoning as she did the needful.

"Have a good day Ayanokouji-kun."

"You too, hope this remains a secret. I don't want to take credit."

"You are too modest for such noble actions like caring for the class and your friends so much. I understand though, my lips are sealed."

Saying so, we parted ways.

=

"Sorry sensei, I was late."

"Enter...As I was saying, Sudo's case has been taken back by class C. Good job, you idiots won't lose any more points for now."

Everyone started chattering

'Thank god this mutton-head's case got taken back.'

'Maybe he really was framed.'

'Ya now that I think about it, it's kinda farfetched to think that he could beat 3 people up at once.'

After classes, I saw Chiaki leave with her group.

Horikita walked up to me and said," Must be nice ogling your crush...How repulsive."

"Should I ogle you then?... Nah, I would rather stare at a garbage bin."

"You mean to stare at the mirror?... Aren't body mirrors costly these days...I wonder how will you afford it? Oh...maybe you will beg for it."

"Why should I beg for it if I can use yours."

Not wanting to continue the conversation I left with big strides. As soon as I reached the elevator I opened my phone..which had no signal.

I then quickly sent the particular information to the school UTUBE through a new account

As soon as the elevator door opened, the info was uploaded and I deleted the account and the email address connected to it.

The school will be unable to trace me unless they carried out a deep investigation on each and every student...unlikely to say the least.

After a few minutes of reaching my room, my doorbell rang.

I then heard the doorbell ring multiple times as if this person was in a hurry.

Flashback-30 min:

Chiaki's POV:

Karuizawa-san forced me to join her clique to pallet cafe to celebrate the case victory.

What's strange is, they didn't do anything at all or weren't even remotely related to the case.

As soon as we got the points, they just want an excuse to spend it.

Ugh! I wanted to walk will Kiyotaka.

After we sat down and gossipping Satou-san was oddly fixated on her phone.Then she said loudly enough for the whole cafe to hear,

"Everyone, look what has been posted on the ANHS UTUBE."

I quickly questioned as it piqued my curiosity

"What is it?"

"You would know wouldn't you Matsushita?...You are the class heroine"..This time Karuizawa-san asked

What's going on? What heroine?!

I then took my phone out and viewed the school forums

My heart dropped...

I messed up...

I let Kiyotaka down...

How did I miss someone recording me...

--

ANHS UTUBE

Matsushita and Horikita Saved Class D?

-- Deleted account (3min ago)

*Plays recording*

"Horikita-san, I got some information which can help the class."

Horikita turned around and looked at me condescendingly...typical Horikita

"Why are you here Matsushita-san. How are you even related to the case?"

"I am not but I am concerned for the class I don't want to lose potential friends. I want this case to be won, so I can stop feeling guilty of not helping when I could."

"You and your friends...how pathetic."

"It's better than having a lonely funeral."

"YOU--" she got angry.

"I don't have time for arguments. All I came to is that if the cameras don't actually exist why don't we create an illusion of one."

She looked slightly curious," Elucidate further"

I pulled out a fake camera I bought, "Use this as bait, since they are probably following the order of someone above them, they won't be smart enough to find out."

She widened her eyes," You are not as defective of a person as I imagined you to be. Or did someone set up to this?"

"I don't follow anyone's orders, all I care about are my classmates and protecting them."

"Alright let's do as you say. This might just work."

*Stops recording*

103 12

COMMENTS

'Damm, This Matsushita is smart af. Didn't know the defects had it in them.'

'Lolz, probably got lucky, she seems more of a Matsu- SHIT '

'Kuku, a new toy... can't wait to crush her. And this Horikita will be mine.'

'Fufu, Class D, well played indeed.'

'Ugh! Why is the defect class this smart.'

'This girl cares about her friends a lot..she should be in Class B.'

'Both of them are so hot. Are they single?'

'Don't get your hopes up. This Matsushita is probably taken by Ayanokouji dude.'

'Doesn't Ayanokouji hang out with Horikita more though?'

'Maybe he is two-timing them?'

'Damm...that average dude got 2 hot chicks...Props to him.'

--

Why did this happen? When did this happen?

I can't even do one thing right. All through my childhood, I excelled at everything yet I couldn't execute this properly.

Studies, sports...always the winner...I always was perfect at everything I did.

This school was supposed to be the time when I perfected social interactions...I made friends.

I finally met someone I could truly rely on. Someone to protect me. All he wanted was for me to do my part.

Yet...I failed...I couldn't a single thing properly.

Everyone around me was praising me but it all felt like hollow sounds.

Tears started trickling down my eyes.

I saw a figure trying to hug me...it was Karuizawa-san.

"What happened, Matsushita? Why are you crying?"

I wiped my tears.

"N-No, it's nothing...these are happy tears. I thank you for your kind words."

Karuizawa-san hugged me tight and whispered," I know fake tears when I see them I don't know the reason...But I am there for you."

...I never imagined Karuizawa-san to be this perceptive and understanding.

I have to leave...I have to apologise to Kiyotaka...

I broke his trust...I want...no I need another chance. I need his trust...for that I will do anything.

"Girls I need to go home. I still didn't complete my assignment."

Satou-san smugly said, "Just like the last time when you lied to help the class...hehe, Bye!"

I went to Kiyotaka's room as fast as my legs could carry me.

Flashback ends

Ayanokouji's POV:

As soon as I opened the door a weeping girl tackled me into a hug and proceeded to mumble something on my shirt

"I-I-I a-am so s-sorry Kiyotaka. I didn't realise someone was recording and-and..."

Everything else was just a lot of sorry and a lot of tears.

She calmed down after crying for a while.

Crying is such an interesting phenomenon. It is a powerful tool for gaining the masses in your favour. An uncommon yet effective method of gaining control. Unlike Violence which is favoured for a moment and often have long term consequences to both parties both legally and physiologically.

It often works extremely well when used by the female population.

Social stigma has created this fallacy that 'Men don't cry.'...what a waste of power. Regardless it has its perks...because when they do cry their tears...it is considered to hold immense value and depth.

Human nature is truly fascinating.

When one does it..we sympathise, When the other does it...we.. ridicule them.

( AN: If any of you actually think less of a person because they cried...you need help.)

The last time I made Horikita cry...this time it was Chiaki...wonder who's next?

Can I also cry?... Maybe one day I may.

"I am not disappointed in you Chiaki."

She looked up from her crossed arms.

"You are not? I failed you."

"Nothing of that sort. You successfully stopped expulsion and the person who recorded it was out of your control."

"Whoever did it, how did they know this would happen?"

"The Class C leader probably didn't trust them and sent a spy behind them."

"So why positively spread this. They could have just attacked me directly after seeing this."

"Most logical reason would be a long term plan to attack class D. They were not targeting you but Horikita."

"Why Horikita. Ugh...This doesn't make sense."

"I can form a hypothesisthat maybe it is to remove Hirata or Kushida from the class powers and replace them with a socially weaker person like Horikita. You were an unprecedented anomaly in their plan."

She was surprised by this theory," So they are causing a shift in the power dynamic and attack the class when it is weak. I guess that makes sense but it's a complex plan. Not just that, someone must be feeding them information from our class...Maybe a mole in the class?"

Chiaki's ability to process information is astounding as always

... I have achieved the desired outcome.

"It is certain that's the case. The most probable suspect is Kushida considering she is the most connected with other classes and she wants to maybe expel me as a reason for betrayal."

She started to get slightly teary-eyed," I am so pathetic. I caused so much trouble for you the moment I entered your life. I am not worthy of being your friend."

I immediately pulled her soft chin and directed her misty blue eyes right at my face.

"Remember when I said I was most attracted by your mind. Your ability to properly judge a situation and take action."

She slightly nodded

"Do you also remember me verbalising how great of a friend you are? You didn't fail me, the enemy is unknown and often with such enemies battles are lost but wars are won."

"I-I understand."

"Listen carefully, we still haven't lost all our cards."

She perked up at that...as if she found light at the end of this dark neverending tunnel.

"You are an anomaly in their plan. You are the trump card, due to your ordinary facade no one will realise your capabilities. If along with Horikita you became a class leader, then we could not only avert this unknown threat but also remove power from Kushida and then expel her."

She got up and started to analyze what I just said.

"You are correct...This could be done. I would have to lose my normal life...but I would do it in a heartbeat for you."

She had the fire in her eyes I needed.

Class C's attack was not something I didn't predict. Even if I didn't have any idea on what their modus operandi was going to be, by sheer elimination, it could be deduced they would attack soon since Class B was too friendly and probably seeking an alliance whereas Class A is in midst of civil war.

Planning with this variable in mind, the entire task became much simpler.

Upon catching onto Chiaki's ability to observe and analyze situations I grew closer to her. Due to lack of time, I had to act quick and created these extreme situations which made her hate Kushida...and soon

An Inevitability... A willing tool

This is morally repulsive of me to think like this. To plan such situations and use her emotions as an advantage. All I can do is try to produce true emotions that I can reciprocate before she becomes a threat.

On the other hand, logic supports this completely.

Creating a situation where I am the Protagonist and the unknown antagonist...using her interest in films and TV shows I mimicked a situation where I am protecting her from a threat I ensued.

In this way, she will be extremely loyal. Her guilt and her other emotions of friendship, trust and slight love all will be extremely beneficial for me.

Of course, to keep this tool in a proper condition I will have to take proper care of her.

Chiaki has to become a prominent figure in the Class... Horikita on the other hand will be her shield. If anything ever goes wrong, I will have to use Horikita to protect Chiaki. After all, Chiaki is a much more valuable tool than Horikita is...as of now.

I will have to gauge the powers of all the students in this class and create proper pillars of this class. I also have to remove certain unnecessary individuals from this class when the time comes.

"Chiaki, it's not the time to cry. I am here for you, you are very important to me. I will deal with Kushida, always keep conversations at a bare minimum with her. Tomorrow, use this situation as an opportunity to cement your role in this class."

"I will not let you down again, just be by my side."

"I promise to try my best."

... I will keep that promise.

=

Ayanokouji's POV:

The next day everyone started flocking around Chiaki, who looked at me for support to which I made a soft nod. Horikita on the other hand has probably driven everyone away with her sharp tongue.

Chiaki go up from her seat and stood in front of the podium. Taking a deep breath

"I am sure you all have seen the video posted and have your opinions and thoughts on it. All I would say is that I care for all of you. I truly believe we can all reach class A isn't that right Horikita-san?"

Horikita simply nodded...it's better than nothing.

"As I was saying, I hope you all can rely on me in the future."

Everyone must have understood the implications of what she said. She wants to be an important figure in the class. She is also the only one who has concretely done something to help the class in a major way, unlike the other leaders who have yet to prove their worth.

Shinohara stood up and said," Why did you lie to us? Why not show your capabilities sooner? You do realise that you betrayed our trust right?"

Shinohara was jealous...of her capabilities, her skills. Maybe she assumed that Chiaki was as ordinary as her and felt a sense of connection.

Now since that is broken...she is all alone feeling betrayed...after all she trusts her friend group a lot...other than that she has extreme repulsion to almost everyone else.

I think Shinohara has her uses...her headstrong nature...her strange ability to bravely or idiotically stand on her point. She would have to be crafted properly and with a lot of effort to be ever considered a tool.

However, I have not prepared Chiaki for such a scenario...I am curious to see what she comes up with.

"1. You never asked 2. I didn't have a reason to 3. How did I betray your trust? Do you say everything in your life in the first 2 months you have met someone? If so why don't you say how many times you have wet your bed?"

...I have no words...it's beautiful...

In all honesty, it was probably extremely damaging to Shinohara

Shinohara's face contorted, unable to form a retort she simply sat down in dismay

Satou on the other hand was very positive about it," Ya, she is right...Matsushita, you have helped the entire class. I am really glad we are friends."

Most soon started to view this situation in a positive light.

Kushida can't do anything but support this massive support for Chiaki.

Kushida will soon realise her diminishing power, her inevitable state of despair...and then...I will gain another valuable tool.

--Author's Note--

Dear Readers,

Kiyo knows social norms while he doesn't have a conscience..what he does have is a goal to be able to show real emotions.

He realises he is being a societally bad person to Chiaki, that's why he is trying to change that situation IF HE CAN, after achieving his goals

Horikita is basically a meat shield :)...for now

Have a good day.

Please vote and comment if you enjoyed reading.

Thank you

10K

WOO!

Dear Readers

Thank you for your support

And hopefully Kiyo will be nicer...maybe

Also updates may be slow, since

1. Exams (Need to get those grades up!!!)

2. writing a new kind of special exams is not easy- it will still have the ideologies to the LN exam yet different in setting

Thank You! For giving my fic a chance.. :)

𝓢1-𝓒21:𝓤𝓷𝓸𝓻𝓭𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓻𝔂 𝓐𝓯𝓯𝓪𝓲𝓻𝓼

Ayanokouji's POV:

Chiaki is steadily gaining popularity for the last few days. She is readily helping others and trying to be kind and understanding.

Her intellect has also been broadcasted in classes.

She is learning how to put on a mask.

The Chiaki I used to know would have never been able to keep up with such hollow smiles and fake laughs. She wanted normalcy which has been snatched from her.

But she is doing all this for me....

"Kiyobaka, ugh! what are you thinking of? You know right, we are not able to do things together due to class works. The little time we have together also you are staring off into clouds."

"I am sorry Chiaki I was just wondering what this vacation will bring forth."

Midterms got over and a Sae-sensei announced we would be going to a Cruise ship as a vacation, this was obviously strange. An entire cruise ship...for a vacation.

"Whatever it will be we will manage it together. For now, focus on 'It takes dos'. You are messing up the puzzle."

We are sitting in my room with controllers in our hands and playing homicidal divorcing humans turned dolls trying to solve puzzles...Interesting.

"Are you tired of this Chiaki? If you do want to go back to your old life, I could arrange that."

She immediately turned to me," N-No please No, I will do this. I won't disappoint you I promise."

"Chiaki, you matter more to me than class, I would rather have my friend than random classmates"

These words are stale, rotten without a single drop of truth in them. This fakeness has been ingrained into my reality.

"Kiyotaka, you are the only one who has seen this side of me. This calm and relaxed side of me. I always act as a fun person to appease others. With you, this is all true. I wish to pay my respect to this bond we have, hence I am happy to surrender this quest for normalcy."

You are not...it's your twisted emotions that I have created moulding your thoughts deluding you from the reality of this.

"All right Chiaki, I will be there for you. At least I can protect you."

After all, that's the only thing I am capable of.

Chiaki's phone rang and she picked it up," Hello, Satou-san...ya alright...I will be there in 5."

I understood what she wanted as she left...she said one last thing," Only thing I won't sacrifice is my time with you...I mean..umm..as friends."

...I hope so too.

=

Information is power...I need more of it.

I need to protect myself from unknown threats and build back my emotions. Simultaneously it's impossible, considering my logical mind takes over whenever I sense threats it would pose a major problem with the growth of my emotions.

Thinking so I soon called another person

"Are you busy Hoshinomiya?"

"Is that you Ayanokouji?... Did you just call me? Ara-ara... Are you asking me on a date..."

"Maybe in the future, for now- I am curious."

"About what Ayanokouji"

"This so-called cruise...I am sure you must know something more...and I know you wouldn't lie to me...would you?"

"N-No not at all, I can't say much...but be vigilant."

She then immediately hung up on me.

I was right this so-called vacation is more than it meets the eye.

Thinking so I called up SCP

"What is it Ayanokouji? It's rare for you to call."

"SCP, I just want to know...what was the special exam which took place in your year in the pretence of a vacation?"

Silence ensued, broken only by SCP's deep breaths.

...

...

..

.

"I don't think I am allowed to share that information."

"It's alright, I can find out from someone else...just keep in mind, if they get expelled... it would be your fault"

"Alright fine, come to my room in 10 min."

"Alright...Manabu-senpai."

I hung up and left my dorms.

I soon reached Manabu senpai's room.

I was greeted with the sight of another senpai as well. She had platinum blonde hair with sharp eyes and a confident smirk.

"Manabu-senpai, does Tachibana senpai know about this?"

He looked confused whereas this senpai grinned

"What are you saying Ayanokouji, why should Tachibana care. Also, it seems Fuka Kiryuuin over her was showing extreme interest in joining this PRIVATE conversation."

I looked at her, her maniacal grin and she exuded an enormous aura of confidence. She seemed like the female version of Koenji. Impressive yet annoying.

She spoke in a bold voice," You are the Kouhai who Director called that day, you have also caught the SCP's attention. I must say, you are an interesting Individual."

"I am an ordinary person stuck in interesting situations."

Manabu then coughed and said," Enter the room Ayanokouji, you both can argue there."

As I entered the room I saw it was very messy, unlike the office.

Kiryuuin commented on it

"Didn't expect you to have such an untidy room."

"It doesn't matter. Anyways, Ayanokouji, I will tell you about the exam but the special exam information is highly confidential. Please don't record it or tell it to any third party."

"OH! Kouhai-kun, you are more than meets the eye. You figured out the special exams this early. You are better than the other ants after all."

"I won't now please continue."

"I will...but do you want tea or coffee?"

"Coffee, the same one you drank at my room."

Kiryuuin raised an eyebrow. As soon as he left she asked

" Kouhai-kun, are you implying that Manabu went to your room?"

I simply nodded

Her eyes widened in disbelief

"That's certainly unique of him, he rarely ever does anything except the council and school work."

She is getting too bothersome.

"I think you should keep quiet for a while. If you want to keep eavesdropping on our conversation, do so but keep your mouth shut."

She looked taken aback...I suppose no one has spoken to her like this

"My-my. Though you are being a disrespectful Kouhai, I may just agree to your instructions...Be grateful."

"Thank you, Senpai. It's just that I am a very average student so I need more information to be at least slightly prepared.

Since a beautiful woman such as you is standing and talking right next to me, I will find it slightly difficult to concentrate." I said with a polite and charmed tone.

"Ara Ara~ I would be flattered if you actually meant what you said. The look in your eyes shows another story than your lying lips." She smirked.

Looks like it didn't work...why is everyone catching my fake emotions...It seems I have to practice more.

We stared at each other quietly. Her eyebrows arched up and her Lavender pink eyes stared into my eyes trying to find the gateway to my abyss.

"You both are very strange characters of this school."

"As if you are any different Manabu-senpai."

Kiryuuin simply smirked

We all sat down for coffee as he started talking about his 1st special exam

"It was an interesting one, to say the least. The classes were surviving on a deserted island for 2 weeks. Each class was given 300 S pts to spend. Winners would be the ones with the highest amount of pts left at the end. Also, a bonus would be given if we guessed the leaders properly. Class A won easily. I suppose this year also you all will have a similar event."

How rich is this school? Buying an entire island for a single exam?

"Alright, thank you for the information senpai. Have a good day both of you."

Saying so I left followed by Kiryuuin.

"Wait up Kouhai-kun, Don't you want to know my special exam?"

"Mind telling me further."

"What will I get in return?"She gave her devious smirk.

"What do you want?"

"Talk...I want to know you more. No need for your past...I am more interested in your present."

It's vague...but

"Alright, I don't understand your demand properly. But it doesn't matter."

"Good, I will call you when the time comes. Give me your contacts"

I transferred it as she continued speaking

"As I was saying. My year was interesting, to say the least. Class B won defeating Class A. I was disappointed except for one person who posed a challenge in that exam. MiyabiNagumo or the Vicepresident back then was a quiet and laidback boy, what's interesting is that he had a girlfriend who had cheated on him during that exam.

He was furious...and became extremely dangerous as he now was only focused on winning the exam.. not physically but his tactics were not to be messed with. He created an alliance with Class D and not only destroyed Class C but also gave Class B a run for our money, it was the only exam I showed my capabilities.

Since he started targeting me considering I was the leader, I simply caused the hidden change of the Class B leaders...by certain means. Leading to Class B's victory."

"What happened to this Nagumo?"

"Considering he helped Class D upgrade to Class C, they helped him expel his ex-girlfriend and the boy...but not before completely breaking them.

He used almost all the tactics in the book. From framing them for blackmail to getting them completely hated by their classmates.

He created rumours and even allegedly leaked their acts in the school UTUBE before it was deleted by the school."

This Nagumo is an interesting specimen. As much as I heard from Kiryuuin, Nagumo will be a threat in the future.

"Thank you for the information, Goodbye."

"Goodbye"

We parted ways as I went back to the dorm.

=

Kushida is sitting on my bed...venting... again

"Why today? I thought you hated me."

"Oh, I do! But you are a good venting bag...especially since I am so f*king pissed that MatsuShit is becoming so freakin popular. My social pull is dropping ughhhh"

She plopped on my bed.

" You have to go."

She got up disgusted

"Why? Got a chick coming over or what?... Nah it's impossible someone would bang that average face of yours." As she averted her eyes...she is lying...I wonder why

"No, I just have to pack my bags for the vacation."

"Yaya, f*ck u too, I am leaving I have to pack stuff too, Bye weirdo."

She slammed my door as she left.

Chiaki's POV:

It's so tiresome.

I have been called by Sae-sensei for some reason. Even Horikita was there.

"Good that you two are here."

Horikita too the words right out of my mouth

"What do you want with us, sensei."

"Win this exam. No matter the cost."

Isn't it obvious?

"Umm, sensei we plan to do that already." I say with slight sarcasm

" I meant use Ayanokouji properly."

We both wereperturbed by this

Horikita spoke questioningly, "Why Ayanokouji? What does he have to do with this?"

"He is more than what meets the eye...he is too normal...this is the school of elites and defectives...Normal is abnormal."

Sounds like she is high.

"You don't make any sense sensei," I said irritated

"All I am saying is, you both are capable individuals, fix your defects and find more about this Ayanokouji. This is the only way to reach Class A...Now Leave."

Horikita seemed to have so many questions in her mind.

Sae-sensei may sound strange to her, but she is right. Kiyotaka is anything but normal, he is a mystery who I have for myself...what am I thinking?

Horikita broke the silence, "If she is right, I will use Ayanokouji properly."

I am done with her

I stopped her with my hand firmly gripping her," If you ever dare to treat him like your pawn I will make sure, you experience hell on earth."

I then pull her to the ground. It was raining...She seemed extremely shocked

"B-But the class..."

I put my knee on her near her throat as I look at her with utter disgust. The darkness of night envelops her body as the rain falls on her face.

" I DON'T CARE."

I then kick her on the ground and leave her soaking in the rain.

She may have changed a bit...but her attitude...

I don't know why you even consider her your friend Kiyotaka.

I will protect you from her ideology. Either she improves or I get rid of her.

=

Ayanokouji's POV:

The cruise ship is marvellous. This is the first time I have been on a ship.

The sea looks so beautiful and the air is so enriching. I read many books about the sea regarding its composition and diversity...but seeing it with my own two eyes is an entirely different feel.

The walk up to the edge of the ship to feel the wind pushing itself against my face...

Out of curiosity I opened my mouth and felt the wind blowing inside my mouth

"C--C--CC-OO--OO-LLL-LL"

I heard snickering behind my back," Ayanokouji-kun, what are you doing?"

It was Mori," Hello Mori, I was just testing something out...do you need something from me?"

She walks up to the deck of the ship next to me and simply said," Nah, Just wanted to feel the breeze. But when I looked at you, I saw childlike awe as if you never have seen the sea before."

"I have read about them."

She was looking at me with pity

"Oh sorry I didn't realise what I said would be true"

We then heard from the distance," Mori-san come with us, there is a movie room."

Her friends have invited her so I simply left to save her from the dilemma.

Horikita has not left her room ever since we got here. Not just that, she has been extremely wary of Chiaki.

All the ones I am friends with are gone...I need more guys to hang out with.

Thinking so I went to the lift, where almost all the lower decks were blocked with a Maintenance sign.

Strange...

I then went to the food court where a number of my classmates were hanging out.

What's interesting to note is that Sudo wasn't sitting with anyone. I went up to him and asked

"Is this seat taken?"

He seemed to be lost in thought to be broken by my words.

"Oh! No, it's not."

"Aren't you usually with Ike or Yamauchi"

He put his hand on his hair and ruffled it while looking slightly flustered

"About that...Umm...I don't want to bother with them anymore, after all, they weren't there when I needed their support.

Even if Ike apologised...it felt hollow, just like Yamauchi who simply insulted me then. Even Horikita, wants me to stay away from her when I try to thank her.

I have been trying to focus more on basketball but on a cruise...I have nothing to pass my time with. "

He is right, what they did can very well be seen as a betrayal. Considering what I read on friendship.

What is interesting to note; is their friendship lasted for 2 months...yet just broke with 2 sentences.

Sudo has changed quite a bit since this incident.

The USB befittingly called him, Amendable Explosive

( AN: Amendable= his character is mouldable, Explosive= hot-headed.)

I replied," You are right Sudo, friendship is built on respect and trust. I have a proposal, want to hear?"

He looked at me curiously, "What is it Ayanokouji?"

"If you are free, we can watch the NBA 2017 on the movie screen on this cruise."

He started smiling," Ya sure let's go...but isn't a minimum requirement 3?"

He is right. I could ask Hirata if he wasn't like a flower surrounded by bees.

"Wait a sec, I will another bait...I mean friend."

I scanned the room. Other classes are out of the question and in my class, there was just one boy who was recently talking to Haruka Haseba who just left.

I quickly walk up to him and politely ask

"Hi, Miyake!"

"Oh! Didn't see you there. What's up Ayanokouji?"

"I was wondering if you are willing to accompany me and Sudo to the theatre and watch NBA?"

"Ya sure sounds fun. I am down."

That's how we spend the entire day while hearing Sudo cheer with joy at every hoop throw and Akito tagging along with the fun. After that, we exchanged numbers and went our separate ways

It was certainly a new experience for me...which I want to experience again.

The next day Matsushita asked me to hang out with her which I did.

There was a library on board which I visited out of curiosity.

I soon came across an aisle to see a silvery hair girl trying to reach a book

"Do you want me to help you with that?"

She looked at me questioningly

"Aren't you also similar to my height? How will you achieve that feat?"

"What you say is true...but..since you are wearing a skirt you will be unable to do what I can."

She curiously asked, "What's that?"

I then put my leg on the side of the bookshelf and did a jump and snatched the book from the top shelf.

( AN: If you attempt to do it...get a solid grip on the ledge...and please don't hurt yourself)

As I handed it to her I said," This"

She looked at me with slight awe, "Wow! That was quite impressive and thank you for the help."

"No problem. Raymond Chandler?... Do you enjoy detective novels?"

"I don't have a particular choice but I do enjoy almost all types of books."

"That's impressive. I just came here out of mere curiosity for new books to read.

What's your name? I am Kiyotaka Ayanokouji"

Her eyes gleamed with happiness," My name is Shinna Hiyori nice to meet you Ayanokouji-kun. Oh! and you said you read books too. That's quite a stroke of luck. What's your favourite genre?"

"It's nice to meet you too Hiyori. If I had to choose Psychological thrillers. "

"Well, I can recommend you a lot of books like YOU by Caroline Kepnes, The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides..."

She then went on a spree regarding many books...almost all of them I had read, but I kept quiet listening to her sweet voice

"...and those are some of the best. Oh!! I am so sorry I may have gotten a bit too excited and blabbered too much."

"It's completely fine, you were talking about the things you enjoy. I enjoyed listening to the happy tone in your voice. Also, I like reading books a lot so thanks for the recommendations."

"Could we...maybe read more books again in the future... in the library together?... if you want to."

"Sure, I will take you up on that offer."

An announcement broke our conversation.

ASSEMBLE ON THE FRONT DECK IMMEDIATELY

=

After all the students assembled, I noticed Horikita rubbing her shoulders

"Are you feeling alright"

She looked at me with certain anxiety

"Ya, I am fine. I just woke up after reading a book...so I feel a bit drowsy. Now focus on the assembly."

Class A teacher stood on the deck with a loudspeaker

"We will have a special exam in which the classes will be competing for points and the location for the exam is

THE CRUISE SHIP ITSELF

--Author's Note--

Dear Readers,

This was a kinda light chapter except for certain parts...soo

Hope you enjoyed it

Sudo is not dumb in this fic :) As I said earlier, mostly everyone has some maturity.

Also, the Special exam location is the Cruise ship...I spread some hints on the type of exam it will be.

It will still be similar to the Deserted Island exam...with survival, class fights etc

But it will also be extremely different

So ya...updates may take a while...IDK

If you enjoyed reading please VOTE and COMMENT

Also, the next chapters will have a new exam...so if I make mistakes in the plot...please mention them.

Thank You.

𝓢1-𝓒22:𝓢𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓲𝓪𝓵 𝓔𝔁𝓪𝓶 𝓓𝓮𝓽𝓪𝓲𝓵𝓼

" EVENT:

The lowers decks will be your exam ground. All Classes will be provided 1000 S pts7 cards1 Gold card each. The duration of this exam is 7 days.

There will 3 tiers of rooms

1. Basic- Food storage(32000 calories/day) water storage (30L/day)bedroom bathrooms [400S]

2. Medium- Hall roombathroomsFood storage(66000 cal/day) water storage(75l/day)bedroom [800S]

3. Royal- PoolEntertainment roomHall roombathroomsFood storage(132,000cal/day) water storage(135L/day)student rooms.[1500 S]

The levels of the rooms will determine how hygienic the rooms are and the quality, amount of amenities provided.

RULES:

1. The leaders alone will activate the rooms for use by the Gold card except for the bedrooms.

--Individual bedrooms can be unlocked by student ID at designated hours ( 12 am-6 am).

2. The leader will have to reactivate all the rooms [except individual bedrooms] in an interval of 12 hours

3. All students will have to reach the front deck for attendance every 24 hours.

4. S points can be earned by bets. The winning class gets all and no upper limit.

-- Winning Points Card [Wagered points and card is also returned]

5. If any class reaches

--0 points, it results in disqualification.

--0 cards, it results in the inability to place any bets.

6. No prohibited activities like bullying, blackmail etc

7. Per class leader guessed at the end of exam classes will receive:

Correct = 100S Incorrect= - 200S Blank= 0S

8. A teacher must be present when bets take place.

--The teacher can't disclose or intervene in the bet placement.

9. Bets can take place only if both parties have 1 card minimum of 100 S pts as wager.

10. Final class points= S pts left/2 Cards x 25

11. Bets can be of 2 types : 1. Prediction 2. Games

--Predictions can be made regarding any given scenario agreed upon by both parties.

--Depending on the games played, participants can use the ship or the island (arriving soon).

--Games selected should be based on the availability of equipment.

12. Bets can be done individually or in groups of up to 4.

--Both parties should have an equal number of members in a Bet.

13. Materials can be bought if they are prescribed in the brochure.

--Only the Leader can approve those purchases upon a majority.

--No individual purchases are allowed.

14. Classes will have 2 hours per day to gather supplies from the island.

--Students can scavenge for resources but at their own risk.

--Island area will be divided on the basis of the teir of rooms.

15. If a student is unable to continue due to proper reasoning they will be disqualified with a loss of 50S points.

--If the said student was a leader, then a new leader can be appointed.

--If the said student was in the middle of a wager, then another student can switch upon the leader's consent."

--

CLASS POINTS

A-1004

B-663

C-492

D-87

--

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear readers

I wrote this chapter to provide a separate and clear overview of the exam

The calories and the water amount is mentioned for an important reason :)

Also, this will probs be much harder than the LN exam if it goes according to plan.

There are a lot of exploits that can be done. Try and find them

If the laws are having some flaws please tell me, I have gone in this a noob.

Also that airi and the store clerk scene, well I have plans for that in the future

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓒23:𝓗𝓮𝓵𝓹 & 𝓢𝓾𝓻𝓿𝓲𝓿𝓪𝓵

Ayanokouji's POV:

"The exam will start exactly at 6 am tomorrow."

The assembly was dispersed and most were relatively happy or calm.

I can assume that they thought this exam to be simple.

On the other hand, a few people were lost in thought. They probably realised the complexity of this exam.

Unlike the last 2 years, this time, it's on the cruise ship. It may first appear as an advantage, yet the sheer amount of novelty and deceptive nature of the exam makes it a dangerous one.

I do still wonder...what caused this change to occur in the first place?... Director Sakayanagi is my primary suspicion but without definitive proof, I can't lift a finger.

Horikita walks up to me," What do you think of this exam?"

She is being extremely polite and periodically looking at Chiaki. I presume something went down between these two.

"I don't know much..but this exam is not going to be simple."

She simply nodded and quickly walked away when Chiaki came by.

"Kiyotaka, why was she here?"

"Nothing important, she was just saying sorry for being rude."

She simply smiled... she did something to her.

"Hmm, seems like she is learning. Anyways, what will we do for this exam?"

"We can worry about it later."

She suddenly got a call and the colours of her face vanished.

She then got a very uncharacteristically strong grip on my hand and ran to the side deck of the ship and we hid behind a wall

FLASHBACK(1 day ago)

Airi's POV:

The last few days have been good. Matsushita-san and Ayanokouji-san, are such kind people. I hope we can be friends in the future. Even when I stuttered they never judged me.

It's so contradictory with my online persona, Shizuku. She is everything that I want my true self to be.

My stuttering has always been a problem no matter how hard I try it has always been a hindrance in my social life, which thankfully doesn't affect my career. Since I never actually meet my fans, it has never affected me.

This school is different, they probably thought that I must have some skills as a gravure idol, which although true, doesn't include making friends.

Thinking such depressing thoughts I sent my photos on my socials and the likes and comments flooded in. It gives me slight joy....but I think I have been desensitized to it.

One account has been continuously sending me messages which were at first extremely disgusting but they had stopped for a while after the day I met Ayanokouji...it probably was a coincidence... right?

But today again the same account send these private messages. This time though, it left me utterly shocked.

--

@ notreal69

'YOU are soooooo beautiful Sakura-channnnn'

'I know where you are...Saukkkkkura'

'I will come to you Sakura-chan...your school, your cruise ship...'

*Picture of ANHS*

'If you don't want me to release your secret, pleasssseeee come to the side deck of the ship tomorrow 6pm...I love youuuuu Sakura-chann Soooo much.'

*Location*

'I will be waiting 3'

--

H-How? I thought this school was safe? How did he know my real name??

No, I can't let anyone find out. People would make lewd comments on me, judge me, they will fake their kindness onto me and later on ask me for favours... disgusting.

I know how cruel the idol world can be. A perfect smile with so many hidden truths. The cutthroat competition, and most repulsive is the parasocial behaviour has led to this criminal to be formed who can destroy my school life in a click. First the news and then the idol world...they will try to broadcast my every move.

I have to go...

Thinking such anxious thoughts, I went to sleep crying, worrying and lamenting my fate...

The next day after the assembly I went to the location.

Each step was fearful for me and I soon reached the side deck and waited with bated breath.

My heart was beating loudly in my chest and then suddenly I was being pulled by a burly hand holding my mouth.

While he was dragging me across the floor I pulled out my phone and called the first number on my phone and left it on speaker.

I was then pushed down on the ground with force as I hit my head on the metal rod next to the deck. I was starting to lose my consciousness as he started trying to take my clothes off as I tried my best to push him off.

"Sakura-chan, I am your biggest fan. Love me please I have liked allllll of your videos."

"P-Please let me goo...I beg you please"

Tears were streaming down my despairing eyes... Please I need help.

"Sakura-chan, your body is sooooo good, look at me, i really love you. I came here after finding you! Look how much I want you."

"S-Stay a-a-away f-from me I d-don't k-know you...Let me go, Please!"

I started begging to him but he didn't stop. He started pulling my shirt as I tried to force off his disgusting hands.

"Don't be like this Sakura-chan. I-I am your trruee fan, I deserve youuu. Even when I got scared of that Boy back there, I still followed you all the way to this shippp. That brat can't follow us here, just youuu and mee."

He then pulled out a card

"See, I applied for a job as a janitor after being fired...I really love you Sakura-san. That's what you want right. Someone to take care of you, give you sooo much love. I will always give you love."

He tore of my shirt and I fell into despair

No one will save me...

No one ever did...

My nervousness, lack of friends, weak heart...all just my mistake...

Maybe if I get one more chance, I just might...be able to change.

My mind sunk into despair as he started groping my chest and forcefully tried to kiss me.

His disgusting breath was suffocating me and his touches sent fear in my mind. My body was screaming at me to escape..but I can't. He is too strong.

He then pulled off his belt and made a clanking noise with his buckle.

"Sakura-chann, Since you love me, I want you to satisfy me...You are mine after all aren't you?? Is your duty as my future wifffeeeee."

His touches were like needles as they pierced my skin I gave a blood-curdling scream.

He then roughly grabbed my throat as he warned me

"Naughty Sakura-chan. Don't scream at your lover, it's bad manners. Loookss like I have to punishhh you!!"

He then removed his pants was going to...No please...someone...save me.

FLASHBACK END

Ayanokouji's POV:

Chiaki had immediately taken out her phone, considering no cameras were in the vicinity.

After enough evidence was recorded I decided to step in.

"Kiyotaka where are you going?"

Chiaki tightened her grip on my hand

"Call the security, I will keep him from doing anything to her."

I tried to pry my hand off

"I will call them but don't go there. What if he hurts you. They will save her, stay right here."

Chiaki has changed...and not in a good way. She is becoming strangely protective and domineering.

"Chiaki, I will be fine. If you call them quickly enough, he won't hurt me...

"I don't care what happens to her as long as you are safe...sorry I didn't mean to say that..."

Chiaki seems to have blurted out something concerning and covered her mouth

"I trust you Chiaki."

In the last 4 words..her expression changed from fear to an eerie smile

"Alright, I won't let you down."

She then went a bit away from the deck to avoid this criminal from hearing her.

I then walked slowly towards him as he turned around in fear,

"I-It's you! I-I wasn't doing anything wrong, we were just making love!"

Such a pathetic lie, with his pink underwear and a crying Sakura below him.

" Wow, this is such a precarious situation for you to be in...I pity you... Who am I kidding."

He then pulled out an 8-inch long knife which he probably stole from the cruise kitchen.

"Stay back kid, let me and Sakura-chan be together. You are a villain in our story. I will cut you right here in front of Sakura-chan"

I then completely desensitized myself as my eyes went dark as I stared at this creature with nothing but darkness

" I AM A VILLIAN, just not in this."

He then attacked me with a straight knife attack to my face, which I allowed to make a small slice on my cheek.

"See kid, I am much stronger than you. Runaway and let us be together. You are ruining our love story."

I got enough proof for self-defence.

He then rushed at me, this time trying to attack my stomach. I dodged it and turned to my side facing his attacking hand. I then grabbed it and twisted it and pushed my body down.

He then flipped and crashed on the ground on his back. I didn't let his hand go as I twisted his wrist causing it to shatter.

( AN: it actually shatters, since the twist is done very quickly and while holding the arm in place upon falling...Idk if the spine is heavily injured on hitting the ground or not.)

He screamed in howling pain as he shivered and curled up

"AAHHH, you b-broke my w-wrist, I am SORRY PLEASSSE LET ME GOO."

I let him go.

"Alright, I think you learned your lesson...One more thing, to confirm."

Crack*

I kicked his groin and completely crushed it.

I grabbed his collar as I spoke

"You didn't understand when I said before when we were alone...so I will repeat one last time.. .I HATE SCUM."

I then let him drift into unconsciousness in sheer pain.

On that day we met Sakura. After the girls went home, I sneaked back to the store and informed the manager regarding his misdemeanour...causing him to be removed from his job.

He was seething in anger back then...and then I said those words. That was enough for some time... what I didn't realise was the extent of his so-called 'love' for her.

Emotions are tricky to handle...

The security soon arrived with a worried Chiaki

"What happened here?"

"He tried to rape this girl and when I tried to stop him...he attacked me. The proof is there with Chiaki and..."

I showed him my cheek which was still bleeding.

Chiaki quickly grabbed my cheek

"H-HOW? You said you would be safe. Why did this happen? I knew I had to protect you...I shouldn't have let you leave my sight. I should have been more careful.I failed again..."

She fell to the ground. This is becoming a bothersome issue. I seem to have affected her mind more than I expected.

"It's alright Chiaki, I simply took this hit so that you would take care of me."

I tried to use a jokingtone to which she had a slight smile

"A-Alright...I may have overreacted.It's just that I..."

Not wanting to listen to the rest of it I simply went up to Sakura who was unconscious and asked Chiaki,

"Let's take her to her room."

She got up and wiped her tears and we both carried her back to her room

"Let this be between us unless she wants to disclose it herself."

She nodded and walked out of Sakura's room.

She looked at me and tried to say something

"Kiyotaka, don't keep your phone silent at night."

"May I know why?"

"Didn't I just say you not to...just listen to me for once."Her tone quickly changed to the same one she had when she saw the injury on my cheek.

"Alright I won't keep it silent"

It seems this event had an unprecedented outcome on Chiaki... is she that weak?....No, what I saw in her eyes was not weakness...it was the will to protect.

Not long ago she didn't care much about anything...yet now... things are different.

"Have a good night Kiyotaka."

"You too Chiaka."

Saying so we left...to be specific...I felt Chiaki's piercing gaze on my back as I turned around and went to my room.

There is a high possibility that I may be overanalyzing this...but

There is a small chance...I may have inadvertently created something which... I don't know.

Time will tell..what's to come...since human nature...is known to be volatile and unpredictable.

( AN: Imo, ppl are inherently weird..they can be manipulated to an extent..but their reactions are often hard to control. eg: you can make a person do ur work, but after that how they will react/change is unpredictable. It often leads to troublesome situations.)

=

Ayanokouji's POV:

The next day at exactly 6 am we all were assembled at the main deck and the classes were separated into different rooms along with our respective teachers.

Sakura seemed to be dazed by that incident while Chiaki explained to her quietly regarding the proceedings which took place.

Sae Sensei said, " Choose your leader within 10 minutes. If you go outside the stipulated time period I will do it personally."

Saying so she left the room and the room was filled with discussion

Karuizawa said, "Why bother deciding, Hirata-kun will be the leader."

Almost all the girls and many boys did agree...though some were completely unfazed by this event like Koenji

I quickly texted Chiaki certain instructions

I then got up and went to Hirata and said with a thoughtful tone," While it's a genius plan given by Karuizawa-san"

She simply made a prideful gesture at that remark

"I think even an idiot would be able to guess the leader would be you and we would be giving other classes free points."

Her previous pride evaporated with the smiles of many of the girls.

Hirata nodded understandingly," You are right..but who will be willing to take such responsibility and will be inconspicuous."

Chiaki stood up and said in a kind tone," I have an idea...what about Horikita-san? She is smart and responsible enough...right?"

To which Kushida jumped," Yes-yes, she will be an amazing leader. Isn't that right Horikita-san?"

She looked at her with puppy eyes...truly would melt anyone's heart.

Horikita being the stone-cold girl, ignored her...but agreed nonetheless.

"Only because I have to"

Sae-sensei came and assigned her the card.

"Alright then, now choose the teir you all want and Horikita, you will be unlocking the doors to the rooms, covertly. The rooms can be activated at any time and every 12 hours reactivated. Here on the screen are the different room interiors and island halves based on the teirs. Make your choices wisely."

Keisei quickly dropped his suggestion," We should go with the basic tier. We need to win this exam. Not many of our classmates are excelling at anything, unlike me or Horikita-san who excel at academics. Therefore we won't be able to participate in bets."

Mori countered," But have you ever looked at the interiors of the basic teir rooms?? It is barely livable. I can in no way sleep in a room with no ventilation and dirty mattress."

She was right, the basic teir bedrooms were very compact and I could see some marks on the bed of the photos on the screen. Keisei was also right, the capabilities of most students are not known or average.

Not just that but the bathroom photos also were in a similar state.

Satou tried to suggest," Hey, how about we choose the Mid teir rooms? If we can earn more points we can then transfer to the Royal tier."

That would be plausible if we had a definitive way of winning points. Bets if not placed properly will lead to either = 50% chances of defeat.

Not to mention, we only have 7 cards.

The Mid teir rooms were moderately sized and well enough to properly accommodate us...but the royal teir rooms were simply too lavish.

Sudo then suggested," I think that could work. Maybe we can make bets on basketball. I can then win a bunch of points."

Many people agreed to that idea. But that will work just once since it would be spread to almost all classes about his abilities, causing it to be a one-trick pony.

Horikita then gave her idea," Let's just buy the Basic tier and then use Sudo to get enough S points to shift to Mid-tier rooms."

That was a midground in their idea and hence was readily accepted by the majority.

Now the issue was, how to actually activate the rooms without being noticed.

Shinohara said." Why don't we just go and open the door? I am pretty sure other classes have already taken the rooms so no one will see us...let's just get this over with and Sudo..go win the points so I can relax in the mid-tier rooms at least."

Sudo wanted to retort but considering the importance of the situation decided to stay quiet.

Her idea is based on luck... which is a fickle thing, relying on it will only get you killed.

But I wasn't interested to point that out.

Ike said," Hey what if we just let one person go out first and check if someone is outside and then let the leader go. This will make everyone confused and we can simply win."

It was not a bad strategy but there was a risk, if any class actually kept proper monitoring they would immediately notice this obvious plan. Even if this worked out, the number of probable leaders would go down from 1/30 to 1/2.

Chiaki then suggested," What if we all go together and then let everyone act like they are opening the door and finally when the last student acts it out, the door will be already opened, which will confuse the other class if we meet them."

This mitigates the entire issue posed by Ike...not bad Chiaki. It is time-consuming but effective.

There was a much more effective & quick strategy that could be employed...but if I did say it out loud, it would cause the focus to shift on me.

This was agreed by Horikita readily," Let's carry out Matsushita-san's plan. In this way, the chances of being caught are almost 0."

We all walked up to the doors and started opening them in this fashion. Luckily, it seems that we were late enough that no other classes were activating the rooms.

Upon unlocking the rooms, some students have realised the true difficulty of this exam.

The food and water are less than the required amount for 30 humans to survive. This will inevitably lead to internal feuds and hamper our performance.

I had realised it back at the assembly where they oddly specified the Calories and Litres of water.

They did this theoretically to monitor how students will react to extreme situations.

"This food and water won't be enough to suffice our needs. We need more."Horikita said calmly in contrast to the rest of the students panicking

Kushida thought of a solution," Maybe we can ask other classes...I have a few friends there, they might help."

Horikita immediately rejected that notion," Asking other classes will cause a debt...maybe we can find something on that island."

Ike soon said with excitement, " I know fishing, maybe at the island we can get some food and water."

Hirata then suggested, "That would be a viable idea but we need to check whether we can buy a fishing rod from the brochure." Upon checking the brochure the idea became feasible.

In this way the class won't face starvation and dehydration if the part of the island assigned has those amenities, else things will get worse sooner than expected...but this is just the beginning of a long list of challenges...I wonder how this class will face them.

It will be interesting to watch...

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

In LN, Kiyo's plans generally didn't include controlling emotions. Hence they were easier to predict...but emotions are very unpredictable and since he is trying to control that as well...he will be able to complete the required task with the tool, but after that what the tool will act as, will be hard to predict.

Airi stutters a lot...true...but she still is an idol which means...she has enough knowledge on how the world works even if she ain't book smart and is a nervous mess...to be an idol and hide her stuttering and other nature is worthy of praise.

So ya...I made at least somewhat smarter since she is in the school of the elite.

Ike redemption-ish arc

Since this exam has a lot of complexities and every step needs planning, classes are all reasonably logical and their ideas will be decent-ish...mostly...since I can't waste time thinking of dumb ideas...again, I need to justify their eliteness...

Except a few ;)

eg: Ryueen won't hopefully make the dumb mistake of keeping the receiver in open sight.

Will be doing updates slowly...exams

If you enjoyed reading, VOTE and COMMENT

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓒24:𝓠𝓾𝓪𝓰𝓶𝓲𝓻𝓮

Ayanokouji's POV:

We then went back to the designated room assigned at the start of this event which was, as I suspected, closed.

Sae-sensei was standing outside grinning," How pathetic can you idiots be, did you really expect to get a free room. Anyways, we will arrive at the island by 12 am."

Mori then asked," But sensei, where will be discussing our strategies, if we do it outside won't other classes be able to hear us?"

She simply smirked," That's what a hall room is for... oh wait, you fools don't have one."

Saying so she left us to our fate in the vacant hallway.

I presume other classes have chosen Mid-tier, since they obviously have more talents and hence have a higher probability of winning bets.

Hirata then took up the command and said," Why don't we simply text each other, since we already have a group."

Kokoro surprisingly spoke up," B-But what will we do if someone's phone is seen by other classes, all our plans will be exposed...I mean that's what I think at least."

Satou then looked at her and smiled," Wow, this is the first time I have seen you speak like that, anyways what she said is true and would be dangerous.

But, we can just delete the messages after a few minutes of sending them, by clicking delete for everyone. In this way, it would be almost impossible for other classes to find out anything or overhear us."

Looks like being glued to your phone has its uses after all.

Horikita nodded,"That sounds reasonable, so we have figured out how to communicate and the room situation. We still are in the dark about the island and the boundaries of the bets are also vague."

I presume what Horikita said would be true if it wasn't deliberately done so.

Considering most would go for games that are more well defined, the prediction part was kept very vague. Maybe it can be used at a future date.

Karuizawa then offered," Hey, why don't we worry about that later. Right now let's focus on the important stuff like you know...the LINE groups...Hey! Kushida-san why don'tcha start the group for us, me and Satou-san will manage it."

Kushida nodded," I will do so Karuizawa-san...but I don't have Koenji-kun's number."

Koenji stopped combing his golden hair, looked at her, and then went back to combing his gel-like hair guffawing at us.

Kushida didn't look offended and made the group without Koenji

Horikita then ordered, " Spread out, we don't want other classes to be suspicious."

I went alone to the deck of the ship, it has an odd sense of calmness.

( AN: the X means Kiyo didn't save their numbers...same as WhatsApp.)

--

CLASS D-Cruise fun

X: So what's the plan

Chiaki: We should probably start with Sudo making the first bet.

X: Hey, what about Oonodere, she is a great swimmer.

X: Umm...thanks ig, we could start with me, but tbh I ain't too sure we can win. Since there are great swimmers in other classes, esp Class B

Kushida: We all believe in you Oonodere-san \o/

X: Alright if you say so...but I want to go after Sudo

Sudo: If you say so I can crush those other classes under my feet.

X: Whateves let's get this over with. I am like super grossed out by this dumb teir (＃Д)

X: #canrelate Karuizawa-san(﹏)

Horikita: Alright but we still need to choose which class and student is willing to place a bet.

X: As she said, I think we can either go against class C or Class B.

Sudo: Let's choose Class C, Ishizaki guy. I can't wait to teach that fker a lesson.(皿)

Horikita: For now, let's first get to the island and map it, after that we can start betting.

Chiaki: Horikita-san is right, we need to understand the scenario before taking any action.

X:I think we should work together and we can win this, for now let's just follow what Horikita-san is saying

X: If u say so hirata-kun, I trust you.（︶）

X:Mii-chan, that's my bf ..btw and delete the messages will ya. Bye I am gonna go to the upper deck.

X: I will come 2. Too tiring this meeting was.

--

I shouldn't be here any longer. I still need to find out the game room in this ship, where theoretically these game bets might take place.

Upon reaching the room, it was empty...Oddly disappointing.

This room had a basketball court in one of the sub rooms, which was quite big, not surprising considering the size of this ship.

What's interesting though, this school has planned these events with a deceptive purpose.

Breaking my chain of thought, Sudo entered the room

"Ayanokouji, What are you up to man? Want another match?...this time no pitying me though."

"I never pitied you Sudo. You are an exceptional basketball player and that's a fact. I even believe you can win the bets when placed."

I really do believe that.

He grinned," Thanks man, I am not worried too much about it."

"There is a bit of a concern though. I don't know if you noticed or not but this room's ventilation system is closed, with no A/C or cooling system. Since our water reserves are barely enough for all the students..."

" You are wondering, how I will manage?"

I nodded patiently waiting for his response while he simply looked around the room

Playing Basketball is a tiring sport, I wonder if Sudo will be able to bear this...and by connection...what will happen to Class D.

"I will be hard if I listen to what you said. The island may have water in it. If not, I will either have to drink more than my share of water leading to everyone thirsty or I will have to just rough it out.I can't back off. I can't let Horikita down...and more importantly, I want to prove that, I am the best."

He said thumping this chest and a smile across his face.

Must be nice to have goals in life.

He patted my back

"You are observant Ayanokouji, from that game and today...I know one thing for sure, you ain't what you show."

As expected of Sudo after what I said, this should increase his respect towards me, which will make it slightly easier to use him in the upcoming future.

"Thank you, Sudo, who are you going to play against?"

"I will probably choose Ishizaki from Class C or Shibata from Class B if they agree to it."

"How will you convince them to choose Basketball though, won't asking them to make them suspicious." I tried to act as ignorant as possible.

"I don't know man, but Horkita can do anything...by the way, what's her first name."

Hmm...

I jokingly said, " Win the bet, then I will tell you."

Sudo laughed, "Alright then! You just wait and see."

Saying so he started dribbling the ball and tried to shoot but I caught the ball.

"Not now Sudo, we don't want you tired and thirsty. It will affect your performance."

I dropped the ball and I left him on his own.

I glanced at the watch...30min left.

I go to the washroom and see...not to my surprise, no faucets and only 2 toilets.

For 30 students...just 2.

I decided to check something out.

I then went up to the other floors, having the other classes.

As soon as the elevator door opened, I took a quick photo of the hallways of each class and went back.

Upon reviewing the photos, I can clearly tell those pictures Sae-sensei showed us during the tier selection, were not lying.

The mid teirs of Class A and B looked just like our dorms and I think it's safe to assume there are more bathrooms than the basic tier.

Come to think of it, rules never specified the number of bathrooms.

Class C, on the other hand, has chosen Royal teir. It looked the same as the rooms the cruise offered us the first few days. Either they are extremely confident in their skills or they are planning something. If it's the latter, maybe I can turn it into my favour, for now, I just have to wait.

I then heard an announcement,"WE ARE SOON REACHING THE ISLAND PLEASE GET READY."

Upon hearing I run-up to the deck and take a photo of the island, if I missed it, things would be bothersome.

I heard a haughty voice on my side, "Hey you!"

I ignored it and was starting to head back when I got a tap on my shoulder.

I turned around to find none other than Karuizawa

"Do you need anything Karuizawa...and Satou?"

"Hello Ayanokouji-kun"

"I was talking first ya know...super rude. BTW, whatcha doing running up like you are some Usain Bolt? And what's with that pic? Wanna perv on us... gross."

Why does everyone...it gets repetitive after a point.

"Stop making baseless accusations and...BTW, you ain't that hot to take pics of, ponytail gyaru."I changed my tone to mirror her...

The reactions were...interesting to say the least.

It went from shock to embarrassment to anger...in a matter of seconds.

"Shut up shortie"

"Still 1 inch taller than ya."

"Stop copying me, and btw I am like taller 'kay"

"Didn't know you were blind too."

It's true...technically

"Ugh...F you Bakakouji, you are blind for not calling me hot. Maybe it's like you are the fox thinking grapes are sour."

"You know what you are right"

She grinned having seemingly won the war.

"You are sweating a lot, so it must be true."

She immediately became beet red and started checking herself.

Meanwhile, Satou watching the whole scene was giggling silently.

The ship stopped, as I looked sideways...we reached.

=

Our classes assembled and Sae sensei instructed," Listen up! 1 hour, to scavenge if you want anything. You will be assigned a part of the island.

I will monitor you all. Also you students can't scavenge resources from other parts of the island.

You all can choose any desired time to enter the island. But you all have to get a teacher to supervise you."

Class A and Class C seemed to have already entered the island. Class B though, simply went back to their floor.

Ike gleamed. "We should go nowww! I can't wait to show you guys my skills."

Everyone was agreeing, I have to stop this.

I quickly texted Chiaki

'Agree to what I am about to say.'

"Guys don't you think we should wait for them. Oh maybe then we can place a bet with those classes, since they will be super tired we can easily win!"I mocked a tone of joy.

"Yeah Kiyotaka is right, why don't we first let them come back and we place a bet with either of the classes."

Chiaki really has become a strong character in class these days, everyone almost immediately agreed with her.

I heard a ping in the group chat

--

X: What do we do now?

Chiaki: why not bet with Class B.

Kushida: But what though Matsushita-san?

Horikita: Maybe something simple like 2 Truths, 1 lie?

X: Ya, that's sounds just fine, maybe let's inform Chabashira-sensei

X: If Hirata-kun says so

X: If Hirata-kun says so

X: If Hirata-kun says so

--

A simple, yet deceptive game.

Horikita walked up to Sae-sensei and proclaimed

"Sensei, we want to play a game of 2 truths, 1 lie against Class B "

She simply smirked and signed us to follow

We soon entered the game room and she opened a door opposite to the basketball court.

It had many chairs and a single whiteboard.

Sae sensei then said

"I have called Class B too. If they agree to it, this game will commence."

Just as soon as she spoke Class B appeared with Ichinose in front of them.

"Sensei, may we come in?"

"Alright come inside. Also, none of you will talk directly to the other class about the bet, all info will be shared between the teachers. So whatever you all have to say, tell me."

A few members of our class said bit by bit to avoid suspicion of a specific person.

Class B seemed to be unaware and allowed Ichinose to speak to Hoshinomiya.

"So Sae, whatcha betting?"

"Chie, class D students want to make a bet with the game 2 truths and 1.

1 card and 200 S pts from the losing party."

"Ohh, alright! Heard that Class B, wanna say something about it?"

Ichinose then said something inaudible to Hoshinomiya who then said

"Soo, Class B will take on the bet if they get to choose who all and how many students can take part."

Class D started texting again

--

X: should we agree?

Horikita: We made the bet, if they don't agree with this, then we will not get points.

Chiaki: Basically, we have to agree, regardless of what they ask for, this is relatively harmless

--

Sudo then told the details to Sae sensei

"It sounds fair enough. Do we have a bet in place?"

Hoshinomiya agreed, "Let's begin. Also, Class B has chosen the students who they want to bet against. Ike, Yamauchi, Inogashira and... Ayanokouji-kun"

Both class teachers took the points from the classes and showed them on the screen.

It seems Class B went at face value to choose the most gullible looking people in this Class. My facade seems to have backfired on me... what a pity.

Sae sensei then asked," What about your Class? Who will these 4 face against?"

Hoshinomiya clapped her hands together," OH!... Umm...I forgot...oh wait I remember

Ichinose, Kanzaki, Amikura anddd Himeno!! Have fun y'all."

Class D seemed to have lost their marbles. Class B seemingly turned the game entirely in their favour even before it started.

Well played...but not good enough.

"Everyone else moves out of the room. Don't communicate with the participating students and you 8, submit your phones."

"Don't worry guys, I was called the Sherlock holmes of my school."Ike grinned.

"I may have not told you guys before but I was also a private detective in middle school, don't worry guys I will win it."Yamauchi huffed in pride

If I felt emotions I would have mentally facepalmed.

Class D still was quite shocked and went out...without even acknowledging their presence.

Class B on the other hand was quite confident.

Only 8 chairs left in this room filled with 100. Sitting on the teacher's desk is Sae-sensei and Hoshinomiya sitting on the corner desk.

Ichinose greeted us," Hope we have a fair and equal game."

Yamauchi was still staring at her chest from the moment we started.

"Yes yes, maybe we can be together and I can show you how great I am"

Sae-Sensei then read out the rules,

"

The rules are as follows which are agreed upon by both classes

1. 3 statements will be spoken by each student and 2 of them will be truths, find out the lie.

2. If a student loses a duel then they will be removed until all students of a team are eliminated.

3. This event will be recorded and cross-verified. Hence don't use unfair means.

4. This will be a rotational basis which will be chosen at random pairs ie a pair of students will duel and then rotate with the next pair of competitors.

5. Each member can ask a maximum of 5 questions.

Are the rules clear?"

Both teams nodded

Pointing to the bowl she said,

"Now both teams have their names in this bowl please choose your chits in an orderly manner."

One by one we took out the chits

--

1. Yamauchi-Ichinose

2.Ike-Kanzaki

3. Igonashira-Himeno

4. Ayanokouji-Amikura

--

Ichinose sweatdropped at that selection, while Yamauchi couldn't stop grinning.

... Smile while you can.

2 chairs were placed at the middle of the room and the lights were closed.

=

Darkness surrounded us, focusing our attention only on one straight light pointing at the competitors.

Hoshinomiya sensei pouted," Why am I here, I thought only one teacher is needed?"

Sae-sensei replied," It's simple, you will monitor class D to maintain fairness. I have no interest in being accused of favouritism."

Round 1:

Yamauchi and Ichinose both sat in their seats.

Sae sensei, "Since Class D started this bet, Class D shall begin it this round. The next round can begin with Class B."

Ichinose simply ignored his comment...but at least this event is being recorded.

Yamauchi then pulled his chair closer to her,

"1.I was the baseball club's ace in middle school.

2. I am single right now

3. I will find true love and confess to her."

...Is this a joke?

Ichinose asked her first question," Did you confess before Mr Hot and Single?"

I almost snickered, unlike the rest who were trying their best to hide their laughs.

She targeted statements 2 and 3 at once, a broad approach...quite effective against a person like Yamauchi.

Yamauchi said "Nah, Didn't find the right one. Give me your number, I will show you personally what I meant in private."

Almost everyone glared daggers at Yamauchi, who didn't see anything due to the lack of light.

Ichinose asked gently," Why did you stop baseball?"

She noticed the 'was' in the statement and seemed to have questioned that missing information.

He smugly said," Oh it's because once I was playing against another high school team and since I was the only one who the team could count on. I won the whole thing by myself but I am currently in rehab since I got an injury. You know I also played in the internationals."

Ichinose simply looked at sensei and said," The first statement sensei...is a lie."

Quite obvious, since ...middle school doesn't have international.

Yamauchi lost the colour of his face..but said," Haha...I just let you win...so my reward, the number?"

Ichinose simply walked back to her seat while Sae sensei simply showed the door to Yamauchi, who went out with a hung head.

Round 2:

Ike and Kanzaki sat on the chairs

Kanzaki went straight for the questions," I will start...

1.I had been suspended before

2.I am an only child.

3. I care about my Class B classmates the most."

What an interesting set of statements...especially the last one

Ike laughed," Lolz, what did you get suspended for?"

He kept his stoic expression," Violence."

Ike said again," Violent with whom?"

He said," My Classmate."

Keeping it vague works if the question isn't pinpointed...which Ike doesn't realise.

Ike was getting irritated," Ugh...properly answer my question the next time. Are your parents rich?"

Kanzaki replied," Richer than a middle-class person."

Kanazaki was smart with his subjective wording.

Ike pumped his fists together," I got you, if your parents are rich then it means they can afford to have more than 1 kid...so you are lying...I winnn!! Sensei it's statement 2."

...That's quite generalised and very weak form reasoning. Money while it does play a part in family planning...it's not the only factor...Ike has a 16.66% chance to win here based on statistics at least.

Sae sensei asked Kanazaki to reveal it," Ike, you lost...good game."

...As expected.

He broke his stoic face into a slight grin as he left the spotlight while Ike left with his head hanging.

Kanzaki...at least in expression is similar to me.

Though considering his body language at the

last statement...was that a lie?

Round 3:

Kokoro was nervous for sure, her pupils were dilated and her hands were also shaking, Himeno on the other hand was completely calm.

Himeno then said, "I am ready... You gonna say something?"

...This is the first time I heard her talk, her voice sounds bored and smooth.

Kokoro calmed down her herself by slapping her face now adorning a bright red mark,

"Y-yes, I am ready

1. Acting is my hobby.

2. I broke my arm once.

3. I had a pet whom I killed."

I noticed Kokoro ket it very vague with the details and not at all stuttering, she seems to have learnt a bit from observing the previous rounds. These statements are leagues ahead of Ike and Yamauchi.

This should increase the number of questions Himeno has to ask...unless she figures out the flaws, let's see what she can do.

Himeno is an unknown entity after all.

Himeno simply nodded and kept quiet for a while. Silence enveloped the room to be broken by a soft yet direct voice

"How did acting affect your school life?...lol maybe you waste your time in this dumb hobby, stuttering freak"

Himeno is quite smart with that question, she not only asked value of acting in her life but also is trying to pry info if she has joined the drama club in this school...and that ending insult will...

Kokoro seemed extremely hurt at that insult, " I-I t-try to balance it with my studies, sometimes I get low marks since I devote too much time to it...But i-it's because I really like acting. I joined a few clubs in school before and even now I am in the drama club at ANHS. And I am trying my best to not stutter please don't make fun of me."

I could see a slight grin forming on Himeno's face. Kokoro has said more than necessary.

"What was the first signature on your cast?"

Kokoro replied after pushing her hair to the back of her ear.

"Oh, so it was Yuna, my only friend back then. I was very lonely back then so only she was willing to sign my pink cast"

...Himeno indeed is someone I am in the dark about. Her questions are quite intricate.

This 1 question revealed a lot of statements she can use.

Himeno mocked her,

"Lols, even I had more friends."

She continued,

"What did you kill your pet with?"

Kokoro's pupils widened, "I-I accidentally fed it the wrong type of food."

"Wow, it seems you poisoned it... how cruel."Himeno instigated her...this wasn't a question.

Kokoro broke down crying, "I-I didn't m-mean to...my bunny I loved her...It was an accident, I was only 10."

Quite a brutal yet effective method...it may have worked a bit too well on Kokoro.

Himeno sighed," I don't care...Sensei, the second statement is a lie."

Kokoro nodded in defeat. She has a long way to go...but she did improve from the nervous girl back then.

Kokoro walked up to me before leaving and said," Please...win this for us."

"You did your best...I will try to not disappoint you."

Just 3 questions... impressive...especially with these statements, she perfectly broke through the errors of her statements.

...

...

..

.

I am the only one left...

1 V 4

...hardly fair

FOR THEM

--Author's Note--

Dear Readers,

This was my first attempt at making a test.

Hope you all enjoyed reading it

Kiyo will face 4 of them at once...And YUKI HIMENO...is now in...so ya, watch out :)

Kanzaki doesn't like his classmate???...dammm

If you guys enjoyed it, Vote and Comment

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓒25:𝓞𝓫𝓯𝓾𝓼𝓬𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷

AN: I fried my 1 braincell writing this

WARNING: Might be extremely confusing for some, I myself was banging my head, so ya...sorry/I may have made everyone a bit too op minded.

--

Ayanokouji's POV:

LIES

Words are often spoken with the intent to protect. Many use it as a sword rather than its true purpose as a shield. Lies are often used daily by us as a tool for social survival, hence most of us are quite good at lying. Lies are often a powerful weapon but must be used with caution.

One must be careful to disguise lies with well-crafted events, many often fail to do so, once caught they lose complete control of this weapon. The severity lies inflict depends on the user and if caught inflict even greater damage to the user's social status.

Humans, generally have certain traits in them which are often involuntary in the case of lies. Certain instances do exist where these lies become our truth...but then

What is truth? Is it just an illusion of well-crafted lies?

Liars are often generalised...but there are multiple categories to them. Considering the previous rounds I can safely gauge the types of liars in this room.

Yamauchi obviously is a glaring example of a Compulsive Liar.

This category often tends to lie out of habit and maintaining self-esteem, often arising out of the sheer desire to not be ordinary.

Furthermore, these types of individuals often have inconsistencies in their lies and use even more lies to coat these flaws. Ichinose properly realised this in Yamauchi in exploiting it to her advantage to win.

Kanzaki, is not a proficient liar but his statements and answers reveal a certain amount of control over his actions.

Yet his inexperience caused his subconscious urge to cover his mouth to show up in the form of bringing his hand to his lips, obviously, any single behaviour can't be considered a sign for lies, what must be looked for is signs of discomfort which coincided with his body language leading me to this hypothesis...but his lie...was a very strange one indeed.

Kokoro, is a slightly impulsive liar, her words upon pressure exaggerated the truth in her own mind perfectly used by Himeno to her advantage.

I wonder which type of liar I am...I guess we will find out...

Round 4:

"Ayanokouji, please sit down on the chair. You have stood there for the last 5 minutes."

"Sorry Sae-sensei and...Amikura-san, hope you are doing well."

I reached out my hand to which she reciprocated with a handshake, her palms are sweaty which indicate stress, unlike her face which shows a bright smile.

Breaking down one's mental barrier is a general way to subconsciously calm her down a handshake is often advisable as a means of approach.

"Good afternoon Ayanokouji-kun.It's not a bother."

I pulled my chair back further in order to give her space. Violating someone's personal space will put them at general discomfort making it harder to differentiate between nervousness and lies.

I then reduced eye contact with her looking at my watch instead and then exhaling loudly enough for her to hear, which she subconsciously mirrored, simply because humans generally gravitate towards homeostasis. All this to make her relax, whom I can see from the corner of my eye, calming down.

"Sensei, is their any time limit?"

"No, but please don't misuse it."

"Could I maybe talk a bit to her before we start...Is that alright with your Amikura?"

Amikura was slightly rubbing her hands together," Ya sure, I would like to get to know my opponent first."

Sae sensei nodded as I asked in a soft voice," What's your full name?"

"My name is Mako Amikura, what's yours?"

"I am Kiyotaka Ayanokouji, you have a very pleasant-sounding name, mind telling me how were you named? "

Simple questions like these, often bring out positive associations providing psychological comfort.

Movies usually depict the opposite of applying heavy pressure and immense eye contact to bring out the truth by escalating the situation. This is unbeneficial in reality, where calming the person is the number 1 priority.

She smiled happily as she talked," Oh, well... as far as I remember Mako is derived from hemp for 'Ma' and Child for 'Ko'. Amikura is derived from network for 'Ami' and warehouse for 'Kura'. I remember my mother saying when she named me she thought of me being a source of fulfilment in her life, like a grain of food to a starving person."

It seems I was quite successful with this effort.

"Alright, that's enough chattering, begin the duel you two."

I tried to make a joking tone," Please go easy on me!"

She laughed slightly as she began, "Sorry Ayanokouji-kun but I can't let Ichinose-san down, no hard feelings.

1. I had to through surgery thrice.

2. I have atychiphobia

3. I had a near-death experience.

An extremely morbid set of sentences and very vague and 1 and 3 closely intertwined with the 2 being a possible cause, making it harder to differentiate between the truths and lie. She was smiling through all of these with no unnecessary body movements.

But she is still human after all, even though her macro expressions were hidden, her microexpressions were visible for 0.2 seconds,it has its roots in Darwin's (1872) inhibition hypothesis that suggested that facial actions cannot be controlled voluntarily.

She is crafty, she purposefully faked an expression in the other two statements as well to mask this effect.

"What are the symptoms of actychiophobia in your daily life?"

This should be able to gauge how well she knows this phobia, if she is lying and memorised it, she can't answer in detail about the second part of the question. If she is saying the truth, I will be able to gather more info about her social life in the process.

"I have always been cooperative, so I was assigned countless works in the pretence of cooperation which I unwillingly did, I was scared of letting my so-called friends down, becoming a burden. Symptoms often include sweating and hot/cold flashes with dizziness and an overwhelming instinct to just run away.

It got to me and one day I was at the hospital branded with this new phobia. This school, the only difference is, I willingly cooperate, I want my class to succeed, even if I have to fight my fear head-on...

...I said too much, seems like your plan to establish a friendly rapport worked."

The USB, now made sense, Collegial Coward.

( AN: Collegial- cooperative, Coward-phobia)

I simply nodded, just one question, that's all it took for her to blurt out so much. Her cooperativeness is such that she leaked out her personal life to a stranger... who may have used certain methods to subconsciously make her relaxed enough to do so.

"That wasn't my intention, my second question is, which body parts did you get your surgeries at?"

"Clever, I would have said hospital sites instead of the body parts...You know, I was kinda hoping that would happen. I got my surgeries in my ear, knee and wrist...heh, you were expecting me to say more about those surgeries, sorry I learnt my lesson after the 1st one."She made a cute grin while saying so.

"Why was it a near-death experience?"

If I worded my question with a When or how, she would have gone on a tangent, with no solid facts involved.

"Since I ate a battery as a kid on accident...as far as I remember, doesn't taste good."

"One last question...Do you want to be my friend?"

Everyone looked at me with those same eyes like that of Manabu senpai when I asked him that...Is it wrong to ask such questions?

"Umm...you could have asked me after I defeated you, but alright, If you wanna waste a question on that, be my guest. I will be your friend."

"Thank you Amikura and sensei, the 1st statement is wrong."

Amikura's pupils widened as the smile on her face vanished, "Huh, I underestimated you...you are right, I went through surgery 4 times...How did you do it though?"

Seeing no harm in answering I said," Battery removal needs an oesophageal surgery, one slip up cost you this game. It's more than 3."

Amikura smiled," Looks like I let everyone down again."

I pointed to behind her, she turned to see Ichinose hugging her tightly," You did great, please don't stress yourself...You could have told us about your phobia, I am sorry for unknowingly pressuring you."

Amikura hugged back and softly said," Nah, it's all good. I am better now I promise...And Ayanokouji, well played"

"You too, I simply was lucky enough to figure it out. You almost beat me, after all, you did your best."

"You are too humble but alright, as your new friend I forgive you for defeating me." She then hit my back with what a normal person would consider a painful blow.

Saying so she left with her head held high.

=

Round 5:

Kanzaki sat on the chair and commented, " You played well back there. Don't disappoint."

I shrugged my shoulders as I spoke," I don't remember asking your opinion, anyways, sensei can we begin?"

She nodded," Begin"

I pulled my chair closer to him as I stared blankly right into his eyes. He was startled, I have to end this quick

"1. I have been outside Japan once.

2. I have never cried after I was 3.

3. I know your lie from round 2, which I have written down on a notepad and gave to sensei before the round started, so you can confirm it later on."

"...Never cried huh, Tell me, why did you never cry?"

I rested my face on my chin, "I never found the reason to."

His eyes widened for a second but he controlled himself before he asked an unnecessary question.

"What all famous sights you saw when you went out of Japan, be detailed?"

As expected he used this question to satisfy where I went and to check catch I am lying, if I can't answer the sights properly.

"None, someone took me there for 1 day to complete some work, we came back the very next day."

He looked visibly disappointed and confused. Reasonable enough, both 1 and 2 statements seem to be lack much solid information, now since these 2 statements will be utterly void, he will be forced to ask...

"Which was the lie from round 2?"

I spoke quietly, "Should I tell it...I wonder what Ichinose will think."

This was a risky call, as I was still not 100% sure if my hypothesis but it has to be done.

Kanzaki was examining my body language thoroughly trying to figure out if I was bluffing.

He then said," Can I revert that question?"

He had fallen into this bait, using Class B in his statements was a blunder indeed, if I revealed his statement to be a lie. It will damage Class B to an extent. The choice was his, win this exam for class B or save their trust.

Sensei immediately said," No you can't, but you can ask him to not answer the question."

He nodded and said," Don't answer that."

He kept quiet and started thinking, probably since the last question will be a valuable one.

"Did you ever lose anyone important to you?"

This question...probably to cross-check my answer to statement 2

The school, doesn't have much information on me...even if I do lie, I won't be caught, it's a clear win regardless...but...

"Once"

Kanzaki first smiled thinking he figured it out, "It's your loss Ayanokouji, if you did lose someone, how can you not have cried...Sensei, statement 2 is a lie."

Sensei looked at me to answer," No, you lost, statement 2 is the truth."

He rushed, probably letting overconfidence get a hold of him.

Everyone in the room gasped upon hearing that, it must have been unbelievable to them.

Kanzaki paled," You are joking right,so regardless of whatever question I asked the result would be my loss...so which one was a lie...the 1st one or the 3rd one?"

I looked at sensei and said," Show him the notepad sensei."

She passed the notepad to him, his eyebrows scrunched up in disbelief...

--

Statement 1 of Kanzaki is a lie

--

"Statement 3 was a lie...but how?...it doesn't make sense, 1 and 2 were the most likely to be lies."

It seems I have to enlighten him, "I bluffed, since one of your statements was a very interesting one, therefore there was a 50/50 chance of my statement 3 being right. If it was right...well, I would have been in trouble for using 3 true statements.

Since It is wrong...I can confirm that... statement 3 was a lie. Thank you Kanzaki for the valuable piece of information."

That was obviously not the entirety of the plan.

It was more of a 10/90 chance between Kanzaki's statement 1 and 3, since there was a higher likelihood that Kanzaki's statement 3 was a lie, so if I wrote that down, I would be at higher risk for breaking the rules as it would cause my last statement to be accurate.

If he didn't revert the question, I would have said statement 3 out loud, causing Kanzaki to think my statement 3 was true, he would have lost even in that scenario.

"It was checkmate even before I asked any questions, I am quite amazed...and slightly worried. Good game."

"You too."

Saying so he left the room.

( AN: If it feels too complicated to understand, hope this beautiful diagram helps :)

=

Round 6:

Himeno sat on her seat and made eye contact," Well played till now, I wonder though...what you will do next?"

I looked at her unflinching," I don't know what you are talking about

1. I made my first ally in ANHS.

2. I read a 100,000 books till date

3. I was homeschooled before ANHS

Her stoic expression broke into a smirk, "Didn't expect that."

Himeno then kept quiet for a while, I waited patiently.

"Why homeschooled?"

"I was too average."

She made an unreadable expression as she continued

"Did you read your 100,000th book after the 'close' person died?...I may have picked up some of your tricks."

"No"

An interesting way to phrase a question. In this way she realised, this person was important to me to cause a drastic change in me, hence there is a higher chance according to her that my 1st statement may be a lie.

"What do you think...is the difference between a friend and an ally?"

...Himeno may be a threat in the future, if she continues with this level of understanding of situations.

"An ally is an equal, unlike a friend."

Himeno had a look of understanding in her eyes

"Was this close person, equal to you?"

"No, she wasn't, at least in certain aspects."

She grinned," Guess she was a dumb one then."

I almost...may have lost my cool there.

But this should be enough to deceive her...

"Did you ever visit the library?"

"No"

I could tell she was about to choose statement 1...but this must have overridden her logic and...

"Sensei, statement 2 is a lie."

I then said, "You lose...and be careful with your words."

Himeno looked shocked," So you have actually read a 100,000 books,without ever visiting a library??"

I nodded.

"You defy logic...that was just unfair to be honest...not just that, your 1st statement was also weird. Was this girl your friend if so, she never came to school, wtf happend to her?"

I stared quietly at her before I said, " SHUT UP"

She immediately left the room, without saying a word.

=

Round 7:

Ichinose sat down

"Ayanokouji-kun, sorry for her misdemeanour, also we changed the order a bit, it wasn't against the rules though..heh"

"it's alright, it doesn't make a difference anyway."

"Always, so mature...huh...Anyways, I will start now.

1. I have never seen my father

2. I never did any sports

3. I am the leader of the cruise ship exam."

She smirked upon saying the last statement...such a risky move, I am pleasantly surprised.

Considering Ichinose's intellect...she could theoretically, change her leadership...that would make sense on why she made such a gamble and complicate the matter.

Well played Ichinose, you gave me a normal option with a 50/50 chance between 1 and 2 or a lucrative option where it may be an overall win with very heavy risk.

She must be guaging which is important for my class, points or winning.

"What happened Ayanokouji-kun, confused? it's your fault for playing so well...you shocked us by defeating 2 of our classmates." Her angelic grin turned into an eerie one.

"You are smart I will give you that. My first question is, Do you have any younger blood-related siblings?"

She look slightly perturbed," I don't know how this is related but yes I have a younger sister."

"Sensei, Statement 1 is a lie...after all it's impossible to have a sister if your dad was never home for you to see."

Ichinose looked slightly surprised," Just one question got me...oh well I lost, well played...and good job on finding the leader."

"No, I never found the leader"

She widened her pupils," B...But isn't it obvious, my 3rd statement is true."

I walked closer to her and whispered," For Now...try better next time to trick me."

She looked pale...her plan of making me fall into greed failed...it's the better option for now but I must say, she deserves to be a leader.

" I am sad it didn't work, took me a lot of effort to plan this...but I am also excited someone figured it out, you impress me more and more Ayanokouji-kun."

"Coincidences can be freaky...Out of habit, sorry...and Thank you for the compliment."

Sae sensei interrupted us," Class D...more accurately Kiyotaka Ayanokouji wins against Class B."

Ichinose shook my hand and said," You deserve it."

I sent a message informing the group...the aftermath will be troublesome.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

Have a good day :))

Thank you for patiently reading it.

Yuki and Kiyo didn't have much talking or thinking involved since yuki is a quiet one with less expressions, hence didn't give off any signals for kiyo to theorise on.

Who this so called close one is, will be revealed in the future, when I feel ready to do so.

Vote and comment if you enjoyed reading it.

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓔26:𝓔𝔁𝓹𝓮𝓬𝓽𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓵𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷

Ayanokouji's POV:

"Ayanokouji stay back."

Sensei's authoritative tone stopped me in my tracks and I walked back.

"Sensei, what do you need?"

"The order was changed, why didn't you speak up back then?"

"I didn't see the point."

"You just love avoiding questions...maybe that's your defect. Anyways, you are lucky it didn't cost us points...and I was right about your skills."

This was to be expected, this exam will certainly reveal certain aspects of my skills to the school.

Considering it won't be beneficial for me I will have to put an end to this.

"Sensei, can you transfer the points and cards to me and maintain confidentiality regarding this win from the class."

Sae-sensei looked at me with caution," What you want is to not let the class know that you won and keep the winnings to yourself...am I right? Are you trying to betray the class?"

I shrugged and said, "You misunderstand me, sensei. I want to win this exam, I myself will give the winnings to the Class leader and the reason I want to keep the class in the dark is simple, I want them focused on the next bet and these winnings may distract them to spend more."

Sae sensei gave an oddly mesmerising smile, "I am quite pleased with your thinking, Class D is filled with indulgent morons carelessly using the points. Very well I will do as you said but win this exam, no matter the cost."

I wonder how tears would look on her proudly smiling face.

"Thank you sensei for your kindness."

Saying so I left to join the rest of the class in the basketball room conducting the match between Class C and Class D".

I check my phone confirming the details

--

Class D- Cruise Fun

We lost: Me

X: That was expected with you morons being selected

X: Don't blame me, I carried the whole team.

X: Shut up Yamauchi, don't embarrass yourself

X: F*uk you Ike, it's the truth

Chiaki: Don't listen to these fools Kiyotaka I know you did your best. Anyways, Sudo challenged Class C for a basketball match but they only allowed a one on one for 10 points against some girl from Class C, for a bet of 400S pts. If we lose this game, Class D will be eliminated. Their leader forced us into this.

X: W-well Done-e A-ayanokouji- k-kun

X: Matsushita-san that girl Mio Ibuki, ugh she is that violent b*tch from Class C

Kushida: It's alright Ayanokouji-kun, come to the basketball room, we are already here. Also Matsushita-san, remember Sudo-san said not to worry, he would win this.

--

400S points, truly a dangerous gamble, while they won't be eliminated, considering I won the points...but they don't know that and I can't let them lose, risking the chance of them finding out that I won causing accusation of betrayal or expectations.

As soon as I entered Horikita walked up to me and whispered," Why did you text in the group that we lost the match?"

Horikita was sensible enough to not question in the group, else it might have been bothersome.

I whispered back, "I had my reasons. How did you know that I won?"

Telling her now would simply raise questions.

"Class leaders get a message when a bet ends. And what kind of reasons? Also, why weren't the points transferred?"

"I will tell you the details later. It's for the class but I need you to trust me with the points for now."

She looked at me in disbelief, probably as to why I kept the points to myself.

"Alright, considering you can't use the points without my permission I don't have to worry about you betraying us. But tell me after this bet is over."

I nodded and looked at the basketball court to find Sudo dribbling the ball against Takeko Nishino.

I felt a tap on my back as I turned to find a displeased Chiaki," Hello Chiaki, what's up?"

She pulled me away from Horikita giving her a glare, to which she reciprocated by dissolving into the crowd.

"What were you whispering to Horikita? And why did she come up to you? Did she threaten you again?"Her voice was mixed with accusation and worry.

"Not at all, she was polite and was asking about the details regarding what happened and she didn't want me to embarrassingly recount my loss so she whispered."

She sighed in relief, "Thank god Horikita is learning compassion. We didn't get to talk for so long...this test took up all our time"

"True indeed, maybe after the exams are over we can catch up. I can hardly imagine how tired you must feel from interactions, after all, you have become a prominent figure in the class."

"Ya ya sure, Horikita here is acting a bit responsibly so I can relax for a while. This girl Ibuki...she plays well don't you think?"

I looked back at the court to see Ibuki scoring a point, I shifted my gaze at the scoreboard.

--

Mio Ibuki Sudo Ken

6 4

--

"She is playing quite well, her speed is faster compared to Sudo and she has better control over the ball. If this goes on, she will win the match."

"Well, since you missed the first part of this bet I will fill you in. When Sudo asked for a match, their Class representative placed the demand of it being one on one and similar to Class B choosing their player. Sudo did want Ishikazi at first but beggars can't be choosers. I first thought Sudo would underestimate her but he surprisingly didn't or else the scores would look even worse."

Seems like Sudo learnt from our previous encounters.

"I see."

We both went silent to the loud cheering from the crowd watching from the sidelines, the quietness in the centre of a storm was oddly refreshing.

I started analyzing the match

Sudo still couldn't gain complete control over the ball. This was the same shortcoming that I exploited in our match as well.

--

Mio Ibuki Sudo Ken

7 4

--

Half time

Ibuki smirked at Sudo taunting him, causing him to tick. He glanced over at the crowd to be met with judgemental and disapproving gazes.

'Lol, Sudo is gonna lose to a girl'

'I thought this guy was supposed to be good at basketball.'

'I am better at basketball than this moron, lol.'

'Pathetic'

All such noises had been echoing through Class D. Class C on the other hand was looking at the match sympathetically.

Sudo was hurt. Words hurt him, strange, isn't it? Such a strong able-bodied person, can't be hurt with normal punches but hurt with a few spoken words.

This might not have happened if Sudo didn't know them. The moment we form a so-called social bond, in this scenario classmates, we become afraid of losing social status. This is why, when a close friend jibs us, we don't feel hurt but if the same words are spoken by a socially stronger person or in this case, power in numbers seems to have a similar effect.

Quite a few students lost belief in Sudo's performance and left the room. While others scorned him, not even one went up to him. Horikita, his so-called love, also was more interested in knowing about my bet, rather than focusing and motivating Sudo for this game.

Sudo has definitely degraded in the social hierarchy without the 2 idiots, who were perverts but good communicators.

One person was different, Akito sat beside him as he rehydrated and was probably trying to cheer him up. The issue was, it didn't seem to be working. Judging from his crossed legs pointing towards the court showed his desire to escape it.

Akito could sense it and left amicably.

Considering no one else is willing or close enough to shift his morale, I called him over.

"Sudo can I talk to you."

"A-Ayanokouji, what's up man? Can you be quick though, the game starts in 12 minutes."

"Ya, it won't take long."

I signalled him to follow into a quiet corner.

"What happened?"

"N-nothing dude, the game was just a bit different than I expected."

"I thought you said you would win."

He looked down," Y-ya about that, umm...I was just not ready against a different opponent, I will do better the next round."

"Didn't you learn anything from what happened earlier?"

He looked bewildered,"What are you even saying?"

"Class B destroyed us by just choosing the right people. Remember Sudo, the cards are never in our favour. We are defects."

He was getting angry," What the fuck are you saying Ayanokouji?? You too? I thought at least you wouldn't taunt me. It was just that I didn't expect Class C to do the same."

"Never expect anything, neither form me nor from others. Sudo, what really happened, don't lie this time?"

He was slightly trembling and then he screamed," What do you mean happened, I am fucking fine. You got that Ayanokouji, I don't give a damm about what you want to say. My nerves got to me that's all, alright. I AM NOT WEAK." giving me a blow on my face. I didn't stop it.

My left cheek was red, which carried quite a lot of power behind it for a normal high schooler. He then grabbed my collar.

A very strong response, I have to know more.

I used a commanding tone, "Sudo, Don't lie to yourself. You will lose this game and everything with it. If this helps you relieve your pain, go ahead, beat me up even more."

Sudo was calming down as he let go of my collar, "Sorry Ayanokouji...I should have not done that. I-I am just so mad at me, I worked so hard but someone I never even met completely f*ked me up in this game. I am scared of losing, even before the game started I felt a lot of pressure from others for winning since the last bet we lost too. This game isn't normal basketball I never played one on one competitively, the pressure I feel is different...it's all so different to me. I am such a f*king disappointment, Class D will be eliminated and they will hate me for sure."

I didn't take into account the toxic behaviour of my classmates, I overestimated them to be mature enough. Now Sudo was paying the price for my actions, I deserved that punch.

"Why do you care?"

"Duh, because I am their classmate."

"In the game, are you their classmate or a sportsman?"

"Both?"

"Tell me Sudo, do you really think your classmates care for you?"

"N-Not really"He was beginning to fall into my trap.

"Exactly, they don't for them you are a nobody. I am sure most of them hate you out of jealousy, they simply will berate you for your failures and never say a word on your success. Do you really expect such opinions to matter?"

"You are f*king right but how do I f*king ignore them, they are literally screaming back there. I am all alone fighting against such words, it's f*king hard."

"Forget them for a second, picture no one except your opponent, that's all that matters...Also, I and Akito, truly support you. Especially me...do you remember our game?"

"Yes, what about it?"

"Do you know why I asked you to play?"

"Not exactly."

"It's because I admired your effort, those countless hours of hard work. Will you really let it go to waste, WAS IT ALL FOR NOTHING?" I grabbed his shoulder.

"When you are out there use your anger, rage and prove them wrong. Sudo, focus on the game alone, nothing else ever mattered. If she is faster, you have to be smarter."

"How is that even possible how can my brain defeat fuk*ng miss flash?"

"If I could defeat a 6-foot gorilla with my brain, you can defeat her."

The game bell rang.

My last statement had him thinking.

"Sudo go! Do your best."I hit his shoulder

"Y-ya man...now I realise why you should have won that day. I will win this."

"I know you will."

After all, you did fall under my control. You will win this. It's true you are weaker, falling prey to such expectations. But, you are a good tool, your anger will be useful to me.

I walked back to the crowd, to find Chiaki staring at me and then hurriedly running up to me

"Who did this to you?"

"Calm down Chiaki, what are you talking about?"

She grabbed my face and said, " Your cheek is tinted red, did someone hit you? Who did it? Why? The moment I leave you something goes wrong."

Oh, that... I forgot.

Her fingers went cold and goosebumps were visible on her skin.

I removed her hand gently from my face

" I was walking and staring at your beauty so accidentally hit a wall, Sorry to worry you." this should divert her attention.

She stared at me with a strange expression on her face, "Do you really expect me to believe your bullshit? What do you think I am, some blushing anime girl? Fine don't tell me, I will find out myself."

Saying that she left me angrily. It seems the same approach doesn't work twice on her, it should have been obvious, considering her intellect.

I will ponder on that later, for now, the game is important.

Sudo POV:

This will be different, Ayanokouji was right. I just have to think. I focussed on the ball alone.

The ball was thrown into the court and I jumped and gained possession. Ibuki looked shocked but took a defensive position. Going wide didn't work last time. I have to do something different.

I looked at her and dribbled the ball...her right foot is forward, a high foot.

Using this I moved to her right and grazed her hip not giving her any space to snatch the ball.

She then tried to attack my dominant hand, she was trying to block my movement. Up until now, I was playing her game... I will make this game mine.

I switched ball directions to my non-dominant hand to which she smiled, I sidestepped and switched back to my dominant hand.

I ran as fast as I could to the 2 point mark and shot the ball...

--

Ibuki Mio Sudo Ken

7 6

--

I did it, Ayanokouji was right. Class D's insults turned into newfound hope and a grin spread across my face. I was happy... proud

The game isn't over yet.

This time she took possession and I moved back enough to have a reach as well as control her space to gain possession.

Next, I faked a high right foot which she caught on and moved to the right and I forced her movement to the corner, it was too late before she realised, causing her to lose possession and I snatched the ball and ran to the other side of the court, she caught up to me and tried to take the ball. I shifted to the side and copied the same move Ayanokouji did in our match me.

I faked a tackle to which she jumped back giving an opening and I scored

--

Ibuki Mio Sudo Ken

7 8

--

Just one more 2 pointers to go and I got this in the bag.

The ball again was taken by Ibuki who broke through my defence by twisting behind my back as she ran, there was no way I could catch her, she is just too fas and this time more vicious.

She jumped with the ball and scored.

--

Ibuki Mio Sudo Ken

9 8

--

No, not again. I looked accidentally at the crowd and they were taunting me again.

Ayanokouji was right, they are nothing to me, I don't need their support.

Speaking of him, I searched through the crowd and my eyes met his. He nodded showing his confidence in me. He believes in me, when everyone shuns me, he was there.

The round started and I pulled the ball out of her hands as she caught it in the air and dribbled it towards the hoop. As soon as I saw her jumping with me and tackling me.

She grabbed the ball and ran faster and faster, no not this time.

I ran will all I had, she almost reached the hoop.

I HAVE TO RUN FASTER.

I dived and grabbed the ball and landed on my feet, with a sprain in my ankle. The pain seared through my leg as I ran, it was slowing me down.

FASTER

FASTER

I WILL WIN THIS

I won't be able to make it to the 2 pointer mark. The only way is to score from the 3 pointer.

I have scored very few from this point, it's a high-risk move. I can't go on for another round, my pain is burning through my feet.

Ibuki was blocking me non stop from aiming. I have to figure something out.

I turned to my back and dribbled while pushing her with my shoulder, I continued till I reached the scoring point.

I shifted back with my injured leg and jumped as high as I could.

I screamed in pain as I shot the ball and fell down face-first on the ground.

I then heard everyone cheering.

I looked up to the scoreboard

--

Ibuki Mio Sudo Ken

9 11

--

I did it.

I actually did it.

Thank you Ayanokouji, you are my saviour, my true friend.

But..why did he whisper to me before the last half," If anyone asks, tell Horikita motivated you." It doesn't matter, I will do anything in return for him.

Ayanokouji's POV:

He indeed gave it his all. The sprain in his leg, unnoticed by most must have caused him quite some trouble. The scream at the end was one of pain not of spirit.

As expected everyone changed their opinion in an instant

'Sudo is my best friend, look how well he plays'

'We play basketball after school, I taught him the last move.'

'He actually won, wonder if I can get his number?'

'Sudo said Horikita helped him, she is great'

'IKR, she was super rude at first but now she is amazing'

They gathered around Horikita praising her efforts.

I left the room and went up to the deck with Horikita following me.

"You are out of breath Horikita."

She huffed and asked," Explain to me now."

What I am about to say is for Horikita's ears alone

"Class D is in a weak spot without talents or skills like other classes, filled with defects."

"Tell me something I don't know."

"Horikita, they need to face fear. Today they faced the fear of being disqualified from the exam and indirectly being even more shunned by the school. Sudo for example, his pride and future was on the lie."

"I am not understanding anything properly, how is fear-related with S points."

I sighed as her impatience took over her deductive capabilities," Horikita, What would you do if everything depended on one single moment?"

"Obviously I would give everything I have."

"I simply replicated that phenomena, considering everyone thought that we had no S points and all depended on this bet, Sudo gave it his all. He defeated Class C, isn't that worthy of admiration?"

Her eyes widened as she slowly realised what I meant, " So you created fear and used it to motivate the Class to do their best...I don't know what to say."

"You don't have to say anything. For now, just take leadership of the class. I convinced everyone to think that you motivated Sudo."

After all, that was the main reason why I took Sudo with me to a corner when Horikita went to the washroom.

"But why?"

"You need allies to fulfil your dream."

"F-fine I get it. You finally started focusing on Class A"

"You've finally started to change"

She looked sideways as she blushed slightly,

"T-thank you...I will begrudgingly consider you an ally. Still don't you dare get buddy-buddy with me or you will face hell. We will only work together to reach class A."

Flashback:

"Stand in a line."

30 of us stood for the next part of our training, as I saw No.132 fall down choking blood at a punch from the instructor

"Do you all understand what happens to the ones who fail a test?"

She looked at me, her best friend for empathy, yet she found none

Empty

Cold

DARK

eyes...

staring into her abyss .

Flashback ends

Ayanokouji's POV:

As Horikita blabbered on, I felt the starlit sky cast a shadow on my face and the wind blew the bangs on my darkened face as I thought

I've never once thought of you as an ally.

Not you.

Not Chiaki.

Not Sudo.

All people are nothing but tools.

It doesn't matter how it's done.

It doesn't matter what needs to be sacrificed.

In this world, winning is everything.

As long as I win in the end...That's all that matters

--Author's note--

Dear Readers

I hope you all felt Sudo's arc well enough

Horikita said Thank you first, unlike in LN or anime in her dialogue

She is improving slowly, mostly due to fear...but ya

Please VOTE and Comment if you enjoyed reading

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓔27:𝓕𝓵𝓮𝓮𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓔𝓶𝓸𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼 & 𝓓𝓮𝓬𝓲𝓼𝓲𝓿𝓮 𝓐𝓬𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼

Ayanokouji's POV:

"Sensei we want to shift the teirs from Basic to Mid teir."

Sensei smiled again today, "Wrong, you can't shift teirs..."

Everyone started to question it as she continued

"...You all will have both Basic and Mid teir combined since the school won't return your points for buying the Basic teir."

That's an interesting stroke of luck, while they could just upgrade us, they instead took this approach. Considering no other class thought of this, we at least technically have the most area on the island as well.

Sudo was sent to the nurse's office after the match. If his injury is severe enough it could cost us points.

Satou questioned," Horikita-san, won't we lose all our points if we spend it now?"

Considering I still have 400 S pts with me, that won't happen, I wonder though how Horikita will hide that fact while giving a satisfactory answer.

"I made another bet with Class C during the game of 100 points, that we would win the game. So we are fine."

Everyone cheered at that and praised her believable lie.

"Wow, Horikita-san, Sudo will be glad to hear that. You trusted us."

"Of course, that's a Leader's duty." Horikita ended the conversation with a remainder, clever enough.

Now, finally Horikita announced,

"Everyone, we will have time from 6 pm to 7 pm to scavenge the island. Make it count"Horikita announced.

Searching in the dark will be troublesome. Everyone took out their phones flashlights and separated into groups.

Horikita sat down on a fallen tree stump.

"Aren't you coming along?"

"I simply don't see the reason to waste my energy when 29 other minions are doing it for me."

Her health was definitely getting worse. The cold wind of the island seemed to be the aggravating factor.

I left her to herself as I started walking, this darkness, does reduce the area of sight by a considerable margin.

Sensei spoke up, "I hope everyone made up your groups. Considering you all are basic teirs, your designated area will be the mountain range on the left part of the island."

The Mountain range, is quite a troublesome terrain, to mitigate. Mid teir will have a competition of resources between Class A, B and D. Royal tier will have an area equivalent to basic and mid teir combined, class C will not have any issues as of yet.

Hirata spoke up," let's divide the groups to the side of the mountain of basic teir and collect the water, the others we can scavenge Mid teir areas."

Ike looked troubled," The saltwater will need to be boiled. And doesn't Mid teir have enough water and food?"

Horikita spoke up, "We don't know that yet, we haven't unlocked any of the rooms. It's better to have more."

Saying so she sat back down and others left to find materials. As I started leaving I saw Airi trying to come upto me but was sent a glare from Chiaki who left her group it seems

"Kiyotaka,let's go together, my group was already full."

"So I am just a substitute."

As soon as I said that I got punched in the arm.

"Listen up, I am still extremely mad as to why you are hiding things from me. Don't gaslight me."

I lifted my hand "Hai-hai, sorry miss Matsushita. Do you know rock climbing?"

She agreed to my apology, at least that is what it seems to be, "Don't call me Matsushita. Also, I did do rock climbing as a sport when...Never mind where do you want to scavenge?"

"I was thinking of the mountain area to get a better viewpoint. Also, do you mind using your phone flashlight, mine is almost dead."

"Ya, I don't mind."

While everyone else was carrying out the necessities, Koenji was sitting on a tall tree and jumping like Tarzan's illegitimate brother.

The terrain was steep and dark, chances of getting lost are high.

"Kiyotaka, if you are wondering if we are going to get lost, don't worry, our phones have GPS in them."

Did she just read my mind?

"I see, thank you for informing."

The mountains got steeper and the chances we would fall were high, considering I don't know Chiaki's skills firsthand, there is a potential risk she may injure herself.

It was a 15-minute hike as we reached the top. It was dark but the starry night was visible.

I took a quick pic of the royal tier area and then said, " It seems nothing much is going on here, why don't we head back?"

Saying so I started to leave but Chiaki pulled me back and took a pic.

"Pretty cool view for our don'tcha think Kiyotaka...Can we stay for a while longer, consider it as compensation for hiding things from me."

Looking at Chiaki's earnest eyes, I decided to stay for a while, 25 minutes are still left

"Alright."

She pulled me to the ground on hearing that. After staying quiet for a while gazing at the stars

"Kiyotaka, why did you join the school? "

"Maybe to get everyone else wants."

"KIYOTAKA, for once don't be vague"

I sighed loudly," Freedom."

"Finally a proper answer."

"What was your reason?"

"Finding something different."

"And I thought I was being vague."

She laughed slightly but didn't respond to that.

We simply stayed in comfortable silence for a while.

"Chiaki, I think we should go back soon."

She got up and yawned, honestly it looked very endearing.

"I wished to stay like that for a while, why do good things not last."She said silently.

"Maybe so that better things can come."

"You say such things but don't mean it, do you?... Don't answer that."

We went back to the meeting point without any unfortunate accidents.

Ike was standing there with used bottles filled with saltwater.

"I think this should be enough" Ike said with a smile.

In all honesty, it was unnecessary to even use the island, considering we have 2 teirs to ourselves. At least I could carry out a certain hypothesis of mine at a later date.

We all went back to the ship

We went back and carried out the routine to open all the doors. And as expected, more than enough necessities were available.

I was still 9 pm, 4 more hours till the bedrooms open. At least this time there will be a hall room.

Class D was lucky to not have suffered in the basic teir rooms. It would have been quite a major issue for them considering the lack of basic amenities.

As I walked towards the hall room, someone familiar came into my sight.

Himeno seemed to be walking back to her room, considering that mid teir was this entire floor. It wasn't surprising this place was populated with students from B and A as well.

Her eyes met mine, as she walked up to me and quietly said," Sorry for before, don't take it personally."

She then left without giving me a second look...not much of a talker.

Upon entering the hall it was quite like a regular classroom except for the tables

Chiaki was with her group while Horikita was sitting in a corner with her jacket over her body. Considering she can't use the beds, it must be quite a problem for her.

Considering she was quiet I sat next to her in the corner and checked my phone

--

Class D-cruise fun

--Messages deleted--

--

Hmm, it seems I was too late. Doesn't matter, either way, I have a rough idea of what they may have discussed.

For now, I need someone.

I walked up to her and tapped her back.

Turning around in surprise she asked," Ayanokouji-kun, didn't see you there...Do you need something from me, I would love to help if so."

Her group looked at me with suspicion, Shinohara asked, "Aii, Ayanokouji why the heck are you disturbing Kushida-chan, can't you see we are having a conversation here."

"I apologise, it's just that since Horikita called her for some reason and being her slave, it's my duty to do as she says, "I said with a matter-of-fact tone.

She guffawed," Glad you know your place. Alright, I allow it." What is she? Her mom?

Kushida seemingly uncomfortable with her tone said, "Shinohara-san, I think Ayankouji-kun and I should leave now."

Saying so she walked along with me to where Horikita sat. I then sent her a message

--

I lied

I realised that she was sleeping on her seat the whole time. What happened

to her??

I will tell you outside the hall, meet me there.

Alright

--

Kushida is even careful to not let her mask slip even in our texts, quite a method actor if I do say so myself.

I leaned to the wall wondering what a normal life would feel like, all that I am doing in this school is to reach that life, normal emotions. I am almost a newborn thrown in this foreign world with people filled with such different ideologies, emotions uncontrolled. Even white room was lenient enough to teach the topic before making us give an exam.

"Ayanokouji-kun, you seem to be lost in thought."

"No Kushida, I was simply wondering how to make a request to you."

She clapped her hands, "Just ask Ayanokouji-kun, we are friends after all."

"Can you come along with me to other classes, just to get an overview of them? Horikita forced me to do so while she rests up for tomorrow's events."

She made a cute thinking pose," That's why she was sleeping, you should have said so earlier. And of course, I would love to help you out. I have a bunch of friends in other classes, so it's fine if I visit them."

That's the purpose...

"Thank you, I was unaware of your vast network. It will be quite handy."

As we walked up to the Class B quarters, Kushida curiously asked

"Ayanokouji-kun, I have been wondering something for a while. You speak like a book."She giggled at her joke and continued," I meant to say your speech is like someone is typing your words for you, are you from a rich or high-class family?"

"I didn't realise it was out of the ordinary, for your last question, I was given everything I needed for my upbringing."

"I see, keeping it vague. I thought maybe we could share a secret...just you and me."

Her real feelings came out it seems.

"Why hide your identity around me? I know who you are."

"Silly Ayanokouji-kun, walls have ears you know. I may do so in your room but due to this exam, sadly it's not possible...what a bummer." She pouted in the end.

Her cute expressions betrayed her words.

"I see, I won't force you to do so."

"Your apathy is something I desire before I expel you." She murmured

"It's a curse, something I wish to change."I felt longing and a wish in my own voice a slight twinge in my stone-cold heart.

"Hmm."

A blonde pink haired beauty stood before us, as we were broken from our conversation.

"Yahallo, Ayanokouji-kun and Kushida-san. What brings you two to Class B area?"

"Are we not allowed to?" I feigned a hurt emotion, to which Ichinose waved her hands

"Hai, don't get me wrong. Ayanokouji, you know what I meant." She said with pursed lips.

No honorifics...

"I am sorry Ichinose-san"

Kushida intervened, "We simply wanted to see what your side of the rooms look like."

Ichinose made a thoughtful expression,"While there is a chance both of you are trying to spy on us...but I trust Ayanokouji-kun, so I will allow it."

Kushida looked at me with a bit of contempt...

Why Ichinose?... Why?

"I will lead you two to our hall room."

I increased my pace to go ahead of them, as slowing down maybe brand me a starer.

Ichinose and Kushida were talking and right in front of me improving their budding relationship in a matter of seconds. Kushida is undoubtedly talented in this field.

As I entered the hall room, I again witnessed something completely different from Class D, a friendly atmosphere.

We entered to gazes pointing at us.

Then a girl whom I recognised walked up to me and slapped my shoulder... harder than necessary.

"Ayy, Ayanokouji-kun, What have you been up to, missed your new friend so soon?"

"Nothing of that sort Amikura, Kushida asked me to accompany her, since I already met Class B she thought I could establish a good rapport between Class B and D."

Hearing that Amikura felt awkward on assuming that...

"And obviously since I wanted to meet my new friend, I took that offer in a heartbeat."

She then slapped my shoulder...this time, harder.

"I knew it."

Ichinose nudged Amikura to move away, which she did begrudgingly.

Ichinose then called Kanzaki over to me and Kushida while speaking, "What did you mean by ' good rapport'"

"It's simple, our class leader Hirata wants to maintain an amicable relationship with Class B."

Kanzaki asked, "Any proof of this?"

"We won't reveal the name of Class B Cruise ship leader, which Ichinose here so graciously told us."

Ichinose looked at me with a calculating gaze," Hmm, so what you are saying is, that you won't use the name I gave you as an advantage but a form of barter? What else can you bring to the table?"

Kushida tried stopping me," I think we should speak to Hirata about this before we make a hasty decision. Don't you think so Ayankouji-kun?"

She was tugging at my sleeves, probably thinking I have gone crazy.

"Ichinose... why don't you tell me that yourself?"

She smiled, giving that angelic feeling," Just the name of your cruise ship leader and we both keep quiet about it, a good deal in all shape and form."

I pressed the recording button on my phone as I spoke

"I, Kiyotaka Ayanokouji, in my full consciousness hereby declare, Horikita Suzune to be our Cruise ship leader, now Ichinose, do you want to continue."

"I, Honami Ichinose,in my full consciousness hereby declare, Ichinose Honami to be our Cruise ship leader."

"If Class B or D uses aforementioned names to gain points, they will break the contract and pay 100,000 points to the other Class as Compensation."

I stopped recording and forwarded it to Ichinose.

"That will do just fine Ayanokouji-kun. I don't know if you worded your last sentence, intentionally or by pure luck...I am impressed either way."

"I don't have any idea what you are talking about...anyways, Kushida let's go, we wouldn't want to intrude any longer."

I grabbed Kushida's hand and yanked her, her jaw which was left wide open at that situation was now closed silently taking in what just happened.

As soon as we left she asked

"What the f*ck was that? Did you eat your sh*t for lunch or what? Do you f*king realise what you just did?"

"I followed Horikita's orders, she asked me to form this coalition."

"It doesn't make sense."

"It didn't make sense to me either at first but she explained that since Class B already defeated us, we don't want to make a bigger threat out of it."

Kushida seemingly calmed down on that made up explanation

"Alright I guess she is right, Class B did f*ck us even before the exam started."

"I thought you said you won't bring out your true nature outside."

She punched my arm, "I know what I said ok. I was just super pissed."

She then slapped her face and smiled brighter than her future.

"Is it better?" she used that cute voice of hers

"Yes."

"Ayanokouji-kun, what did she say about the last line thing?"

"I don't know to be honest."

She was clever enough to figure out the reason behind 'uses aforementioned names to gain points' instead of using 'write down the leaders' or something similar.

This wording obviously prevents both classes from not just each other but also from using our leaders as exchange material with other classes.

I wonder if she realised the other part of it as well...

"You really love to be inside your head don't you Ayanokouji-kun?"

"Nothing of that sort Satou."

It seemed Kushida left me the moment she reached the hall and I have a new person popping out of thin air talking to me.

"Hmm, never mind. What I wanted to ask was, how are things going with Matsushita-san?"

"I don't know what you are getting at. Could you be more specific?"

"Ok finnneee, what is she to you?"

"A good friend, I would like to think."

She looked visibly disappointed," Nothing more?"

"How would I know that, I can say the future can I."

Her eyes brightened up," Oh I get it Ayanokouji-kun, heh."

Saying so she went back to her group, keeping it vague is always quite handy.

After about 30 minutes, the bell rang and the bedroom doors opened, it looked identical to the ones in dorms.

I jumped on the bed and drifted into sleep.

6 DAYS LEFT

--

1ST DAY:

CLASS D: BASIC MID TIER, 200 PTS LEFT, 8 CARDS

CLASS C: ROYAL TIER, 100 PTS LEFT, 10 CARDS

CLASS B: MID TIER, 300 PTS LEFT, 7 CARDS

CLASS A: MID TIER, 700 PTS LEFT, 9 CARDS

--

--AUTHOR'S NOTES--

Dear Readers,

The points or how Class C was able to afford the Royal tier, will either be explained through hints or observations.

This chapter was more focused on the ongoing relations and interactions, and less on mind games. Since it was missing for a while

Vote and Comment if you guys enjoyed reading it.

Thank You

𝓢1-𝓔28:𝓐 𝓣𝓲𝓽𝓪𝓷'𝓼 𝓢𝓾𝓫𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓯𝓾𝓰𝓮

Ayanokouji's POV:

It's 8 in the morning, the mountain top was gleaming under the sun but it showed no sense of hope, just a dominating sense of defeat.

... The battle was lost...

Flashback

After the routine card activation, we all assembled in the halls. It was a slow day compared to Day 1... I spoke too soon.

We heard a loud bang at the Front door as it was kicked open by...

"Kuku, Won't you defects welcome your guests?"

A boy with a wide grin spreading across his sharp face spoke in a fierce voice.

Horikita who was quite shocked by this entry got up and regained her cool," I didn't realise, losers came here to toot their defeat."

Ishizaki fired up as he complained to the magenta haired boy, " Boss, this is one of those girls who sabotaged our plans. Let me knock some senses into her."

Without a moments notice, he charged towards her but was swiftly stopped by the leader himself who threw him on the ground.

"Hold your bloody horses, I want to see Suzune's pretty face shocked at the little surprise Class C prepared..."

Hirata being the pacifist tried to calm this boy," Excuse me, could you please introduce yourself and maybe not scream as loud."

He grabbed Hirata by the collar," Listen here, I am Kakeru Ryuenn. If I am not wrong you must be the sunshine and rainbows leader of Class D, Yousuke Hirata."

Sudo was quite angry as he got up and said," Let him go, or I will make your smirk will be as non-existent as your hair colour."

Magenta isnot found on the visible spectrum of light and no wavelength of light corresponds to that particular colour. Rather, it is physiologically and psychologically perceived as a mixture of red and blue. So technically, magenta doesn't exist.

What's quite shocking is how Sudo knows this...

Ike asked voicing my question, "Sudo what the heck are you saying?"

Sudo screamed ironically," I don't know man, I read it in a fanfic yesterday. It was written in one of the monologues by the MC that it doesn't actually exist in the colour thingy."

Sotomura joyfully said," You read fanfics!!! Let's share some recs later."

Ryueen barked," If you chimps are done chattering may I continue? Or do you want me to call the f*cking animal control?"

Everyone quietened after that.

Ryueen continues, "Listen up shitshows. I have a f*cking once in a lifetime for defects such as yourself. We brought up a bet of 100 pts and 1 card."

Yamauchi asked idiotically, "That's the same for all bets and we only have 100 points left."

...At least that's what everyone thought

Ryueen glared, "I will f*cking rip your tongue off and noose you with it. So zip it."

He coughed, "As I was saying, Class C will give you 101 pts right now before we do this bet, so you all don't have to worry about getting disqualified, just wager these points. We decide on the rules... all of them...Now, Interested?"

He put forward a very enticing offer... almost too tempting.

Hirata cross-questioned, "How does this even benefit you, win or lose, we still gain a profit of at least 1 extra point. Not just that, how does Class C even have points left?"

He was right, winning would give us 201 points and 1 card, totalling 401 points and 9 cards. Losing on the other hand will still not harm us except the loss of 1 card.

The points overflow in Class C is also a threatening idea.

Ryueen laughed," Kuku, Who knows? I simply put forward an offer, I won't say anything else until Class D accepts and our class decides everything about the bet. Don't worry about the points, we have our ways..."

Discussions started, honestly it was simple back and forth with almost no valuable information.

The greedy ones wanted to agree, while a chosen few were very sceptical of this.

We have no information of the bet or the rules, at first look, there are no downsides to this...

A bob cut blue hair girl coughed bringing everyone's attention, "We don't have time, hurry up."

Chiaki then went up to Ryueen and smirked," We accept the deal."

He grinned, "Good, at least someone in this defect class is a smartass. The game will be simple for you idiots. It will be a game of catch, when all 4 members of Class D is caught by Class C and taken to the ship, their class loses, within 2 hours. If not, we win."

Ishizaki said nervously," Boss but you didn't say the main thing."

Ryueen smacked his stomach," Ugh!! You, oaf, keep your damm mouth shut will ya. Oh also a minor detail, the exam will be on the island...specifically from the harbour to the Basic tier Mountain."

( AN: check last chapter pic)

What an interesting location, we are then under a time constraint, if we can somehow outrun and escape Class C's grasp for 2 hours, we win.

Horikita immediately questioned, "So basically we will lose today's island privilege?"

Ryueen walked closer to her... a bit too close.

Sudo got up to try and stop him, I kicked his previously injured foot as I stood in the crowd.

He immediately sat down.

"Kuku, Suzune you are right."

Horikita took a few steps back," How do you...Never mind, Is there anything else you forgot to tell us?"

He put his finger up, "1 more thing. We choose the teams, just like Class B."

... Not again, I hope I didn't catch unwanted attention from him.

Everyone had the same disappointment as in the previous bet as the teams were chosen.

"Soo, As I was saying, Class C: Ishizaki, Nishino, Ibuki and Albert.

And from class D...Hey Ibuki, stop standing like a f*cking model and give me the list."

She gruffly gave him a small sheet of paper.

" Hirata, Matsushita, Horikita, Ayanokouji"

...Again...what do people even want with me? Can't I spend 1 day without being bothered?

More importantly, all the class Class Leaders are chosen, I really wonder if this is a coincidence.

Satou gleefully said," Yay, you guys literally took the best members of the Class, you guys are finished...well except Ayanokouji-kun...no offence."

I shrugged, "None taken."

Albert must have been responsible for my choosing, he probably assumed my strength after the gym training we did together.

Will it really be that simple? Fighting against the so-called important figures of the class, will almost all it being their loss

What is Class C planning?

Well, it doesn't matter, Class D fell into it regardless.

=

Sakagami took the chosen students to the exit of the ship

"While yesterday only 1 hour was given in consideration of certain external factors, which have been solved, hence today 2 hours will be given. If Class C isn't able to catch Class D's 4 students in 2 hours and bring them back, they win. Individual teams have 15 minutes to discuss before we begin."

So yesterday's shortened time was a deviation from the rules, the reasoning must have been a serious one...

Class D, yesterday, thankfully was ignorant enough to not focus on that detail.

Upon hearing so we grouped up

Horikita said," The points were transferred, they were clever enough to not do it in front of everyone. So I have no clue who the leader was or how the points were acquired by them."

Hirata spoke up in worry," That's not our primary concern Horikita-san, what's strange is this entire plan. It doesn't make a shred of sense why Class C would just do so much for this bet, giving us such an advantage."

Chiaki kept her cool and spoke," Doesn't matter, our Class would have forced us to take the bet anyway, they are too dum...I mean naive to understand it."

Hirata defended," I think that's very rude Matsushita-san, what you were about to say."

Chiaki ignored it and continued," The mountain will be a difficult region, yesterday me and Kiyotaka went on it, the steepness of it is considerable. There are dense forests though, providing a good hiding point."

Horikita kept quiet all this while, spoke up,"...I have an idea, why don't we climb to the top and when they try to climb behind us, we push them off."

That's rudimentary and ruthless...yet a decent idea...if it didn't have one caveat.

"Horikita, I am not going to lie, I am not super fast, what if they catch up to me when we are climbing and consequently you 3. We don't know anything about their physical capabilities except Ibuki."

My words have to be well crafted, 1 wrong move and I may fall prey to the deductive powerhouses of Class D, surrounding me.

Chiaki looked at me with suspicion," Hmm, Kiyotaka but yesterday you reached the mountain top before me."

My first slip up...

"That's because I wanted to act tough in front of you. It was dark so I thought I should provide a sense of security."

Chiaki was slightly taken aback by my response.

Horikita lowered her tone, " If you both 'friends' are done, may we continue?"

Hirata who was simply grinning in the background, said," So moving on, why don't we separate into pairs?"

Chiaki smiled at that suggestion," Ya that's an optimal plan, let's go with it. Who will be the pairs though?"

Seeing my chance I spoke," What if the girls go together and me, Hirata go alone, so we will have to fight them separately without them tag-teaming us."

Hirata questioned," Why not go together, like the girls?"

Horikita complained," I have no interest in going with her. I would rather go alone."

Chiaki also voiced her complaints quite passionately," Look here mister, I ain't in no way teaming up with anyone except you. And did you bang your head or something? Going alone, what nonsense are you spouting, what if you get hurt? Also in my opinion Hirata and Horikita should go together while we go together."

My respect in her eyes are dwindling by the day...more accurately her trust in me being able to protect myself...

Seeing her eyes metaphorically burning me, I decided to agree.

I looked at the others, "Alright fine, that works but we won't know which 2 will follow us."

...I am concerned wether they even follow us at all.

Horikita said, "It doesn't matter, I can protect myself well enough Ayanokouji."

Hirata also voiced her confirmation," Yes, I also have no problems."

Horikita looked at Hirata and asked something important," Will you be able to take a violent approach if necessary?"

She addressed the question which bothered me ever since the bet was announced

Hirata looked at her bewildered at this, "What do you mean Horikita-san it's a game of catch, there is no need of violence."

Horikita sighed in disappointment," I was right, you didn't realise Class C's potential or motives. They are going to attack us if they get the chance. Remember they didn't mention the way of catching the opponent. It's very possible they might try to harm us and then blame it either on the game or the environment itself."

Quite an onpoint analysis...you have improved.

Hirata looked at her with disdain," I don't think it will reach that. It's not a movie or a fantasy book, where violence is common. I am hopeful they aren't that cruel."

I intervened seeing Hirata's uncharacteristic expression on this subject," What if they are? Why not prepare our minds for the worst-case scenario?"

Hirata seemed to realise he was overreacting and spoke," I am sorry Horikita-san. And Ayanokouji-kun you are right, I was being too optimistic. If it does reach to that extreme, I won't be a liability and do anything to protect the class."

Sakagami called us, "Come along both teams. Listen to the rules

1. The harbour to the Basic teir mountain is the limit.

2. Anything is permitted as long as it doesn't permanently harm the opposite team

3. If Class C brings all Class D's teams to the ship, it's over.

4. Class D has to have at least 1 member left by the end of 2 hours.

Submit the phones and other personal belongings. "

The 2nd rule...finally it all made sense...I wonder if the others realised it.

Hearing the timer buzz we all jumped off the ship...

Let's see what your pawns are worth, Kakeru Ryueen.

=

We landed on the soft ground below. Climbing down the stairs would take too much time, as with Albert and Ishizaki.

Ibuki and Nishino had a similar plan and jumped.

We separated and headed for the mountain. Considering the ship was directly on the harbour next to it, it was the perfect place that Class C chose to save time.

I and Chiaki diverted to the right and ran. Chiaki was surprisingly fast.

All 4 went after Horikita and Hirata.

Devious enough, concentrating on one part of the team at a time, does slow you down but has a very high chance of success.

In the morning light, the forest path was clearly visible. As we ran the dry leaves crunched under our shoes.

If not for the exam, my curiosity about this serenity would have kept me here.

"Kiyotaka, stop looking at the trees and look forward while running, Don't trip."

I turned my head, "As you say Chiaki."

We reached the mountain floor and started hiking the path, this time with no gear.

The previously well-marked path faded as we climbed.

The path started getting quite steep.

Chiaki wasn't the least bit bothered. She was completely focused on winning as she climbed the mountain

After about 15 minutes we reached the top, the same area, just without those stars.

Chiaki then said," Kiyotaka, I am almost certain they are caught, it's just us. We have to split up."

I agreed with her, Class C improvised, so we have to do the same.

"What do you have in mind?"

"Remember what Horikita said?"

"We will throw them off the mountain."

She hit my arm," No time for jokes Kiyotaka but you are not off the mark. You will hide on top of the trees. I mean the absolute top of the tallest tree."

... .I will have to be a monkey.

"Continue please."

"They will obviously come to the top sooner or later. The height will provide a good vantage point for us.

I will go arrange a few things for our guests.

Keep a good view of the surroundings at the top."

I shrugged, "I know you won't."

She smiled and softly murmured," If only everyone believed in me like you."

I turned around and asked," Did you say something?"

She quickly shook her head," Na-ah, Climb quick, time is of the essence. Also please be very careful ok? Don't hurt yourself like last time."

Saying so she ran off.

This was an oak tree with a good amount of branches.No harness, just pure grip strength to rely on.

Luckily Chiaki left, I can freely do this.

Climbing should mostly follow the 3 point rule at all times, three out of the four limbs should be anchored securely to the tree always, minimizing balance loss.

Arboriculture was taught in the White room, yet doing the real thing is a first time experience for me.

I stretched my body properly before starting. Barefeet will help increase the surface area. The shoes will cause a problem if they are found so...

I threw them off the mountain.

I then moved back a few feet and ran to jump on the burl of the tree.

While tightly hugging the tree, I hoisted my left foot on the top of the large branch filled with moss. It was smoother than I expected, balance was key. Crawling wasn't an option, this is my only set of clean clothes.

I walked to the end of this branch and grabbed onto the overhanging branch. I hoisted myself up. This branch wasn't like the previous one, especially where I landed, this was more accurately a dead branch.

I quickly moved to the junction of the branches, as expected the branch cracked just after I reached the junction.

The next landing branch needed precision, it was narrower and blocked by the branch in front of me.

I held onto the thicker branch and jumped onto the landing branch. I then shifted one of my feet onto the branch next to it and carefully started walking. The branch was swinging, not providing even a minute sense of security. The next group of thin branches had a junction where I had to reach.

I held onto the neighbouring thin branches and put my feet on the base of this group of branches and jumped again. This time narrowly escaping a fall.

Waiting over there I took in the vastness of this island, the greenery overshadowed the uneven terrain. The path we took was almost like a line drawn on this green canvas.

I couldn't see the path taken by Horikita and Hirata, away from the mountain. The chances of them escaping is very minute. Similarly, Chiaki will also inadvertently be caught. The highest probability is a similar event as that of the earlier bet.

...4 v 1

... I wonder if this time things will be different

...It all depends on just 1 person, everything which led up to this point.

A booming noise broke the silence of the island

'YOUSUKE HIRATA OF CLASS D HAS BEEN ELIMINATED.'

A loudspeaker from the cruise ship bellowed.

I soon heard a rough voice at a distance

"Come out you sly b*tch."

An aggressive rough voice soon followed, "Ibuki-san, do you really think that just because you say, she will come out?"

"Shut your trap Iskizaki, that bitch Horikita escaped your butterfingered hands. This doesn't make sense, how the fuck does she walk with her half-broken leg?"

It seems Chiaki has hidden herself, before they found her. Horikita on the other hand, at least according to what they say, has been brutalised.

Another strong voice with a heavy English accent spoke," We need to find Ayanokouji and the other girl."

While they were talking, Nishino appeared on the top.

She looked around for a while and jumped onto the adjacent tree.

After she climbed to the top she spoke loud enough for her team to hear," They aren't here, what do we do?"

Ishizaki yelled as he and the others climbed to the top," Boss said to keep a lookout on the mountain."

Ibuki jabbed his face," You are literally asking to get caught, if the school know you smuggled a burner phone in the exam, we are f*cked."

Nishino jumped of the tree and gracefully landed, it shouldn't have been possible without proper skill and experience...this girl might be a threat.

Nishino then steps a few steps back and hollers, "If ya all don't want what happened to your buddy Hinata or Hirata...whatever...there, y'all come out like cute little kids. Later dont'cha tell us we didn't warn ya."

"Aww, Are you all feeling lonely? And btw what happened to Hirata?"

Looking in the direction of the voice, it was Chiaki, walking slowly towards them with a fearless smile.

Ibuki spoke in annoyance at her boldness ," You are a f*cking idiot, you f*cking think you can stop all 4 of us?... Dream on defect."

She giggled," Oh! I wonder too?? Hmmm...Can I? Guess we will have to find out, tick-tock, time is ticking."

Ibuki spoke in mockery," I would so f*cking love to wipe that smile off your pretty little face."

Nishino stopped her," Don't get feisty. She has a plan, I and Ishizaki will go after her. Keep an eye out for Ayanokouji and Horikita."

Chiaki, a powerful spirit, with a fearless grin ran," Catch me if you can ponytail."

1 HOUR 30 MINUTES LEFT

...I will be a witness to my tool's worth.

... Let's see what you are made of.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

This will be different.

That's all I will say.

Have a great day ahead

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓔29: 𝓐 𝓣𝓸𝓸𝓵'𝓼 𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓱

Chiaki's POV:

I ran faster than ever before. This plan will work...it has to.

Nishino and Ishizaki started catching up.

"Hey! You run faster than most. I know very few people who can do that..."

She increased her pace

"...But it doesn't matter in the end."

Ishizaki running desperately to catch up yelled, "Wait up!"

She was soon at arm's width

As she reached her hand out to grab me, I accelerated and jumped onto a tree bark twisting my entire body, delivering a roundhouse kick.

( AN: Never try this. You will 100% break something in your body. It worked because it was tree bark. On an actual wall, it's 10 times harder. And if unbalanced, this kick is like a baby trying to slap you.)

She reflexively dodged my attack by jumping back.

My kick had gone through the rope I had tied to the tree.

It yanked and the ground below Nishino slipped away.

I expected her to fall into it as she jumped.. .I underestimated her, she predicted the rope pull and loftily grabbed Ishizaki and threw him into the pit and using his momentum, got an extra push to escape the fall and landed on the ground on her feet.

"Damm, you planned this didn't ya. Not gonna lie, I am f*cking impressed by your strat...Rejoice, It worked, Ishizaki will be out of order for this whole f*cking round, after all, this hole is pretty deep."

"Do you talk so much in all your fights?"

"Nah, just this. This sh*t is fun For the 1st time, someone lasted more than 7 seconds. Hella exhausting though."

I tried to land another strike as I moved around a hole.

She ducked and her outstretched hand yanked my leg before I could land a hit and pulled me to the ground.

I flipped my body as I fell and used my hands as support. I then used my free leg and gave a back kick.

She immediately let me go but it wasn't fast enough. I was able to land a hit on her chin

Blood started dripping from her bruise but she kept a smile, "You have guts...I will give you that, Matsushita. That kick would have obvio f*cked me over...Muay Thai huh, Not bad."

She didn't take a stance but simply crouched and kept her palms up.

Is she trying to fight or defend herself?

I instinctively put my hands up in defence to protect myself.

She swiftly closed the distance and launched a barrage of palm heel attacks on my blocking hands.

The force was enough to keep pushing me and she kept ongoing. My hands started to ache and it has barely been 10 seconds.

I dropped my hands slightly, taking the opportunity she shifted one of her palms and strikes below my nose bridge. Pain seared through my nose and skull as I stepped back lowering my guard.

( AN: just directly hit the nose, don't do the rest, most normies don't expect it. She used it here since Chiaki was a professional. So distraction was aimed for.)

She took a step back and targeted her right leg at my collar bone with extremely high velocity.

Everything went black, I was thrown back into the mud.

"Mhmm...You know, I feel kinda bad for ya, that axe kick I used is f*cking painful. But, a girl's gotta do what she gotta do. After all, that f*cking tyrant won't let us breathe if we don't...ya know, f*ck you guys up. Especially you and that Horikita...FYI, Horkita lasted 12 seconds..you on the other had lasted 20...bravo!"

( AN: This timing just includes the fight time...not the traps or anything else.)

She walked up to me to grab me by the neck and as she dragged me on the ground with her, a rain of slugs and leeches dropped onto her. She couldn't escape this time, as the area was too wide.

The maggots started crawling on her skin.

She let out an ear-piercing howl as she froze up and started crying.

I crawled out of her grasp and said in a low voice," Entomophobia...I am sure you are familiar with it."

It worked..barely...but it worked...

Flashback (within a flashback):

When I left Kiyotaka I set up a decoy trap and stalked the other pair.

To my horror, Hirata was badly beaten up and Horikita was also in a pitiful condition.

I desperately wanted to help them but if I did, Kiyotaka will be alone...

And 4v1 is an automatic loss.

I had to figure something out quick. I kept silent,

'Ugh! when are we leaving this place is tots filled with creepy crawlies

'Nishino, don't be a cry baby, you are a monster at fighting and you are scared of tiny insects.'

'Speak for yourself b*tch, these creatures are demons from hell...everyone is scared of something like you are scared of...Hey, Who's there?'

Nishino turned out and I left immediately left the vicinity

Flashback(within a flashback) ends

I slowly got up. There was still throbbing pain through my body. I then hit her head until she fell unconscious.

But...everything started to spin around me...my vision became fuzzy as I fell on the ground.

The back of my head was searing with pain as I desperately looked for the attacker..

My pupils widened,"..Ishizaki..."

"I am sorry...We have no other choice."

I couldn't stay conscious as I passed out... I am sorry Kiyotaka.

Flashback ends

=

Ayanokouji's POV:

Things were grim. I saw Chiaki being dragged on the mountain top. Hirata is disqualified.

Horikita's location is unknown. It won't be long before they find me out...

This battle is over...I can't display my strength by fighting all of them at once, it will make me a target.

It was Class D's defeat through and through...

Ibuki laughed, "Lol, she looks f*cked up."

Ishizaki showed pain," She set up traps. Nishino-san is unconscious. I barely escaped one myself, though I don't think I can go any longer."

Ibuki glared," What did she do to her? I am damm sure that this girl ain't strong enough to win barehanded."

Ishizaki spoke in nervousness," S-she, dropped a lot of insects on her...and we all know...how she is around them."

Ibuki smacked her head in dismay," F*ck, that girl's phobia acted up, didn't it...Damm it, we lost our second strongest member."

Ishizaki nodded downcast.

So Nishino...was stopped, albeit it needed sacrifice.

Anyone else in my place would have given up after they saw Chiaki's state. She was caked in mud and blood. Her forehead was also bleeding, although not profusely.

Ishizaki said," What do we do with her? I couldn't bring Nishino-san with me, since I carried her along."

Ibuki said," Nah, you did well enough. We will use her as a threat against either Horikita or that Ayanokouji...Wait a sec...Hey Albert."

Albert sitting below a tree walked over to them and nodded.

"You know that Ayanokouji guy right. You literally only ever talk about him...How nice or disciplined Ayanokouji is or whatever."

Albert said slowly," Yes, Ayanokouji is good. He and I are good gym friends."

Ibuki deadpanned," Yaya, if he was your friend you wouldn't have talked about him in front of Ryueen. Now your friend has to suffer."

Albert's head dropped," I know...but he is nice...so I talked about him. I will say sorry to him."

From what I can see, Albert was truly sorry. Although it did cause me trouble, it wasn't out of bad intent, so I don't have to consider him a threat in the future.

Ibuki was then hit by a projectile rock.

"Ugh! Who the f*ck did that?"

Another one was shot at Albert, who caught it instinctively.

Out of the shadow of the forest, Horikita walked out with rocks in her hands.

Ibuki shouted, "It's you...Can't you stop being a pain in the ass and come along?"

Horikita kept quiet, considering it as a threat Ibuki charged at her," I will take care of this b*tch myself. I still didn't forgive you for that punch on my face, the scar will take forever to heal."

Ibuki wasn't in her right mind for sure...She does seem to care about her skin a lot... or it was something else altogether.

Horikita's appearance was a surprise indeed. Her fever and body condition didn't indicate any chances of fighting. She was on pure adrenaline.

Horikita took an attack stance and just as Ibuki reached her, she switched her footing.

She then directed and pushed her back knee forward, it pushed Ibuki back a bit.

Horikita didn't stop there, she immediately lifted her forward leg as well and jumped and kicked Ibuki in her chest and landed on her back foot.

...Muay Thai's Kradot Thipor jumping push kick in layman's terms.

( AN: This is a medium level one, but has a large risk of tripping, if not practised properly. Since Ibuki was irrational it worked.)

Ibuki fell back with the air literally blown out of her body as she gasped for breath.

Horikita must have realised from her previous encounter, Ibuki's strength. So she instead used Ibuki's anger to drive out her rationality...not bad...I wonder where she got the idea though.

Ishizaki and Albert upon seeing this ran up to Ibuki and started helping her up.

I jumped off my tree and while they were distracted pulled Chiaki into a nearby bush.

Chiaki's wounds although not life-threatening, will lead to serious damage if not treated properly.

For now, I simply covered it with a tissue and then removed my jacket tying it around her head to stop the bleeding.

( AN: using unsanitized clothes on wounds to stop them is a big no-no...so over here a clean tissue overlaps the wound to prevent germ contamination of the wound, thus keeping it relatively clean.)

Her nose was also broken, I opened her mouth to help her breathe while gently pushing her body forward to reduce the amount of blood that drains into her throat.

30 minutes left

I looked out of the bushes, Horikita was beaten up even more and unconscious.

Ibuki was still down, Ishizaki and Albert still were tending to her ignoring the fact that Chiaki was missing. It won't last long...

Chiaki's head moved on my lap, she was waking up .I patted her head twice, as she gently fell back into an unconscious state, reasonable enough considering the physical exhaustion she must have faced. I don't have much time...

I can either win this battle...or

Win the war instead.

I walked out with my hands in the air

"Ishizaki, Albert...over here."

They turned their focus on me.

Ishizaki said," Oyy! You were there all along?"

I said in a friendly tone," Ya kinda."

Ishizaki and Albert walked up to me, Ishizaki took the lead of the conversation

"So, are you planning to give up?"

"Mostly yes. After all, I can't win can I? I saw what you 4 did to the rest of them."

Ishizaki gave a smug grin, "Hah, I know right. Hey Albert, your friend has some sense in him."

Albert said, "Ya, thank you Ayanokouji."

I said in English," No problem Albert."

He smiled and said in English," I am glad you know English, I can talk to you now. Also, I am sorry for this, we have no other choice. I promise to not hurt you if you come along willingly. Boss, never said anything about you being a target."

Ishizaki scolded Albert," I don't know what you are talking about but stop it. You will spill the beans. Aynokouji, help us carry all of them to the ship, we have only 15 minutes left."

I intentionally shifted my hand to my pockets...

Ishizaki looked at me and then said," Wait let me check if there is anything you can use to attack us."

As expected

I lifted my hands again," Go ahead."

"Albert go carry Ibuki-san's and Horikita-san's bodies. I will check him."

Albert went ahead while Ishizaki started searching me.

I took the burner phone out of his pant pockets while he did so.

Ishizaki then said, " Alright fine. Go take up Matsushita-san's body."

I went to the bush and then tapped her cheek a few times.

Chiaki slowly woke up and then tried to get up, " Kiyo...Kiyotaka...Are you alright? Did they do anything to you?"

...Even in this condition, she cares for my safety... This tool is truly valuable.

"I am alright. Listen carefully and follow my instructions."

Her dazed expression nodded as I made her do as I said.

After a while

I lifted her up on my back and went out.

Ishizaki holding Nishino said," Is she still unconscious?"

We then walked back to the cruise. While Albert carried both of them in his hands, I and Ishizaki had the other 2 on our backs.

I slowed down my pace

Albert asked in English, " Are you, okay bro? Do you want me to carry her as well?"

I said," Thank you for your concern but I can handle it."

As they walked forward, I kept the phone back in Ishizaki's pocket.

I then caught up to Ishizaki and asked," Are the girls always this violent?"

He embarrassingly laughed," No, honestly I am the delinquent here. They are nice people...just that...desperation and personal experience made them like this. Ayanokouji, this might be just a bet for Class D. For us though, it's a chance to protect ourselves in this school. A lot is at stake for us. "

I intervened, "Won't Ryueen be angry that you are sharing such info."

He smiled," Nah, as long as we don't share any of the secrets he specifically told us to keep, it's fine."

"Oh, I see. If you don't mind me asking, what do you mean by protection, would something happen if you all lost this bet?"

"One of us may have been expelled by Ryueen if we didn't win this, to set an example. While the others would have been beaten up and... certain secrets of theirs would be exposed."

"Well then...I am okay with you all winning this one."

Ishizaki quietly said," Albert was right..."

= =

We reached the cruise ship to find both classes waiting for us.

Sakagami sensei announced the winners as soon as Class D's participants touched the deck.

'Class C wins'

'Look what happened to them'

'First Hirata-kun, then this.'

'Heh, Matsushita deserved it'

'Shinohara-san that's very rude of you to say

'Sorry, Kushida-san.'

'Why didn't Ayanokouji get hurt?'

'You are right, was he colluding with other classes'

'Ugh! what's wrong with you guys, did you want another one of our classmates hurt'

'Sudo is right, I think he gave up, maybe they blackmailed him or something.'

Ignoring the barrage of questions I took Chiaki to the hall.

Karuizawa followed me, I didn't stop her.

She then arranged the chairs in a makeshift bed

"Lie her down gently. What happened to her...how did it get so bad?"

Her previous gyaru personality was almost non-existent... I don't think she realised that she dropped her facade.

"A fight. She lost"

Karuizawa's eyes widened, "Fight? I thought this was a game of catch? How did everyone get so badly injured? Why was she fighting? What the hell were you doing?"

"I stopped it by forfeiting. Chiaki is a fighter by nature."

She smiled slightly," I know that much for sure. Anyways get lost, I will take care of her... and thanks."

"She is my friend, not need of thanks."

Saying so I left to find Sudo trying to carry Horikita...his foot didn't allow it.

I walked up to him and said," Give her to me, I will take her to the hall. Also, one of you girls, help me out."

Kushida raised her hand... obviously

She followed me and I said," Don't do anything unnecessary"

She hummed and closed the door behind us as we entered

I dropped her onto another makeshift bed close to Matsushita getting attended to by Karuizawa and asked Kushida," Change her clothes and wake her up."

Kushida then looked at me incredulously and whispered," Why should I do it? Clean this dirty swine, dream on."

I whispered back,"Be careful, what if Karuizawa knows."

She stomped my foot... hard

"I will obviously help her Ayanokouji-kun."She said with a cheery smile

I nodded and closed the door behind me.

The class started asking me questions as soon as I came out.

Yamauchi was the first to shout," Hey f*cker, why didn't you get injured while the rest did? Why didn't you stop them?"

Seeing as to no way to escape the gazes I answered

"I forfeited the game to save them. Since I willingly gave up I didn't get injured."

Yamauchi further accused," So you were a wimp...what to expect from a p*ssy like you."

Sudo defended me," What's wrong with that? If he didn't stop it, they would have been worse off. Ayanokouji is smart, he did the right thing."

Onodera asked," Was this their plan all along, to trick us and then destroy our class leaders?"

"It seems that way."

Satou cross-examined, "So why did they choose you? How are you related to this?"

"Maybe because I hung around with Horikita. Ryueen said that I was ' Suzune's orbiter' before the bet started."

After answering many such questions they finally let me go. I went to the top deck alone and rested on the floor. It was cold, I began thinking

The bet from the start was a trick to destroy the class.

They must have assumed that fact and made Class D greedy. Giving us an incentive they left us with 101 points, 7 cards and 3 broken class leaders. Considering their leader's attitude, he probably wanted to destroy all 4 of us and make us quit, causing a 200 S pt loss (50S*4).

At least that's what everyone thought.

A minor miscalculation on his part was that he didn't expect Sakagami sensei to explicitly say in the rules 'no permanent harm'

But his tools did do a good job of walking on the thin line and carrying out the task.

I could have stopped this. I could have saved them from this. Should I have done it, is the question.

NO, If ryueen found my existence as an important figure...it would become troublesome. If my normal life needed sacrifice, my tools did a good job.

Speaking of which...

Horikita was an anomaly, I didn't expect her to stay in the game for so long. She even exceeded Chiaki on certain aspects today...If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't have been able to form a distraction to carry out my plan.

I wonder if he heard the recording...

=

Ryuenn's POV:

Kukuku, my minions finally did a good job. Though they were soft-hearted in the end with that Ayanokouji brat.. .it doesn't matter. The main leaders were incapacitated.

Pathetic fools, falling for points.

Ishizaki broke my thought," Boss, here is the phone."

I snatched it and checked it for tampering... I still don't trust these minions.

There was a recording in it...

"I have to go the washroom...take care of the those 2 f*ckers properly till then."

Albert and Ishizaki nodded

I closed the doors and played it

'Such an underhanded trick...Good job Ryueen. A small mistake, you underestimated us again...mhmm...A Cheater oh that's you...A blackmailer oh that's you...Sudo's framer oh that's you...A cruise ship leader oh that's you... Expelled oh that maybe you...

If you think you won the game you are wrong, the game has just begun.'

I held the phone tightly in my hand, Class D has evidence on me. They have been onto me from the start. If they knew about this...they probably didn't have evidence to prove otherwise...or maybe they simply are luring me into their trap from the start...

They found out about the phone, so they can report cheating

They found the blackmailing of Class C, a blackmailer

They found the scheme I used, a framer

...The cruise leader... How?

She knows everything...

This voice...

... Matsushita...I will end Class D, do your best.

I lost...again...kukuku...this is fun

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear readers,

Things have gone bad, lol Class D lost...but did Kiyo lose?...that 's a different q all together.

Suzune showed her char development, Kei...showed slight care

Chiaki, lol she fought a lot didn't she.

Anyways, Have a great day ahead

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓔30:𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓜𝓲𝓷𝓭'𝓼 𝓐𝓷𝓰𝓾𝓲𝓼𝓱

Warning: This chapter is filled with some psychological issues and their medical aspects. I tried to keep it as medically accurate as possible.

Ayanokouji's POV:

PAIN

The word "pain" comes from the Latin "poena" meaning a fine, a penalty.

The medical term for "pain" is "algia" derived from the Greek "algos" meaning pain.

Pain is often linked with physical damage, ironically carries a plethora of emotions. what people forget is pain and emotions are intertwined. Obviously, there is the moral aspect.

Even neurologicallythe medial frontal cortex, the midbrain periaqueductal gray and the hippocampus are all involved in both pain and negative emotions, suggesting that the experience of pain influences the processing of negative emotions.

The way that pain might modulate emotion processing has been rarely investigated, strange...isn't it?

Class D is experiencing pain, many forms of it. Faces are a probable way to assess pain. What's noteworthy is how a pained person desensitises to happiness if administered to it over a long period of time, something I can relate to all too well.

Class D, is currently struggling with worry causing actions ranging from Sudo's anger to Karuizawa's care to the utter shock of Mei-Yu Wang.

The 3 students were checked up by the onboard doctors. All have temporary injuries but are in pain. Given pain meds, they were able to sleep on the chairs for while, were then taken to the bedrooms when it was 12 am. The whole day went by in silence, no one was ready to do bets and rejected a few from individuals from different classes...

The next day also was bleak, they had to be shifted at 6am and we had to carry Horikita to activate the rooms at the 12 hour reactivation cycles.

Class C has destroyed Class D's morale. It is vividly broadcasted.

These 2 days have been hard for Class D,No one left this room the whole day...No bets, no needless chatter. Just a gloomy shadow over class D.

I hoped this calmness lasted longer...without the casualties of course. During that time, I tried to find out how Class C got it's points. Though it was unsuccessful as I didn't have any access to Class C without it looking suspicious.

Seeing their leaders in such condition, truly scared them. Karuizawa was uncharacteristically the most caring about Chiaki. The whole day she was tending to her needs.

Wang and I were attending to Hirata and Horikita from time to time.

Pain empathy is beneficial for human group survival since it provides motivation for non-injured people to offer aid to the injured and to avoid injuring themselves.

The bilateral anterior (AI), rostral (ACC) are activated both in instances of first-person painful experience and observed painful experience. Though this is debatable as some have argued that only the affective components of the pain matrix, are activated when it comes to pain empathy.

Is this pain empathy? I don't know, I never felt so.

When they woke up at night after 9 pm, I went up to Horikita and asked loudly enough for the 3 victims to hear," Do you 3 want to quit?"

Chiaki got up slowly and with extreme pain, considering her body was shivering and her eyebrows were scrunched up.

"N-No way. If we give up, C-Class C will get what they want."

Hirata followed along, albeit lying down," Same here...It was my fault...I took Horikita-san's words lightly."

Horikita on the other hand simply hit me on the head while I was sitting down beside her.

How does she even have the strength?

"Ayanokouji, what's wrong with you? No one is quitting, stop asking such nonsense questions."

She coughed violently after saying that. Her condition is the worst among the 3, yet she fought the most.

"Alright, I was simply confirming."

Ike asked," Now that the leaders are down, what are we going to do next? Are we doing any more bets?"

Hirata replied," For today, let's lay low."

Horikita disagreed," No, do individual bets. Whoever is able to win, has to.We still have 101 points. 1 more bet, we can place."

Horikita is understanding the threat, our point reserves are at an all-time low. If we don't have enough points, this exam is as good as over.

Sudo got up from his seat and thumped his chest, " Horikita, I will do 1 more bet!"

Horikita rejected the notion in an instant," Sprained leg. Not a chance."

Sudo's expressions went from pride to a crushing sorrow.

Horikita still is brutal with her thoughts.

Shinohara said," Hey Ayanokouji, you do the next one. It's not like you did anything major in the bet."

Yamauchi added on." Ya, you will finally be useful for something at least."

Horikita and Chaiki simultaneously spoke up," NO!"

The sheer volume was enough to draw everyone's attention

Chiaki screamed," What the f*ck do you mean? He f*cking saved us. If he hadn't bandaged me up, the nurse said I had a risk of Chronic head injury...He -he--"

She started hyperventilating, her emotions are haywire right now. Her stress levels have clearly risen due to the recent events.

Everyone was still, unsure of what to do.

While the correct procedure to stop this is to make her breath into a bag, considering it's unavailability...

Her condition was worsening

Karuizawa shouted while she tried to calm her down, "Someone call the nurse"

Seeing as to this wasn't working, I went up to her and I tightly held her mouth with my hand.

Karuizawa tried to push me off," What are you doing Ayanokouji? Let her go!!"

Sudo came rushing trying to pry my hands off.

"Sudo stop. When we hyperventilate, our blood fills with oxygen, and becomes acidic, causing this sensation. Putting my hand over her mouth brings carbon dioxide back into her blood again and slows her breathing."

Listening to me he stopped pulling my hands off

Miyamoto had other thoughts,"What are you doing Sudo? You really believe him. I am sure he is spouting nonsense."

Onodera boldly defended me," Shut up! I trust what he is doing. In swimming, it isused intentionally by swimmers to stretch the time we are able to hold our breath underwater. I have done so once but a senpai stopped me from doing so like this."

Voluntary hyperventilation prior to underwater swimming and underwater breath-holding is a dangerous activity. Onodera seemed to have learnt it the hard way.

While others were arguing about my actions, Chiaki slowly started breathing normally again.

Unlike anxiety, which often has clear triggers, panic attacks occur suddenly and unexpectedly and typically only last for a few minutes. Those who experience panic attacks have reported lightheadedness, chest pain, hot flashes, chills, and stomach discomfort.

As her breathing slowed down, her body was still experiencing generalised symptoms. It likely isn't a panic attack. It had to be an anxiety attack with the shouting as a trigger.

I held her face still as I said," Everyone, keep quiet for a while. Chiaki, look at me. I need you to do something for me, will you be able to do it?"

She nodded

"Good, It will help you I promise.Take a deep breath, I know it feels overwhelming like it will never end. But, it will. Can you look at 5 things for me? Don't speak, just look"

First, taking deep breaths

Second, address her anxiety

Her irises followed my command

" Take another deep breath and Name 4 things you can touch?"

She spoke," C-Chair, H-H-Hands, P-P-Phone, Y-Y-You"

"Take another deep breath and Can you listen to 3 things you can hear?"

She nodded," I-I did."

"Take another deep breath and can you tell me 2 things you can smell?"

She sniffed, "K-Karuizawa's Perfume, Sweat"

She was visibly returning to normal.

"Take another deep breath and Can you name 1 thing you can taste?"

"Lipgloss"

Finally, 5-4-3-2-1 coping technique for Anxiety, while doing this it's often advisable to pair it with deep breathing. One must also be careful to not make it sound like an order, using words like 'Can you' helps.

I put her down on the chairs with Karuizawa and I left the hall, not acknowledging the eyes trying to bore a hole into me.

=

I went to the washroom and washed my face.

I shouldn't have done it. It will gain attention. It will risk revealing my cards.

I hadn't expected that...

'You are the masterpiece. Everyone is your tool, you have to survive'

I splashed more water on my face

'Humans are expendable. Don't waste your skills.'

I looked at the mirror,

"Why did you help her?" it spoke

"She is my friend. Others were in a standstill."

"So she is your friend? The last one...what about her? Did you care for her?"

I sighed, "I don't know."

"Don't lie, I am you remember? You simply didn't want your tools to break."It looked at me with darkness in it's eyes.

"It wasn't something serious, just an anxiety attack. Many white room subjects had that. More often than I can count. She wouldn't break that easily."

It's voice became louder and louder

"It was to gain the trust of your tool. You don't care about her, you caused this, you made her like this, just like you thought on that day...

SHE IS JUST A TOOL"

"Really? But we both know she is already completely under our control. She is a tool but also a book to learn friendship. You are right, I don't care about her. After her purpose is done.

I may throw her away. But until then, I will protect her."

The shadow in the mirror almost seemingly formed a grin

"You are the only thing that matters. You don't feel emotions, just like your father said

YOU ARE A MONSTER."

"Maybe so. That doesn't mean I can't change that. I am not defined by you, you are my past. I accept you, but don't dictate my future."

" Do you really think you can throw away White room, your home for 15 years, by just 3 years of this school?"It kept asking

"I don't know."

"This is not like you. You predict everything, you do know."

"I will have to go back, these books will be worthless."

" EXACTLY"

It disappeared...It was right, I may have to go back

...But these years, won't be worthless.

This is the 2nd time it happened...

I left the washroom drenched in water.

=

I went back into the hall, people started asking again

'How the heck did you do that'

'that was pretty cool'

'where did you learn this'

'If you know this much, how did you get less marks'

'Are you hiding something'

Ignoring such comments I spoke

"Hirata, Sae-sensei is calling you."

While it was a lie, when Sae-sensei heard the news...she was shocked and showed actual sympathy. Her hands were tied, since the rules were not broken, these injuries won't be looked into.

Hirata perked up at that he lifted himself off the bed with Wang's help.

Now that I think about it, why is Karuizawa worried about her friend more than her boyfriend?

And why is she allowing another girl to take care of him?

Isn't she jealous?...

No, she should be...unless... it doesn't matter to her.

Karuizawa's nature changed quite a bit. While her close friends noticed it, they chalked it up to shock and sadness.

Using Wang's support he walked up to me.

I asked her," Wang, I will take it from here."

I put his hand over my body and grabbed his body, to balance it.

"Hirata, how are you feeling?"

He chuckled dryly," In pain. They did quite a number on me. Pain meds helped. I remember they specifically attacked me so that, the pain is more, but the actual body damage is less."

They attacked his pressure points and his muscles rather than precision and hard attacks they went with continuous moderate blows, reducing the damage and increasing the pain.

"I lied, I want you to come with me to Class C."

He shivered,"W-What do you mean? W-Why go there?"

I predicted this reaction, I have to emotionally persuade him

"They were also badly injured. Chiaki traumatised Nishino and Horikita inflicted major pain on Ibuki. When I asked them the reason for this after the exam, I learnt they were forced. We have to meet Ryueen himself. We have to maintain an amicable relationship with them. After all getting on their bad side, as of now, has caused problems. "

I have to go into the lion's den...I need to have a shield to protect myself. Hirata fits the role perfectly.

Hirata nodded," I understand that...but I am not going to lie. I am scared. I admire you...Ayanokouji."

That was sudden

"I don't understand the reasoning."

"The way you helped Matsushita. The way you were considerate enough to think about the class by hiding this. The way you made the right call in the exam...I can't do that, I try to be a good leader...but"

He is losing confidence, it's not too far gone...but if unattended, it will lead to further threats.

"A leader can be of different types. I am no leader."

He tried to refute it but I continued speaking

"You are one, you are kind, understanding. While it's true today you failed, you are weak..."

His eyes showed pain at that

"That doesn't change the fact that you can be stronger. You boost people's morale by just being there, I am sure the class is grateful to have you."

He smiled slightly at that and said," You are a good... stranger."

Interesting use of words

=

Class C's teir was very spacious, We knocked on their hall door

Albert was the one to open the door.Seeing Hirata handing onto me, he ushered us to a chair.

Ryueen sitting on top of the desk jumped and walked up to us

"What are Class D freaks doing here?"

I explained," Nothing much. Just wanted to check up on the fellow competitors.Is it ok?"

Ryueen gave me a glare, I acted nervous...but it seems I did a terrible job

"Kuku, Suzune's orbiter, don't put up an act.Shit, you ain't scared."

"Sorry,I am just slow in processing things."

He hummed in agreement,"Makes you a good minion, unlike my idiots."

Hirata sitting there kept quiet

"Orbiter, what is goody two shoes doing with you?"

"He is the class leader, Horikita asked me to go along with him."

"Hmm, Now stop with the bullsh*t and tell me what you want. Don't gimme that crap."

He seems to be distracted, considering he didn't think of attacking us the moment we entered.

"Where are they?"

He pointed at the beds in the hall...Royal teir and it's perks.

Hiyori was sitting with Ibuki reading a book

"Hi Hiyori"

She turned around to see me, she smiled," Ayanokouji-kun, How have you been?"

"I was just fine, just wanted to check up on Ibuki and Nishino."

"Oh! That's really sweet of you"

I noticed something...

"Why is the hall so empty?"

"Oh, they are all placing bets...which I am not allowed to say"She lifted her finger to her lips and smiled.

"That's completely fine."

I walked up to Nishino who was resting but awake

"Hi"

Nishino looked at me with suspicious eyes," You are that dude who I didn't find...where the heck were you even?"

"In a tree"

"Like a monkey...hah"She laughed at her own joke.

"How are you feeling?"

"Dude, why do you even care? I literally destroyed your teammate...not gonna lie, the other bitch deserved it...but ya..umm...I was simply scared a bit...that's all"

"I don't honestly care, I simply came here to meet Albert."

"Ah, that guy, literally whenever he opens his mouth, which mind ya, he does pretty rarely, speaks of you...You are like his first friend in this school."

"I am honoured."

"Hmm, you better be, he is a f*cking nice guy, though very loyal to that Ryueen."

"Alright I will go meet Ibuki, you can go back to whatever you were doing."

She fake cried," So rude for a normie."

Ibuki was still sleeping, not wanting to disturb her I went back to Ryueen who was talking to Hirata

...It seems Hirata is carrying out his intended purpose

"Thank you."

"Ya ya whatever orbiter, the only reason you were even let in, is because Albert over here talks about you. Lol, I had your class leaders is totally f*cked.You were just caught in the cross fire."

"Hmm, anyways we have to go."

"Who are you waiting for, take this blone meatsack and leave."

I lifted Hirata and walked out and dropped him off in the Class D hall.

While on the surface this little trip might have not seemed like much and a risky move, it was essential to understand Class C's dynamic.

It was simply a dictatorship. Considering the count of people placing bets, no wonder they were getting so many points. What's strange is Hiyori, she seemingly was unpetrubed by Ryueen's leadership and was not bothered to participate in bets. If she did so, she would have fear in her eyes.

Even by simple statistics, it was highly likely they are simultaneously carrying out multiple bets, so that it counteracts the lost points...Yet they would need a lot of talent and a lot of bets... not possible by one class alone.

If this was such a sure fire strategy, Class A handn't done it. Why so? There either is a flaw in this or they are doing something else entirely.

I have no interest in going back to hall answering the questions and being Horikita's butler, it was supposed to be Kushida's duty.

On the deck where I was standing, a familiar tapping sound walked up

"Fufu, Ayanokouji, how was Class C's move?"

"Directly a question, where are your manners."

"We both would save time talking about what's important." She stood beside me staring at the black sea.

"Tactical and a deceptive trap.Good for them...How did you know about this?"

"Fufu, I had my ways...like you have yours...Kamuro Masumi, she was your spy wasn't she?"

She found out, it was inevitable

"Ya, what will you do to her?"

"Fufu, use her as my pawn...Other than that, nothing else."

"Hmm, aren't you threatened?"

"Why would I be? You have cut all connections with her haven't you?"

She knew even that...

"Maybe so."

" Class C is an ally of Class A"

...Why did she say such a news

She kept speaking,"I think you will realise why I said this, use it as you wish...Think of it as a gift."

With a final Fufufu she left leaving me to my thoughts.

...

..

.

Class A civil war, She will sabotage Class A herself and destroy Katsuragi's temporary leadership. She is cruel seemingly uncaring of her classmates as long as she achieves her goal.

She will checkmate but not without the loss of her pawns, whose worth she will decide.

The midnight bell rang...

4 days left

I checked for the supposed daily point updates

--

DAY 3:

NO DETAILS SHARED

--

Same as yesterday...something is going on, if this becomes a threat I will have to stop it

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

This chapter was weird

Ryueen's character ain't all Violent, he is more calm in this...and let's just say, he is stressed

Class D is in shambles.

Kiyotaka met his past self in a hallucination

Have a good day

Thank you!

𝓢1-𝓔31:𝓘𝓝𝓣𝓔𝓡𝓟𝓔𝓓𝓘𝓣𝓨?

Ayanokouji's POV:

Timeskip to 5th day:

The class won 2 more cards... Anger, hate...all fueled this.

Onodera won a swimming competition with Class C. I vividly remember her saying

"I will either drown or win."

Her eyes were filled with a sense of desperation, shared by the class.

The same emotion was shown by surprisingly Ike when another island survival exam bet we made with Class B.

His survival instincts are pronounced well, at least from his display, no one can refute that.

As he said," I was in the boy scouts when I was a kid." was a truth.

"Kiyotaka-"

I disappeared again from the hall. I have been ignoring Chiaki for a while. Minimizing interactions is essential as I am quite certain her infatuation towards me has visibly increased due to that mistake.

I have to bring her back to reality but if I do so during the exam will cause her mind to be more disturbed than it already is.

Due to this, the halls have become off-limits to me. I spend the entire day... alone with the sea by my side. The class has been busy gaining points.

Flashback (during the 4th day):

"I have an offer for you"

"What is it, Horikita?" I asked slightly curious

"I will not ask you to participate...except once and you have to win. Does that sound fair?"

While I could refuse, it would be too much of a bother.

"Why do you place so many expectations on me?"

"Because you are my pawn... I mean friend. And on that day, you showed that you are the most reliable in this defect class fools."Her eyes changed from haughtiness to nervousness and she seemed to have remembered something.

"Alright, as you say. Now can I rest?"

"Do whatever you want Ayanokouji, not as if I care...but why have you been ignoring Matsushita? After you saved her."Her words were minced together," she has gotten... awfully talkative about you, quite bothersome."

"Friends have problems."

She whispered, "I am sure you are not dense enough to not notice...and your 'friend' is trying to cross the line. A word of advice... don't lead her on, she is dangerous when she is angry." her eyes showed panic at the end "Anyways bye"

She left hurriedly, even while crippling, her fear makes her surprisingly fast.

She is not wrong, I risk loss of a valuable tool but I need to make Chiaki realise her standings.

Now her reactions may vary...

If she tells the class, it will be a bother...The best outcome would be for us to remain friends

Flashback ends

=

Timeskip to Day 7:

The class won a total of 1000 points and are left with 4 cards. They took a similar strategy as to Class C by continuously doing individual bets with small games like rock paper scissors to even a staring contest.

Childish but efficient.

Chiaki has messaged me over 200 times. I had to stop my notifications in order to stop it from buzzing like an alarm clock.

I can't lead her on, it will simply hurt her...and chances are she may become an enemy in the future if I do so.

Being honest will be the only option...

Class B was the scapegoat of this, their good nature made them accept such small bets. But Ichinose soon put a stop to it. It was a sight to see her scolding her classmates like a mother after they lost 2 games but it worked causing them to win 1 game. Class D was sensible enough to back off on that.

Class C was something which Class D has anger towards the most but none of them except Oondere mustered the courage to make any bets with them

Sae sensei spoke on the loudspeaker," Class D please enter the games room by 15:00."

I flicked my wrist to check my watch, 14:58... she really despises us.

I had not seen my classmates much after that incident, hardly ever while going to the bedrooms. Other than that, I always accidentally do not notice them.

"There is that ditcher"Yamauchi pointed out for both Class A and D to hear

"Ayanokouji-kun, where were you for 2 whole days."Kokoro spoke up

Her nervousness has been eliminated, her nature has also improved by leaps and bounds.

"Y-Ya A-ayanok-kouji k-kun w-where h-have y-you been."Airi...spoke

"We have been working our asses off for points and you are slacking off, you jerk"Shinohara spoke...What did she even do?

"Sorry senseis I am late."Both Mashima-sensei and Sae-sensei were standing at the podium.

Chiaki was pointing to a seat next to her, but I pretended not to notice and sat with Akito and Haseba instead.

"Is this seat taken?"

Akito who was chatting with Haseba quickly said," No not at all Ayanokouji, please sit down. And where were you the last couple of days, I was worried."

Haseba introduced herself," Ayanokouji-kun, nice to meet you. I am Haruka Haseba, you were quite amazing that day."

Akito was smiling a lot, he was probably happy that he won Class D an archery game against Class A's Hayato Kitou, and was the only one to achieve such a feat in Class D, whoever tried to make bets with Class A in the past couple of days lost, no matter who they chose, always the same result.

Not to be a dampener, Akito also won on a slight margin and luck. Kitou missed the shot because his long hair got into his eyes.

"Thank you. I was simply assigned some work by Horikita, so it took all the time."

On seeing me sit, Horikita got up from her original seat and plopped next to me," Time to pay up Ayanokouji."

She predicted such a scenario and made this deal with me, good for her.

"Alright"

From the corner of my eye, I saw Chiaki glaring daggers on Horikita.

Horikita on noticing it scooted over to her place. This is just getting comical.

Mashima-sensei spoke, "Class A wants to make a bet with Class D, 2 students/class will be chosen and the game they decided on is

CHIT COMMAND

Where the students from each group will have to take a chit from a bowl and do whatever the Chit commands.

Whichever team completes their bowl the fastest wins.

The opposing teams will be making 10 chits for the other and will be cross-examined by the invigilators, me and Chabashira Sensei, for their viability. If found unviable the chit will be removed from the count.

Both teams have to specify the solution and give that sheet to us and demonstrate if we feel neccesary, which should be detailed but no more than 100 words.

If tampering is done, that team will be disqualified.

...The wager is 1000 Pts and 1 card.

Upon choosing a chit by anyone, it will be read out and the pair can either work together on it..or...choose another and do both at the same time."

They kept the data of the chits very vague, so there is risk of asking something too abnormal.

And this time again all our points are at stake... except 1 point, thanks to Class C.

Either we lose here and everything Class D worked for is overand Class A wins the entire exam or we win here...and Class C wins the entire exam as Class A loses 1000 points here...Class C's points...if my predictions are right, are somewhere around the 2800 mark.

Hence even on winning we simply allow class C to win.

So either we lose and become last or we defeat Class A and let Class C win....

Unless...I can do something about it..but for now, let's play along.

Class D got into a debate on whom to choose

Horikita stopped the debate upon saying her selection, " Ayanokouji and Kushida."

Hirata agreed," I understand Kushida-san considering her connections making her an asset to gather whatever her chits ask...but why Ayanokouji-kun, I know he is dependable. But is that the only reason?"

Horikita said," Ayanokouji, knows how to do stay calm, this exam will have chits with commands which are unknown, hence staying calm is required if anything unnatural shows up."

Even though that was a vague excuse, most believed it due to that incident.

Upon agreement, I and Kushida went up to the invigilators

Kushida spoke up," Sensei, Kiyotaka Ayanokouji and I, Kikyou Kushida both are going to be Class D participants."

From behind another gruff voice came," Miki Yamamura and I, Katsuragi Kohei are going to be Class A participants."

Sae sensei said," Alright, you 2 teams have 30 minutes to make the chits and the answers in separate parts of the room. Place the bets and others leave.."

They gave us a thumbs up as we went to our seats discussing.

I start writing while Kushida was nibbling on her pen,

"Hey Ayanokouji-kun, what are you writing in the chits?"

"Nothing special"

"Come on it's a bet, let's work together..."

I sighed deeply said," tasks which may cause issues but work in the boundary of viability."

She made a popping sound," Mhm, I am simply writing things to find, like prop hunt. Should I also write the same thing as you?"

"No need to bother about it. Write what you feel will cause trouble to Class A in carrying out, be careful to make it sensible or else the chit will not be taken."

She hit her head thinking she was cute

"Alright, Ayanokouji-kun."

We sat quietly and wrote, Class A was silent too. Only the hitting of pens on the sheets and tapping on phones by the invigilators broke the silence.

After 30 minutes were over Kushida asked" Ayanokouji-kun, do you want to see the chits I wrote?"

"No thanks let's go drop our chits in the bowls."

She pouted, "After that day... you have been colder."

She is not wrong, after that hallucination, that mistake I made, I realised I have to return to what I was or else errors may occur in my future plans.

"Is that so.."

She nodded as we submitted the papers and chits.

=

After they cross-checked I saw their eyes widen quite a few times...especially at Class A's answer papers.

"Alright, please be seated and Class A please begin the exam."

Yamamura walked up nonchalantly and rummaged through the chits and picked one up and read it out

" Change the colour of this room walls."

...Hmm, interesting enough. The answer won't be as straightforward as that. Or else this wouldn't be viable.

Katsuragi also walked up to her and started analyzing the chit.

Meanwhile, Kushida pulled my hand

"Are you going to keep staring or help me pull out a chit?"

She read her chit out loud

" Find and bring a book with the letter Z as the 2nd letter of the title from the library."

Kushida had never gone to the library before, her expressions were crystal clear.

"Kushida, I will go. Try the next one."

She hurriedly pulled out another one.

" Find a mirror, just not made of glass. Take a picture and bring it."

Kushida asked nervously," Ayanokouji, what does it even mean."

Mirror...A function of a mirror is to reflect.

A selfie? No, it's not automatic like a mirror

...Something I can look at and It looks back...

I took out my phone

"Sensei here is the picture of the 2nd chit"

She stopped me," NO, until you solve the 1st chit, you can submit this chit. It has to be in order."

She decided to tell us now.

"Kushida keep on taking out chits. I will bring the book."

I ran out with the lights being switched off before I left Yamamura said," Sensei I changed the colour of the walls from white to black."

...She got it.

Class A is ahead of us.

Before going I decided to listen to their next chit," Go to the speaker room in library and say ' Chit complete'"

This is problematic...

I ran, Katsuragi followed. Him being larger, gave him an advantage in strides.

If he reaches the library first he can close the library till he completes, sabotaging me.

While in shorter races height may play a role. But the library is far enough to negate the factor.

When running, the force behind the hit on contact with the ground matters the most.

Katsuragi took the elevator, seeing as the vicinity was clear I thought of jumping down.

Sure, jumping from this height has a risk, if not done properly.

I bent onto my knees and pushed my hands forward in a swinging motion while jumping. Upon contact of my toes with the ground, I pushed it with my hands and fell on my upper back instead of my legs.

( AN: While what I talked above are the accurate basics of parkour...don't do it unless you are a proffesional.)

Considering the higher surface area for the impact, it doesn't cause any injury and significantly lowers the risk.

In the white room, I remember subjects fearing the jump, not because they couldn't land properly. But taking the first step was challenging...for them. Not having emotions has it's perks.

Katsuragi was shocked to see me there but it didn't stop him. Some students were in the way unaware of this bet, confused about our race.

Running past them we reached the library. The door was unlocked outwards, so I jumped in the last bit and holding the handle of the door with my right hand switched my body direction facing the running Katusragi, landing and closing the door shut simultaneously.

I could have ended this race faster but the other students in the hall would be suspicious.

The library door was being banged on

"Ayanokouji, this is unfair. Let me in this instant."

Ignoring it I started thinking about the books.

Going in an alphabetic order takes too much time. Most titles have 'The' in them, deleting many options.

There are over 6000 words containing the letter Z, 470 000 English words,6/470 = 0.013

According to Concise Oxford Dictionary,the letter Z has a 0.2722% chance of being used

But I am not looking for a dictionary, in texts its probability is 0.078%

I need a more fundamental idea, alphabets. Words won't work

I need to calculate what letter has the highest probability of coming with Z

There are no words having Xas a starting alphabet and Z in it, deleting them from the probability spectrum.

If I simply go by the highest number of words, I would get S with about 600 words with Z in it. But that's also not apt for this, considering that S doesn't come before Z.

A, I, O, P, T

A has about 349 words with Z in itand has the highest likelihood of all.

But

O has mostly ozone related...words...

( AN: I spent way too much effort on this ugh, but ya,it's accurate.All the values are tested.)

I ran up to the O section and picked out the book, Ozone: Mother Earth...huh, that was easy.

Even if A has the highest probability, there are still many combinations unlike O having only 1 combination to look for.

I opened the door to find a towering Katsuragi.

"Sorry. We just have to win."

"While, what you did was very rude, you didn't break the rules. So it's fine...Though that was strangely fast."

Considering the average time of doing it properly would take at least 15 minutes, me taking 5 minutes must be suspicious.

Saying so he left to announce. I went inside the elevator this time.

I ran inside and submitted the book, upon affirming I consecutively submitted the Photo of the island.

Considering there was water in the picture I pointed at...the answer was water, quite simple.

Kushida had already taken out all the chits and marked their order.

She then said," I was thinking of doing them in order of chit opening, like Class A. "

No that would take too much time, the chits themselves were above the level of a normal high schooler.Just shows a glimpse of Class A, Director Sakayangi did name them elites after all.

"Kushida we can complete them faster if we do them disorderly"

She gave me a questioning look

"For example, if we do numbers 4 and 8 which are

' Count the number of grains of sand in the jar placed in the centre of Class 1 A'

and

' Correct the answer sheets with 100% accuracy of any 3 students of Class 1 A, which are placed on the student's respective desks'

which can be done when we are in class A"

"But won't that risk confirmation? Doing them in order will give us points, if we don't do them like that and leaving them for the last scares me..what if we can't bring everything together at the last moment."

Her social status has been at risk ever since Chiaki has become popular. If we lose this, she will face scrutinization and the hierarchy will change.

She read those chits again...it seems she forgot or didn't pay attention while reading..she hasn't been paying attention, her fears are being a hindarance.

Kushida spoke up," Ayanokouji-kun...how are these chits even possible to complete? Sensei how are these even fair?"

Sae sensei smirked," All these chits are possible. Shut up and do it."

These chits are either crafted with deception or are difficult to accomplish with a basic knowledge level.

On the other side, Katsuragi may have found one of my chits which he said out loud,

" Write left-handed tongue twisters, any 10 of your choice, while speaking them aloud."

Yamamura also voiced a similar concern as Kushida, "H-how? Did Class D actually show the viability of this? It's not possible...unless, it was attempted in the answer paper..."

Mashima sensei simply nodded and said," Not just that, this person even gave a voice recording of carrying out this task, quite remarkable, I must say."

Their jaws were slightly open, being naturally ambidextrous is rare.

Though Kushida didn't allow it to last long enough to let Class A realise who was the chit writer.

I was never naturally ambidextrous though, considering white room did force the subjects to write with both hands simultaneously to improve efficiency at age of 3, it was practice, 100s of times.

I was the slowest after all

Yamamura started carrying out the task, albeit with much difficulty. Class A is filled with talent so chits lik e playing an instrument or testing their knowledge will be a waste.

These types of chits should at least slow them down.

"Kushida I will do the disordered ones, while you do the rest...How does that sound?"

"Y-Ya that sounds ok but what if I can't do them, could you also do them for me?"

She is visibly panicking, a lot is at risk here. If she doesn't do her part, I will have to exert too much energy into this.

I could be branded a perv for this... but I have no other option.

I grabbed her shoulders. Her body shivered at my touch, probably disgusted

"Listen up! We don't have time. Kushida, you are strong, more than most here. You hold the whole class together, that's no easy feat. These tasks aren't either but just like the class believes...you will be able to do it."

"W-What if I fail...I can't do a single chit properly...I- I will be a loser" Her eyes started watering, her emotions are getting stronger.

I whispered the last few words,"

KUSHIDA YOU ARE NOT A LOSER

This mask you wear is the sign of a beautiful craftsman. The determination and skill you have to not let it slip is truly admirable, you got friends, people love you, you got everything you desire in this school

KIKYOU KUSHIDA IS A WINNER

prove this fact again today.

KIKYOU KUSHIDA IS A FIGHTER "

( AN: the caps are not loud but soft emphasis and if cringe, I am sorry...nah Idgaf...blame this blob of mass called brain.)

I have kept an eye on Kushida for a while, she loves being the centre of attention, not because she desires people's love...but rather a sense of winning. Considering her average skills, she yearns for something she is good at, something she can win at.

... Now win or lose, Kushida will decide

--AUTHOR'S NOTES--

Dear Readers,

My head hurts and I can't write too many big brain scenes in just 1 exam...this bet will be the last... maybe

I am lazy...more accurately...doombb

I will pay for my sins by making the other exams more big brain... maybe

Chiaki will soon find Kiyo's dilemma, whether this will end her arc with Kiyo is up for her to decide

Other simps, rejoice

So this will be the last one, so I skipped a few days... with PLOTTT

Have a great day

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓔32:𝓓𝓮𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓶𝓲𝓷𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷

Kushida's POV:

He said I am a winner

For the first time, I have said these words.

Was it a lie?... Maybe it is...he also wears a mask...no, many in fact.

If I wear a mask, he is a masquerader

After all, it takes a faker to recognise one.

Even if it was...it felt nice.

...

...

..

.

Fu*cker shook my mind up but he was right, I have to win this sh*tty exam and get my power back.

Matsushita is being a prick in my back with that Horikita...Ayanokouji too, I will have to expel them.

Thank you Ayanokouji...but f*ck you too, weirdo.

I wiped my tears and opened my eyes...where's Ayanokouji?

Nevermind, I have to focus on the chits,

The 3rd chit read," Decrypt 'ELLSEIVJ' of Class A Cipher type: Vignere cypher."

Cryptogram...what the f*ck

I heard of this cipher...but where

...Sherlock holmes? Nah

...Detective novels? No..that's not it

Gravity falls...ya the end credits

Brings back memories..huh, after what happened in middle school, I binged the whole sh*t to get my mind off the bigger sh*t I was in.

Gravity falls end credits did use Vignere I think

Ya, I can do this. I will f*cking solve it.

I remember I have to draw the table at least

I took out a paper and started writing...F*ck this will take forever.

Alright, as much as I know, I have to write A-Z a bunch of times. Too many infact.

After writing A-Z horizontally and diagonally with a red pen and made a table.

To fill the table I wrote the rows starting with A and then with B and so on.

After a whole f*cking 30 minutes I finished.

Curse you Class A. I bet you f*ckers planned this whole sh*t.

Heh, Ayanokouji's chits are also equally f*cked up. Yamamura is still can't say them properly.

...Focus Kikyou

Then after using the red colour alphabets as coordinates...shit just became a whole lot easier.

The key will be the vertical row and the answer will be horizontal.

What's the key though?

I pulled out the chit again and read it carefully.

Gravity falls had their keys in the episode itself, these chits must work the same way too...maybe

I just have to find what this chit has extra, that should give me something to work with.

Decrypt says what to do

The text is the encrypter

Type is Vignere

So, just 'of Class A' left. I am damm sure they didn't include any 'of' in the key

Now, the question is, ClassA or Class?

...If I try ClassA even if it's wrong, Class will be easier to find as it's already included.

Let's get to it...

...

...

..

.

Hah...

( AN: Gravity falls is GOATED...And I wanted to use...another cypher/ mix of cyphers, but it would be way too complicated to explain...so ya, here is vignere cipher, a very easy one)

"Sensei it's CALAMITY"

She checked the answer key and nodded.

F*ck ya!! I did it!

Now onto the next one.

Ayanokouji's POV:

I went to Class A's hall room, filled with the remaining students of the class.

"Hello everyone, sorry to bother you all."

Kamuro's eyes widened at my arrival, obvious considering it's been a while since we met.

Sakayanagi smirked and said," Not a bother Defect. Go try your best...fufu, everyone...treat him well."

I decided to do chit 8 first, correcting everyone's papers...strange enough.

"So, the chit commands your answer sheets to be corrected...so could I do so?"

Sakayanagi ordered Kamuro," Fufu, give him the papers. Also if you don't mind...explain us our mistakes."

Some snickered at that, obviously at the situation of a defect trying to solve and correct a Class A paper.

Sakayangi intentionally or unintentionally has set up a situation where completing this task will be almost impossible without displaying my abilities.

I still am in the dark regarding what will happen if a chit is kept incomplete.

Will the other class simply win or will we still have a chance of fighting?

Whatever may be the result, it won't affect the present scenario.

Kamuro shoved the papers in my hands. Her attitude is almost identical to Horikita's

Considering I have to speak up, I will have to mark the paper, without actually solving the questions to check their accuracy.

While simply looking at all these solutions without the question paper, is an obstacle in itself.

I sat at an empty seat ushering everyone to sit down.

I took a breath and spoke in a monotone voice in order to not show any form of reaction to realising this tricky situation.

I will have to gauge whatever reaction I can to assess their qualities. This may be one of the few times, I get to meet almost all of Class A.

The USB confirmation is out of the question considering I can't probe too much.

Class A is filled with unknowns and more likely of high intellect. At least in the academic setting.

I will still have to try,

While hot, warm and cold reading works with people of...lesser intellect, whether these will work on class A..is debatable.

Cold reading is a basic analysis of a person's outward features from which perfume they are wearing to how they smile.

Usually used by so-called fortune-tellers, works well, since they make high probability guesses like

'Someone in your family has heart disease.' Heart conditions are very common

Or maybe

'Someone has a bad relationship on the surface but loves you dearly' Most families have similar incidents.

These hook on the person on a confirmation bias or Forer effect.

Forer effect is basically filling in the details like 'Oh ya uncle ben has heart condition for a while I am so worried.'Giving the fortune teller a hint on their mental health

Or 'My dad Rob loves me but he is always so distant, I miss him so much since I live away.'

Using cold reading in this setting is for the sole purpose of finding if at all, anything I can use against them.

These often include the rainbow ruse of addressing 2 sides of a situation like

'Oh, now Class A is really united but before there were feuds'

These statements allow me toappear to have made an accurate deduction and make them more vulnerable to my words.

Warm reading often used by scammers, is simple flattery or the simplified form of the Barnum effect, used counterintuitively in a broader setting.

While Barnum effect clearly states, using it as illusionary tailored flattery disguising a vague, general truth on a specific stranger appeal to you and establishes a relationship even before getting to know them.

It should work on the Class, assuming they have unity in them.

Hot reading, used by illusionists or magicians, is a ruled out possibility as it relies on background information to make claims and won't be useful here.

A mix of warm and cold reading should be a proper technique

Using an amazed tone while looking at the papers," Considering everyone here is highly capable, it won't be a surprise all will have above 90%."

Some nodded readily to my declaration, proving my point.

Most caught on to my want for a reaction and mimicked my straight face.

"As I was saying, I hardly know half of the equations, literally and subjectively...considering I just got a 50 on the last test."I adopted a jocking tone to lighten the tense atmosphere, which worked to a certain extent.

At least that is what they want me to think...these readings are more than often misleading and variable to change.

( AN: Don't try these, cause there is like a 90% chance you will make a fool of yourself, we aren't sherlock holmes. This stuff work only on ppl who want to be fooled or are fools themselves.)

But it still does provide me with a vague overview of their ability to catch on, which is expectantly high.

"Soo, I will simply look at the answers by all 30, since I don't have the question paper. Taking the average of them will reveal the correct questions."

Sakayanagi let out a slight smirk quickly returning to her original expression.

I did as I said...but, the questions which they attempted are difficult to predict.

For example, question 3 was most likely, what's the IUPAC name of M-SCN or M-NCS or even name Ambidendate ligands.

Since some wrote Thiocyanato(S is bonded) while others wrote Isocyanato(N is bonded) it's hard to determine which atom was bonded to the main Carbon.

( AN: Need basics of organic chem to understand this...so for non-science ppl. Basically, the confusion is whether SCN(a ligand..or a compound)'s head or tail connects to the M thing. )

or question 8 where the answers are an essay but the answers ranged from Equality to ketchup as a topic.

This approach is flawed, I will have to try something different.

I could simply go by how many times the answers have been struck out or where the handwriting went sloppy to make guesses on their likelihood of being correct and use it as a reference to correct the other answer sheets.

But again the base of this itself is based on guesses, making it a risky approach.

What if I go by what I already know...Sakayanagi is academically gifted, at least her chess expertise directs to that.

I ruffled through the papers to find a neat answer sheet with all the answers written without a single strikeout, displaying her confidence in them.

"Since it isn't working, I will simply use the answer paper of someone who is smart as reference."

Their visages contorted, it seems I hit the bullseye with this method.

In this way, I can not just hide my abilities and use Sakayanagi's paper as a cover. I can also find the questions themselves.

While checking the papers I noticed something strange.

Answer 12 was the same for all of them but different for Sakayanagi.

If it was class D I would have been able to deduce that, she was right others were wrong...but this is Class A, what if they planned this as a backup.

While it's possible, Sakayanagi attempted the paper in this way to throw me off or it's also possible the paper was so difficult that she was only capable of solving it.

I rechecked the other papers and I noticed something...

It can't be the latter as the method of answering was identical and it's impossible for everyone to make the same mistake if at all the question was too difficult.

Some would have either definitely left the question or written something else entirely.

Sakayanagi has placed traps even during her uncertainty as a leader.

I completed the corrections and stacked them under my shirt and locked them with my belt causing others to look at me bewildered.

This is essential for what I am about to do.

=

I walked up to the jar present in the centre of the hall named 'Class 1-A'.

The jar was filled tightly with sand.

Now, if I went the traditional way...

From simply looking at it. I can identify a few factors.

But how do I calculate, the values?

I started looking around the room and requested," Does anyone have a ruler?"

A blonde-haired boy pulled out one as I said it...oddly convenient.

"Ya man, here ya go."

He pulled out his hand to give it to me...but then

I could have shifted my hand drawing attention...so

*CRACK*

He hit the wooden ruler on my hand hard enough to break it.

Everyone in the room turned their backs at this.

And one girl with black hair with red highlights closed the door shut.

Oh, they are all involved in this from the beginning. The chits were planned out meticulously to trap me here.

As expected of Class A, to always be unexpected.

...Maybe not in this case.

My hand was blood red with splinters lodged inside my hand and I should be probably acting hurt but due to my analysis, I seemed to have forgotten to do so.

People seemed to have caught onto that and looked at me strangely.

"Ouch."

Perfect

The attacking boy laughed, "Lol, you are hilarious, that's your reaction? Hah...and be our guest for a while."

Keep me here until Class A wins. A surefire strategy to win.

Interesting enough.

While fighting them all would be callous, I shouldn't show them my strength under any circumstances.

"Can I solve these 2 tasks while I wait"

He looked at Sakayanagi momentarily and said,"Go ahead...but tell us how you do it."

This was Sakayanagi's plan...Katsuragi, not to be rude, just isn't smart enough.

She deliberately gave me the info about class C that day.

This increased my curiosity and I volunteered to do those chits 4 and 8 purposefully.

She calculated this situation and predicted my arrival to set up this scheme.

She also realises my intention to hide my abilities and wants to toy with me, to see what I do and how I solve this while confirming Class A's victory.

An almost perfect checkmate.

I picked up the broken scale. Considering it broke at the 18 cm mark, it's still functional enough.

I got down," I am going to calculate the thickness, diameter and height, which are 9.525 mm, 203.2 mm and304.8 mm respectively." said so while measuring.

Keeping in other units will cause decimals to be a bother

"I will subtract the glass thickness from the diameter, getting the rim's diameter "

[203.2- 9.525=193.675]

"then find the radius of this rim"

[193.675/2 = 96.8375]

"finding the jar volume is easy with the formula, V=πr2 h"

[3.14*9,377.501*304.8 ]

"So the jar is 92,903.04 mm3"

I then picked up some sand with my hands to have it slip through my hand while saying

"Any particles from 0.06mm to 2.0mm are considered to be sand. So finding its spherical volume, V= 4/3πr3"

[4/3.π·0.630.90478 mm3]

( AN: Remember that most sand particles are of the same volume, don't use it to calculate something with considerable shape difference eg: jellybeans, the error margin will be too large.)

"Dividing jar volume by sand volume, we get 102,680 grains.But..."

I walked up to the door being guarded by the blonde guy and the black-haired girl

"Considering there are so many assumptions I made like, all sand grains are of the same shape and approximations...soo"

I opened the jar and picked up a fistful of sand

"I have another solution a far more accurate one..."

Everyone was focused on what I was about to say, their eyes showed a desire to know and rapt attention...probably in shock and curiosity as to how I was able to calculate such a big number... perfect...this slight was crucial for my distraction.

I threw the sand all over the 2 standing over at the door and pushing them aside while they were busy rubbing their eyes I opened the door and ran...but not before saying

"NOW IT'S 0"

=

I reached the room and submitted the 4th answer much to everyone's shock at the empty jar.

Yamamura complained," But sensei, that's not the correct answer."

Mashima sensei spoke up," While this method was certainly different...it still obeys the command, hence it's deemed correct."

I nodded and went up to Kushida who was cutting something

"Which chit are you doing Kushida?"

She shifted her focus onto me and pointed to chit 5

'Cut out nothing and show it'

I peered at Kushida who in her neat handwriting had written ' Nothing'boldly on the paper and was cutting it.

...Smart girl.

"Ayanokouji-kun, can you do the other chits?"

I nodded as I heard a sound

Katsuragi was the source as he said,

'Upon doubling the number of grains each box of chessboard how much would it cost, if 1-grain costs 0.25 pts. '

An exponential problem, whether they know how to proceed decides the fate of this chit.

Disappointingly Yamamura drew a chessboard and used eraser shavings to set up the problem.

...By miracle only will the eraser shavings be enough.

I nudged Kushida who just came back after submitting the paper," Which are chit number are they on?"

She looked over at them and thought for a while before answering," I think it was chit 7"

"How many did we complete till now?"

She pulled out the chits and counted,"I completed 3 before you came back...the 3 which you did...soo..a total of 6 chits."

I pulled out another chit marked 7

' '

A blank chit? I decided to ask," Sensei why is this chit blank?"

She simply said," It's not. that's a legitimate chit."

Kushida also was genuinely surprised at this," H-How will we do this?"

She was getting nervous again," Kushida..calm down. I will figure something out."

I tried to look at it under the light to no avail.

I could hold it over a candle but it would risk burning the paper.

Considering there wasn't much available to produce any kind of invisible ink, it must be something easy enough.

Kushida also said her chit 6 out loud

'Burn a body part.'

Kushida looked at it petrified and read it twice...but it was still the same.

"S-Sensei, this chit will r-risk my life."

She peered at it and said," So be it."

I pulled out the pencil from her mouth, she was biting on in this stress.

"Think carefully Kushida."

She held my hand tightly," How? Please tell me Kiyotaka"

I pulled out my hand and said," You are panicking again. Calm down and think for a while. You can do it."

I used the teeth indented pencil and shaded the chit to reveal

'Show the hidden message'

Kushida meanwhile was very tense and was breathing heavily.

It's quite reasonable as this chit does sound quite gruesome and morbid.

While she worried over it Class A was also not in a better state

Katsuragi had chosen another chit while Yamamura was stuck on the chessboard and wheat problem,

'Paint with light'

Yamamura was scribbling something on the paper she made the chessboard on while Katsuragi was left scratching his head with confusion at this.

Both chits were coincidentally made by me. The solutions being relatively simple, the problem was with their perspective.

Kushida suddenly jumped as she shouted," I GOT IT!"

She immediately realized that and hushed herself.

I observed her while picking out a chit myself.

She lit a candle she brought from the storage room and lit it.

She then came towards me and said,"Please pull out one of my hair strands."

I nodded as I realised what she was doing and yanked out her hair as she let out a cute yelp.

She then burnt it in front of Sae-sensei who approved it.

I submitted the answers of chit 7 and 8.

I went up to Kushida and patted her shoulder," Good job."

She was smiling and said," Heh, only because you forced me to stay calm."

She blushed slightly as she rebuked"Focus on the next chits."

On the other end of the room, I heard Yamamura say," Sensei the answer is 0.25(264 -1)"

She figured it out, while at first, the question looks fairly simple, its true nature reveals as the solver progresses.

The order was obviously1 2 4 ...

or Total,T = 20 21 22...263

While it could be done in a rigorous method by a formula a much simpler method does exist, which is simply multiplied by 2:

2T =2122...264

and

2T-T = 264-20

so T= 264-1

Cost= ( 264-1)/4

4,611,686,018,427,387,903.75 points to be exact but writing it down would cause suspicion, so I just wrote the exponential form in the answer key.

Considering Yamamura went with the harder method, as long as the answer is right, it hardly matters.

Katsuragi was still struggling with his.

I pulled out one along with Chit, these 2 are the final ones...deciding the endgame.

...

..

.

...This one is...quite a challenging one indeed.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

Hope the earlier creepy art interested you :))

Anyways, this was a very nerdy chapter, hopefully, I made it interesting enough for you all to learn something.

There are certain very famous questions which you all must be familiar with.

If it was uninteresting...well...wait for a few chaps for drama and stuff like that.

Ummm, ya Kushida...well...she watches cartoons...don't judge her.

Have a great day.

Thank you

𝓢1-𝓔33:𝓜𝓪𝔂𝓱𝓮𝓶

Ayanokouji's POV:

'I talk but never my mind

Every breath is observed

Yet my visage is unbroken

Cast a delusional illusion

On this crowd.'

This chit is leaps and bounds above any other. It has multiple layers to it.

Well played Class A.

I thought so while casting a side-eye at their grins.

Kushida was slightly distracted by her chit

'What is rational is real and what is real is rational'

Kushida's chit was also quite an interesting one.

It was Hegel's most famous quote. He was different from most philosophers of his era.

His quotes were quite difficult to grasp and very obscure, radical to Aristotle's theories.

Aristotle was one of the greatest philosophers and scientist of his era.

Then there was Hegel, a philosophical legend.

When these beasts collided, sparks were bound to fly.

While Aristotle believed things have an identity and that's made them exist. Nowadays we categorise things into boxes to make them easier to grasp.

But no matter how hard we try, there always exists exceptions...showing that maybe...we shouldn't categorise things. For now, this works...but one day...we will need a better method.

One that exists without exceptions.

Hegel believed things only exist if the consciousness of it exists. Activity replaces identity.

He believed in the collective identity and the truth of the masses.

Let's say, everyone starts believing that it's 9 o clock instead of 8 o clock.

Then reality shapes itself in such a manner. Would you be able to prove that it's 8 o clock to the whole world?

What's the truth then?

One famous example of this is the11 days of September 1752, skipped when changed over from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar, to synchronise with the world.

There was a slight error when the calendar was invented causing leap years to cause a fluctuation in the perceived time, hence to rectify it this was done.

Now, for everyone, those 11 days were just gone...while reality doesn't fundamentally work that way.

It still is real enough for them... rational enough to be precise.

Does that mean, we can accept anything as long as collective and rational reasoning is given?

Real is what we rationalise and understand setting it up in our consciousness.

While science supports Aristotle...philosophy supports Hegel.

After all, things exist even if we can't see, hear, touch, understand, smell, listen to something... or does it?

Over here, this chit is asking for a philosophical answer...I wonder how Kushida will manage it.

Proving them as most would assume is quite a challenge for Kushida.

...

...

..

.

On the contrary, it's something Kushida can demonstrate beautifully in her own unique way.

But she will have to understand the quote...else, we may as very well accept defeat.

Focusing back on my chit I broke this into 3 parts

First the riddle itself, then the task handed. And most importantly, how will I cast an illusion when it's already broken by my declaration of the chit.

I talk but never my mind

Every breath is observed

Yet my visage is unbroken

Something which talks yet not for the purpose of communicating ideas. What's the purpose then?Is it just for show?

Every breath could symbolise the life that is under observation.

The last line shows that the face of the entity is not changed by this situation.

Something under continuous observation whose words and face is carefully controlled for the observer

...

...

..

.

TEST SUBJECTS? No, since it doesn't explain the control over face

CRIMINALS? No, the law doesn't make people change their personality

ACTOR?... Ya, this is perfect, they set up an entire persona observed by the countless eyes through the lens of a camera.

Considering its links with the rest of the lines of casting an illusion or 'acting ' well.

What will be the delusion that I will have to cast? How will I trick everyone here, who already know what the outcome is?

Do I simply trick them? Do I manipulate them?

No time limit.

No hidden agenda to use.

It appears as if my future is predicted and I have to defeat fate itself...maybe I am being dramatic...or I am just being cautious.

Only time will tell.

Kushida's POV:

What the f*ck is this?

Real, rational? It's like saying a knife falls on Horikita or she falls on a knife...IT DOESN'T FU*KING MATTER!!

Ugh!

Alright, calm down Kikyou, this mumbo jumbo you have to solve alone.

This sh*t is something edgy philosophical stuff. Using logic is a mistake...

Heh...wait a sec, this is a PHILOSOPHY answer. I can literally make anything the answer as long as it makes sense... suck on that Class A.

...Rational...Something which makes sense.

Real...something which I know exists.

So making sense makes something exist. If that cr*p doesn't make sense, it doesn't exist.

HAAH. This sh*t is so easy.

...

...

..

.

How do I f*cking prove it though?

It's like saying prove 11=2.

( AN: One of the longest proofs I have ever seen, there is a book called Principia, which proves this in about 360 pages using axioms...and that stuff is super long...they literally prove 1 means 1 unit...and so on.)

What is something that I use?

Ugh! I am panicking again.

I could ask Ayanokouji.

I turned to see him staring at the ceiling while rubbing his chin slightly.

"Kushida you have been staring at me for a while...are you unable to solve this chit?"

I broke out of my thoughts

"Oh, whoops! I was simply wondering...you know..umm..how to solve this?"

He stared at me for a while...

It's weird how even he is just a little taller than me...yet his stare...feels

somewhat more commanding than Sudo, who is literally 6 ft.

"Do what you are best at."

Saying so, he walked out of the room.

I still hate you vague bastard.

I went up to the window sill where that Katsuragi was taping it... weird.

I looked at my reflection and started thinking

What am I good at?

...What have I been using as my power?

I am good at getting secrets...but why?

Maybe the answer is in...how I understand emotions. I am able to understand people...

Ayanokouji is also trapped in an even weirder chit...It looks like he will be able to solve his chit.

If that average dude can do so can I.

...Though, that guy ain't average...I have a few like him in middle school.

They were the hardest to get the secrets from, f*ckers were weird. Those people were also the most f*cked after the hell I brought on the school.

They were wimps, nervous wrecks...insecure about literally everything...Skin, colour, height, hair, you name it...

EXCEPT for their f*cking personalities thinking oh so perfect, they are and the world simply hates them....

Some talked about how OTHERS were simply dumb.

Some talked about how OTHERS were over judgemental.

Some talked about how OTHERS were not giving them a chance.

Some talked about how OTHERS don't understand them.

Some talked about how OTHERS don't look at what's inside

Always the f*cking blame game.

At least, I dislike everyone equally.

Even if 90% of us are scumbags, these mongrels have no right to blame everyone...not those 10% at least...

While motives may be different, as long as it is carried out by good deeds, it doesn't matter.

When a random dude helps a granny cross the street, It's because he feels good...I have no idea of the science behind it...but something does happen.

Some get addicted to that feeling and greed more of it...that's how good people are formed.

A sin forming a boon.

Kindness and empathy have become rare resources.

People don't ever care to once just listen to others... can't afford to be there for even their closest friends.

Because... isn't it obvious?

Oh, I wanted to...but I didn't have time

Oh, I wanted to...but I had my own problems.

Oh, I don't want to judge... but it's just only if they were A kg B colour C tall...blah blah..

Can't even spare 5 minutes for their so-called buddies...

This is what I used as my ace...be the one who is there for them.

I just act like what people think they deserve...hah...everyone is so f*cking delusional.

Sh*theads won't work on themselves one bit and act like they deserve the best.

Look at yourself once before setting your expectations idiots.

Their pathetic excuses...don't even get me started... some are genuine...but others are...Oh f*ck them,

'Kushida-san, this is only middle school, why should I work out?'

I don't know? maybe so that you don't blame others for being last in the sports day and making a fool out of yourself and then cry to me

'Kushida-tan, don't worry about me, I am super attractive once people know me.'

So you will not bathe for 3 days? Or not comb your hair? Maybe tuck in your shirt...or stop slouching.

Lazy creep thinking he is cool.

'People don't know the real me Kushida...only you do.'

How will they? You literally are rude to everyone emo idiot.

'Kushidaaa, why is my life so boringggg withoutttt youu'

B*tch you are literally on LINE the whole day complaining... why not get your entitled gossipy ass up and get some hobbies?

'Kushida why did she leave me because of my ...'

Get your head of my shoulder weirdo. Maybe because you are insecure as f*ck. I get it you have something wrong with you..something you can't change no matter what...guess what... everyone does.

Instead of whining your sorry ass about it, why can't you focus on something you are good at...and just for one f*cking moment forget you are doing it to attract your crush, do it for yourself

There are 7 billion left to have a crush on, you infatuated 15-year-old.

( AN: If she said anything which offends anyone. Remember Kushida is only a 16 yr old..it's her immature mind. )

...Only if I could actually say that.

Yet

...All I say is

'You are right but I am there for you...promise... so tell me what happened.'

Hah, dumbasses, just a few words of kindness...a few words of care...a few words of empathy...that's all it took to bait these fools.

I can just make those sh*t up on the fly...hah.

Then they blabber their deepest secrets to me like a f*cking water faucet.

This school is quite the same sh*t just that this time, they look older...and are more passive-aggressive...

Though I can't complain can I?

I am also the same as those freaks...just that I wear a perfect smile...cellotaped to this so-called cute face. Hide all my insecurities, all my fears in a box and throw it in the never-ending ocean.

Agree with them... fit in like a jigsaw...

...Ayanokouji...even if he looks average...

He is different...that face ain't showing it

BUT

...my experience...my guts...my instincts...all say the same thing

He's definitely unique.

The day I blackmailed him

Not even an ounce of hate...just acceptance.

It was like that meant nothing to him...my threats..seemed like..were just a pathetic excuse to hide my fear of getting revealed.

Not just that, he never gets insecure when those classmates mock him behind his back...

'Lol flat chin joker'

'Ayanokouji is short ain't he'

'I wonder why a bomb like Matsushita finds in that guy'

'Curtain hair freak'

On that day too...how he saved Matsushita...

That was f*cking hot.

The way I could simply barge into his room and vent...

I used to feel like the entire day's problems...I could just drop on him.

He would simply sit there..uncaring about my words..or what I think about the others.

I even say a lot of sh*t about him

I really hated him...I still do.

Yet...

I never saw any expression of surprise...hate...anger...envy...

Just calmness...just so mature...

Like his shortcomings are so insignificant...like f*cking dust beneath his feet.

It's like he is a different breed from us.

How did he become like this?...not that it matters...

Honestly,I just admire that about this f*cker...

Alright, if I can analyze others, I can analyze myself as well.

Thinking so I pulled out a mirror from the wall of the room and placed it on the ground but vertically

It was now a full-body mirror and I leaned it on the wall.

I took a few steps back gazing at myself.

I look pretty cute don't I? Heh, that's just it...I look cute.

I took a deep breath in and reread the chit

I then imagined that reflection to be a real person...I detached myself from my body. I started to understand myself.

Ironic ain't it?

People assume the real me, is the one they see. It would be irrational for them to assume that I am a vile b*tch.

So it doesn't exist in their reality... does it?

In this school, only Ayanokouji for a fact knows my reality. While Horikita maybe knows me...

Upon seeing my nature, did he rationalise?

Does reality bring rationalising? Or does rationalising bring reality?

What if something doesn't make any sense...does it not exist?

No, this isn't a science question but a philosophy one.

Does this prove that as long as a part of me is hidden...does it go away?...then why do I suffer?

Maybe for others, it might not exist..but to me...I realise how much an attention seeker I am.

It's real...because I rationalise it...but It's only real to me...

Once everyone finds out, it becomes the reality, they will have to rationalise it.

Once they do so, Kikyou Kushida turns from their sweet angle to a devil.

That's it...

"Sae-Sensei, I can prove it...but I need you to stand in front of the mirror"

She got up and slowly walked up to me.

"Alright Kushida show me the quote in action."

I nudged her to the mirror.

I then took out a red marker and wrote some words on the mirror.

'Teacher'

'Class D'

'Female'

'condescending'

'rude'

'scary'

I honestly felt sweat drop down my face while I wrote.

"Sensei, these describe you"

She accepted them and signalled me to continue.

"These are what constitutes your identity in front of us as students. It makes sense for you to act. like a strict teacher...it's real...hence it's rational."

Then I wrote down a few more words on the mirror with a black marker.

'Kind'

'friendly'

'smiling'

'happy'

'proud'

Now I am going to be f*cked if what I am about to say isn't the correct answer.

"A-as I was saying, these adjectives are not your identity to us. Even if you may be like this somewhere else, your identity doesn't change in front of us, even if you told us your character to be like this we wouldn't believe you...because these don't make sense...it's not rational...hence it's not real...at least not to us."

I took another deep breath as I spoke

"Reality is only true if we believe in it, if it didn't make sense...reality wouldn't exist...at least for us."

She nodded and spoke in an appreciative tone,"While that was an interesting answer, the answer key differed, you explained this quote in a humane manner, the answer given explains it with science and history...I should not give you a pass for this..."

I felt my face paling as my body started shivering.

Sh*t I failed...no...not again...I am tired of this.

"...But, your explanation, did fit the answer. After all, a quote is meant to be free for interpretation. That's why for this chit us invigilators had marked Class A's answer as arguable...hence you get the pass."

I fell to the ground...

F*cking Ayanokouji...you were right...using my abilities...

My very existence is a proof to this quote, I simply replicated it on sensei.

Did he do it intentionally? ...Nah, he is too average for that.

I may hate you a tiny bit less now.

Katsuragi also completed his chit. Since I completed my part I went over and looked at...

What the heck is this?

He taped the whole window with black tape and had make a tiny hole with something or the other.

Then he went over and broke my mirror with a chair... .what the f*ck baldy?

He then took two pieces of glass shards and put them in a half-cut water bottle where one was out of the water while the other was flat in it.

He then drew the curtains on the windows and it went dark then the light like a laser hit the 2 mirrors and formed a rainbow on the paper he kept on the side...

So that's what it was...painting with light...heh, Ayanokouji is crazy.

I heard Yamamura speak out her chit

'Make yourself non-existent for 5 minutes.'

Wait what?...

=

Ayanokouji's POV:

The last chits...both Class A and D...coinciding at a point of creating an illusion...

Was it a coincidence?

I walked up to the ledge of the ship...

Shannon Adler once said

'There are no coincidences in life.'

I walked up to the edge and peered down.

The ship was large enough...

Flashback:

"Stand straight, complete this course, whoever is last will be cleansed."

Said a gruff voice of a burly 23 year old instructer

The pain didn't stop that day, it never does, it spread through my body as every step I took simply increased it to an unbearable extent. Yet my face was calm, unchanged by this.

The subject 032 tried to kick my shin but I dodged it and made it slip...

It caught on with the rest...but it was too late.

It's just pain...nothing else.

"Subject 007, come forward, you came first...you are safe.

The rest of you, run another 10 kms without break

Subject 032 came last, so come forward"

It was punched in it's ribs and then stomped on crushing and cursing it.

Breaking it's mind and spirit at the same time...very effective.

This is the price of a loss.

Flashback ends

This was all predetermined.

Well, it doesn't matter anymore.

It will soon end, it will be checkmate.

Who wins? It's quite inevitable...

I looked to the corner and waved my hand...I took a few steps back and ran...

I jumped off the ledge to the water below.

As I fell I thought...

I would rather perish than ever lose.

Kushida's POV:

Yamamura and Katsuragi were frantically trying to figure out how to solve it.

Serves them right...but damm, this command is way harder...

I heard Sae-sensei's phone ring.

She picked it up and I saw her eyes widen in disbelief as the phone slipped out of her hands as we all heard the phone's muffled voice speak say

' CCTV footage shows, Kiyotaka Ayanokouji jumped off the ship...

All we could retrive was his jacket

He, unfortunately, passed away.

We are sorry'

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers

Did you expect that?

Did Kiyo die?...I wonder...

This chapter may have been a bit shorter.

Hope yall enjoyed it

Thank you

𝕊𝟙-𝔼𝟛𝟜:ℂ𝕒𝕤𝕦𝕒𝕝𝕥𝕚𝕖𝕤 𝕠𝕗 𝕎𝕒𝕣

THE END OF SEASON 1--

Kushida's POV:

He died

Ayanokouji died

Kiyotaka Ayanokouji...died?

How...no...this can't be.

There was pin-drop silence in the room. Everyone was utterly shocked by this.

I felt my head spinning...

Chabashira sensei picked up her phone shivering and weeping. Her previous strict nature mellowed down...huh, reality and rational...makes sense now.

What's the point though?

She then held up the bowls with palms that were too weak to carry.

It slipped crashing at her feet and shattering into a million pieces.

Mashima sensei was broken out from his shock who quickly went up and helped her up.

*PING*

A message came on her phone.

Not caring about her privacy I snatched the phone from her hand and...what I saw sent shivers down my spine.

His blood-red jacket floating on top of the water

I couldn't control myself anymore, I felt like I was about to crash. My emotions had broken free from my facade.

Ayanokouji was the one I hated, the one I admired, the weirdo the freak...the one who I could open up to.

" NO, THIS CAN'T BE! Class A did this to him."

I couldn't take the pain in my mind anymore as it erupted in the form of violence causing me running up to Yamamura and punch her in the face. She didn't respond but simply accepted it while tearing up and falling to the ground.

Her weeping and hiccups were breaking up her already damped voice

"I-I *hic* didn't *hic*hic* didn't k-know."

Her voice cracked at the end as she started wallowing.

Katsuragi was sitting on the ground with a hand on his head.

Her red face didn't send any relief to my sporadic heart rate but it did make me realise...

...I am blaming them...when...I myself hated him...

I do detesthim, I am quite familiar with this feeling, though right now, at this very moment

My thoughts feel calm...no anger..no hate

Just pure sadness, guilt overriding my mind overbearing other sentiments.

It is quite a wonder how tragedy and despair, kept my head clear.

I find myself asking the question

Why did he die?

Why did he take his life?

Was it because he was weak?

Was it because I cursed him?

WHY???

Someone, please explain it to me.

Chabashira sensei picked herself up with Mashima sensei's help

She quivered on her feet as she announced," D-Due to the l-light of r-recent e-events...Class A wins.

N-Now, I have to go announce it t-to t-the r-rest of the C-Classes."

Both sensei's slowly walked up to the door...when it creaked open

"Not so soon sensei...Class D is the winner."

That same monotone voice...that I earlier hated...the same one that motivated me...

Now I felt that voice behind me...huh...I am going crazy...

I thought I was stronger...yet here I am...crying.

I then felt a tap on my shoulder

I shoved it away and wept...

I felt the hand again

"WHAT?"

I turned back screaming.

...I saw a ghost.

...I saw Ayanokouji

Without thinking I reflexively hugged him tightly...fearing that he will leave

The only thing hovering over my consciousness was his presence as I leaned onto his damp shirt.

"Y-You disappeared...what the f*ck is wrong with you? If you leave how will I hate you?"

He simply held onto my shoulders while speaking in a gentle tone.

"Sorry...for that Kushida...but I was simply doing what the chit wanted. I didn't want to hurt all of you any longer, so I broke the illusion I set up...We won didn't we sensei?"

Sae sensei free from her trance got up from her pitiful position and went up to him speaking in an icy voice," Class D wins...the task is complete...but"

She lifted her hand which was bleeding with the broken glass shards still buried deep into her skin and slapped him with a resounding thud on his cheek...that is illegal...but I think it's reasonable.

"If you ever dare to try such a stunt...which I don't know how you did...I will personally expel you."

Mashima sensei also was fuming in anger as he looked down at him speaking in a dark tone," I don't know who or what kind of student you are...but what you did was callous and very irresponsible...all for winning a game."

His concern overshadowed his professional behaviour.

Yamamura unable to say anything simply sat there...staring at him in utter horror and amazement.

He nodded," I very well understand what I did was morally wrong, yet the task itself was a virtually impossible one."

Mashima sensei refuted with vigour," How can you say that? You could have made any form of illusion...what you did was too much."

He walked up to him and said, "True, but Class A exploited a loophole making it impossible for a normal trickery to work."

Mashima sensei pulled out the answer key and put it in front of his face.

"There were 3 ways to trick all of us here, without any form of the life-threatening risk. Couldn't you have thought of one?... If you don't provide a proper explanation...I will have you sent to therapy and make sure the school takes strict action against you."

He shrugged while explaining in a calm voice, "I understand...tell me sensei...would any of these methods work once the chit was disclosed?"

He looked at the paper and read it carefully.

What's written on it? I want to know.

He spoke again, this time in a slightly deeper voice

"Sensei, these methods are only possible if this room was unaware of my effort to delude them. Class A exploited the rules such that, saying out the chit's content makes following the chit's command almost impossible to proceed with. According to the rules I had to say it out loud, making everyone wary of my actions...consciously or subconsciously. So I had to try something which was completely surprising...unexpected to achieve this."

Katsuragi pulled his collar and glared at him," I don't know whether to admire or despise you...but what you did was ethically wrong, you may have scarred Yamamura-san here...yet...impressive nonetheless."

Mashima sensei who was paying close attention to what Ayanokouji had to say agreed, "I can understand what Class A did..while not rule-breaking...but was still...a loophole. What you did, might have been essential...but...I still heavily frown upon it. I cannot accept a student, risking his life over...an exam."

He looked at Ayanokouji with disappointment...and continued," This school wants to build elites...but never at the cost of a life, your life is important...I am ready to overlook this incident, only if you promise to never again, attempt such a dangerous plan. Everyone here, please keep this incident between us, causing unnecessary panic and distrust is not our goal, I will also talk to the school authorities to keep this matter hushed...this is your first and final warning."

Ayanokouji face slightly twitched at the starting of the line...but then he simply nodded.

What he did...proves... he is crazy and unique...just like I thought.

Ayanokouji's POV:

My life is important... what a joke

It's a different experience for me to grasp, I did expect a reaction...but not to this extent,why do they worry so much? I didn't even try to kill myself...it was simply a way to win.

After all, that's what matters.

Mashima sensei was the only one who was able to keep his wits, unliked the rest, he realised that if he did take action, the entire school will face backlash and the teachers will be removed. Since the fault can be traced back to their assumed carelessness in this exam.

It was in the realm of possibility for me to trace the planning of the chits to Sakayanagi herself, who had most likely accounted for the loophole.

At least, Yamamura, is a follower of Sakayanagi considering her present mental fortitude is too weak to ever come up with this commendable plan.

The atmosphere was quite gloomy so I ushered Kushida to follow me outside to deliver the good news.

What might bother Class D though, is the fact that Class C will win now...because of them.

"Ayanokouji-kun, why did you do that...why did you want to win so much?"

Kushida asked in a very gloomy voice

"Because it matters a lot to you and the Class."A lie showing care for them should be enough to stop these questions.

She stopped in her tracks at those words, her eyes widened as she shook her head and jabbed my arm.

"If you ever try something like that Ayanokouji, I will make sure to make your life a permanent hell."

Why is everyone striking me so much?

Entering the class hall we were greeted by another gloomy atmosphere,

"Everyone we won the bet!!"Kushida gleefully disclosed it to the class

This brought a wave of joy throughout the room with students cheering for her.

Chiaki came up to me trying to hug me but I averted my direction she grabbed my hand and had a tearful expression on her face which shows confusion, anger, longing and loneliness.

I just need you to suffer a bit longer...sorry Chiaki I twisted my hand and brought her closer I whispered

"Meet me at the upper deck after the exam at 6 pm tomorrow...bring along Horikita as well."

She wanted to say something but I removed my hand from her lightened grip and walked up to Hirata who was holding the leader filling board and disclosed the leaders except that of Class B

I heavily contemplated saying Class B's leader's name since it wouldn't break the deal that we made, after all, it didn't account for Class B's leader change, Chihiro Shiranami.

But doing so would break Class B's trust in us, which would be detrimental for the future.

At the judgement hour, 12 am to be precise, upon assembly the results are now disclosed

"At 4th place is Class C with 0 points

At 3rd place is Class A with 125 points

At 2nd place is Class B with 400 points

At 1st place is...Class D with a whopping 425 points."

This puts Class B as the new Class A and Class D as the new Class C.

This was the best course of action.

Everyone was utterly shocked at this revelation, after all, they expected Class C to be first, who now has 0 points left.

Quite surprising for them indeed.

This exam is finally over as a sense of relief spread across Class D's students.

I quickly went to my bedroom, which was now no longer under any regulations and took a quick nap, regarding the fact that I didn't sleep the last few nights properly.

FLASHBACK

I felt the blue of the sea closer to swallowing me whole, while I started to carry out my plan.

This cruise was approximately a 4 storey building, I had a 90% chance of survival.

All those days of analyzing this area, countless times wandering around the deck of the ship and taking many pictures of the cruise itself will now pay off.

I angled my body closer to the ship and then just as I was about to hit the water below

I grabbed onto the thin window sill of the hall room of Class D. Finding the position of the window connecting to the hall was the most bothersome part.

I pulled myself up and placed the other foot carefully on the adjacent window.

I then kicked open the hall window, which was as expected..empty, they were all probably tensed and wandering about the ship.

Now for the evidence.

I jumped inside and quickly took off my jacket and then using a clean knife I made a cut at my upper arm and wiped it with the jacket and threw it in the ocean.

Unlike Horikita who was still lying down on the chairs, her fever has gotten worse, with no one to look after her.

Class D doesn't care about their cruise leader much when she is not useful.

Great.

She was in quite a pitiful state deceitfully hidden from others.I will have to make her completely unconscious.

I picked her up when she slightly opened her eyes and asked weakly," I-Is that you Ayanokouji?"

I closed her eyes and tenderly patted her head, "Horikita give up. Your health has deteriorated, continuing now will be a folly."

Her head was almost burning her body was getting chills. Without any form of medication and rest, she was in a grim state.

She lifted her hand and held my shoulder and tried to support herself up," But the exam."

"You are more important."

She nuzzled herself in my arms while still shivering

"No, I want to complete this exam."

Horikita, not only are you miserable but you are also a stubborn fool.

"A leader knows when they need to stop. For you, it's now."

Before she could refute I banged her head with the table causing a surface wound and rendered her unconscious.

Her illness made it easier, else I would have to try other means which may have caused permanent damage to the brain stem.

I then carried her to Class B's area when I conveniently found Hoshinomiya.

Upon looking at a bleeding Horikita she hurried towards us and before she questioned

"Sensei, she is in a severe condition due to an accident in Class D halls, she can't participate anymore."

"Wait a sec Ayanokouji, where is your sensei?"

"Sensei is taking a bet, so is it possible for you to transfer the leadership?"

"The rules never said it has to be a class teacher, so I can do so...but are you like...100% sure..she has to quit, y'all will lose points...and by the way who should I transfer it to?"

"We are completely certain and please transfer it to..."

"Alright, Ayanokouji...also are you okay? Your upper arm seems wounded."

"Wow, when did you start caring."

She pouted at that and said,"How are you so calm in such a situation."

"Doesn't matter...also give me Sae-sensei's number..and I don't want a no."

Her face puckered slightly as she showed me the number which I memorised.

After handing her over to the nurse, I called out to Ichinose and said

"Ichinose I am in a hurry so listen carefully to the message Horikita wanted you to know.

Ryueen may place a bet with your class, under any condition make sure to accept it. No matter how extreme it sounds. If you do so...Class B will get promoted."

She looked shocked at this sudden influx of information which she took a moment to process

"Ayanokouji-kun, what you say sounds too good to be true, be honest, how does it benefit your Class?"

"We also get promoted and since we want to keep an amicable relationship with Class B, it's a win-win situation."

"Hmm, I still have my suspicions, but thank you anyways for your generosity."

Her voice sounding pure was laced with slight venom.

She has every right to be sceptical about this but considering their lack of points due to Class D robbing their points...they are quite desperate.

Hence, she will definitely listen to me.

"Have a good day ahead"

I then proceeded to the Class A hall which I had earlier locked with the key I stole from Hashimoto's pocket when I threw sand at his face to distract him.

I loudly said," Sakayanagi, I need to talk to you."

After about a minute a voice from inside spoke up," What do you need...I am sure you can say it in front of my classmates."

Oh, gaining the trust of your classmates at the time of calamity, well done.

"Alright, I want you all to give me the names of Class A and C's leaders."

A few laughs could be heard from inside when the condescending voice of Sakayanagi spoke,"And why should we do that? Just because we are locked here? I am sure our sensei will help us out of this."

"Really? So will he also help your class when I file a complaint regarding how Class A tried to physically assault an innocent boy from Class D?"

It was quiet again and then a different haughty voice asked, "What proof do you have that we actually hurt you?"

"Maybe the splinters in my hand matching the same ones of the broken ruler which I took with me, matching the ones belonging to one and only you.

Or maybe the scattered sand, which I am quite certain your class has been unable to clean up completely from the floor and from the bodies of the assaulters, showing my presence in the room."

They are caught in a very precarious situation as they fell into my ploy while setting up their own trap.

This deal will definitely lead to Class A to consider me a threat. Their plan was good enough to put me at this slight disadvantage making this sacrifice was essential.

"Alright, we agree to this demand of yours...Class A's leader is Yahiko Totsuka and Class C's leader is Shinna Hiyori."

"Remember the consequences of lying to me...it may lead to the expulsion of at least 2 students of your class."

Saying so, I opened the door to greet their upset faces, it looked quite good on them.

"One more thing, I need any one of your phones...again be very careful about saying no"

Sakayanagi ushered one of them to hand me over their phone. Upon receiving the phone I spoke

"I will be taking this for a few minutes."

Saying so, I ran to the deck again and quickly took a photo of the jacket from the angle of the CCTV.

If I predicted correctly, by now the school informed the class teacher about the news

And...sent.

After returning the phone and deleting its incriminating contents; I proceeded to the betting room. Making them wait any longer may cause certain problems.

FLASHBACK ENDS

After about 2 hours I woke up quite refreshed.

I went up to the front deck where the wind was blowing to the North, as the ship was sailing back to the school.

This exam was certainly a tedious one in a general perspective often putting quite dangerous and manipulative situations at play. Most students indeed faced an enormous challenge, certainly not something why anyone expected.

The school even threw my expectations on the locations out the window. My knowledge of this world and how it works, while they did grow, it was yet not well enough.

Human emotions were not accounted for in my plans yielding some unexpected reactions and vividly displaying the sheer unpredictability of human emotions.

If my adaptability was not sharp enough, things would have most definitely gone out of control.

This school has yet to teach me a lot of things, which may still not be enough to satiate my unending curiosity.

While today I will have to set up the first step to the beginning of my goal.

I may also fall yet again to the dangers of feelings from a certain someone.

Chiaki's mellow voice came with a gentle knock on this monologue of mine.

"Hi Chiaki...and Horikita"

who was huffing and catching her breath.

Her fever might come done considerably noticing as to her ability to run. The medication did work.

"*huff*Explain *huff* Yourself Ayanokouji...how did I reach my room?...what happened?"

Chiaki was simply staring at me quietly unbothered by Horikita's barrage of unending questions.

I leaned onto the sidebars from where I jumped earlier. Should I reveal everything?

If I indeed do so, will they have the same reaction as the other 4?

Whatever I do right now, will either break or upgrade my tools.

"It's simple, the leaders were identified and we received the Class points. We won."

Horikita showed shock transitioning to awe.

Chiaki suspiciously asked, "How did this happen...Kiyo...Ayanokouji?"

Hmm, my last name, her nervousness is clearly visible.

"Class A colluded with Class C transferring their points and then redistributing them. That would explain the high influx of points in Class C when they attacked us. The detail of the contract was a loan with the Class C's leader's name."

Horikita confused by this sudden revelation asked, "How did you know such details? How did you get the names?"

I looked at her and sighed, "Do you both remember the bedroom rule?"

Both nodded simultaneously

"It says the bedrooms are open from 12 to 6 am...but that doesn't dictate whether we have to sleep in that time period."

I stopped myself trying to gauge whether they can figure out the rest by themselves

"So...Kiyotaka...you gathered all of this information when the rest of us were sleeping."

I nodded agreeing to the statement, those nights had piled up exhaustion causing me to take a long nap today.

Those nights keeping awake, trying to find clues and finally confirming my theory today about the leaders will be too complex to explain to them.

Horikita also gave her thoughts, "So what did you sneak out at night?"

I could feel the gentle breeze caressing my face as I responded,"Class A and C's central leaders and their trusted allies had meetings during then. I was simply lucky enough that one night, I went to the washroom and I noticed Class A entering the Class C area."

I lied yet again leaving the part of Sakayanagi to prevent suspicion and creating another scenario. If I did reveal that getting the hint from Sakayanagi leading me to keep a close eye on both classes, will inevitably paint me as a potential traitor.

"After that, I simply overheard their conversation."

Explaining to them everything in detail will be very tiresome.

Chiaki then narrowed her eyes and questioned, "How did Class C get 0 points then?"

"As far as I could hear, Class C made a prediction with Class B on who would win this bet between Class A and D, since they didn't expect Class A to lose they had bet their entire points at the last minute, causing Class C to lose everything in one strike and Class B to gain a considerable margin."

Of course, I couldn't tell them why Class B accepted the bet...or even why the bet was placed in the first place.

Horikita who was counting something then spoke," If my calculations are right, did you not mention one of the opposition leaders?"

A good question, I uttered everything about the deal with Class B and with that also talked about how I hid the actual points

Chiaki put her hand on her forehead surprised, "So you defeated all 4 of the Class B members and then hid the points to later use them...but where did you use them? I thought Horikita was our leader...unless..."

"I didn't use those points...and..."

I pulled out a green card from my pocket with my name etched on it

'Kiyotaka Ayanokouji'

Horikita's jaw was wide open as she spoke in utter disbelief, "It was you...but why?"

"So that, we win...and to cement you as a leader of Class D. After all it's your goal...as a friend I simply assisted you."

Her cheeks went pink at that statement.

"...I see...Thank you"She slightly whispered the last part

"Anyways, I have to talk to Chiaki in private for a while."

She nodded and left saying," As If I have time to waste here."

Her and her...tsundere nature.

Chiaki was shuffling her feet while I took a deep breath.

What I am about to do will either make or break my tool

I kept a very monotone voice for this, "I know you have feelings towards me."

She slightly gasped and looked away while saying," I-is that why..you have been avoiding me? Ara~ are you shy?"

Even in this situation, she can make jokes.

"Not exactly...I wanted to be honest with you."

She walked closer to me and said with an earnest desire in her eyes as she clasped my hands

"Y-Ya tell me what's up? Do you also have feelings for me?"

I gently removed my hands from her cold palms

"No, it's the opposite, I don't feel any such emotions...so I didn't want to lead you on. Hence, I was trying to avoid you and confronted you today."

Her movements faltered as she took a step back while her breath started to get ragged

"WHAT? No emotions? I literally did everything you asked...I do have a crush on you...but after saving me like that...now you are avoiding me...what the f*ck Kiyotaka."

Her voice started to get louder and devolved into screams

"I adore our friendship...but love is something I can't...do."

Her eyes glared at me while shouting, "What do you mean you can't do it? Love is something you grow, it rarely comes naturally...*huff* You know what, let's go on a date, maybe then..."

I have to stop her, for that, I will have to reveal certain truths

"No,Chiaki, I am not ready... I never experienced love... No form of it...I will simply hurt you...hence it's unreasonable to put you through the suffering of a potentially more painful heartbreak. I wish we can keep our friendly ties...I am sorry."

I tried leaving the situation when he pulled onto my tie and shoved me to the ground.

Her hot breath could be felt in front of me, while her eyes felt black like coal

"I will never let this bond break...no matter what...so let me help you understand love...I don't know what happened...but...please, let me enter those unbreakable walls of yours."

I heard something similar once

'Kiyotaka let me help you understand love...please'

She kept speaking

"I will always be by your side"

'I will always be by your side'

"Never leaving you..."

'Never leaving you'

Once again the same promise...to be broken.

It seems we have reached midway, considering her stubbornness, this is the best I can do...for now.

"As a friend...right Chiaki?"

'002 but...I don't need anyone...I don't need love...it's all meaningless.'

She did a one-sided grin, "Who knows?..also you are a jerk...playing with a beauty's heart...I hate and...still love you Kiyo...maybe one day...you will return those feelings."

"Only time will tell...Also can you let me go?"

Her hold on my collar tightened

"I promised to never let go. Heh..."

Yet again...Emotions...such a strange mystery.

I wonder how the rest of my school life will go...

Will I learn something more?

Get a new book?

...Achieve my goal...

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers

Season 1 of my book is complete.

Chiaki, well, she has a strange thing going on...which willl be explained later.

This exam was soo fun and difficult to write...thanks for supporting me throughout

Hope Y'all enjoyed the ride

I will be taking a break for a few weeks...due to certain issues

Have a great day ahead!

Thank You.

SS-1: A broken puppet's attachment

Matsushita's POV

K-I-Y-O-T-A-K-A A-Y-A-N-O-K-O-U-J-I

0 Results

NOTHING

I closed my laptop and sighed deeply while twirling my hair wondering

How are you like this...Kiyo?

You hide things, you lie, you cheat... you devil.

I love you...yet I don't know a single thing about you. What an irony is my heart even surrounded in. You almost friend-zoned me

*Crack*

I get up causing the chair to topple over and throw the 5th broken pen in the trash.

I went to my punching bag and started striking it

He dared ignore me that also after saving me.

*Punch!*

Then he had the audacity to say he wants me to throw away my feelings.

*Punch!*

Ugh, why do you wound my heart so much, you jerk.

*Punch!*

I left the bag and wrapped my knuckles cursing myself for not using gloves.

That Kiyo has got some nerve... Should I teach him a lesson?

Maybe spread a rumour...or maybe isolate him from everyone...well except me of course...

Being a power figure has its perks.

After all no one found how Sudo became...

Flashback

I was alone in the basketball room remembering Kiyo's cheeks being red during half time.

If I can trust my memory, he was talking to someone before.

I can rule out all the girls except Horikita...nah, that b*tch won't have the guts to do anything to him.

I specifically controlled the class to paint Kiyo as someone to not be disturbed. All those lies, those social media accounts, came in handy after all.

I pulled out a recording which I brought with over 1800 private points.

But, Kiyotaka hides stuff and I don't like it.

Hmph!

I watch it and zoom it at Kiyotaka talking too...Sudo Ken huh.

F*cker held his collar, how dare he!

I need to teach him a lesson, a quick message in the school group, with a fake account with the caption

'Sudo Ken is a hot-headed bully? he used violence in the Exam as well? Did he cheat in the Class bets?

Check this video out!!'

Heh, now, considering his low popularity and people being jealous of him...it's just so simple for this rumour to spread.

After all, a rumour's most important ingredient is being a half-truth.

And Delete...

No evidence after all

Then

... Is this enough though?

Maybe a cherry on the top should do the trick...Hmm.

I need to use...oh, that's right...miss two-faced.

I dialled up Kushida's number.

*Cough*Cough*

"Kushida-san...Hi"

"Hello, Matsushita-san, do you need anything?"

I feel like barfing at this girl's voice. Just gross...

"Oh...it's just that, I saw something and I worried about us girls."

I heard some rustling in the background as she spoke in a concerned tone

Aww, b*tch now you care huh...

"Oh, what is it Matsushita-san"

"S-sudo, was with those 2 idiots and...they were trying to...peep. I noticed it when I came back into the cruise ship's lockers, Sudo especially said

'Horikita...is so...I can't even say it... Just be careful.'

Kushida screamed slightly at this as she hurriedly agreed," Oh, I definitely will, also I will tell Horkita-san to be careful. Thank you for informing us."

Of course, she will use anything to show that she is an oh so sweet angel and protector.

Saying so she cut the call.

I started giggling

Hah, too easy. This should be enough to make him suffer, without bringing me into the equation.

So that...Kiyotaka won't know...we all have our tiny little secrets... now don't we?

Well..maybe except Kiyotaka...whose secrets...well he will tell them to me.

Flashback ends

After that, Sudo was ostracized and saw that the girls were not talking to him..even the boys stopped. During the exams, his anger turned his focus only on the bets.

Just perfect!

I think out loud in the quietness of my room,

"What do you think I am mister Kiyo...A tool?

A thing you can throw away?

A pawn to use?"

'Don't want to lead you on'

I laugh out loud at my fate

"Here is where you are wrong...you have used me to control the class.

Didn't think I realised that? Your intellect, the way you won the exam.

Mister Kiyo, only if you didn't tell me everything on the cruise deck with that Horikita.

I would have never caught on to your devious methods...but it looked as if Horikita was idiotic enough to believe him.

Those manipulative things you did...those tricks you played.

Using me for that recording...Making me a central figure...All adds up."

Did he really think I will stop adoring him for such a reason

"So innocent of you...yet...the way you work...is fantastic. Even if you use this relationship to benefit...I still need the payment for being your puppet."

His way of playing with people. Thinking so sent shivers down my back.

What was your motive, why me?

Just maybe I am overthinking this...or maybe not.

After today, after what I heard with my own two ears, I can confirm you are not what you show.

Just like my mother

But there is a difference...

I won't make the same mistake twice.

I will not let you go.

Never again will I let anything precious go away.

"Those things you did to make me the leader...The way you supported me...those were uncharacteristic from a beneficial standpoint..."

I scratched my chin slightly pondering the reasoning for saving me from the panic attack.

I started brooding over the possible scenarios and considering the nurse arrived soon enough.

Even if Kiyotaka didn't take action I would be fine.

Was it another ploy of his?

"Maybe...the things you said yesterday... they are wrong.

Well, it doesn't matter, either way, I will change you."

Today I slipped up in front of you...just like you did.

Those words, pierced me...unlocking my anger and that toxic nature of mine.

I didn't even realise it until I came back to my room.

My mind was able to handle the situation and not lose my chance. But I am uncertain on the duration of this control I have over his heart...if he even has one.

Those eyes of his, did show a certain amount of nostalgia in them. If he did know how it hurts then why did he do those things...

He dared to use me...Chiaki Matsushita and then tried to throw me away.

The way he stopped talking to me...

The way he tried breaking my heart.

You may have made the wrong girl your puppet.

...

...

...

...

Kiyo, you don't know me that well either.

I am a rotten person you see.

Well...you would know...after all you made me like this.

I never cared about anything else except my satisfaction.

Winning a game, coming to Class D, being your friend...all for my happiness.

I don't care at all, what I have to do...

Even if I have to break you down completely and build you back up myself.

*CRACK*

That was my last pen.I sighed crashing into my soft bed wrapping myself up with the blanket

Why do you make things so complicated Kiyo?

Can't you simply be mine?

Never Loved Anyone?

What did you mean by that?

Why don't I know anything about you?

I huddled tightly with my pillow and felt like I was tearing up with these thoughts.

Huff*

*AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA*

Calm down Chiaki,

He will have to pay for what he did

I will know everything about you...

Then I will show you the pain and love I felt...

I love puzzles, especially when the prize is as amazing as you

You will regret using me

You will feel the guilt

Then you will be my beloved.

--Author's Notes--

Dear Readers

I might do some of these...but don't count on it

And I am still not gonna write season 2 for a while...wait for a while..

Maybe even read the whole book again. Because I am certain many of you didn't understand the mind games very well...or if you did...congrats.

Have a great day.

Thank you

SS-2: A Resolve

Ichinose's POV

CLASS B has been promoted to CLASS A

CLASS A

CLASS A

CLASS A

The voices both outside and inside me bellowed in joy, as I couldn't stop the tears of pure joy flowing down my already damp eyes.

I crashed onto the hard floor below as the floodgates opened. My friends upon noticing my breakdown hurried and hugged me tightly. Their voices were filled with the sweetest forms of encouragement, happiness and trust.

The warmth I felt, made it worthwhile. Today their smiles and this sense of achievement I will treasure from the bottom of my heart.

*Thump*

*Thump*

*Thump*

My heart is beating in my chest violently, uncannily, eerily...

As if in fear

Yet, why do I feel fear? It's as if something unknown is clawing at my heart.

I then remembered a few things...that soft yet firm voice,

'Ichinose let Class B and Class D cooperate'

'Ichinose your class will be Class A'

'Follow this plan, accept Ryueen's bet'

'Horikita said so'

Kiyotaka Ayanokouji

He is one of the major reasons for our success. His directions directed this whole outcome.

While he does put Horikita-san's name with everything like a suffix, I do wonder, why didn't she ever come forward with the deals herself.

Why does she send Ayanokouji? Is it because she trusts him?

There were rumours which did spread about him dating Horikita, at least according to the conversations I overheard when Kushida-san came to our class.

I still doubt that this is as simple at the first sight. A leader shouldn't give all responsibilities to their associates. So, if I were to consider Horikita-san to be a competent leader, it would be highly unlikely that she wouldn't be present along with Ayanokouji.

I would go as far as to say, Ayanokouji-kun would be an anomaly in this scenario.

So, what if it's not that; what if I look at this from another angle.

What if he is the leader?

Is he really capable?

If I had to go with our previous interactions, he planned to record Matsushita-san to boost her reputation, he also helped with some love advice, indicating his ideologies. If I had to deduce, he is mature and caring for his classmates.

So would that justify his leadership? Does that suffice all the qualities of a leader?

No, it shouldn't, so this is most likely an Occam's razor and the first scenario is what had happened. Maybe it's just trust. At least that's what my idealistic bias, shows.

Yet,

No matter how thoroughly I can see through this, I still need to consider the 1 in 10,000 risks.

While Class D handed us the victory, their methods are unclear. This brews seeds of doubt in my heart. What if this is just a step in something deeper.

Nothing in this world is free, everything comes at a cost.

What will be the cost of this?

Maybe it's paranoia, maybe self-doubt. I don't know what I am feeling...

I got out of my previously shocked state as we walked into our halls.

"Everyone, may I please have your attention?"

Amikura-san voiced everyone's opinion, "Do you even need to ask Ichinose-san? You are the reason we are here."

I smiled at my loyal classmates. They played an integral role in our success.

" Class B...I mean Class A. We have done something truly admirable in which every single one of you played a crucial part. I, from the very bottom of my heart, appreciate this support and trust all of you have bestowed upon me. "

I truly do appreciate them. My so-called Idealistic approach with Kanzaki's realistic seasoning made this beauty of a united class possible.

I bow down showing my utmost sincerity, then I spoke again...

However this time, it was different.

"Do we deserve this?"

The sudden change in my voice caught everyone's undivided attention

"I repeat

DO WE DESERVE THIS?"

My tone dropped considerably as they exuded the same aura I once did when I was almost branded a criminal...

Kanzaki was brave enough to reply," We do...don't we Ichinose?"

I simply hummed at it and responded

"The answer is something we will have to find out together. Class C's last-minute bet gave us this, other classes may consider this as

LUCK

Some of us may agree with that ideology,

BUT WE DON'T

If we deserve it, which I am sure we do. We will prove it by making this Class untouchable.

WE ARE UNITED

hence we stand strong. Never forget that. Each and every one of you, are truly-truly valuable, indispensable to this Class's success.

We achieved this due to our hard work. Those countless hours of constant games and bets.

Those painstaking moments we had when Class A almost destroyed our Class.

The risks we took, the ways other classes tried to use our kindness.

We proved to them just how strong we are even when we are at a disadvantage.

WE SURVIVED, WE EVOLVED AND WE WON.

That is the true strength of THIS CLASS."

And

Even if It was given as a gift or a curse, I will make class worthy.

"As of this moment, we will have to maintain our class A standing. We can't take this for granted, but rather, we have to enrich it ourselves

Did I make myself clear? "

I ended my speech with the most powerful tone I can muster.

A good leader's virtue is a good speech, especially the one which came from my heart.

The hall room had an almost deafening noise

"YESSSSSSS, LEADER!! WE WON'T LET YOU DOWN. WE WILL BE THE BEST, BE OUR GUIDE"

But

"Remember, don't use violence unless absolutely necessary. We will be the best, without losing a single ally, we are friends...no... We are a family. We will show them our strength, without laying a single finger on them

WE WILL CRUSH OUR ENEMIES, WITH A SMILE"

I smiled as brightly as I could with a sign of peace with my fingers.

Truth is a weapon acquired through the accumulation of trust. My truth has brought this class together, I won't let their trust break. My leadership will not falter.

It doesn't matter what tactics other classes employ. I will stick to my ideals, I will prove the existence of true strength. If freedom fighters like Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi were able to show their power to the world, so will I.

I have to carefully plan ahead in order to mark our presence, making our reputation unscathed.

After all, the natural course of action is to have as much insurance as possible

The question remains

HOW?

I will not make any more mistakes, as they say...

Once a mistake,

Twice just foolish.

I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder as my gaze met with Chihiro, whose friendship with me has simply deepened and she started to admire Ayanokouji, which was quite interesting to put it lightly.

"Ichinose-san, most of us left to go to sleep. You need rest too. After that speech you made, you must be tired."

I ran my hands over my slightly sweaty forehead. All these predictions and thoughts seemed to have taken a toll on me.

"Ya, you are right Chihiro-san, it's just a bit exhausting."

I got up from my seat and twirled around a bit," But now I am just fine."

" If you are worried too much you'd likely miss out on the important things and suffer for it."

She said in a nostalgic manner as she gave me an unsteady smile.

I empathised silently without any knowledge of her mental state as I walked back to my room wondering what lay ahead in this path of thorny roses.

I wonder,

Hiding the ugly truth and playing a saint is a part of human nature, it's a part of me, will I lose this unity once it uncovers or will I stand tall winning over my greatest fear.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers

Was Ichinose's development good?

If you all are wondering why she is OOC, well... she is not

She clearly follows her ideologies to the mark. The only difference is, she sees the world without her pink glasses but over here, her goal is to make the world pink

( I mean instead of just being Idealistic. She wants to change the world instead, starting from her school)

Her goal in the LN was to be kind and keep her friends together

Her goal in this fanfic is to show the power of ideas to the school and the true strength in Unity, with practicality and a more realistic approach.

And she won't be nerfed like the LN :3

Hope you all have a good day

Thank you.

SS-3: Thy Anger in thy soul

Ryuuen's POV

Shocked to my core I went back to my room

Ibuki and Ishizaki tried following me and asking wether we should give up

I grabbed Ibuki's collar and choked kicked Ishizaki's shin

While declaring for the whole class to hear

"So what are you all gonna do now? Give up huh...Listen here you whine freaks. WE WILL NEVER GIVE UP..

GET IT INSIDE YOUR EMPTY SKULLS

CLASS B GOT THAT PLACE, BECAUSE OF CLASS D.

WE WILL DESTROY CLASS B AND THEN CLASS D.

DO I MAKE MYSELF F*CKING CLEAR MONGRELS?"

I looked at them with disgust in my eyes, giving up?

Why the fu*k are they in this school for?

"If I don't make this Class C into Class A by the end of this semester.

I WILL LEAVE THIS SCHOOL.

BUT TILL THAT, NOT ANOTHER WORD ABOUT GIVING UP."

Quietness fell. Shitheads, finally realised how serious I am. Freaks used to think it's a game.

I threw Ibuki down and walked away to my room.

Pulling out a picture from a rusted box under the bed I thought

'Old man, look at me...I will not give up.'

X--X

FLASHBACK

It was soon after the day I was kicked out of the poverty stricken house that I realised how abnormal I was. I was sent to a foster home.

I had been begging for food from those mongrels they call foster parents and all they would offer me would be a meal per day with a whole lot of thrashings as breakfast and dinner. It was the same wretched condition with those 4 others trapped with me in this f*cktown called home.

Hah, home...what's that a house made of Demons?

Sh*t just got worse, day in and day out those rotten creatures yelled and beat the f*ck out of most. Those wimps screeched and cried.

They were almost twice my body mass, I was a lanky ass child and always f*cking starving.

These bozos often took some of my food as well every fu*king day. S*itstains ugh, I really wish I could land a few blows on them as well. But if I did, it would be a dumb move, 4 against me...No f*cking chance.

This ain't an action movie and I ain't no superhero.

While we got beat up

I just thought of one thing...

Well, nothing...

I felt s*hit ton of nothing, it was just weird bruises I had to wash off.

Those bumps and scars, some looked ugly like them others looked cool.

That day though, it was a whole lot different

If I had to really describe what happened

Today was on another level. It reached the point where the crazy b*tch was going to attack me with her scalding red kitchen burner.

No way was I in hell gonna get by that thing again as my face would have been too f*cked up. So I still remember vividly how I took a broken glass shard from a bottle the dozing drunkard threw down earlier and stabbed her in her jaw the moment the burner came close to my face, missing by a couple of f*cking inches.

I stabbed her face a few times before I was pulled over by the cops.

Those wimps were screaming while the police took us away, as those deaf neighbours finally heard something for heaven's sake.

They were horrified and shaking thanking me for saving them for the hell hole. I wasn't trying to be the hero by saving us from those devils; I simply didn't see the need to be afraid. So I attacked

Straight and simple.

I learnt something about myself that day.

The face that b*tch made as blood was spurting out of her bare gums, brought me happiness. It may have been the rush of adrenaline as the blood dyed the floor red. I also realised Violence is true power.

IT'S MY ACE.

If I hadn't been violent I wouldn't have been f*cking able to tell this tale. Her screams of pain were the gravestone of my first victory. This fact had been proven.

In the court, I and all 4 of those wimps had to stand straight.

We had this lawyer who was way too friendly with us, he defended us with all he could...

One thing that he said stuck with me which he spoke in the court.

" Depending on the circumstances,anyone is capable of incredible cruelty and brutality"

That resonated with me, the rest of the thing was just a blur. All I remember was that since I was a kid or something I got released of charges.

The lawyer I don't know what came over him, but for some crap reason I was adopted.

After a few months...I felt different.

That house was...I am not even gonna joke around

It was a home...a place I didn't feel like dogshit everyday.

The will to fight...has disappeared

What bothered me was those weird pats he gave on my head and the food he fed me...I wasn't a kid.

It was on October 20, my birthday

"Today on your birthday, Would you change your name from Hajime Haru to Kakeru Ryueen"

I still remember the tears I shed that day.S*it was embarassing as hell

I remember what he said to this day as if he was still here... alive

"Kakeru Ryueen, is a name of pride.Kakeru mean to be able to soar high and Ryueen is being the dragon of garden which you are. You are pride...So soar higher than the stars my dragon and show the world your majestic power. I will always watch you grow.I also hope you will find someone, to call your friend on this day"

"Hah, he will be my rival then geezer"

But the f*cker abandoned me, just like the rest. I think these thoughts over and over again next to his gravestone.

Filled with scars and bruises similar to mine, yet brighter with blood...and watery with my unending tears. I bid him farewell...on that day.

I cursed to myself.

"Why old man, why leave me? Why didn't you stay with me? I didn't hurt anyone when you were there for me just like I first promised."

'Haru, I want to adopt you'

'Shut up retard, who wants an old geezer like you as a father'

He had laughed that time at my pathetic jokes

'I will have food, 3 times a day...would you change your mind now?'

'GEEZER, COME HERE!'

I smirked at my idiotic shitty self.

I have been sitting beside his grave for the last 2 days, thinking about the last time he spoke to me

'Your victory is in your fearless spirit Kakeru, never give up'

'Dad, don't die...please'

' Finally you called me a dad haha, gone weak there kiddo...I adopted you, to save you from who I had become. Be stronger, else this world will devour you like it did to me.'

I woke up the next day at the old geezer's house to find some officials sitting next to me

"What are you suited f*ckers gawking at?"

"We are here from the Child protection services" Said the woman in black

The lady in black gave me some papers which I read, that stated that, my living expenses will be paid by the geezers savings until I get into ANHS.

Isn't that the school of elites? Why does he want me there?

"How did he die? I never got a proper answer"

The man in white said," According to the investigations, his career has reached a peak due to save you 5 kids that day, so came along many high profile cases...One case was forced to him...by someone, whose ideals your father didn't agree with...so, considering that client's influence...the price, is in front of you."

So violence... won again...

"Where can I find them? "

The man in black and the women in white sat beside me and spoke

"You can't, you are too weak, you are just a child."

That day I made up my mind, I will be stronger...geezer, you just wait.

I started studying for the ANHS exams. While my violence increased in the schools I was sent to and expelled from. This cycle repeated all through middle school, but the anger in me hadn't dissapeared.

Yet, I felt no form of pleasure or satisfaction.

The reason was simple... .I was bored, I wanted to be stronger.

No matter if they were more muscular, bigger, smarter...all met the same boring fate, their loss.

I hope this ANHS will be different.

Till the day I live in this world, I will have made enemies both around and in my mind.

But I had made it my f*cking mission, to prove that those who possess the brain to use whatever necessary to win and the sheer violence without mercy, is truly an elite.

And maybe...just maybe...I will be the strongest and I will be released from these chains of promise.

Or I will fight death itself and lose.

And I will show the middle finger to my old geezer,"Old man, After I do what you wanted...will you be happy, DAD?"

FLASHBACK ENDS

x--x

I am glad this school is not that boring but damm, these pieces of worthless sh*t have brains in them.

I F*cked up! This school is a f*cking dangerous place. This place may not be filled with sh*tards like those arrogant d*ckheads I have met. They know their capabilities.

They are not afraid to run and hide...that's not weak as many idiots think

It's smart.

Matsushita and Horikita both were out of my sight, even after that scheming with Class A, this all amounted to nothing.

...No

Class D is a threat, that has to account for something.

I will find out what it is...

I will reach Class A...

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers

I changed up Ryueen's back story...

I may extend on it in the future...

For now, have this limited info.

I hope it wasn't terrible

Have a great day

Thank you!

𝓢2-𝓒1:𝓨𝓸𝓾? 𝓘 𝓗𝓪𝓽𝓮 𝔂𝓸𝓾

Ayanokouji's POV:

The last few days of the cruise had been exciting to most, as we return to the school. Many were having fun while I had to correct the inconsistencies that my plans had faced. The main reason was emotions, I had trained meticulously in them, yet due to my other capabilities, especially my practicality and insensitivity to other humans, hindered my ability to show and understand those emotions.

I had been called by Sudo and Akito a few times, which had been what most would call as fun. These days were quite refreshing for many and new relations have been formed after the exam.

It seems I had claimed the stratas of friendship, earlier I was definitely at the lower starts, where one is invited quite rarely, now I seem to be at the higher strata, which I had outwardly reciprocated.

Class D has grown slightly more united considering the challenges they had faced and overcome together. Most were relaxing with a steady aura of alertness.

The test hadn't changed me much, I was still the same...what had changed...were the situations surrounding me, hence it's essential for powers to be shifted. I have become a target of former Class A and my 2 tools have been targeted by class C, considering the people who have been spying on their actions are from that class.

The Cruise had now ended leaving us with bags to unpacks...and memories to cherish.

I decided to first clear somethings up

--

I knocked on the hard wooden door to be opened by none other than Chairman Sakayanagi.

His tired face morphed into one of extreme caution as he ushered me inside his office, which looked the same...this time with a new laptop.

I sat on the guest chair which was extremely soft as Chairman asked

"Do you want something to drink?"

I turned his direction to his brooding and questionable deposition and replied

"Just water, I didn't realise you became so courteous "

He laughed lightly as he poured out some water and handed it to me.

Sitting down with his arms on the table and a gaze directed at me he asked,"You must have been wondering about the change in exams...haven't you?"

He became sharper, I have to be careful...His wariness could be a hindrance to my plans.

"Maybe so, then I am sure you won't mind a student knowing the details behind the exam?"

"I am sure, even if I said no, you would get the information"

He isn't wrong, I did have other insurances if a direct approach didn't work out.

"So is it a yes?"

He simply nodded and spoke in a stiff voice," You are the reason. More specifically it was a test."

I looked at him for a while trying to get a read on him, as I leaned closer and said

"It seems, the last time...you didn't learn your lesson."

His stiffness changed into one of panic as he waved his arm," Don't get me wrong...I was not responsible for it."

I tilted my head slightly," Explain NOW"

Honestly, using such a tone with the Chairman in any other situation would be accountable for a direct expulsion. Considering the circumstances I believe it's a reasonable action though.

"The school has tie-ups with different investors who fund these exams and other facilities of the school, along with the government. One of our major investors called and threatened us with cutting off their partnership to change our exams. Our negotiations failed and we are here at the present."

Some external affairs must know of my existence in the white room. They also must have a lot of power to be able to force this school. I could try to match the white room investors and the school investors to find a link, which while is a viable method...isn't the most efficient one.

"Who was leading the meeting?"

"Nothing other than the proposed deal...but their head was a girl of your age , probably the investor's daughter. Her reasoning was that she wanted to join this school. So she wanted to test out the students' capabilities in this school."

This is news to me. As far as I remember the 5th generation was the last and the 4th generation's sole survivor was me...

Unless she lived...

No there is a 99% chance that's not possible.

"When does the person want to join? And why is the whole school is being put in jeopardy for one student, seems unnatural?"

"She said her intentions were to join this school at the start of your 2nd year, along with your year. She had shown her records. Her excellence is unparalleled, so I accepted this proposal. A person like her is an elite fit for the school. Someone like her will be extremely valuable."

Is he saying the truth?

While he could be lying, his fear wouldn't let him.

So it's the 1% chance....interesting enough

It seems, she will be back...and those last words

'007 I HATE YOU'

The last time my heart cracked, which I have now cemented and locked.

If she reappears, I wonder what will ensue...

I got up from the chair and headed to the door

"Alright, have a good day. I am leaving"

Seeing me abruptly leave he questioned

"Aren't you going to ask anything else?"

"Will it change the situation we are facing now?"

"No, it shouldn't"

"Then it doesn't bother me. Have a good day."

"Wait a minute... what about Chabashira? What should I do with the recording you sent me on that day?"

A little devil perched on my shoulder whispering, It's better to get them before they get you.

"For now she has her uses, though that situation will change, what I advice is for you to find a new teacher."

I closed the door shut and went to my class.

Sitting there we heard another announcement

'THE VIP EXAM WILL COMMENCE SOON, PLEASE GATHER IN THE ASSEMBLY HALL'

Another exam so soon?

Horikita closed her book shut and started walking with me

"What do you think this exam is going to be?"

"How will I know that Horikita...Isn't that what we are about to find out." I let out a mocking tone

To which she jabbed my forearm slightly. It seems her and compass have broken up.

"Don't act coy Ayanokouji."

(Read novel from the rules to the 1st meeting, basics are the same, just that this happens in the school. The author is lazy and proud :) )

I went back to my room contemplating the different scenarios this test could take.I flopped onto my bed which felt different after returning from the cruise ship. Just when my eyes were about to shut I heard a knock.

Opening the door, I was greeted with the smiling face of Class D's Ikeman leader, Hirata

"Hello, Ayanokouji-kun. Hopefully, I didn't bother you."

Putting on a jovial tone I replied, "Not at all! What brings you here?"

Considering Hirata's perception of me, it's wise to not break it with my monotone voice.

"Well, I was wondering whether you would join me and some others for a snack? It would be a good opportunity for you to become friends with our other classmates as well."

Hirata the Oh so benevolent and sweet person, coming to save a gloomy person like me.

"Who else are we talking about here Hirata?"

"Oh, not too many just Karuizawa-san, Mii-chan, Satou-san, Matsushita-san, Shinohara-san...and us...just a few."

Is he being sarcastic? I can't tell. I have been meaning to interact with Karuizawa for quite a while, considering it's a group, I can at least form an acquaintance. As our relationship, could be described my most as bickering classmates.Considering the uncertainty wether I will be met with disgust or a sense of forced acceptance is the risk I would have to take.

"Why me though?"

There are so many others whome he could have called and they would have jumped onto the offer without a second thought

"Well, we just want to get to know you better. It's to improve our bonds as classmates,as usually you are only seen either of the 2 girls."

You don't have the right to talk about that, Mr Harem-rata

If he did mean it, then he could have done it at any time. Doing it now after Horikita's popularity this just seems uncanny.Hirata is a good leader, who can read the situation between me and most students quite well, hence inviting me is either a mistake...or it has disguised an ulterior motive.

"I asked for the real reason, Hirata."

He looked slightly taken aback as he brought his smile back onto that so-called angelic face and replied with his left hand scratching his lower neck

"Well, you caught me. I really wanted to bring Horikita-san into the class activities more often. The 3 days after the exam that we have returned, she has rejected every offer we had to have her interact with. If this goes on, our class friendship would take a toll. So I wondered if could you have some advice about her, so I called you under this pretence...I am sorry."

So I was simply a means to an end. It's quite interesting how people try to use me as a tool without ever acknowledging it, yet I am quite certain if my mindset was to be revealed everyone would have been disgusted by me.

"Hmm, but I am not that great of a friend to her. Sorry I can't help."

I tried closing the door but he stopped with his leg

"Still, I had another reason...it was to help you make friends. Just having Matsushita-san and Horikita-san as your friend, will make you dependent on them. So it's a request to please come along."

He would be right if I considered them as one.

"Alright, I will come along. Let me change my clothes."

He nodded as I quickly checked the wardrobe to find the clothes Chiaki chose for me on the outing we went on right after the cruise ship exam.

'Kiyotaka, let's go na! You have dodged this thing way too much. So today no excuse mister'

'Alright, but do I really need new clothes. Isn't just washing and re-wearing these 2 pairs enough.'

'Na-ah! You need new clothes, it's been over 3 months since I chose these sets of clothes, you never went shopping after that. When did you become this lazy?'

'Alright, I get your point...but I will buy you set in return'

'Mhmm! Let's go'

I am grateful that our friendship has not deteriorated but it's also a sign of peculiarity. As far as I have read in books, people tend to lose touch with people who rejected their feelings. Yet I didn't find a trace of that on her visage, rather a sense of hostility was etched.

It doesn't matter, after all, I won't hesitate to show her the reality once again.

At least this time I won't break that promise I made once

'Don't lead someone's heart on, promise me that 007'

"Wow, Ayanokouji-kun, you look quite classy. Your clothing sense is on point."

"Thank you, I had help"

Hmm, as Chiaki once said she wanted to be a fashion designer, it's not surprising.

"Ayanokouji-kun, do you think we can reach class A?"

A sudden question by Hirata launched a train of thought in me.

Considering the slight improvement in former Class D's standings, it would be a reasonable question to ask

"No, not yet. It's very unlikely with the current standings we can go to class A"

Hirata chuckled at that slightly

"Always blunt...You are right. The reason I asked, is because you played a major role in our winning the exam"

"I think you are overexxagerating, I was just average"

Hirata patted my shoulder and didn't ask anything further...leaving a comfortable silence between us.

--

We met up with the group in which there were mixed reactions from Chiaki's delight to Shinohara's disgust.

"Everyone, I bought Ayanokouji-kun along, hope you all don't mind."

"HI Kiyo"

When did Chiaki give me a nickname?Anyways, her perfume for some reason was quite strong.

"Oh, it's you. I guess it's fine...Just don't be a jerk"

Karuizawa's behaviour were like those sharp earrings she was wearing, pointy yet beautiful, while the same irritation but has mellowed down slightly towards me. If I had to guess, it must have been the incidents in the cruise

"Hi, Ayanokouji-kun"

Hmm, Wang with a flower in her hair, probably to impress Hirata,also has remembered my name...a pleasant surprise.

"Hiya, Ayanokouji-kun"

Satou-san who was wearing a maroon top was friendly as well

It is quite a sight to find people undisturbed by my presence.

"Ugh, Hirata why did you bring him here? Can't he like I don't know, do something else?"

To which even before Hirata could respond Chiaki's sharp tongue spoke first.

"I could say the same of your existence Shinohara...but I don't"

Her relationship with Shinohara has deteriorated to a considerable extent. Only Hirata's power can act like glue. I wish, I had such powers.

"Hello everyone...and sorry if I am being a bother Shinohara, may I know what I did wrong?"

Confronting someone in public is often a good approach to stop them, it's an unpredictable attack and it can't go out of hand as the judging eyes of the public may cause harm to one's public image.

Shinohara's surprise was evident as she tried to formulate a response to this meaningless anger directed towards me, "Uh...You are super gloomy, that's why."

"I see, Could you please tell me how I should act and dictate my existence, as you seem to have so much experience under you."

A sarcastic response lightened the tense atmosphere. this hopefully serves as a warning,

After that, they started to talk about various topics to which I vaguely followed along as their words hardly added anything of value.

Until I heard a question directed towards me by Satou

"Hey, Ayanokouji-kun, what's your relationship with Matsushita-san?"

I tilted my head in confusion and responded,"Just friends, why the question though?"

She looked genuinely surprised, so did the rest," Seriously? I really thought, you both had gotten closer after you heroically saved her."

"But I didn't, anyone could have done that. Infact what I did was just out of emergency."

Karuizawa put her hand on the table and cupped her chin, "Where did ya learn it? Some action movie or what...lol, do you know what a action movie is by the way...jkjk?"

...Well I would have answered no, but I have no interest in being the odd one's out again.

"I read about it in a book."

Satou san prodded further into her question, yet this time it was to Chiaki," What about you Matsushita-san?"

Chaiki had been staring at me while applying pressure at the cup she was holding but was brought out of her mind when asked.

She responded," ...Well...he did reject me...so that's that, I guess we are just friends...aren't we Kiyo? Or are you gonna reject that as well? Or maybe..."

Her anger had seeped out of her tongue as she calmed herself down and this time said,

" Sorry...but Kiyo, please leave."

Everyone around us was silent at this situation I was now dealing with...this won't age well.

Considering this as an escape I got up and started walking away,to be followed by Chiaki, considering it not to be a threat, I let her follow, before shutting my door.

Which she blocked...when did become like Hirata

"We need to talk"

"What do you mean Chiaki?"

"Well, we were having a good time, but then you showed up, a-and the t-things you said JUST FRIENDS, not even...a second thought...Ugh...the others didn't notice, but I am certain you understood...what I have been trying to hold back."

Chiaki's volatile nature has been quite apparent, as at times she want's to stay with me..other times she can't even look at me without frustration.

"I was just tired, so I wasn't that observant."

"Tired of me?"

"What do you mean?"

"I said ARE YOU TIRED OF ME?"

"No,I am quite certain I am not."

"Liar, when went shopping, during that you didn't look into my eyes once."

"Is that so? It was unintentional, I didn't intend on doing so."

"Really? that's what you have to say? F*ck you Kiyo, when was the last time you said the truth?"

"I have said a few lies here and there but that doesn't overwhelm my truths."

"Tell me the truth, stop hiding things from me...What are you even? Sometimes I feel like we are strangers...and just that you wrongly labeled us as friends."

Her voice was getting progressively louder and her eyes were watering

"P-PLEASE

TELL

ME

It's not that hard...just share them with me..."

She was weeping into the shirt she brought for me.

I closed my eyes thinking

What might seem trivial to one could be quite difficult for another, depending on their issues

Goodbye Chiaki

I pulled forcefully at her hand moving her body away from my now wet shirt and showed no remorse just coldness in my eyes as I spoke

"Don't pry into my life"

She stared at my eyes and...didn't falter...

Her hands were shaking with sweat and tears dropping down her face...she would break...

But what happened was slightly surprising...

She glared at me with fierceness and rage I hadn't seen before in her.

Her voice showed clear signs of fear yet her anger had overwhelmed it

" WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE? You really assumed that would scare me? Well congrats, it did.

I have been trying my best here Kiyo, trying to wrap my head around you.But your lies,your secrets, just the fact that-that I tried my best to keep a good face.

But no, it won't work...I just wanted to love you and when u said no...I could have still accepted it...but when you said that you haven't loved anyone...

I thought maybe I could teach you how to love...but it won't work, I can't...whenever I see your face, I really feel betrayed I feel you hide so many things...You hid the whole cruise exam from me, those 2 days were so hard, do have any idea how much I suffered.

DO you even CAREEE?

I know I am acting weak, as a friend, I should help you but...It doesn't even feel real anymore...I am sorry, I just...ca-can't bear looking at you, please for a while... don't consider me your friend, I will simply hurt you with my words and I will hurt myself.

Goodbye... To both you and your secrets."

Saying so she slammed the door and left. It seems, I did something unsatisfactory to her. Our friendship is broken, it's a simple as that. Though her utility as a tool hasn't diminished.

Considering she still has Kushida's recording and her power in the class, things may get socially worse. While that wouldn't disturb me, hearing dogs bark is still quite bothersome.

Since, Gossip is something humans voice universally

Considering I hadn't done anything societally wrong, it shouldn't be an issue, the issue however is that my book, has be torn apart.

It had to happen sooner or later, at least this eliminates a future unpredictability

Then why does it cause a slight uncertainty...

Maybe the stone is wearing off...

Or maybe, I am just a monster...

Matsushita's POV:

You have shown me some of your monstrosity and it was fascinating.

Now I will show you mine...

I will break you down...

Or I will break down myself...

Falling into that darkness in your eyes.

Either way, this marks the beginning of my plan...

AUTHOR'S NOTE--

DEAR READERS,

Oh, and this is the beginning of the 2nd exams..and the second season.

The break I had decided to take...Well...bcs I needed to get my mind of certain...weirdness going around me...and that's something I rarely say...soooo...I went back to writing...probs bcs I want to escape it like a coward...

Ayangod, help me...please...

Yaaaaaaa ,anyways--hope u guys like it and have a good day ahead

Thank you

𝓢2-𝓒2: 𝓓𝓪𝓷𝓰𝓮𝓻 𝓐𝓶𝓸𝓷𝓰 𝓤𝓼

Ayanokouji's POV:

Seeing as the Rabbit group was full of discussion while I simply sat back and contemplated the simplest strategy to win was to be.

A boy who I presume is Machida said," We have no interest in this, hence we won't cooperate."

The competition between former Class A and former Class B is quite vicious, which was to be expected as they had the prize of employment snatched from their hands.

Ichinose's class is now at the forefront of all the attacks from Ryueen and Sakayanagi, I had planned this outcome as I was certain that if I had sent my class to class A, they wouldn't survive in that situation for more than a week, while this situation allows me to gather information on Ichinose's class effectiveness...as teamwork and unity are foreign concepts to me.

This not just puts Ichinose's class to the test but gives me time to gather a few more tools. If Ichinose's class proves to be capable then they will have the honour to have me personally destroy them and I will be able to gain valuable information while incorporating them into my strategies in the future. Though if they lose here, Ichinose will grow to be a wonderful tool.

Both situations are advantageous...to only me.

I will also have to remove Chiaki's position as a leader, replacing her, her work as a tool is complete. Her unpredictability will be an issue if I don't keep it under check.

But before that, I will have to get Kushida's recording from her.

"Ayanokouji-kun, what are your thoughts on this? You have been quiet for a long time, I was worried you might have dozed off." Ichinose made a slight mockery out of me. Considering it was in good humour I didn't mind it.

"Nothing much, though it would be better if we went by the rules word by word, trying to find clues." Giving such a rudimentary hint should push them in the right direction.

After all, considering her performance in the previous exam it wouldn't be farfetched to assume she figured it out already.

She winked at me as she stood up to do the same.

Sotomura glared at me as he also noticed this, while Yukimura ignored this altogether.

How bothersome...

While this might be twisted to be thought to be a form of liking, for me, it is simply a signal. Further proof of this hypothesis was sent.

"As Ayanokouji said, should we all go over the rules?"

Some nodded, specifically the ones from her class. As they went over it, I noticed everyone but my attention was caught by a blonde-haired girl from Ryueen's class glaring at Karuizawa.

*RINGGGG*

It seems the hour is up.I waited for almost everyone to leave and then I got up and walked outside and leaned against the wall.

'You, Karuizawa, wait. We have to talk'

'Who are ya? Like, do I even know ya? BTW, I am superrr busy right now.'

'Look at this b*tch, she doesn't feel guilty at all, right?'

'What are ya guys even talking about...ya know what, I am leaving.'

Saying so she tried to leave the room, I shifted to the opposite corner to avoid being noticed and as she walked out, she was pulled violently by that girl and dragged by 2 others by her hair.

It seems the whole of Class C is involved in this...except Ibuki. The voices became fainter as I quietly followed along.

'Lemme go'

'Shut up disgusting wh*re, and you two, help me her.'

They were careful to drag her in the blind spots of the cameras, which wouldn't have been done unconsciously. Hence this situation was planned, either with or without Karuizawa's input.

They threw her on the ground where she slammed her back.

'Why did you bring me here?!!'

'Bit*h stop being such a f*cking liar. You pushed Rika...Tell me why?'

Manabe grabbed her shirt and glared at her

'What are you even talking about? I don't even know who this Rika is. Let me leave I am busy'

Karuizawa was scared but had masked it with her gal nature.

'Alright if it wasn't you, then why did she come back with a sprain and a bruise. Y'know what? I will call her...And don't LEAVE.'

Saying so Rika was called and kept on speaker for confirming this.

'Y-Ya, It w-was K-Karuizawa'

'Thank you Rika, take care you are still hurt.'

'T-thank y-you Manabe-san'

Cutting the call she looked at Karuizawa with malice

'W-Wait I think I remember now, I did see her before'

As expected, it made Manabe even angrier as she grabbed her shoulder

'If you had the slightest decency to forgive her, I may have let you go...but no...f*ck you'

Saying so Manabe moved her hand from Karuizawa's shoulder to her cheek and slammed her body to the ground and stopping before her face touched the ground

'Did you really expect me to let you go unconscious this easily...after all, b*tches have to be taught a lesson

'Hah, you girls wouldn't have lemme go in the first place'

Hearing that a girl in the group said

'I can't take it with her, she is such a vile person'

'I know right, why don't we return the favour with interest'

If they were not already tensed by the demotion to Class D, they wouldn't have taken a violent approach. Karuizawa was the perfect object to place their anger on. Their violent acts wouldn't have been caught considering they bypassed the cameras with ease...at least that's what they thought.

'Haah Haah ...he--lp...no...plea...se'

Karuizawa's breaths became ragged as she started hyperventilating. While this would be a natural response if she was beaten...They hadn't even touched her yet, hence this seems rather an inner fear rather than actual pain. They didn't seem to take notice of this, Manabe was getting ready to serve the first blow.

Should I stop it? Karuizawa didn't despise me so if I did save her here. I could gain her trust but should I wait longer...No, considering the situation she is in, it may bring trauma...

One thing which was very prominent in Whiteroom was this...Darkness carving through and consuming the souls of the subject and leaving them as either husk of their former selves or making them devoid of motivation and intoxicated with hate.

If Karuizawa was hit, I can say with high certainty, that she would break. Those fearful eyes are just too well known to me.

I cupped my mouth and spoke, "Sensei, there you are, please come quick"

While...this won't work, if they are the actual creators of this plan...as they would be too smart for such a simple deception.

But I have a hunch they were someone's tools simply following their command. so they should fall for this.

It seems the latter proved to be true

'Sh*t this shouldn't be happening...let's go'

They turned their heels and escaped but not before giving one last glare at Karuizawa.

I walked up to her with a full view of her pathetic state. Unaware of my presence she was in a fetal position with her nails knawing at her hair as she was shivering.

I crouched to her as she finally noticed a foreign object touching her cheek, which was her phone

"Those tears make you prettier"

Her confused and pitiful state did a reflexive switch as she tried to wipe her tears, which made it worse as the mascara made tears marks all over her face.

"What are you gawking it, do you find this funny?"

She was angry indeed, but it was not at me, rather it seemed to be her own self.

"No, it's just that your mascara has smudged and you look like those witches in those kiddie Horror houses."

She touched her face as she rubbed it and took a look at her finger to realise what I said was the truth.

"Aahhh, mou! Of all people, you had to see me like this! Listen, don't say this to anyone."

While I had no interest in disclosing it, what's interesting is how she could stop herself from an almost full-blown panic attack and adorn this mask...Either she is like Kushida or there is something beyond that.

Staying any longer will increase the chances of us getting caught together in this rather precarious situation. Getting up on my feet I handed over my handkerchief to her

"Rub it off properly."

She took it without complaint and wiped her face thoroughly, causing it to turn red from all the rubbing. She tried to return it with a somewhat grateful expression

"No thanks, I have no interest in taking it back"

It already looked disgusting with the black mascara and sloppy texture, which she understood as she took it back

"Ya, gotcha...I will clean it and give it back okayyy."

"Ya, anyways I have got to go. Bye"

She slightly pouted, "Dont'cha snitch on this!"

I nodded as I left the scene...after all, a good plan needs to be carried out in steps.

X--X

"Ayanokouji, it's been a long time"

"True, come inside Manabu. You seem to be exhausted, Do you want tea or coffee?"

It had been quite a while and I may have missed his words, as I think he is the only one who is closest to my level in this school.

"I had to lose Kiryuiin before coming here, she was badgering me for the last hour to let her tag along...oh, I would enjoy tea please."

"Hmm, pick a game or do you want to simply sit and relax today?"

"I would rather not game today, I am just too tired. Is it fine if I use your bed for a while?"

Manabu had gotten very comfortable in just 2 visits...quite interesting.

"Not at all."

"Sorry if I am being overly comfortable...I am just really new to this."

I brought the tea for him and drank coffee myself

"No it's alright, We are in the same boat...but I have to say, I never imagined the SCP to not have friends."

"It's a long story, maybe some other time...I see a bit of myself in you, so that may have contributed to me accepting your deal...and for a while don't call me the SCP."

I nodded as he leaned back on the bed, "Did you hear about the exam?"

"Ya, it had changed. It caused quite a few discussions in your seniors...I wonder too, what caused it?"

It seems the information which I received was completely confidential

"How will I know?"

He nodded as he looked at me with suspicion," Fair enough but just by the overview, I can guess how difficult it must have been"

He was right, it was quite different with varied forms of subtests. If the investor doesn't interfere, the future tests could be kept the same.

"True enough, I am glad it's over."

"I will take your word for it. Your monotone face doesn't give me too much to go off on."

He chuckled slightly, his droopy mood had considerably improved. If I go by the books I read, I suppose I did a good job as a friend.

"I won't argue with that...How are things going between you and your secretary?"

For my entertainment...and another purpose, I decided to indulge in his personal life

He looked confused as he replied, "What do you mean? Tachibana is an excellent secretary and she is a great help."

I decided to be forward with my question," Manabu, I meant do you romantically like her or not?"

His bewildered face formulated confused words," W-What do you mean? I have never thought about her like that."

"Well, it's very obvious from my perspective... Why don't you take her out?"

"Won't it be unprofessional?.. Also, I have no idea what she might think of me."

"You are a student...who makes this professional. Not everyone has the same ideas as you and if you don't ask her...how will you ever know?"

He sat up straight as he pondered about it," I am somewhat suspicious of you...considering your interactions with Tachibana which are strained...why would you want to advise me..."

He has every right to suspect me, so I had prepared something which should remove it...hopefully.

"You are my friend..not her. My relations with her shouldn't be a part of the discussion."

His eyes widened at my first words to which he gave a very slight grin as he replied

"Even if it was a part of your plan...it wouldn't cause too many issues even if I fell for it...so I might try to take your advice this one time."

"Hmm, it seems you are new to this..."

"Aren't you too?"

"Fair enough...but you may soon not be."

His face twitched at that rebuttal as he sipped on his tea slowly.

"Alright, I will ignore that...How is this VIP exam for you?"

"For now, it's very new and there are too many possibilities to make a proper judgement"

He nodded as he recounted," It can be very easy...or extremely difficult. My group was cooperative enough to achieve the easy path...I wonder what your group will come up with."

"Only time will tell I suppose."

He sipped on his tea slower and louder...

"No more tea for you"

"Rude"

That comical moment sent a dry chuckle from his throat.

"Why are you tired today, I can assume that something else might have happened."

"Well..I shouldn't disclose too many details...unless you join the student council"

He smoothly sent this proposal in front of me...but my answer remained the same

"My answer stays the same...No."

"Since we have become friends...may I know the reason."

He made a smug expression...

"Huh, trying to emotionally blackmail me...Smart, but...even if it won't work. I will give my reasoning to you."

After all, I have nothing to lose and I will gain the trust of Manabu in the process.

He paid close attention to what I was about to say.

"Considering you state today I am sure of my hypothesis. I suspect you want me to do something which you will be unable to do and neither will the 2nd year council members.

Now considering that there are only 2 students in the 3rd year, you and Tachibana-senpai. It's highly unlikely there is a problem between you two. Now the 2nd year students, are the majority...so by simple probability, the problem lies in the 2nd year members.

Considering you brought Kiryuuin senpai that day, she isn't a threat..so it's either Miyabi Nagumo or Ikuto Kiriyama...

Now if I consider what Kiryuuin senpai said about Nagumo's behaviour in the Deserted Island exam. I won't be surprised if his volatile nature has caused a problem, making you desperate enough to make an offer to a 1st-year student...when you clearly refused the other students...and you want someone who is good at tricking, hence you chose me as a countermeasure to stop him...Since it would be bothersome to deal with, I reject your offer. "

Manabu senpai dropped his tea on his lap

"O-Oh sorry Ayanokouji"

"Don't worry Manabu, I will bring a wipe."

"Thank you...and I have to say...what you just said now, while it may be simple facts...but piecing them together is something that a 1st year shouldn't be able to do...Every day I interact with you...it's just fascinating...I can't confirm or deny the statements you made..but count me impressed."

"Enough of trying to butter me up, it won't turn my no into a Yes. The only reason I told you is that you have been continuously asking me...so as a friend, I decided to reply honestly."

"I appreciate it...and I won't force you, so don't worry."

"Thank you for understanding"

"Bye Kiyotaka, have a good day"

"You too...don't burden yourself"

"Ya sure...I didn't know a person like you cared...but I will accept it."

He left leaving me in my empty room...alone.

X--X

Horikita's POV:

"Kuku, how about a deal Suzune?"

"What do you want Ryueen..."

What is this guy doing popping up in front of me this late...Thank god, I have my compass

"Oh, nothing much, just that...I thought you would be interested in knowing..."

"Will you get lost already? Or should I call the teachers?"

What's wrong with him, first he holds me up and then throws this deal out of nowhere in the middle of the hallway.

"Kukuku, feisty as always... maybe I should go to Ayanokouji with this deal...

KUKU..* cough*cough*...KU"

H-How...did he know?

"You must be wondering how I knew...but it doesn't matter, after all, i wonder what everyone else in your class will do...if they realise, you cracked the code...but hid it...quite unfortunate."

What does he even mean? Crack the code? I just wrote it down...wait a sec...

"Oh, unfortunate indeed...but what exactly do I know?"

"Kuku, why don't you explain it? After all..."

He pulled out a crumpled piece of paper that I recognised and then took a photo of it before handing it to me.

Upon seeing it, I lost my marbles...how did this guy get this?

"These are just surnames...I simply wrote down everyone's name as I have a bad memory"

"Kuku..."

He then pushed me to the wall. Compared to him I am slower, it's better if I don't attack...logically I won't win

"Listen up b*tch...if I release this pic with my theory...I wonder what will happen to Class D...will it self destruct...KABOOM"

He made a disgusting expression as he made that sound.

I tried to solve this with something I did think was possible...but since the bell rang I had decided to complete it tomorrow...So the only explanation is...

He figured it out first.

If he leaks this paper with my handwriting and...if his theory is correct...my class will think that I leaked their win to others, when I myself didn't know what it was. It will not just destroy my position which Ayanokouji helped me build...but throw the entire grade in a power struggle.

How did I mess up this bad?

"Won't it harm you to reveal the VIP?"

"Kuku...are you really the leader?..."

He then glared at me

"...Well it doesn't matter...destroying your leadership will be a long term benefit, even if I have

to destroy my chances of winning...I will do it..."

He is crazy enough to jeopardise the whole exam just one day after it started...

What happened for him to target our class this badly? It's like a constant menace.

"How did you get your hands on this?"

"Kuku...I have my ways...you look really cute when you are angry..."

I would have punched him...but right now, he has the upper hand...no I can't fall weak

"What do you want from me?"

"A simple deal...one of great value to both of us...so like a good little girl...accept it."

"WHAT IS THE DEAL?"

I screamed not being able to control my anger as the whole class is almost at the tips of his hand ready to be destroyed.

He growled as a result

"Respect your superiors egoistic b*tch, and all I want is for you to give me Matsushita's phone...and I won't press this button."

He said while pointing to his phone in which there was a picture of the surnames with a theory written, that I missed as he quickly kept his phone back.

"What if your theory isn't correct?"

He grinned maniacally," Hah, does it matter, in both cases you and your class are f*cked...it's just that if I am right...you are f*cked a bit more than the rest...kuku...just 1-day Suzune...time is ticking...and

MY THEORY IS CORRECT"

He then shoved me as he left the opposite direction still laughing.

I went back to my room utterly exhausted with the mental battle which I fought and lost. He was right, in both scenarios my class becomes the black sheep or the completely crushed.

This plan was crafted well enough. It can't be Ryueen as I kept a close eye on him when I was in the room...maybe he was distracting me back then...to slip out the paper.

Which mean he must have had an ally.

...but it needed a mole from my group...someone who could slip and steal from my bag.

Hirata wouldn't do that...so the only one left...

K I K Y O U K U S H I D A

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

DEAR READERS

The first confirmed ship MANABU X AKANE...

So you readers want a whole chapter with their love blooming?... I know I want one...

Oh, and this time...the spread ur legs scene..will be modified..as u can tell..

Maybe more cruel...or...maybe much sweeter...who knows?...Not me.

Kikyou betrayed the class earlier...but her reasoning...might be different...a bit more, humane u can say...

Ryueen may f*ck everyone over...

Hopefully, Yall enjoyed this ch, have a great day ahead

Thank you

𝓢2-𝓒3: 𝕰𝖕𝖍𝖊𝖒𝖊𝖗𝖆𝖑 𝕭𝖔𝖓𝖉𝖘 & 𝕽𝖊𝖕𝖗𝖔𝖇𝖆𝖙𝖊 𝕿𝖔𝖔𝖑

Warning: you may hate Matsushita after this...like...she is evil...very very evil.

I really apologise to all the Matsushita simps...It was neccessary.

𝒜𝓎𝒶𝓃𝑜𝓀𝑜𝓊𝒿𝒾'𝓈 𝒫𝒪𝒱:

"I-I-I..w-w-ant to d-d-d-ate..."

What was she muttering?

I walked up slowly behind the pink-haired girlin the student hall, trying my best not to scare her.

"Sakura? What's the matter?"

"AAAieeeeeeeeee!!"She screamed in a high pitched shriek as she took a few steps back.

It seems I scared her regardless. She panicked and asked," How much did you hear?"

"Nothing much, that's why I asked" to which she sighed in relief as she spoke

"Thank god!!"

"Why did you call me out here? Is something bothering you?"

"Oh, here look at this...T-this test has been s-stressing me out."

She handed me the names of her student group with quite a few intense members...especially from Class D with Chiaki...no...Matsushita there, things will get interesting indeed.

"Hmm, it's an interesting combination you have here."

"I-I honestly thought that I could find someone to talk to there...but even my classmates won't talk to each other."

She was right considering Ike and Sudo were in bad blood while Matsushita is usually a lone wolf. Class D would undoubtedly be at a disadvantage in terms of their unity

"I don't even have any friends from other classes!"

She ended her venting to me as I pondered my own lonely situation. My former best friend has now been cut off, while I do have some people who I would call friends, they are substantially less interactive compared to me and Matsushita...

"I can relate to that."

She shook her head," What are you saying? So many people talk to you."

"I think there is a difference between talking and being a friend."

"I-I guess you-u are right...so, m-maybe we c-could be f-friends?"

She was slightly blushing but was determined to get this through as if this was her primary goal

"Aren't we friends already? But alright, thank you, I will take you up on that offer"

I reached my hand out for a handshake, while this may seem strange to most as this comes naturally...for me and Sakura it was new, so it's alright I suppose, to be a tad bit abnormal.

While our pathetic competition of self-depreciation did yield a new friendship it left both of us in a deadlock of what to say next. Fortunately or Unfortunately to break it came the 2 faced angel or commonly known as Kushida with a bright smile etched on her face as usual and asked

"Ayanokouji-kun and Sakura-san, what are you both doing here?"

She then leaned closer to Sakura and asked in a voice dripped in honey," Soooo, Sakura-san...is somethinggg going on hereee?"

To which Sakura's body sent jitters as she turned her heels and walked away briskly without ever acknowledging her question. Kushida seemed to have taken offence to this and dropped her head down while murmuring," ...B*tch"

Deciding not to stay too long with her I decided to just leave," I will be going good night."

Walking away I felt a distinctive touch on my back followed by body contact, my body itching to be free was confounded by a tight hug tiptoed on her feet as her hot breath prickled my bare me, which could have been seen as a sweet gesture but that was just a disguise that didn't match her angered expression as her hoarse voice spoke up dripping... this time... in venom

"You have become wary of me...Are you scared?"

I nonchalantly replied to dissuade her from probing, "Who wouldn't be?"

Her nails dug deep on my hands as her voice grew even more commanding," Weren't you scared when to tried to suicide?"

Oh, it seems my little stunt had affected her negatively," But I didn't try to kill myself. It was just a distraction." I tried to use a gentle tone to drive in the fact that I have no intention to ever kill myself.

"But...it did show...you are able to commit such things...without a second thought, even if it was an... act...you still tried killing yourself..."

"I think we went over this, I did say I wouldn't repeat it. So there is no reason to worry, I have realised my error."

She completely ignored me as she kept speaking in that same hatred..this time even more vicious

"...You have no idea...how much I fear...dying...I beg myself...Don't do it Kikyou...Don't kill yourself...and you thought of it...so easily"

Where did this even come from? The backside of my shirt was wet with her tears as she desperately clung to it. Why does she have these thoughts? Did she never go to a psychologist, if this is true? Why confide in me? I thought she hated me...doesn't she?

She stopped weeping after a while and glared at me one last time before mustering the coldest voice she could

"You are weak...trying such a method... WEAK...

D̸͈̣̮̘͉͎̄Ę̵̡̖̯̝̿̐͆̂̇̂͘A̴̩̗̖͑̄̀T̶̢̗̭̠̪͗̄͂͂͊Ḩ̷̳̱̖͓̹͈̳̬̙̊̈́̔̍͊̎͐͘ ...is a demon we don't escape...don't f*cking dare to invite it closer "

I simply nodded, considering her dangerous state, it would be risky to say no.

"Can I leave now?"

She let me go but not before giving me a hard shove.

"Remember... actions have consequences"

X--X

𝓗𝓸𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓸𝓶𝓲𝔂𝓪'𝓼 𝓟𝓞𝓥:

"Hey Sae and Mashima,bottle's up!!"

"Chie, it's your 5th glass...I think you should stop."

Shut up--

"Heh! Whoopsie" I made a knock on my head as I teased her.

Mashima laughed a bit at that

"You both are always at each other's tails...it has been quite a while since we got together like this."

"Mashima-kun, you are my best friend, not Sae...she is more of a rival."

While that was true, I had to play it off as a joke so I winked at her. To which she gave a playful glare probably thinking that I am joking...ahh, naive Sae.

"Ya, sure I am. Just because you won for a while...This is temporary..."

Hah, such a cutie...s*uts like you...just...so...cute.

"Awww, is someone...maddd? I clearly, reached Class A...heh"

"I think both of you should stop fighting...this is a competition between students, let's just enjoy ourselves."

"Hmm, Mashima sensei you are right...sorry Chie."

Ya b*tch, now say that while begging at my feet.

"Nahhh, Dontcha worry. I am sorrrry too. Ohhhh!! Here have this wine, I used half of my salary to buy it...Mashima-kun and Sae...you both have to drink today...No...Mashima don't dare say that you can't."

This will stop him from being so morally right...even back then.I served both of them as I drank straight from the bottle.

"CHIE...ARE YOU CRAZY?... That's over 5Litres!"

Sae pulled it away before I could complain

"NAAAAHHHH!!! GIMMEEE!!!!!"

She still cares...even after I destroyed her dream...hah, classic Sae.

What she doesn't realise...is that because of her I started drinking...like you took away my precious thing...I will take away yours ONE BY ONE... you just wait.

Ohhhhhh...I spy with my little eye.. someone with brown bangs...I wonder...hmm.

"Sae, Ayanokouji is an interesting character...wont'cha think so?"

Heh, her face...

"What are you talking about Chie, Ayanokouji is the definition of Average."

"Hmm...so it was simply a coincidence he became the cruise leader at the last moment"

I stared at her while keeping a close eye on Mashima whose hand shivered for a second...Hoho...

Hiding something from me...are we?

Naughty Ayanokouji, first trying to blackmail me...then rejecting me...and now hiding things.

I wonder...how long will you be like this...until, your plan...backfires, because if it does...I will bring you down.

"What about you Chie...what do you think of Ichinose?"

Oh, she is just an idealistic smartass...

"She is the sweetest person by her attitude and an amazing leader...but, she needs to face challenges. While the objective worth of Ichinose is high based on her grades and mannerisms alone. Society needs something more...failure, she has to fail...only then will she learn."

Mashima asked me," Don't you think you are being quite cruel...to her. "

"Not at all, a teacher's duty in this school is to make perfect elites...that's what I am doing."

Sae asked," Why didn't Sakagami sensei come to join us?"

"Ugh, Sae don't get me started...he probably is depressed after we broke up...after 2 hours...teehee"

Both were surprised by this...Mashima asked, "You do realise what you just said...why didn't you say anything to us earlier?"

"Oh, whoops I forgot"

If I said it would put my job in jeopardy...especially if that brown hair peeper found out. While he did blackmail me...I followed along only because I had seen the benefit in it..or by now

He wouldn't be in this school...I have at least this much trust in my capabilities.

""

"But you both have to agree...it's an interesting year indeed."

"Let's cheers"

The 3 of us clicked our glasses thinking about our goals...

'My class will regain its throne but no student shall hurt themselves. in the process.'

'Ayanokouji will be my ace...he will fulfil my broken dream'

'I will snatch Ayanokouji...just like I snatched Sae's dream of Class A'

X--X

𝒜𝓎𝒶𝓃𝑜𝓀𝑜𝓊𝒿𝒾'𝓈 𝒫𝒪𝒱:

"This is not funny...Ayanokouji...you can't be serious"

Horikita's voice was filled with disbelief

"It's true...Koenji did end the test...There is nothing we can do about it."

"And what were you doing...Nevermind, I suppose I shouldn't blame you for him, no one can control him"

Horikita controlled herself form blaming me. She is much more careful with the way she acts around me and...Matsushita.

"Koenji did say that he never cared about this exam in the first place

In his own words 'Ayanokouji-boy, this exam is too pathetic for a perfect being like me' "

"I shouldn't have expected too much anyways"

She sighed deeply as she took a sip of the a bitter black coffee she ordered.

"Hey, is it possible if you can...as a beautiful girl..."

She blushed slightly at my temporary compliment

"...give me information on Karuizawa"

Her blush turned into indignation as she questioned

"Why ask me? I have no relation with her except the XX chromosome. Ask Hirata...but why are you interested in her?"

"I suspect her to be the leader of my group."

"How so?"

"She called Hirata multiple times, while on a normal basis they talk..rarely...but during this exam she has been continuously in contact with him...tell me Horikita...why would someone talk to Hirata, in a purely objective manner"

She took a sip of her tea and pondered for a while

"Maybe to get some help..as he is the class leader"

"Quite vague...but good enough for now. The only reasoning is that she is the leader...and obviously, others are out of the equation...especially my classmates, who are acting normal enough."

"Is that enough? Just behaviour analysis?"

She was right...so I did confirm it...with a certain amount of code-cracking...more specifically the kana phonetic chart cross-referenced with their surnames...but I had no intention of telling her that.

"No it's not, that's why I want to confirm it Horikita."

"Hmm, alright I suppose, anyways I will be leaving now."

She got up to be pulled down by me

"WHAT?"

She was reasonably shocked

"You tell me...is something going on in your mind?"

"N-Nothing...it's just..."

She was interrupted by a chair being noisily brought towards us

"KUKU...Are you cheating on me Suzune...with...oh it's your orbiter."

Ryueen sat down with a smirk on his face.

"Is the deal complete..Su-zu-ne?..."

"Y-yes, here you go..."

She pulled out something from her bag... it was a phone...specifically Matsushita's phone.

"Don'tcha trust your orbiter too much?"

"Maybe so, it shouldn't matter to you...delete the info."

"Kukuku, good girl...here"

He pressed a button deleting something. Then he quickly went outside...and after a few minutes of awkward silence came back throwing the phone back to Horikita...

"Hah, keep it Suzune"

"Don't call me that...I never will allow you to call me that"

"Always so feist...Kuku...bye orbiter."

He hit my back quite hard, before leaving us in the cafe with 20 eyes staring at this skit.

"What was that about?"

"Nothing..also can you give Matsushita the phone?... Please, stealing it was hard enough...but it was necessary."

Seeing no problem with it I took the phone. The problem was in returning it...Considering our sensitive relationship, that will be a challenge.

Hmm...I wonder what I should do?

"You might want to hurry Ayanokouji, she won't be happy if her phone is found to be stolen."

Wasn't it her who stole it...

I then started walking to Matsushita's dorms, expecting the absolute worst.

After all..this might be the last chance for me to mend the relationship.

X--X

𝓜𝓪𝓽𝓼𝓾𝓼𝓱𝓲𝓽𝓪'𝓼 𝓟𝓞𝓥:

I heard my doorbell ringing... just as planned.

Alright, Chiaki, calm down...deep breaths. You gave away your phone to that Horikita for this to work...I can do it.

"What do you want Ayanokouji?"

Ugh, I hate using his surname.I watched him hand over the phone

"While meeting up with Horikita I was asked to give it to you..saying she encountered it during the meetings."

Such a way with words...while not a lie, not the truth either...that b*tch took my phone while begging to me.

' Please Matsushita-san for this class...just for a few hours. I promise I will bring this back. Else Ryueen will destroy the class.'

Considering this is a useful way to achieve this specific scenario of meeting Kiyo and showing Ryueen his worth. I let her have it...but not before making a proper deal

'Only if you get Kiyotaka to bring it back to me...if you can't I will personally make sure, you are labelled a thief...and E X P E L L E D'

Her capabilities have definitely increased and she has become many humbled thanks to the lesson we together had taught her.

"Oh, so you didn't steal it?"

I accused him with a bold tone in my voice

"No, as I told you...she found it."

His voice had turned monotone, just like before...as if leaving me, never bothered him.

He makes me so angry...don't you feel hurt at all...the way you just abandoned my feelings and pathetically brought them down to the level of friendship. The way you used me without a single bit of return..every order I followed..every time you caressed my hand...every touch is etched deep in me...

I will carve them in you all well...You will realise what it means to be wanted by Chiaki Matsushita

Flashback

"Mom, I want that big bunny from the shopping mall we went to earlier"

She dropped down to her knees and said

"Sweetie, your dad just got you a very large teddy didn't he?"

"But, it's not fun anymore...and I topped my class"

"Honey, you got that bunny right for getting full marks..that's enough, don't be a bad girl"

"B-but I want to have fun"

"NO, now let's go back"

Ugh, I want it...and I will have it...

As soon as I reached home I tore off the bunny and kept it in the Housemaid's son's room.

Now I just have to wait for that toy to be mine, after all I earned it.

Later that night I saw the housemaid being fired as I cried in daddy's lap with a new big bunny that I hugged tight..

Mommy looked at me strangely that day...soon which I would realise to be disgust.

Flashback ends

This time also I will do something horrible...but only because I really love you Kiyo.

I walked up close to him while his scent tingled my nostrils as I pointed touching his firm chest

"But only we know that."

I walked a few steps back before giving him a final wink and screaming

"GET LOST CREEP!! HOW DARE YOU STEAL MY PHONE!"

I started crying and wailing for the other girls form the dorms nearby gathered around

Hah...sorry Kiyo, but I really don't want anyone else to like you... except me.

And this will be your punishment, I hope you enjoy it.

My little toy...oh, I will love breaking you into pieces and building you up again...

X--X

𝒜𝓎𝒶𝓃𝑜𝓀𝑜𝓊𝒿𝒾'𝓈 𝒫𝒪𝒱:

I sighed deeply as my social status was about to take deep dive in 3...2...1..

"What did you do to her?" came Mori's scream

"K-kiyotaka...what did you do?" followed Kokoro's saddened sound

"A-Ayanokouji-kun?...What h-happened?" Airi's shocked voice reached me.

"F*cker, how dare you hurt her. Disgusting freak" Shinohara's accusations picked pace, ironical considering the hate she showered Matsushita with.

"H-he, s-stole m-my phone...a-and t-tried t-to blame it on Horikita-san...and h-he also tried to take revealing p-photos of me...w-with my p-phone...he was threatening me...with trying to reveal it."

Oh, I get it...all that drama that day in front of me and others. Setting up the stage for this very moment, Horikita somehow became the catalyst.

Those so-called revealing pics must have been taken earlier, with metadata removed...Not just that, her room was in a bad condition with things broken and clothes scattered, probably to set the scene.

Just when I tried to enter she had blocked my entry by closing the door and standing outside with me and before she screamed she had kicked the door open againas she took those steps back..revealing the scene ready for the play.

I wonder, did Ryueen and her coup together, or is something more devious at play here.

The recording I had taken from her phone just before I reached here echoed in my mind

'Kuku, It's done...remember your part of the deal'

I presume that while I was playing with my tool, she was unattended for long enough to harm her master...I may have doubted her capabilities.

What is her motivation? Is it power...no I gave her that in abundance

Is it a desire for points...it could be a possibility.

Or is it simply a method to win this exam...if so, why try to harm in the process?

She clearly has been targeting me...Is there a 3rd party involved?... Without Ryueen, there is no other suspect.

Did she make Satou ask me the question in front of everyone, to bait me into this trap?

If so, did Satou know about this ploy...then I will have to broaden my attack as well.

While I could put a stop to her shenanigans right now, I still would need some time to look at all the pieces before delivering a checkmate.

For now, I simply need to stay silent. If by chance she is proved to be a liar...she will jeopardise the chances of our Class winning...

If Ryueen made a deal with her, he must have thought that if Matsushita traps me, then I will be harmed making Horikita lack her so-called pawn and he would get something out of the deal with Matsushita. If by chance Matsushita was caught, then also it would destroy the class.

What was the wager of the deal between them? That's also another thing I am curious about...

Ignoring all the insults and accusations with many phone cameras pointing at me, I walked up to Chiaki and handed her the phone.

I sat down at her level as Shinohara tried stopping me

"H-Hey what do you think you are doing? Huh,f*cker stay away from her. I am calling Sae-sensei."

"Matsushita...You are lying."

I then gave her the soulless raw glare I had inherited from the ... at least some of it.

Her crocodile tears stopped with her rapidly convulsing at my stare. Her body was tingling with a sense of dread she had probably never felt before...and she fell unconscious.

I got up and walked away from the chaos, the girls didn't try to stop me, instead, they may have used social media to spread the news.

Hmm, I wonder...what will now unfold. All I need is for 2 people to not know just for 24 hours ...other than that, it doesn't matter.

Good job I am impressed Matsushita...just like some of the WR students..you too, did cause me to change my plans slightly.

Though, the real question is...will you be able to handle the consequences of going against your creator...

--

ANHSTUBE

'Kiyotaka Ayanokouji is a thief? A Stalker? A creep?'

--

My phone gave me a warning of what was about to follow.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

DEAR READERS

Meanings:

Ephemeral-temporary

Reprobate- Unprincipled person

Heh, this was dark...wasn't it?

I genuinely was feeling horrible writing this, this chapter was by far the most uncomfortable to write

Ryueen allying up with Chiaki...shocking right.

Matsushita...is well...crazy.

Hope yall enjoyed it, have a good day

Thank You.

30K!!!

Dear Readers,

January 20 was the start...maybe(that's what my rev history says)

So...today I reached 30K reads, about 58 ish days...basically 2 months(with weird February)

So, umm...how was the ride so far?

Quite a few got off this ride with valid reasons (most are...this fic is dark)...quite a few got on this ride with valid reasons as well.

I did get quite experimental with my fanfic...bringing canon divergence...hopefully to the max.

Learnt quite a lot from this...so

Thanks!!

I appreciate all those amazing theories yall have...nice to read them

Oh, while I am a teensy bit sad that so many other hints haven't been noticed by...almost anyone...and happy, since if u readers actually do get the hints...well then yall will be spoiled.

Also to clarify a few things which are quite recurring...sometimes in the comments sometimes elsewhere

1. NO LEMONS

2. NO HAREM

3. THERE IS A SHIP...JUST NOT YOURS

4. DON'T THINK OF ANY CHARACTER AS HOLY...ALL ARE ROTTEN, THE DIFF IS...WHO IS MORE ROTTEN.

5. EVERYONE IS KINDA TWISTED...MATSUSHITA IS A LOW TO MID TIER BOSS.

6. MY OC...WILL BE MINE ALONE...A UNIQUE ONE.

7. ALL MEDICAL, FIGHTS, PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS ARE MEDICALLY ACCURATE(though don't trust a fanfic...)...SO THEY MAY NOT BE AS ...WELL...ROMANTICISED AS SOME WANT IT.

8. DON'T HATE OR LOVE A CHARACTER...You will be disappointed. (maybe not certain ppl like Albert...he is just too bro-ly...is that even a word...idk...)

9. KIYOTAKA IS AVERAGE IN GENES...Keep that in mind.

10. DON'T UNDERESTIMATE ANYONE...THIS AIN'T LN

11. HAVE A GREAT LIFE

𝓢2-𝓒4: 𝓣𝓮𝓻𝓰𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷

𝒜𝓎𝒶𝓃𝑜𝓀𝑜𝓊𝒿𝒾'𝓈 𝒫𝒪𝒱:

They say humans are capable of unfathomable things, things which would tear the other apart without a single touch...things which would rot someone without ever letting them grow...

Things such as these are made by a palette of words where the world and its people are the canvas. Words, abuses, insults, hate everything has been showered on me graciously for the whole of the previous day.

Today upon entering class I witnessed my desk painted in red with Horikita trying her best to wipe it off with her hands now coloured red. I held her gently as I pushed her away showing me all the beautiful messages my classmates had sent me.

"Ayanokouji...please don't"

C̶̥̣̪̦̻̿̾͋͌̈͊r̸͙̖̞͍̩̼̉̇͗̄̌͛̒̋͆ė̴̥͝ẹ̷̛̺̞̯̘͔̅̔̆͆̓͗͋̚p̸͉̾͛̇ 'd̷̳̐̌̈̈̌͝i̷̢͎̪̘͑̈̈̏̑̏̕͠͝ė̶͙̖̝̣̭͊' c̶͚̝͍̳̼̗̻͓̣͑̑̋͘͠ŗ̷̖̾̌̏̔̏͑̕͠i̵̧̗̖̼̟̘̇̅̈͜͝m̷̷̸̡̡̢̪̠̜̪̠̜͙̆̋̔̑̆̋̔̑͛̄̇̒̊͠n̸̛̹͓͙̝̘̣͍̋͛̌̓̆̌a̶͆̿̊̾l̵̢̖͎͚͈̰̼͔͊̚ P̸̨̛̦̠̼͚̼͇͕̜̉̋̑̈ę̸̸̨̛̹͖͓̰̦̠̼͚̼͇͕̜̔̈̈̉̋̑̈͘͝͝ę̸̶̹͖͓̰̞͈̣͔͍͇̠̬̔̈̈͒̽̇̾͘͘͝͝v̶̶̴̧̧̛̛͇̮͇̮͐͐͊͝͝r̶̢͉̥̠̝̬̳͖͛̽͌͊ẗ̶̡̹̖̝͚̭̮̥͖͆̇͋͗̓̾͠͠

Now I am left with a dirty table and a classful of eyes with are daggers. Generally, after such an incident, most would simply take a break, maybe lock themselves up...or do something drastic.

I would have also done the same...but it was too bothersome

Horikita was saying something inaudible in whispers adorning a pained expression. This is surprising considering I never knew she cared for me. Looking around I found a few countable looks of sympathy, yet none except Horikita's of the belief that I didn't do it. ...Kushida, I can't really tell as of now.

It would seem that all the reputation I had worked for had gone down the drain, which is momentarily true but yet not a victory in her court.

So I simply brought a big enough paper and was about to tape it to the desk, when Sae-sensei came inside the class, and her eyes darted towards me as she stopped me.

"Don't do it. While you have been accused, you are still innocent until the school council proves that you are guilty...hence, this is classified as bullying and those students who have done so will be expelled."

Her voice was sharper than any knife...it was filled with strict unyielding authority that none of us had ever heard before. It was clear as day, she was angry...and for me...quite an interesting turn of events ,

the people I had thought of once to be expendable have stayed by me in times of betrayal.

What's Sensei's motive? Is it to gather more of my confidence to use me to reach class A?

Or is it prove to the class she is /a responsible teacher and maybe transfers?

...She looked at me once with...what I would discern as the same eyes I had seen once ...

𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓹𝓲𝓽𝔂 ...

𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝔀𝓱𝓲𝓬𝓱 𝔀𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓼𝓬𝓪𝓻𝓮𝓭

𝓝𝓸𝓽 𝓸𝓯 𝓶𝓮 𝓫𝓾𝓽 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓶𝓮

𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓪 𝓶𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓸𝓻 ...

𝓘𝓼 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼, 𝔀𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓪 𝓽𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓱𝓮𝓻 𝓲𝓼?

Silence and fear spread through the class while I pinpointed who did it based on how they reacted...that's quite the bunch

A boy who I caught as one of the perpetrators got up with his feet shaking and trembling,

"H-How are y-you going to to do that sensei"

"The cameras in this room are there for a reason. Class D defects, congrats...now you all are going to graduate from Class E"

"W-what does Class E mean?"

"EXPELLED"

I put a stop to this unnecessary drama by voicing my judgement.

"No need to bother sensei. I will manage it, please carry on with your teaching."

I began taping the desk while some felt uncomfortable at me...a disgusting person...saving them.

There is no need for them to think of this as a favour, after all, why should I settle for just expulsion.

Right now, the exam is the focus, not this. If Matsushita wants to break me down, she shouldn't have tried this method. What she could have done was attack one of my tools instead, then I would at least try a bit more to stop it. After all, my tools are quite fragile ...Matsushita is the glaring example of that.

I silently sat down on my seat and stared outside the window as I wondered that maybe, just maybe...this is bigger than Matsushita and I. Someone else, in this school...is pulling the strings, someone craftier

While Matsushita can make connections and plans...she is deficient in thinking ahead, hence someone must have assisted her behind the scenes. It couldn't have been Ryueen as he only cares about his deal, yet unknown to me. If I do consider even for a second, that maybe Ryueen himself is taking advice from someone else, while making such risky deals with Class D. It would all make sense, fitting perfectly like Jigsaw pieces.

To say I hadn't predicted a betray of sorts, wouldn't do justice...while I had thought of that possibility and had taken necessary precautions in lieu of such an event arising, the extremity of it was certainly what was beyond my consideration. But again, as they say, the higher they fly the faster they fall.

The classes went by quicker than anticipated as most were either extremely quiet or focusing on me rather than talking to each other like they used to, giving the teachers more time to teach quickly. Hence comes the hour of discussion when I reached the room to find a sleeping Ichinose. In light of the recent circumstances, I simply sat opposite her to keep her safe from the lewd gazes of oncoming students while making my intentions clear.

She woke up after a while yawning as she noticed me sitting and called me

"A-Ayanoukouji-kun, I heard what happened...are you alright? Amikura san and Chihiro san were worried about you."

It seems I had a better reputation in other classes than I anticipated.

"I am fine Ichinose and please thank them from my end for asking."

"Mhmm, Ayanokouji-kun, what do you think will be the outcome? Will we be able to get Option 1?"

"I do hope for that outcome as it's the most beneficial. But only time can tell."

There was a silence uncharacteristic for her..yet oddly calming in the chaos around us.

"I really do believe you are innocent...but I also know...the masses opinion becomes a fact regardless of the reality."

I nod in acceptance of her words...the truth is what the masses think...not what is the reality.

One by one all joined in, with a few looking in disgust while others were uncaring about the controversy around me. This time there were quite a few arguments in inconsequential details from the group which could be linked to the odd and uncomfortable presence aka me.

After this ordeal was over the anticipated announcement rang in my awaiting ears.

AYANOKOUJI KIYOTAKA PLEASE REPORT TO THE SC OFFICE IMMEDIATELY

I suppose it's time to show Matsushita the cracks of her scheme. Don't worry, you will grow from this.

I did what from an outside perspective would be a walk of shame with complete shamelessness.

Ironical but true, considering my stoic expression to the innumerable taunts and slurs thrown at me by my classmates were like a dog's barking, something which I ignored.

I entered to the already seated members of the council awaiting my presence, this time with Kiryuuin and Nagumo.

I sat down with Matsushita opposite to me maintaining a hurt expression with fear diluted in it.

Tachibana spoke in a loud and crystal clear voice

"Today, we have a case against Kiyotaka Ayanokouji regarding the incident which went viral on social media yesterday at 6 pm. SCP would you like to review the footage?"

SCP denied any further questions with a nod signifying a yes.

After the video was played...which was, I must say, in extremely high quality...as if it was preplanned.

The first chance was given to Matsushita to speak up who handed her phone to SCP

"As everyone present can clearly see, Ayanokouji had first stolen it and then took revealing pictures of me without my consent and was going to blackmail me for it. I request the SCP to suspend him for a while until I decide to forgive him."

Only suspend? Why not take the chance to expel me?

So if I had to guess, she wants me to not interfere for a given time frame after which my participation in her life will be inconsequential. While this is a beneficial bit of information, I can't bring this angle up in this case as it will need me to frame myself as guilty.

"Ayanokouji, do you have anything to say in your defence?" SCP's voice was filled with a plea for this to be a lie...for me to be innocent...be careful SCP your true intentions are leaking.

"Can we see the pictures, I can prove they were not taken by me."

There were immediate accusations hurled by Matsushita," So you want to not just show my body to the public but also want to prove that you aren't trying to sell my photos...quite contradictory if I had to say."

Her calm voice betrayed her heart palpitating in fear...probably on the slight chance that I may be able to prove myself.

"Considering I have already seen it...as you say...other than me, the female members can judge this meeting...is that alright?"

SCP said in a tone of authority, "While what Ayanokouji says is accurate...I make the calls...and I approve it. Only Tachibana and Kirryuin will be carrying out this meeting...and both of you, it's my order, be impartial and make an accurate judgement."

He got up from his seat and walked out with the other male member leaving 4 of us...reducing the number of variables from the equation. I honestly didn't need the photos ...it was just a pretence to get many members out before showing a bit of my logical prowess.

I got up from my seat upon getting approval from Kiryuuin and started speaking, "As you all can see...these pics have been taken by her phone and the metadata has been wiped...wouldn't that raise suspicion?"

Kiryuuin crossed me," So you are saying that, clearing the evidence of your alleged crimes puts suspicion on the victim. Now either you are crazy or about to say something interesting, please continue."

Wasn't that what I was doing?

"As I repeat, this metadata may have been wiped...why would I if I was guilty would have not deleted the photo itself? Why bother deleting the metadata...seems useless and quite incriminating of sabotaging myself... ..don't you SC members agree?"

This time Tachibana asked, "If what you say is to be believed, why did you have her phone with you?"

"Horikita found it on the discussion table and then asked me to return it."

Kiryuuin asked," Kouhai, why YOU?"

"That, you will have to ask Horikita herself...but as per my hypothesis, it probably was because I was Matsushita's ex-friend."

Matsushita perked up on that but didn't comment.

Tachibana then probed, "Ex? What happened between you two?"

Matsushita this time started crying again, she should apply for the Oscars.

"H-He was a liar and had at multiple occasions been betraying my trust...h-he also used me to do class activities..."

I stopped this melodramatic nonsense as I asked, "I don't presume this is related to the case we are now dealing with...is it?"

"Kouhai, while what you said is true...I would like to know more, continue Matsushita."

Finding a way to incriminate me with emotions she fired up with all the things she could get her hands on and exaggerated it beyond proportion. She was gaining the sympathy of Tachibana but for Kiryuuin this was nothing but a soap opera that she gets to enjoy.

If I am unable to prove my innocence right here and now, this will cause certain obstacles in making those 2 individuals believe in my innocence...I need public proof.

If I do so...Matsuhita's position will inevitably decimate causing class chaos...which will be taken advantage of by Ryueen and his hypothetical leader...

It's a stalemate ...as both sides are in a blockage, one I accept the guilt , for now, causing my other plan to be more tedious and cause an increase in chances of failure ...or I prove Matsushita to be the perpetrator , in which scenario Ryueen will dominate our class .

Quite an elegant scheme...very uncharacteristic of Ryueen, who while is smart..but can definitely not come up with such a subtle yet effective modus operandi as he mainly acts straightforward with a few underhanded techniques.

Matsushita's voice of complaint had finally come to a halt as I asked, "Are you done? Do you need some water to refill your tear supply?"

At that insult, she flared up, "Don't you care a little bit about how much pain you have caused me?"

"What pain Matsushita? The photos are planted and are fake...just like you. Did you really expect me to fall for your plan? What am I...your dog? That you can leash up? Or maybe I am the one...who you presume to be..."

I walked up to the projector displaying the video of a weeping Horikita.

-- --

'Horikita why did you steal it? You realise what happened don't you?

II didn't...Ryueen forced me...a-and because of that...you got framed...II am so sorry Ayanokouji...I didn't realise that the deal with Matsushita to give you the phone to return it to her would lead to such consequences

Do you have any proof?

Y-yes, I made a contract with her regarding this deal...here'

I passed the contract to the rest of the present assemblage to see

' I Suzune Horikita, hereby will not tamper with the phone that is being lent by Chiaki Matsushita for 30 minutes from 5:15 pm to 5:45 pm and under any circumstances make Kiyotaka Ayanokouji to return the phone-Signed 𝒞𝒽𝒾𝒶𝓀𝒾 and 𝒮𝓊𝓏𝓊𝓃𝑒 '

-- -

"...a fool you can control at your whim?"

The dark smug face of Matsushita who was trying to play with me...was now simply a puppet whose strings have been snipped off.

How unfortunate for her, as she tries to desperately come up with a way to handle this unprecedented scenario appearing out of thin air.

While she might have erased any evidence from her side and kept Horikita under the fear that she might be persecuted for taking her phone, which by school laws are indeed a violation.

But she didn't account for...the thing which all this boils down to...the unpredictability of emotions.

While logically Horikita's decision to confide in me might be a folly ...her emotions took control and made this action, which Matsushita failed to account for.

Matsushita, the difference between you and I...is the will to adapt...I learnt at least one thing from all this chaos, emotions are volatile...yet streamlined .

They follow a specific pattern after a drastic change, I made a mistake, based on my lack of experience...you made the same mistake...but based on your overconfidence.

You didn't encounter the idea of what emotional suffering Horikita would go through once her only friend and a pawn to class A..is at the risk of expulsion because of her and those tears that were present in her eyes as she desperately tried to rub off the red taints on my image were crystal clear signs of the fact...

She broke, just like you. I simply used the opportunity after class to my benefit and derived a confession, which will now work against you...

So this is how you lose... your own tool brings forth your demise.

Truly, a fool's mate .

She got up from her seat not heeding to the protests by the SC members as she walked towards me with increasing anger at her inevitable downfall

"YOU FREAK...YOU MONSTER...I LOVED YOU..."

She slapped me hard enough to leave a distinct echo...

Just as expected...while I don't understand emotions, I do know what makes people break.

How they whimper, how they resist, how they complain...how they howl in anger.

Some bow down in defeat while others let their corrupted rage and emotions take over.

Matsushita's inevitable collapse into failure wasn't unprecedented but a meticulously planned strategy undertaken and disguised as her own by none other than Ryueen and his allies.

If my hypothesis was correct, he or his ally caught on to Matsushita's changing behaviour by a mole in the class. ..who relayed this information and then used this as leverage they may have made a deal with her based on the recording Ryueen sent on her phone.

What further confirms my hypothesis is the fact that Matsushita was manipulated by Ryueen to accept it in the pretence of me as the bait which she predictably caught sight of and accepted.

(AN: For clearer representation...as well...this plan is a stacked one

Hope y'all understood how Chiaki is actually destroyed..and how Kiyo wins kinda.)

After enjoying this drama, Kiryuiin got up from her seat and announced in the broadcasting speaker addressing the school ,

"Upon close inspection of the given proofs and the following events which transpired I Kiryuuin Fuka and Akane Tachibana both as representatives of Manabu Horikita, the SCP hereby announce Kiyotaka Ayanokouji as wrongfully accused and hence not guilty.

Chiaki Matsushita has filed an immoral case and had tried to frame Kiyotaka Ayanokouji for heinous acts worthy of expulsion, please keep this in mind."

Why did she have to announce this to the school?

"Kiryuuin senpai that was unnecessary."

She grinned at me as she put her arm around my shoulder and glaring at Matsushita

"But it wasn't unlawful, unlike someone over here...so Kouhai, what should we do with her, expulsion is on the table."

"Please take your hand off...and No, I wish to do none of that."

Matsushita was shocked at my judgement and so was Tachibana, Kiryuuin on the other hand laughed

"Kouhai-kun, you are such a unique up person...I really adore you...alright, since you didn't file a report...I guess we can let both of you off...scot -free."

I didn't need to know that

Quietly we both left the room and Matsushita addressed the elephant in the room

"Why did you...not let me get expelled?"

"It was my fault for using you and turning you like this, so it's understandable that this all ensued."

"No, you didn't make me like this...it was just hidden until you showed up and opened my pandora's box for the world to see."

"Well, now you will face the consequences of your actions."

"Kiyotaka, are we still friends.."

" Don't call me that ...and no we are not, we are nothing more than classmates...keep that in your mind...because next time I won't let you off...I saved you for one purpose alone... and that is ..."

After getting the necessary information I blocked her and after saying a final goodbye I walked away, hopefully she will never try to intentionally communicate with me again.

Kei Karuizawa...you are next, and this time...there won't be any mistakes

GOODBYE CHIAKI MATSUSHITA

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

DEAR READERS,

Say bye to Matsushita for a long time...maybe

And welcome Kei arc

And the reason I didn't expel her...is the same reason kiyo didn't expel Ryueen.

Oh, the aftermath of this will also be quite a show.

Who is Ryueen's ally? Any theories? What did Kiyo ask from her?

Horikita and Sae got character development...Chiaki got stranded..how twisted is fate isn't it...?

Hope y'all enjoyed it, if you did leave a vote...and comment what you thought

Have a great day

Thank you.

𝓢2-𝓒5: 𝓔𝔂𝓮𝓼 𝓸𝓯 𝓐 𝓒𝓻𝓾𝓮𝓵 𝓑𝓵𝓸𝓸𝓶

Ayanokouji's POV:

Mental Isolation, several studies have been performed in this field which shows how a human tends to isolate painful memories from their system to behave normally in society. Now, what happens when society itself points those fingers at you? Now just your mind but society itself has to be isolated. In such a situation, either you can ignore everything which needs immense mental fortitude which most if not all humans are incapable of.

One more method, the more common one, has been chosen by Chiaki Matsushita

"Matsushita won't be attending school for the next few days, her lack of participation and the acts towards Ayanokouji has been accounted for and her group for the exam will continue...with a loss of 30 Class Points."

Ryueen has won against the Class this time. Good job Ryueen. But... I have benefitted.

"While he didn't report it, the cameras did catch it..and he will be receiving 100,000 pp as compensation. Now, congrats... you all mongrels are back in Class D ."

Silence ensued for a whole class with grief-stricken faces of the prominent leaders of Class...D until one of them spoke up," B-But why are we being punished for her mistake. It's unfair" Shinohara spoke up.

"Did you stop her? Did you all say anything when such acts were done against Ayanokouji? If not, they shut up and sit down, the school is very disappointed by your disgusting acts. Honestly elites...bullying innocents...you are nothing trash, know your place.

D-E-F-E-C-T-S"

Hirata nervously spoke up," Sensei, we all are sorry for what happened...A-Ayanokouji...I-I didn't stop them...I am s-sorry...I was -"

His character had a drastic shift after this dramatic incident as I could see on his face and puffed eyes, does it hurt him that much? Is it just his empathy exuding...or is something else going on entirely...guess I will have to find out.

"I think I don't need to repeat it...I accepted your apologies, no need to exaggerate the matter beyond proportion."

After class Horikita brought me to a corner before joining our respective groups.

Horikita spoke up with a broken voice," Only...you can push away such matters without a second thought...most of us, would be crushed...how...do you do it?"

"It's because I had no expectations from any of you in the first place, hence it wasn't the least bit surprising."

Horikita 's head dropped upon hearing that

"...But I was wrong and because of you, I was able to prove my innocence...So I thank you."

I genuinely meant it. Horikita's work as a tool was quite efficient and fruitful, something which Horikita has repeatedly proved herself to be...even with her bossy and entitled attitude.

Her cheeks flared up as she coughed slightly at that comment but brought back her elegant nature

"...I just did what I had to...considering I can't let my pawn...no friend...leave my sights without reaching class A."

"Just because you changed the tag don't expect too much."

"Just be there that's enough for now.

"For now?"

"Nevermind, we have to go to the meetings Bye."

"Bye Horikita"

"C-Call me Suzune since we qualify as friends...Kiyotaka"

...Not again

"Alright Suzune"

"Alright bye, Kiyotaka."

Before leaving 2 other people cut my path...and surprisingly it was Sudo and Akito.

Sudo slapped my back with happiness in his bright smile. Sudo was one of the few who didn't come to a judgement. Hence, I can tell with certainty...he didn't have any malice behind that hit.

Akito gave me a pat on my shoulder with guilt etched over his face as he apologised

"Ayanokouji, I am sorry. I know that we haven't been friends for long...but I should have known that you can't do such a thing...It's just, that Haruka being friends with Matsushita told me to believe her...and as you know...she is my old friend...I know that's not any good reason...hence I really wanted to apologise, it was very wrong of me..."

His voice trembled a bit at the end showing his pain while saying that...

Sudo on the other hand then got down to his knees and while holding his ears apologised

"I was a bad friend Ayanokouji. I betrayed you by keeping quiet while talking shit behind you...I was scared to be left all alone again...I was more scared for my 2 piece reputation than my bro. For that, I am sorry my man...I promise I will never do that again...You are my best friend, please FORGIVE ME, dude."

He said loudly enough to bring forth a crowd of people...unlike the last time...this time the photos were taken with a smile...rather than hate.

I ushered the crowd away," Could you all, please let us be..."

They got the hint and left.

I turned to them who were awkwardly laughing...honestly it looked quite strange to have such burly strong students apologise to someone who looked quite small to them in comparison...and those slight watery eyes in Sudo's eyes hidden by his manly facade...didn't help too much to lighten the situation. A valiant effort nonetheless.

Should I tell them that what they thought never mattered as in the end I would have won anyway? Should I disclose that I didn't have one ounce of care about whether they supported me or hated me? Is it because I never considered anyone as a friend...not even once, it's just something I have been trying to form a barrier around by addressing people as friends... It's like naming your tools doesn't make them more valuable...but do add a certain intangible value to them.

Do I want tools with tags or humans with hearts as my friends...My answer will determine that...While the truth will accept my heartless nature, the lie will gain me...these valid enough friendships.

A friendshipbased on a lie

...or...

A broken bond with a truth.

"I trust you both to keep your promises...I forgive you."

A simple answer..to such a dramatic apology, which while may feel bland...spoke a thousand words to them. They both nodded and left with a final wave of parting and another one of those awkward laughs of theirs.

If a lie...can save my bond with these 2 individuals, I think it's worth it, even if I have to lie until the day...I can make it my truth.

A Fake...until the Reality knocks on this cold heart...cracking it.

Upon reaching the hall I was deemed to be late and was met with those eyes, this time filled in guilt. Ichinose welcomed me with a cheery voice

"Come on in Ayanokouji-kun. We were just about to start the meeting."

"Thank you, Ichinose."

I sat alongside Karuizawa to not listen to the apologies that I have been getting repeatedly the whole day.

Karuizawa didn't mind having me as a neighbour and continued using her phone unbothered by the world around her. Though if I had to point something out, the moment I came close, her typing speed increased. She is probably texting about how much of a jerk I am.

Upon starting the meeting Katsuragi's Class yet again with no participation whatsoever basically rejected the notion of working with us whatsoever and as they put it

"We care about our class alone, while this may be a team of other classes, securing safety for our class takes priority and the way is to think not to talk."

Considering Ichinose's strategy of working together was thrown into disarray it was no surprise that she said

"How about a game...after all, we don't have much to do anyway."

Most perked up at that

"Great, how about a game of words...I start with one and it passes around with the ending alphabet as the first."

Everyone bored thought it would be fun and joined in as this game started...Soon the game got harder...and harder

"Nonplussed"

"debacle"

"equipoise"

And as expected only Ichinose's class remained, I also was included. While I could act normal and not say much, it was getting quite interesting to find the vocabulary level of my peers so I continued.

"Gobbledegook"

Others stared at me with strange eyes as I explained

"defines Random blabbering with incoherent noise"

Ichinose searched it up and upon approval moved on.

"Abnegation"

I think that's all I should say, as those curious eyes were increasing in depth.

"A-A...I don't know."

I lifted my hands in a sign of defeat with Ichinose pumping her hand up in victory. If she wasn't this pure, I would have assumed that she planned this game as a subtle way of showing their superiority to other classes... Right?

The bell rang signalling the end of the hall time...and the beginning of my plan.

After Karuizawa left, quite quickly at that. The 3 girls tried following her but failed considering that Karuizawa had gone with another friend group...Smart, using numbers as an advantage.

But... in the end...this will inevitably be pointless, you...will realise, that your fears, will devour you...and no one will save you...absolutely... NO-ONE.

I walked back to my room getting a call from a number I know all too well.

"Open the door."

"It's not Friday."

"Ayanokouji, if you don't I will make sure to ban Ice-cream being sold in this school."

Running at the highest speed I could I opened the door with too much force causing the door to bang the wall hard enough to cause a crack...there goes 10,000pp down the drain...but ice cream holds top priority.

I found 3 people waiting outside for me...Manabu Tachibana and...Kiryuuin grinning as usual.

"KOUHAIII--"

"No, I allowed you to join us but shut your mouth Kiryuuin."

"Sorry...President" Kiryuuin's smile faltered...even she doesn't want to make him angry.

Manabu's voice screamed authority as his cold aura increased as they walked inside...seriously, isn't this violation of privacy. Tachibana nodded at me...which is strange...now that I think about it, her behaviour towards me was...not harsh.

Did something happen?

"Manabu...Do you need something from me? You could have called me to the office."

"I could have...but other members may have objection with what I am about to do...which is quite embarrassing..but important."

Manabu senpai came and hugged me suddenly

"I am glad...Ayanokouji...you scared me...and thank you for your advice...I and Akane are dating now."

His cold voice mellowed down with a sense of relief and happiness uncharacteristic of someone in his position which occurred almost immediately after hugging me. I guess, this is what being grateful is.

"I am pleasantly surprised...congrats Tachibana senpai and Manabu senpai on your relationship."

Tachibana senpai blushed a bit at that...but her eyes quickly changed to one of sadness.

"She was close to you...wasn't she?"

Her grave tone brought down the light air as Kiryuuin continued

"Kouhai-kun...the way she talked about you...every time she said something harsh about you, her face scrunched up...while...hah, all those cheezy moments she told with happiness...even a dense star-like Manabu senpai can say...you both were close."

"Kiryuuin...when will you stop insulting me?"

"Senpai, it's the truth...and you know it...after all, you both wouldn't be here if Kouhai-kun didn't beat some sense into you."

Manabu senpai adjusted his spectacles turning away from her...

"She was closer to me than anyone in this school..."

"It...must have been hard for you, after she betrayed you...I don't know what to say, you helped us into a relationship...while suffering.."

"You didn't tell me...when I last visited you...why?"

WHY?

A good question...why?

Why didn't I?

Was it because I didn't want to cause any unknown variables to enter my plan...which is what my mind dictates me...It was simply a logical course of action...

but should I have shared it...

But I didn't feel anything except a slight tinge of abandonment. But nothing other than that...nothing like those books said that it would hurt.

"I apologise, it was just a precarious situation I had been in. So I didn't want to disclose such matters until things stabilised."

"I understand that...It's just that I was just very shocked upon the complaint I received"

Kiryuuin spoke up again," Kouhai-kun, he spilled his teacup and he went full serious eyed...poor old senpai, so worried about you."

...Him and teacups...don't get along very well...how unfortunate.

He scolded her," One more word...Kiryuuin...and I will take away all your bunking privileges."

She put her finger up to grinning lips signalling she will keep quiet for a while.

"I think we have overstayed our welcome, take care Ayanokouji."

"Ba-bye Kouhai -kun...tell me if you feel lonely..."

"Thank you Ayanokouji...you are not as rude as I thought Kouhai."

"Bye"

It was already night... I wonder what Hirata is doing.

I went up to Hirata's room and waited in the corner

At exactly 12 am he walked outside with a quiet thump. I decided to intercept him

"Ayanokouji...Is that you?"

"Ya, Hirata...I wanted to talk to you. Is it alright if we do so right now?"

"Quite a coincidence...Karuizawa-san also called me to talk to her...how about we go together and later "

Such a straightforward approval was more or less expected, his rationale had been shifted. The moment it focuses on me, he will try his best to satisfy my request...I simply used his guilt complex to my advantage.

After all, normally this would make him suspect why I am here at 12 am or why I asked his help at the exact time as Karuizawa.

"I don't see an issue"

We walked in silence as he whispered

"A-Ayanokouji...I apologise again...I am such a fail-"

This is getting bothersome...how many times will people apologise to me and in how many different ways...it's getting redundant.

"As I said before, I have forgiven everyone. End this story."

I forced an authoritative tone to stop his self-deprecating words, Hirata is no doubt a great leader...but his sense of responsibility is a hindrance in such situations...

Will this cause a problem in the future?

Karuizawa was waiting outside her room, her face lit up with Hirata coming with a wave...and I waited for her disgusted face as I came into her view

But none arrived except a quiet nod approving my arrival

"So you brought him along...alright, I didn't thank you properly that day ...so umm thanks..."

"Don't mention it, I simply was there at the right time...and I apologise for intruding"

"Nah, don't worry about it...you are already involved."

I nodded as she made Hirata sit close to her while I stood in the corner of her dark room.

"Hirata...help me, Those class C bi*ches are harassing me all day. I am so done with them...like they almost beat me up."

Hirata calmed her down," I can talk to them about it."

Karuizawa's head gave a sharp rejection of that idea

"Nah, they won't listen like...I don't know...beat them up or something"

Quite a violent method of approach.

Hirata stood up in disagreement," I am doing no such thing, I can't...Peacefully settling this is the only option."

Karuizawa's tears started welling up as she screamed,

" NOO! THEY DESERVE IT YOU, PACIFISTIC IDIOT! YOU ALWAYS DO THIS...CAN'T YOU GET IT INTO

YOUR DUMB HEAD THAT TALKING DOESN'T SOLVE SUCH THINGS...WE ARE SOOO DONE WITH

THIS FAKE RELATIONSHIP, GO TO HELL!"

She stormed up quite quickly but Hirata made no effort to follow her...and my suspicions were accurate about their pretend relationship...after all...they never called each other with their first names and Hirata's inactivity in any form of intimacy.

"I am sorry you had to see that right after what happened to you...I messed up again"

"Why didn't you help her as she asked"

"I-I don't know...I-It's just that...violence...never...does bring closure...It simply...makes things...so...much... worse..."

Is this his idealism or experience talking?

"Did something happen...it's fine if you don't want to talk about it."

" No...after I failed to be a good leader... and you were the victim...you deserve an answer.

M-my...best friend...suicided...no...he was murdered...and I was one of them...who killed him."

If this wasn't in context...I would be scared...

"...I abandoned him...when I should have stayed...then maybe...he wouldn't have been committed to such a step...maybe I could have saved him...but I didn't.

I can't take it back...so I thought...maybe by being there with Karuizawa-san...such a thing won't repeat... "

He needs to realise

He can't take responsibility for everyone's gardens of life

Watering and Nurturing them

is their responsibility

because then

who will take care of his dying garden?

But it's not the right time to say him such things...he will realise it when the time comes.

"I don't know what to say...but, I agree with Karuizawa...while violence may be a drastic option...it's still an option."

"Hah...of course, you would agree...after all, because of my pacifism, we lost to Ryueen's Class C and costed so many injuries to my classmates.."

"You were injured too."

"Hmm...it doesn't matter what happens to me."

"How do you think...we can be under your protection...when you can't protect yourself"

"I don't know...I never know...so tell me, how do you do it? How are you always...so level headed...all this success we had received...had your contributions in it...some seen...some unseen"

His accusations are quite accurate

"You don't have any proof...do you?"

"Does it matter...after all, we don't deserve your potential, after what we did...I wouldn't be surprised if you decided to leave us...and j-join another class."

"Who gave you the right...to tell me what I should do."

My voice went dark as I stared at him...

"Remember Hirata...you don't know what I want or how I feel...you are just the class leader to me...nothing more, nothing less"

Leaving him fear-stricken I walked out.

Leaving the class is out of the question...too many things are already devised...step-by-step...

... I will create my elites

Waging a war on my birthplace itself.

Backing out would be destroying my creations...

Anyone saying or doing otherwise will be eliminated.

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers

I am not gonna lie...I tried making this a light chapter...but ya umm...it went dark...whoops.

Like...I give of making lighter chapters...it just doesn't work out...that weird itch to add some serious moments just is like a reflex.

I focused on the consequences of guilt...which ranged from isolation in Matsushita to a numbin

g pain (Akito), a want for forgiveness (in the naive Sudo and Horikita) and a feeling of indebtedness (Hirata) etc...

Oh, and did you feel Manabu being too dramatic...well, he has his reasons...after his POV things will become much clearer.

Oh also...why didn't any of u wonder why the chars in my book are more well...observant or heavy hearted...well I will answer it anyways/

Horikita: Not a siscon...but a neglected and tragic life...so she became more focused and emotional with acceptance of her flaws.

Ryueen: He didn't kill a snake...but rather it was worse...so along with his cruelty came the realisation...Violence while maybe one of the only tombstones...but it's not enough for a building...things such as strategies and cooperation...are also important (that's why he is taking help from his ally)

Ichinose...umm, backstory is still under construction.

Kiyotaka is in a tightspot with his logicality brought into question...cause it's colliding and causing a paradox of right and wrong...as well...his wrong is to lead to doing something right.

Sudou: Because this time...he has more to prove...this time...to his own reflection.

Well..other chars...do you want some more backstories?...I am willing to do more

Have a great day

Thank you.

SS-4: E̶̛̖̖̼̰̺͇͊͛͐̉̏͘͜͜͝R̷͚̼̠͇͒͒̎R̸̢̢̭̜͕͕͈̲̅̈́̍͋̃̾͒͗̎͘Я̶̢̡̹̗̺̜̮͎̭̑̊̈́͛̆̄̓̓͝͝O̴

The dark eyes stared into me. Have I ever realised, how much pain they bring to me

Every insult, every extra ranking...every single one...I remember them all.

'Ŝ̴͎͙̜̗͇̳̇͋͛̿ů̷̺́̈́̄́͆̀̓͊̚b̴̨̘̫͖̝̮̗̱̓̑͜͝j̴̧̻͉̹̞͍̙̥̹́͑̔͝ͅë̵̪̟̬̬̟́̐͜c̶̛̖̳̺̞̏̀̉̚ͅẗ̵̘̘͙̦͇̘̤́́͋̀͂̌̎̆̿̽͜ ̴̙͖̲̖̺͆̈̽̽̐͑̏̈́͂͌ͅ0̸͇̬͍̦̟̻͇͐͆̏̍͒͑0̸̝̞̮͖͉̮͕̮͒͗̃̕͝ͅ7 Congratulation, today your count is 23.'

'Ŝ̴͎͙̜̗͇̳̇͋͛̿ů̷̺́̈́̄́͆̀̓͊̚b̴̨̘̫͖̝̮̗̱̓̑͜͝j̴̧̻͉̹̞͍̙̥̹́͑̔͝ͅë̵̪̟̬̬̟́̐͜c̶̛̖̳̺̞̏̀̉̚ͅẗ̵̘̘͙̦͇̘̤́́͋̀͂̌̎̆̿̽͜ ̴̙͖̲̖̺͆̈̽̽̐͑̏̈́͂͌ͅ0̸͇̬͍̦̟̻͇͐͆̏̍͒͑0̸̝̞̮͖͉̮͕̮͒͗̃̕͝ͅ7 Today your count is 25'

'Ŝ̴͎͙̜̗͇̳̇͋͛̿ů̷̺́̈́̄́͆̀̓͊̚b̴̨̘̫͖̝̮̗̱̓̑͜͝j̴̧̻͉̹̞͍̙̥̹́͑̔͝ͅë̵̪̟̬̬̟́̐͜c̶̛̖̳̺̞̏̀̉̚ͅẗ̵̘̘͙̦͇̘̤́́͋̀͂̌̎̆̿̽͜ ̴̙͖̲̖̺͆̈̽̽̐͑̏̈́͂͌ͅ0̸͇̬͍̦̟̻͇͐͆̏̍͒͑0̸̝̞̮͖͉̮͕̮͒͗̃̕͝ͅ7 Today your count is 3̴͆̃́͛͆͝0'

'Ŝ̴͎͙̜̗͇̳̇͋͛̿ů̷̺́̈́̄́͆̀̓͊̚b̴̨̘̫͖̝̮̗̱̓̑͜͝j̴̧̻͉̹̞͍̙̥̹́͑̔͝ͅë̵̪̟̬̬̟́̐͜c̶̛̖̳̺̞̏̀̉̚ͅẗ̵̘̘͙̦͇̘̤́́͋̀͂̌̎̆̿̽͜ ̴̙͖̲̖̺͆̈̽̽̐͑̏̈́͂͌ͅ0̸͇̬͍̦̟̻͇͐͆̏̍͒͑0̸̝̞̮͖͉̮͕̮͒͗̃̕͝ͅ7 Today your count is 3̷̧̡̜̠̦̒͒́̿5̷͉̫̠̯̭͗̓̅̏̄̃̈́̈̋̂͜͜''

'Ŝ̴͎͙̜̗͇̳̇͋͛̿ů̷̺́̈́̄́͆̀̓͊̚b̴̨̘̫͖̝̮̗̱̓̑͜͝j̴̧̻͉̹̞͍̙̥̹́͑̔͝ͅë̵̪̟̬̬̟́̐͜c̶̛̖̳̺̞̏̀̉̚ͅẗ̵̘̘͙̦͇̘̤́́͋̀͂̌̎̆̿̽͜ ̴̙͖̲̖̺͆̈̽̽̐͑̏̈́͂͌ͅ0̸͇̬͍̦̟̻͇͐͆̏̍͒͑0̸̝̞̮͖͉̮͕̮͒͗̃̕͝ͅ7Ţ̵̡̐͑̾̆̈́͐̈́̀̐͜͝ö̵̦̱̣̭̟́͒̎̆̄́́̉d̷̺̲̭̽͐́́͗̀͊̑͝ā̵͇͕̜͎̬͉̹̈̍̔̉̀̀̇͘͜͜y̸̡̻̺̘͕̮͇̜̐̓͊͊͐ ̸͔̟͕̰̬̭̝͖̏͛̋̉͊͂y̵̧̛͈̬͐͒̐̅͛̎͑͜͝͝o̴̼͝u̵̡̨͖̦̲̫̼͕̜͗̊̾̃̎ͅŗ̵̢̯̫̦̩͖̦̪͑ ̷̨̩̖̞͚̱͍͉̑̌̊̈̀͜ċ̴̝̮̳͇̻̤̓͘o̸̢̨̪̖͇͔̬̟̒̌̾̋͒̋̀̚ͅu̴̟̿̿̃̒̒͝n̸̢̛̺̮͇̫̜͉̟̠̒̈́͋͆̇ṯ̴̟͇̒͛̃̂̃͌̆̄̂͘ ̸̨̛̫̙͖̣́̌̑̓̋͗̊̏̓i̵̱̼̫͍̝̱̺̝͙̍̑́͛̾́̕s̷͔̲̋̍̊͗̐͝ -̷̛̱̮̪̀̋͋͛̏ͅ-̶̺̩͙͖̈́-̵̧̡̨̛̤̀̐̑̋́́́͜͠͝''

Those hollow words mean nothing...that twisted yearning means nothing.

All, here are just to devour or to be devoured.

That's what life is...a game in which, the winner...is the one, who can suffer the most.

The prey was me...the heart was mine...the anger was mine...yet...why does it belong to him?

Isn't it simply like the Comedy of errors...which Shakeshpear penned down?

I let a small chuckle escape my blood red lips.

"Madam, do you need anything?"

"No, nothing of any sort...just found a situation humorous."

"I see Madam, I apologise for intruding your line of thought"

"No, it's alright...Why should I think such thoughts when I will be shaping reality itself."

"Wise words expected nothing less from you, madam."

"Where is the puppet investor ?"

"Madam, he is being thoroughly examined before he can enter this place."

"Good, the government wouldn't want me to exist

... better make sure it stays that way...

OR ELSE

I spinned a photo frame of a man with a child on his shoulders smiling at the child's laughter.

How...sweet.

"Y-Yes...Madam, I r-realise that please...don't hurt my child."

"Good...and...sorry"

I dropped the photo frame on accident...hah...such a clumsy person I am.

He dropped on the floor with his gloved hands shaking as he clasped them together.

Beg more...

Beg like I did...

Feel the torture I felt...

...No...don't do it...store this pain...it will be paid in full soon enough

"Get up...she is alive...in her grandma's house...of course...

UNDER MY OBSERVATION.

"Y-yes maam..."

"How does it feel.. instructor...being my tool? I am sure those masochistic tendencies of yours must have short-circuited.I saved a heathen like you from execution...Remember... "

"I am indebted to you Madam. I will continue to serve you until my last breath...else I know the consequences."

"Fuh, that's what sounds like music to my ears. A vile egomaniac like you deserves not death...but revelation."

"Yes madam."

"Oh, I almost forgot...have you uploaded the footage from ANHS cameras to my personal computers."

"...Yes, but...it's ...illeg-"

"I know...the government might get a lead on us...but...Professor Sakayanagi promised to feed false information to Subject 007 about my arrival...after all... his daughter's life is on the line

...He also promised...to

Keep...me...safe."

𝓜𝔂 𝓫𝓻𝓸𝓴𝓮𝓷 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮...

𝓜𝔂 𝓬𝓻𝓾𝓼𝓱𝓮𝓭 𝓼𝓸𝓾𝓵...

𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓹𝓪𝓲𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓪𝓷𝓭𝓼 𝓻𝓮𝓭...

𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝓷𝓸𝔀 𝓹𝓪𝓲𝓷𝓽 𝓲𝓽...𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓽𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓼...

𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓽𝓬𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓼𝓾𝓯𝓯𝓮𝓻...𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓽𝓬𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓰𝓸 𝓶𝓪𝓭...

𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓽𝓬𝓱 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓾𝓷𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓼𝓱 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓭𝓮𝓶𝓸𝓷...

𝓐𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓶𝔂 𝓸𝔀𝓷 𝓽𝔀𝓸 𝓮𝔂𝓮𝓼...

𝐼 𝐻𝒜𝒯𝐸 𝒴𝒪𝒰𝟘𝟘𝟟

--AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Я̵̙͇̎͗̏̈́́O̴̫̽̒͒̎͒̑̌̔͛Я̶̨̣̪̪̗̤͚̈́͐̎̓̑̚͝Я̴̝̱̻̝̫̽͛̂͐͜Ǝ̷̫̣̠̖̣̩̞̋́̔́̀̐͆ͅ

--

-̶̨̬̱͎̱̹̹̥̀̈́̀́̚͝-̵̧̻̖̩̳̯̥͕̗̱͂́̽̇̽-̵͖̺͗̍͐̑̕-̶̩͚̲͓̠̅̄͗͛͠-̸͖͖̪̞͉̘͚͒̐̀-̴̧̱̲̻̙̝̍ͅ-̵̢̞͔̼̺̺̪̈́͛̀̌̊͊̈́͌̕͜-̵̣̦̹͕̦͉̝̒̀̎͝ͅ-̸̘̞̞̩̲͓̼͆̆͂̕-̶̡͔̦̯͇͎̖̈́̈́̉̏͜-̸̧̢̲̘̱̗̦̳̹̪̆͊̈́̿͊͂͝-̶̨͎̮̝̦͔̥͊̓͝͝-̸̘̙̪̗̭͔̉-̵̦̫̭̦͂̑ͅ-̶̖̳̽̎̈́͑̈́-̴̻̞̖̂-̸̮͎̼̬͇̥̞̣̹̙̿͒͒̇̓-̴̳̞̲̲̦̝̱͓͖̩́̏-̸̥̖̯͓̹̯͕͑̇͆͜͜-̵͓̆͛͛̿̒-̶̨̨̻͈͚̰̳͔͑̇͛͘-̶͎̾̐̂̆̐̚͜͝͝͠-̵̧̟̲͕̌͛̂ͅ-̵̡̬̩͇̟̲̞́̌̿̒̒͋͜-̵̡̢͈̯̲̲͎̺͗̋̀̿̑-̶̟̣̼͙̠̱̲̣̓̌͆͒̋̿́̈́̅͜-̵̗͍̽͋͌͆́̐̎̚͝-̶̧̨͙̪̹̦̦̬̂-̴͙͓̲̫̠͙͈̙̈́-̵̡̤͙̙̻̞̭̦͙͐-̸͉̿̊͊̇-̷̧̖͈͇͚͈̗̺̪̓̉͛̅͘-̴̧̛͕̖̙̖̗͝-̵̬̬̻̉̈̒-̸̡̤̯̱̾̒͛̈̍̈́͋̏̋͠-̵̩̞͔̺̞́̎̉̓̂̓̈-̷̺͉̰̟̻̮͓͋̈́̃̈͘̚-̵͈̟̣̪̾̽̍̿̋̈́̚͝-̶̧̟̤̤͎̜̯̮̗̌̇̆͋̀̌́͝-̶̨͓̙̤̘̣̂̈́͑͒͐͋̽̅̒͗-̴̧͇̝͕̲̥̬̈́̄̃͊̑͂͊̀̕ͅ-̸̡̫̼̰͔̼̠̉͘-̷̝͂-̵̣͇̐̽̀̈́̌͛̄̌̽̈́-̷̧̩̫̭͆͗̏́̉̅͐̈́̓-̵̢͚̹̞͇̂͒̆̕-̷̧̫̫͋͋͐̿͆̂̅̅̍́-̶̨̬̱͎̱̹̹̥̀̈́̀́̚͝-̵̧̻̖̩̳̯̥͕̗̱͂́̽̇̽-̵͖̺͗̍͐̑̕-̶̩͚̲͓̠̅̄͗͛͠-̸͖͖̪̞͉̘͚͒̐̀-̴̧̱̲̻̙̝̍ͅ-̵̢̞͔̼̺̺̪̈́͛̀̌̊͊̈́͌̕͜-̵̣̦̹͕̦͉̝̒̀̎͝ͅ-̸̘̞̞̩̲͓̼͆̆͂̕-̶̡͔̦̯͇͎̖̈́̈́̉̏͜-̸̧̢̲̘̱̗̦̳̹̪̆͊̈́̿͊͂͝-̶̨͎̮̝̦͔̥͊̓͝͝-̸̘̙̪̗̭͔̉-̵̦̫̭̦͂̑ͅ-̶̖̳̽̎̈́͑̈́-̴̻̞̖̂-̸̮͎̼̬͇̥̞̣̹̙̿͒͒̇̓-̴̳̞̲̲̦̝̱͓͖̩́̏-̸̥̖̯͓̹̯͕͑̇͆͜͜-̵͓̆͛͛̿̒-̶̨̨̻͈͚̰̳͔͑̇͛͘-̶͎̾̐̂̆̐̚͜͝͝͠-̵̧̟̲͕̌͛̂ͅ-̵̡̬̩͇̟̲̞́̌̿̒̒͋͜-̵̡̢͈̯̲̲͎̺͗̋̀̿̑-̶̟̣̼͙̠̱̲̣̓̌͆͒̋̿́̈́̅͜-̵̗͍̽͋͌͆́̐̎̚͝-̶̧̨͙̪̹̦̦̬̂-̴͙͓̲̫̠͙͈̙̈́-̵̡̤͙̙̻̞̭̦͙͐-̸͉̿̊͊̇-̷̧̖͈͇͚͈̗̺̪̓̉͛̅͘-̴̧̛͕̖̙̖̗͝-̵̬̬̻̉̈̒-̸̡̤̯̱̾̒͛̈̍̈́͋̏̋͠-̵̩̞͔̺̞́̎̉̓̂̓̈-̷̺͉̰̟̻̮͓͋̈́̃̈͘̚-̵͈̟̣̪̾̽̍̿̋̈́̚͝-̶̧̟̤̤͎̜̯̮̗̌̇̆͋̀̌́͝-̶̨͓̙̤̘̣̂̈́͑͒͐͋̽̅̒͗-̴̧͇̝͕̲̥̬̈́̄̃͊̑͂͊̀̕ͅ-̸̡̫̼̰͔̼̠̉͘-̷̝͂-̵̣͇̐̽̀̈́̌͛̄̌̽̈́

-̶̨̬̱͎̱̹̹̥̀̈́̀́̚͝-̵̧̻̖̩̳̯̥͕̗̱͂́̽̇̽-̵͖̺͗̍͐̑̕-̶̩͚̲͓̠̅̄͗͛͠-̸͖͖̪̞͉̘͚͒̐̀-̴̧̱̲̻̙̝̍ͅ-̵̢̞͔̼̺̺̪̈́͛̀̌̊͊̈́͌̕͜-̵̣̦̹͕̦͉̝̒̀̎͝ͅ-̸̘̞̞̩̲͓̼͆̆͂̕-̶̡͔̦̯͇͎̖̈́̈́̉̏͜-̸̧̢̲̘̱̗̦̳̹̪̆͊̈́̿͊͂͝-̶̨͎̮̝̦͔̥͊̓͝͝-̸̘̙̪̗̭͔̉-̵̦̫̭̦͂̑ͅ-̶̖̳̽̎̈́͑̈́-̴̻̞̖̂-̸̮͎̼̬͇̥̞̣̹̙̿͒͒̇̓-̴̳̞̲̲̦̝̱͓͖̩́̏-̸̥̖̯͓̹̯͕͑̇͆͜͜-̵͓̆͛͛̿̒-̶̨̨̻͈͚̰̳͔͑̇͛͘-̶͎̾̐̂̆̐̚͜͝͝͠-̵̧̟̲͕̌͛̂ͅ-̵̡̬̩͇̟̲̞́̌̿̒̒͋͜-̵̡̢͈̯̲̲͎̺͗̋̀̿̑-̶̟̣̼͙̠̱̲̣̓̌͆͒̋̿́̈́̅͜-̵̗͍̽͋͌͆́̐̎̚͝-̶̧̨͙̪̹̦̦̬̂-̴͙͓̲̫̠͙͈̙̈́-̵̡̤͙̙̻̞̭̦͙͐-̸͉̿̊͊̇-̷̧̖͈͇͚͈̗̺̪̓̉͛̅͘-̴̧̛͕̖̙̖̗͝-̵̬̬̻̉̈̒-̸̡̤̯̱̾̒͛̈̍̈́͋̏̋͠-̵̩̞͔̺̞́̎̉̓̂̓̈-̷̺͉̰̟̻̮͓͋̈́̃̈͘̚-̵͈̟̣̪̾̽̍̿̋̈́̚͝-̶̧̟̤̤͎̜̯̮̗̌̇̆͋̀̌́͝-̶̨͓̙̤̘̣̂̈́͑͒͐͋̽̅̒͗-̴̧͇̝͕̲̥̬̈́̄̃͊̑͂͊̀̕ͅ-̸̡̫̼̰͔̼̠̉͘-̷̝͂-̵̣͇̐̽̀̈́̌͛̄̌̽̈́-̷̧̩̫̭͆͗̏́̉̅͐̈́̓-̵̢͚̹̞͇̂͒̆̕-̷̧̫̫͋͋͐̿͆̂̅̅̍́-̷̧̩̫̭͆͗̏́̉̅͐̈́̓-̵̢͚̹̞͇̂͒̆̕-̷̧̫̫͋͋͐̿͆̂̅̅̍́

-̶̨̬̱͎̱̹̹̥̀̈́̀́̚͝-̵̧̻̖̩̳̯̥͕̗̱͂́̽̇̽-̵͖̺͗̍͐̑̕-̶̩͚̲͓̠̅̄͗͛͠-̸͖͖̪̞͉̘͚͒̐̀-̴̧̱̲̻̙̝̍ͅ-̵̢̞͔̼̺̺̪̈́͛̀̌̊͊̈́͌̕͜-̵̣̦̹͕̦͉̝̒̀̎͝ͅ-̸̘̞̞̩̲͓̼͆̆͂̕-̶̡͔̦̯͇͎̖̈́̈́̉̏͜-̸̧̢̲̘̱̗̦̳̹̪̆͊̈́̿͊͂͝-̶̨͎̮̝̦͔̥͊̓͝͝-̸̘̙̪̗̭͔̉-̵̦̫̭̦͂̑ͅ-̶̖̳̽̎̈́͑̈́-̴̻̞̖̂-̸̮͎̼̬͇̥̞̣̹̙̿͒͒̇̓-̴̳̞̲̲̦̝̱͓͖̩́̏-̸̥̖̯͓̹̯͕͑̇͆͜͜-̵͓̆͛͛̿̒-̶̨̨̻͈͚̰̳͔͑̇͛͘-̶͎̾̐̂̆̐̚͜͝͝͠-̵̧̟̲͕̌͛̂ͅ-̵̡̬̩͇̟̲̞́̌̿̒̒͋͜-̵̡̢͈̯̲̲͎̺͗̋̀̿̑-̶̟̣̼͙̠̱̲̣̓̌͆͒̋̿́̈́̅͜-̵̗͍̽͋͌͆́̐̎̚͝-̶̧̨͙̪̹̦̦̬̂-̴͙͓̲̫̠͙͈̙̈́-̵̡̤͙̙̻̞̭̦͙͐-̸͉̿̊͊̇-̷̧̖͈͇͚͈̗̺̪̓̉͛̅͘-̴̧̛͕̖̙̖̗͝-̵̬̬̻̉̈̒-̸̡̤̯̱̾̒͛̈̍̈́͋̏̋͠-̵̩̞͔̺̞́̎̉̓̂̓̈-̷̺͉̰̟̻̮͓͋̈́̃̈͘̚-̵͈̟̣̪̾̽̍̿̋̈́̚͝-̶̧̟̤̤͎̜̯̮̗̌̇̆͋̀̌́͝-̶̨͓̙̤̘̣̂̈́͑͒͐͋̽̅̒͗-̴̧͇̝͕̲̥̬̈́̄̃͊̑͂͊̀̕ͅ-̸̡̫̼̰͔̼̠̉͘-̷̝͂-̵̣͇̐̽̀̈́̌͛̄̌̽̈́-̷̧̩̫̭͆͗̏́̉̅͐̈́̓-̵̢͚̹̞͇̂͒̆̕-̷̧̫̫͋͋͐̿͆̂̅̅̍́-̶̨̬̱͎̱̹̹̥̀̈́̀́̚͝-̵̧̻̖̩̳̯̥͕̗̱͂́̽̇̽-̵͖̺͗̍͐̑̕-̶̩͚̲͓̠̅̄͗͛͠-̸͖͖̪̞͉̘͚͒̐̀-̴̧̱̲̻̙̝̍ͅ-̵̢̞͔̼̺̺̪̈́͛̀̌̊͊̈́͌̕͜-̵̣̦̹͕̦͉̝̒̀̎͝ͅ-̸̘̞̞̩̲͓̼͆̆͂̕-̶̡͔̦̯͇͎̖̈́̈́̉̏͜-̸̧̢̲̘̱̗̦̳̹̪̆͊̈́̿͊͂͝-̶̨͎̮̝̦͔̥͊̓͝͝-̸̘̙̪̗̭͔̉-̵̦̫̭̦͂̑ͅ-̶̖̳̽̎̈́͑̈́-̴̻̞̖̂-̸̮͎̼̬͇̥̞̣̹̙̿͒͒̇̓-̴̳̞̲̲̦̝̱͓͖̩́̏-̸̥̖̯͓̹̯͕͑̇͆͜͜-̵͓̆͛͛̿̒-̶̨̨̻͈͚̰̳͔͑̇͛͘-̶͎̾̐̂̆̐̚͜͝͝͠-̵̧̟̲͕̌͛̂ͅ-̵̡̬̩͇̟̲̞́̌̿̒̒͋͜-̵̡̢͈̯̲̲͎̺͗̋̀̿̑-̶̟̣̼͙̠̱̲̣̓̌͆͒̋̿́̈́̅͜-̵̗͍̽͋͌͆́̐̎̚͝-̶̧̨͙̪̹̦̦̬̂-̴͙͓̲̫̠͙͈̙̈́-̵̡̤͙̙̻̞̭̦͙͐-̸͉̿̊͊̇-̷̧̖͈͇͚͈̗̺̪̓̉͛̅͘-̴̧̛͕̖̙̖̗͝-̵̬̬̻̉̈̒-̸̡̤̯̱̾̒͛̈̍̈́͋̏̋͠-̵̩̞͔̺̞́̎̉̓̂̓̈-̷̺͉̰̟̻̮͓͋̈́̃̈͘̚-̵͈̟̣̪̾̽̍̿̋̈́̚͝-̶̧̟̤̤͎̜̯̮̗̌̇̆͋̀̌́͝-̶̨͓̙̤̘̣̂̈́͑͒͐͋̽̅̒͗-̴̧͇̝͕̲̥̬̈́̄̃͊̑͂͊̀̕ͅ-̸̡̫̼̰͔̼̠̉͘-̷̝͂-̵̣͇̐̽̀̈́̌͛̄̌̽̈́-̷̧̩̫̭͆͗̏́̉̅͐̈́̓-̵̢͚̹̞͇̂͒̆̕-̷̧̫̫͋͋͐̿͆̂̅̅̍́

𝓢2-𝓒6: 𝓔𝓷𝓬𝓾𝓶𝓫𝓻𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮 𝓞𝓯 𝓣𝓱𝔂 𝓢𝓸𝓾𝓵

WARNING: MENTIONS OF SUICIDE AND ABUSE IN MULTIPLE FORMS

I am also sorry if I bring back anyone's terrible memories.

Ayanokouji's POV:

Fear

.

.

.

Have you felt fear? I have...so have you...I accepted it.

.

.

.

You didn't because then...it wouldn't be a fear...it would be courage.

.

.

.

Today that will change, not because you have accepted it...but because you will gain, a much larger fear...

.

.

.

Fear of being abandoned...you will be bereft.

So Kei Karuizawa, say goodbye to your facade which you have assiduously created because I will help you create a new one...

One which even you can't take off, an adornment gifted by yours truly.

Walking into my room came a moody Kushida who slammed the door behind her and began her daily quota of complaints ranging from Horikita with some more Horikita with a side of Horikita.

...I should use Suzune instead of Horikita, now that we are closer.

"Today finally is a day off from this weird exam and I get a f*cking break from that irritating b*tch...anyways bye freak"

Ichinose has been showing her leadership skills and Hoshimiya's plan to spy on me which I had overheard that day, what's interesting is...Hoshinomiya knew of my presence...and had let out a rather subtle inking that Ichinose may have been placed in my group as a means to gather info on me.

"Bye Kushida."

I got a call from Ichinose soon enough," Yahallo Ayanokouji-kun! Are you free?"

"Ya what's up?"

"Ummm... Do you mind following me to a dark unknown alleyway"

"Goodbye"

"Hai Hai, I was joking...I just wanted to talk...so, Mind joining me in a not dark alleyway...maybe by 10 am."

That somehow doesn't make me feel better.

It's 9:53 am

"Alright..bye"

"Ba-bye"

Upon reaching the location she pinged me on LINE. I found her in a pink dress scented with citrus perfume. She looked like eye candy.

"Ayanokouji-kun, youuu are exactly 2 minutes late...I thought you would be the punctual one."

"I see, I had to dress well since I am meeting you after all."

She looked slightly startled but playfully hit my shoulder,

"Aha, sure! So, walk with me please, for a while."

"Lead the way."

The walk was slow and contrasting to the fast wind blowing

Swoosh

"Ayanokouji, what do you think about this exam?... Give me your honest thoughts."

Oh, it's this that we are discussing, are we?... And her violet lilac eyes are cool and calm peeking into my black eyes for the truth.

"I think it depends on you...whether this group wins...or...you win."

Swooosh

"My my...Ayanokouji-kun...is that...distrust I smell?"

"No, just facts."

"In that case, you are right."

She chose to go for option 1, getting the group 500,000 points and VIP getting 1 million pointsat the 1st meeting...and not option 2 which is obvious considering her class doesn't have the VIP, as Karuizawa is in Class D and it's the option in which only the VIP gets the 500,000 points.

B U T

She could have gone for option 2, where even if the VIP gets the points...there will be no class point gain, securing their place as Class A permanent.

Why didn't she do it?

"You seem to be in deep thought, maybe...wonderinggg...why? I didn't choose to go for option 2?..."

She giggled at her ability to read my thoughts. Though that was a laugh of condescendence or simple humour, was unknown .

"...Wellll, Ayanokouji-kun...A powerful leader shows the world it's power...not hidden behind it."

So she wants to show everyone her capabilities as a leader...dominating other Classes while attacking their morale and bolstering their power.

"So, what are you going to do?... How will you achieve it?"

"Someone's getting...quite curious...Alrighty, I will let you in on a little secret. Come closer"

She walked up to me and whispered with her scent tingling my sensations.

"I made a deal... with Katsuragi"

...Did...she...just say what I think she did?

I just have one question.

"How?"

"Aww, I love that look in your eyes...at least this is real...this curiosity...I will let you know...because...I am here to make a deal with...you...

Mr Class Leader"

"...Hey, don't worry...your little brain with this..here's how..."

Flashback

Ichinose's POV:

Calm down Honami, I can do it.

"Katsuragi-san, your suit looks quite classy I must say."

Katsuragi, Class A's temporary leader...and the controller of the Class A students in my group.

"Thank you. But I would rather not have such words affect our conversation."

"Certainly not, I just wanted to talk about your castle gate strategy...honestly such a bother."

His strategy was... Just don't talk

Going for Option 2?

Why? Won't outcome 1 be beneficial for them as well?

"Why so?I think it's a novel strategy... for your group"

Mine?

"How so?"

He cupped his chin with his left hand twirling a pen in another.

Clank

"It's simple...Going for Outcome 2 might seem foolish if we want to reach Class A...and it should be you who goes for that outcome... not me.

Well, what you don't realise...is there are other groups, And whoever..said we are going for option 2...is delusional...Have a good day."

First Ryueen's tyranny over my classmates...now this.

What is going on...

"What do you want Katsuragi?"

I dropped the honorifics, focusing on the conversation.

"Class A...can you give it to me?"

I...hope it works...because It...will have to...

Or else, everything shatters like glass

"...YES... "

This will be a leap of faith...but, with a cord attached to my body.

Flashback ends

Ayanokouji's POV:

That...was...something. Giving up Class A so easily...but why? And how did she know about me?

"Ayanokouji-kun...Don't stress yourself...I will tell you everything after we win...So for now, how about a deal of trust...same as the cruise ship."

Thinking of the benefits and cons..that I found none.

I Ichinose Honami, give a signed oath that Class B doesn't have the VIP...Can I get the Cooperation of Class D...for 6 months. with this sharing of information as a barter?"

"I Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, gives an oath, accepting this as a passage of information."

But Ichinose... I already know... everything.

Closing the recording she transferred it to me and smiled brightly

"Soo..Ayanokouji-kun, who do you think the leader is?"

"I don't know, while I can confirm Sotomura isn't the leader."

"Only this much...looks like I got scammed...oh well...do you have any questions?"

"Why do you think I am the Class leader?"

" Because a leader...takes action, when their subjects sleep... "

So it's a guess, rather than definite proof...which is quite beneficial.

"I see, regardless, I have no idea what you are planning."

"Neither does anyone else... It's our little secret."

Why...is she doing this? That smirk behind her gentle smile...that hawk-like vision behind those beautiful violet orbs...her gentle demeanour, with a calculative...yet, Idealistic mindset underneath.

...I came to know one thing today...

Honami Ichinose is dangerous.

X--X

Walking to the spot where I had planned my setup, I texted Hirata

--

Could you send me Manabe's number, after you set up that plan :You

Hirata: Sure Ayanokouji, here 0xxxxxxxxxxxxx71 Also, the plan is all set...Thank you for helping Karuizawa, you are really dependable

Just helping a classmate: You

--

Switching to Manabe's texts

--

Is this Shiho Manabe? :You

Manabe: Who is this? And how do you have my number?

It doesn't matter, I simply wanted to say that I hate Karuizawa:You

Manabe: So what? Should I shower you with blessings?

Don't you hate her as well? I heard you had beaten her up? : You

Manabe: Listen here random dude/ girl, I don't hate her. I simply want an apology for my friend. If I have to beat that b*tch up a hundred times for the apology my friend needs I will do so...do ya catch my drift. No one...f*cks with my friends and gets away with it.

Well, you could get this apology somewhere...more secluded:You

Manabe: Continue

The hall where the false fire alarm was released, and the cameras were short-circuited because of it:You

Manabe: Why and when?

Hate and 12 pm...take away her phone: You

Also...:You

--

Closing my phone I waited on the sidelines for the show to begin.

X--X

Karuizawa's POV:

"Karuizawa, let's talk I want to apologise for yesterday"

Finally!

"Huh, much better, where should I meet you"

"The 15th annex hall, 12pm I want to apologise in person"

"Alrighty!"

Thank god I didn't lose Hirata, who would protect me otherwise? Ah mouu! My head hurts.

It's 11: 55am, I need to hurry.

Looking back at the 100 ghosted messages I sent to Matsushita one last time, I hurried to the annex hall.

"Where is he? Is he late?"

I pulled my phone out of my pocket to have it yanked away from me.

"Who are y-"

I was kicked on my shin as I fell down to hard floor... cold

"Listen here you b*tch"

Yanking my hair she put me in front of the girl I had tripped.

...but those bruises I didn't do them....No, I am 100% sure I didn't do it.

"You hurt Riki, look at her blackened eye...and"

She went up to Rika and revealed her skin to show bruises on her shoulders and her feet.

A small tripping shouldn't have done it...no that's impossible.

"We found her unconscious and when we asked around we knew tripped her and must have then taken her to some other place and beaten her up...What the f*ck did she do to you?"

"BUT I DIDN'T DO IT."

A slap on my face, given by none other than Rika... It stings...I envy her guts.

Another kick to the stomach.

Why is this happening again...? Why isn't someone here to protect me?

Why do I have to suffer again? Wasn't this school supposed to be different?

It should have been a new beginning...but now, it's the end all over again.

The despair I felt as Manabe held a blade near my hair

"How about I cut this hair of yours...you swine."

"N-No...P-please don't...I didn't do it.."

My voice cracked and my bold facade had vanished...I am a coward. I always have been.

My life is being served again, the same deadly poison the same pain, all in one platter of utter defeat.

No one...will save me...absolutely no one.

... I will have to save myself...I won't let my fears repeat...never again.

My breaths got louder and ragged as I screamed

"STOPPPPPP I SAID STOPPPPP!!!"

I pushed Manabe off me and I tried to escape.

Rika tripped me over making me fall over with my nose bleeding, and everything became a blur.

"B*tch, who do you think you are? This bruising wasn't formed out of thin air.You know what, I will cut off this hair of yours. Then you realise what being bullied feels like.Oh, wait, a b*tch like you was bullied wasn't she? YET YOU DON'T LEARN."

She is right...she knows...about my past... who told her?

I know better than anyone...how it feels.

𝐹𝒾𝓇𝓈𝓉 𝑔𝑜𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓈𝑒𝓁𝒻 𝑒𝓈𝓉𝑒𝑒𝓂

𝒮𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓃𝒹 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓅𝒶𝒾𝓃

𝒯𝒽𝒾𝓇𝒹 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓉𝑒

𝐹𝑜𝓊𝓇𝓉𝒽 𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒹𝑒𝒶𝓉𝒽.

𝐿𝒾𝓀𝑒 𝓈𝑒𝒶𝓈𝑜𝓃𝓈 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹

𝑀𝒾𝓃𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝑒𝓃𝒹 𝒾𝓃 𝒶𝓊𝓉𝓊𝓂𝓃

𝓝𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻 𝓼𝓮𝓮𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓫𝓮𝓪𝓾𝓽𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓼𝓹𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰.

I started weeping uncontrollably at this as I again came face to face with reality

...I KEI KARUIZAWA AM A COWARD...

I AM NOTHING BUT...a coward...

I hate myself...

I Hate it, I hate being weak...

It's amazing how I did so much and I am back to my pitiful self.

I DID NOTHING

ALL THIS CAME TO NOTHING.

My character is rotten and vile just like those girls in middle school said

'Hah stop mooing like a cow your freak'

'I will cut your weird hair off.'

'Sl*T go die in hell'

'Why don't you k̶̯̟̜̬͎̺̙̬͇̇̆̐̏̅̕̚͝ḯ̷̳̒l̷̢̺̳̦̯̘̼͎̭͇͛̽̾͌͛̒ļ̸͖͎͉̓̅̀̅͆͆ yourself b*tch'

'How did your parents even give birth to you...oh wait, creatures like you, are not born...but are

a c̵̲̫͆͝u̷̺̤̎̍̅̇̔͋r̸̝̩͇̓̌̊̇̓͛̕s̷̠̭̩̄̈́͗ę̵̱̹̼͙͇͒͗ͅ .'

' Cry more wh*re...from now, no one in this school will ever talk to you, J̶̡̢̗̣̙͕̦̿͛̂̽͜ͅƯ̷̡̨̖̜̫͉͈͇͐͂̓̍̑̎͝͠Ṡ̶̡͙̼̞̦̘̝̟͐̈́̊͛̈́̽̎T̸̯͛̈̿͐́ ̵̼̖̮̯̈̅̋͘D̷̡̡̘͙̟̝͓̟̐I̶̛̜͎̗̙̻͖̟̓̽̑̄͂̆ͅE̶̡̡͚͙͖̒.̶͉͂͆͋́̃̈͜͠͝͝ '

"B*tch you are shaking here let me help you."

She shook my body hard like a rag doll and my bow came untied ironic to my life tying around my soul.

"Hey Rika don't just stand there give her a nice tight slap"

"B-But..."

"She hurt you...didn't she? If you can't stand up to people like her, people will take advantage of you...so do it."

Manabe's voice was sweet in genuine care...lucky Rika.

Only If I had such a friend back then...this would never have happened...I wouldn't have been a disgusting parasite.

Another slap came, this time...Rika's slap was bravery...but with...happiness I knew all too well.

Manabe grabbed my hand enveloping her fingers around mine and pushed it back causing my fingers to bend back

AAAAHHHHHHH!

"S-STOP"

"Alright... Nah"

Her knee drove into my stomach as I withered in pain...

"What happened...are you remembering something."

This was the same way back in those days I was bullied.

...

...

..

.

My tears went on and on with screams of plea...feeling everything go in vain with every punch...kick...insult... My light of hope had vanished...

Everything broke

What I didn't realise is...

...That blackened hope...always right around the corner.

After they were done they gave a parting gift,

CLICK

"A perfect shot of the beauty of Class D...just cute."

Manabe guffawed and took Rika away from me without a second look, leaving me behind.

X--X

"Karuizawa"

...Is that Ayanokouji?... Again...seeing me in this pathetic condition. I can no way in hell show him that I was bullied, if he comes to know what happened, my mask will be torn apart in front of everyone.

I just have to act calm, I have to...

I quickly fixed my hair and acted like I was simply crying

"Why can't I just get the 50,000 points dress...Ah mouu! I only have 25000 points."

I wept thinking my pathetic act would drive him away...

But no he just walked towards me...

Hah...just great, he will now make even more fun of me...a cheeky guy, as if I won't return the favour.

"Ya? What is it...ca-can't you see me breaking down...what'cha gonna do huh?"

"Nothing"

...Weirdo...but after what happened to him...by someone I called a friend...it's obvious he won't help me...

I won't ask him...as if he could anyways. I should leave before I can't control my tears and breakdown even more.

I wiped my tears away I tried getting up to leave

Owwwccccchhhh!

I fell down as the kicks left a sprain in my foot.

Plop

Eh! Is that Ayanokoji's lap? Wait what is he doing...

"Hey why are you putting me on the floor"

"What did you expect? I ain't giving you a piggyback ride."

"F*ck you Ayanokouji...Jerk."

"At least I am in a better state the pitiful... you."

"Asshole..go to hell."

"Why don't I bring it down here for you to see."

His eyes went weird...like darker.

Was he always so scary...

What is he doing?

"Hey lemme go, It hurts."

His grip on my hand pulled me to the wall as I was dragged on the ground and was told

"Sit...I know what they did."

I gathered myself and leaned on the wall...this is not the Ayanokouji I know

Is this the real him?

If it is, I willl have to face him...I cannot show him my weakness...never

"What will you do to me...Destroy me...do what they couldn't...

BRING IT ON"

I am a coward...but I can at least say goodbye to my new life with a bit of bravery

or at least an illusion of it.

I grinned widely.

"Your bloody nose makes you look repulsive...stop smiling."

I smiled wider

"What will you do? break my teeth...Hah, I have had worse...go ahead."

F*cker has no idea what I have been through... no one does ...

Today I will die...Not my body...but my last will to fight.

I give up...I just can't do it anymore.

It took everything in me...to not, use that noose ...to not...give up...

Giving up was never easy.

It won't ever be easy.

"Because, right now...your words are under my control...if I leak this... you are finished."

"Who will believe you...my pet turtle...oh wait he is dead like me sniff "

He pulled out a recorder...why... WHY?

Huh, he will destroy me now... what did I ever do to him?

Why is life so cruel to me?

Why can't I just be happy?

Why...can't life just let me be...?

"Karuizawa I hope you realise, Hirata won't save you... no one will"

I know...stop talking

"You are alone...all alone"

Please stop talking

"Pitful enough to break so easily"

...I give up...he is right...

" I control everything you ever wanted...a happy life...good friends...

Your bruises...The taunts...your fake relationship...your past...

EVERY SINGLE THING."

My heart...is in his control...which can be crushed at a moment...Hah...there goes my life flying away.

I looked away in utter humiliation and pain...

He pulled my chin to match his golden glowing eyes...

"Disgusting jerk...Why are you doing this?... Do you want my body ?"

"Not a bad idea..."

He pushed me back throwing me to the ground as his fingers ran very very slowly like a snake waiting to devour it's prey.

"SPREAD YOUR LEGS"

He pulled out his belt...ready to defile me...No...

I did as he said...I will never have anything to live for after this...after my soul's death...

I will kill myself

I put my hand near my underwear to be roughly pulled by his hand and asked

"What happened to you Karuizawa?"

His questioning gaze ripped through me.

"Why do you want to know...want to do something worse? Where to begin...oh I know, the number of times my things have been stolen... uncountable .

hic

How many times I have been called s*ut or a wh*re when I never was in a single relationship... more times than you have taken a breath .

hic hic

Thumbtacks and dead animals... every day for 10 years of my life

hic hic hic

The number of times I was beaten up...huh...I don't remember...oh wait, that's right...I don't wanna... whatcha gonna do about it .

AYANOKOUJI "

My sense of humour is off the roof...maybe this pain has made me a comedian...or I might have gone crazy.

"Karuizawa be serious."

His voice was monotone...yet it made me angry

" WHAT THE F*CK DO YOU MEAN?

Why should I? Will it reduce the pain? Will it remove the nights I had to sneak into my home?

sniff

Will it make me forget the lies I said to my parents... 'I am fine mom'...?

Huh, tell me...what willl it ever do?

sniff

WHY SHOULD I BE SERIOUS?

WHY CAN'T I LAUGH AT MY COWARDICE?"

"Something else happened...you are acting...your laugh...it's fake...hiding something...aren't you?"

I looked at my scar slightly...

No...please don't find out

His cold hand pulled on my shirt and touched my scar

It's over...

"This is your darkness..."

"What will you about it...you disgusting human "

He stared into my eyes with nothing but darkness...there was nothing but a stare between us...

A sense of understanding, something I couldn't explain... something connecting us.

Our darkness came closer eroding each other's pain...a bond made of hate...a bond purer than any form of love.

As if my darkness was...something he had experienced...no...that's not it...

Something much worse

He feels like...a broken soul...a soul... broken beyond repair.

A failed human...a monster...devoid of humanity.

His gaze...unfaltered...without emotions...

Killing me slowly but surely...

Ayanokouji's POV:

A human failure...

That's what she is is thinking...how repulsive and vile I am...

A person deemed to be a terrible human being...a monster

While I have...been a whiteroom masterpiece...I am still a failure...a defective piece of monstrosity.

But it doesn't matter...

As long as this works...

Nothing matters...

I commend her bravery to put up an act after being broken...her strength is unparalleled...

She is brave...far from a coward...

"A coward like you wants protection...I can give it to you...better than Hirata..."

Her eyes had a flicker of hope...one which I will manipulate.

"Only... if you everything I say ..."

"H-How...will a weak dude like you protect me."

I showed her the pictures I had taken

"One press of a button will annihilate them."

Her hope ignited...under my control.

"You will...really protect me?"

"Yes, if you are ever in any form of despair...I will save you from it...until the end of these 3 years...I will be your host...and you...will be my parasite."

A beautiful relationship...one where I am in control

Unlike last time...my tool will be my slave...one whose strings pulled by one person alone...

Me

Karuizawa's POV:

"I accept..."

I just gave my soul away...to this...souless monster...

How ironic.

--AUTHOR'S NOTES--

Meanings:

Bereft-completely deprived

assiduous- took effort in making

Encumbrance- restrain

Credits:

I wish to thank zheeyah29 for his/her/their ideas about Kiyotaka's broken nature.

Dear Readers,

Well...quite a heartwarming romance...isn't it? Just the chemistry between them...how sweet.

The modern day Romeo and Juliet...

Brings me to tears..

Oh and...Ichinose...don't understimate her :)

Have a great day

Thank you.

Q regarding complexities [CLOSED]

Dear Readers,

Choose...or...umm...choose

1. Level of complexity of The VIP Exam Ending

-Basic(with minimum deviation from LN)

-Medium (A bit of trickery...but nothing too crazy)

-Hard (GOING ABSOLUTELY CRAZY KILLING ALL MY REMAINING BRAINCELLS)

2. Who to destroy

-Honami's Class (Honami's plan half fails)

-Ryueen's Class (Ryueen's plan...at least on the surface fails)

-Kiyo's Class (Kiyo wins...class doesn't)

-Arisu's...nah, her her class won't fail :3

3. My OC

-After the sports festival

-After Rooftop

-2nd yr beginning.

5. Next SS/Backstory

-Koenji

-Ike

-Kei

-Other?

6. Do yall want an ...unique...return of Matsushita, as a weird form of side branch to main story

-yes

-f her...no

7.A small very very small crossover...

-Yes

-No

Time...umm, till I get the opinions I like :3

Soooo...have fun deciding...bcs u might

1. Destroy the story, and I can blame yall if it sucks

2. Make the story wayy better...maybe

Thank you

Edit: After the poll another ch will be release...to show what yall missed out on

ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES, in my fic at least

D̶e̶a̶r̶ ̶R̶e̶a̶d̶e̶r̶s̶

Hello hedonistic Readers.

Sooo...Hi

You people made your choices, I will simply show all of you. The storylines you missed

Enjoy...or curse yourself for missing it

Q1: A-Hard

...my brain will now have a funeral and the deathbed is the next chapter.

Q2: C- Kiyo's class

...Lol, quite a choice

if:

A- Honami's class: I was planning to destroy them by Ryueen's hand, but the kiyo grp would remain untouched...basically Honami wins but her class drops.

B-Ryueen's class: Honami's connection with Katsuragi would destroy him and his class.

Q3: A- Sports festival

Chaos...nuf said

B-After rooftop

This was a choice where Ryueen would actually be expelled/made a slave...thank god u guys didn't choose it

C- 2nd yr

Well, that would cause quite a few diffs...after all, in this scenario, I would have to predict 3rd-year volumes of COTE and plan out schemes, very very difficult ngl...but hella fun

Q4: A-Koenji

I was really hoping u guys would do it...lol

B-Ike

I was planning to introduce his boy scouts group and show his reasoning for being a tsundere oh also show his dev after that 'incident'

C- Kei

Well trauma intensifies

D- Other

I plan to do most of what u ppl reccd

(All will be done SS I just wanted to see what ppl would pref first)

Q6: B-f her...no

Well...u ppl missed out on a whole section..

what I planned was an actual therapist talking to her and talking about her issues.

That itself would be a series and the POV would be of the therapist, where I planned to talk about the psychological aspects of such issues connecting them to reality.

Which would be while linked to the main story, wouldn't affect it too much.

Q7: B-No

Again, u did miss out...on Dr Frost, this manga/manhwa was an amazing and accurate opening to psychological diseases/conditions.

Literally, he had a very similar upbringing as Kiyo, very emotionless and what I planned was him being allied with my OC and providing a psych eval with her of each imp char in the book...

Read the manhwa, it's just great...and pretty long.

Lol, Idk wether u ppl wanted to see those stuff or not...but ya, here ya go.

Thank you, for commenting ur opinions and changing the story :)

C-8:Citrus-love

Ayanokouji's POV:

The cold embrace by Matsushita...no Chiaki sent shivers down my spine as her fingers slowly went for my face as she purred

"Kiyo...why did you do that?"

"Did what?"

"That betrayal...why? Why don't you love me?"

She grabbed my face fiercely

"I SAID WHY?"

"I don't know...about love"

"Why not?... Couldn't I be the one to teach you about it?"

"No...you can't be the one...and please get off me."

"What if I don't ...what if I want to stay with you forever"

She nuzzled up to my arm as she peirced my hand with her long nails.

"I don't think that's an option...or do you want to be expelled."

"If I am expelled...I will have to do one last thing."

She pulled on the hand she was holding bringing me closer.

Our breaths rhythmically collided as she put her hands around my neck and spoke

"I don't have to strain my neck...thanks for being you."

"What do you mean?"

She pushed me onto the bed with her hands still locked behind my neck

"Don't worry, everyone thinks I locked myself in the room but I simply paid Yamauchi for doing a small lockpicking...so it wasn't too much work."

She fell on me with her body creating a sense of anger around me

"You were wrong, you hurt me...I hate you and love you at the same time...why am I like this?"

"Ask yourself"

"I did...and the only answer I got was you

YOU MADE ME LIKE THIS."

She grabbed my tie this time with more vigor

"If I leave this school, you will not remember me will you?"

Her hope dwindled as her grip increased

"No...I won't"

"Then I won't regret doing this."

Her touches became more invasive as she invaded my personal space without concern. Every single touch was filled with one raw emotion of love...yet it would hurt...as they were all marks, scratches...and not even a single bit of gentleness in it.

Her face looked at me with darkness rivalling mine as we stared into each other's abyss tugging us closer...giving her goosebumps and a sense of happiness unparalleled

And

our

lips...

intertwined

in harmony

of

words

"APRIL FOOLS...AUTHOR WILL NEVER WRITE A LEMON.."

𝓢2-𝓒7:𝓐 𝓟𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓭𝓸𝔁𝓲𝓬𝓪𝓵 𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓬𝓴𝓶𝓪𝓽𝓮

AN: VERY VERY COMPLICATED CH...ahead..there is pic for helping u guys out...use it.

Ayanokouji's POV:

Hearing the clock ticking sent a pulse through my mind.

"I have no issues with Ichinose's plan"

I switched off my phone

"Considering that Katsuragi-san agreed we have no reason to refute."

They switched it off as well. Followed by the rest like sheep.

This will be interesting enough... a want for Outcome 1, a plan envisioned by none other than Honami Ichinose.

Though the end result lies in my hands...and sorry to say, but your time is up.

Your wings have spread far too wide...but you have realised that, I sense that in you. The way you bartered Class A position for this, Ichinose... you calculated a threat, you understand as well.

A short term loss of Class A position for a more devastating attack, well done.

"So as I said, we will all open our phones at the same time at 9:30 am. Does everyone understand?"

She had control of Katsuragi's class and I had control over Ryueen's class. Outcome A was now possible, at least at the surface.

I simply will witness my tool's capabilities.

9:29

We switched on our phones

3

I opened my messages

2

I side-eyed my chessboard

1

I delivered a check

"I am the VIP"

Silence fell through the room as I showed my texts. With a clear string that proved my words.

Everyone was excited at this prospect and we all sent the texts winning Outcome 1...

THE END

Only if such an ending existed, things would have been easier.

Ichinose was sharp as she asked with suspicion brimming in her delicate yet powerful voice

"Wasn't that a bit too quick? And Ayanokouji-kun, if you don't mind... can you please call me."

The room's happiness dropped as I pressed the buttons

Beep*

A slight smile

Beep*

A thumb clicking the death sentence

Beep*

Ichinose felt that she won, she had caught onto my ploy

RINGGG

A vibration caused the phone on the edge of the table to fall face first but not before being caught by a grinning Ichinose as the perpetrator.

"Ayanokouji-kun...that's your phone right?"

"It seems so."

"I see, so you lied because your number is saved with me..and as everyone can see..."

She lifted her phone and publicly showed her trophy

'NO CALLER ID'

Murmurs spread through the room

'How is this possible'

'Did he steal someone's phone like he stole Matsushita's phone'

'Ya you are right, maybe he really is a stalker'

'Disgusting'

'Why does Ichinose have his number? Scumbag trying to trick poor Ichinose'

It seems my name hasn't yet been cleared from their minds, which is not that shocking...But It was mostly people I didn't know so it didn't matter much. Ichinose overheard their murmurs.

Ichinose happy temper suddenly became insufferably cold and hurt as I could tears welling at the corners of her pressed eyes. It seems their words acted as daggers to her but weren't they directed to me.

She slammed her bag on the desk with quite a bit of force causing a ripple of silence to flood the room with everyone listening with bated breath.

"I think that's enough Yamashita-san...while I do appreciate your concern for me...Whose number I have or my personal life is none of your business ...Also please be careful with what you say, especially to my friend... that goes for all here."

She smiled yet again but this time an aura of authority spread around her. If I was normal this would definitely be the epitome of my high school career, having such a beautiful girl defend me and call me a friend...

But, I know the truth...wether she defended me or not

It didn't really matter.

Everyone realised that this wasn't a request and more of absolute order.

"As I was saying Ayanokouji-kun...have you exchanged your phone with someone?... If so, please give me a call on your phone. I would rather talk to you from that."

She gleefully said. Ichinose, you are quite the being.

Others also agreed and targeted me, so to stop this ever-increasing outrage

I gave up.

"Quite a deep sigh there Ayanokouji-kun."

I walked upto the unsuspecting group of girls and asked the leader of the girls with blonde hair and a glare worthy of pure disgust.

She gave me her phone to everyone's shock

"Thank you Manabe...and...Karuizawa, please apologise to Manabe, right now."

I sent a stare of irrefutable command to her

'Wait what?'

'Why did he collude with Class C'

'Why is Karuizawa involved?'

Karuizawa walked slowly up to to Manabe and spoke in a careful and shaky voice

"I-I am s-sorry...p-please...f-forgive me...Manabe and Rika...while I did trip her...but the other bruises were not given by me. "

Before Manabe could say anything Karuizawa went back to her seat ignoring the meeting entirely.

Silence ensued yet again as most were utterly confused at this interaction which was reasonable as this was quite theatrical and inappropriate for now. But this was necessary.

I noticed 2 people staring quietly with unreadable expressions on their face, Ichinose and Ibuki. While Ichinose stared at this with vivid interest and a curiosity akin to a child wistfully looking at a lollipop...Ibuki on the other hand was boiling, in anger.

We exchanged phones and I called Ichinose.

Ichinose picked it up and the charade ended with her final words

"Moshi Moshi, Game over Ayanokouji-kun... Well played."

She cut the call and turned to Manabe and said

"So as all of you can see, Manabe-san is the real VIP ...I hope you all- "

Ibuki slammed the desk

"Whatever this is...Why didn't you tell me Manabe? Huh?"

"I-Ibuki...umm...I just didn't want the other classes to get points, obvio."

"How the f*ck did you align with Ayanokouji of Class D? Just wait b*tch, Ryueen will f*ck us over."

Ibuki tried to go over to her but Ichinose stopped her

"Now now...there is no need of violence...after all, it won't change anything will it,

I B U K I -san?"

She intentionally spelt out her name... one-by-one

This irked Ibuki who realised this too and went back to her seat

"Alright everyone as we now have just"

She flicked her wrist to check the time

"15 minutes, let's hurry"

Everyone understood and most left the room to write the answer.

I typed into my phone the answer as well.

After patiently waiting in the room where Ichinose's stared locked me up

We got a ping and the only one that mattered to me was

'Rabbit group reaches Outcome 2'

Checkmate

Ichinose was shocked which was given, since her entire plan to prove her class's position was now stripped. All that remained was a failure. All that planning of her's amounted to nothing.

She sighed deeply as she walked up to the door and probably trying to leave

LOCK

Beauty and an average looking boy locked in a room would send quite a few rumours afloat but she didn't care and sat next to me a bit relaxed and lay her head on the table and spoke in a sleepy tone.

"You know Ayanokouji-kun...I should have gone for Outcome 3...after all 50 cp for us wasn't a bad deal, Karuizawa-san was lucky I had mercy ."

Finding no point in hiding

"How did you know?"

"Welllll...I don't usually spread my plans but I will do an exception this time...because I know the consequences if I don't. It all started with the skit played by you and the other 2 girls, you know you should be a director in the future..."

She smiled slightly at her own joke

"...Anyways, I realised it was so realistic that Manabe-san believed completely in it...and so did the others. Now, I very well know that the phone exchange was between you and Manabe-san, it's impossible it's Karuizawa-san, unless..."

She put her head on her chin and quite cutely said

" The sims were exchanged ...surprise!!...oh, you already knew right...but I know...that's just the surface isn't it Ayanokouji-kun."

"What do you mean? I think you have left my ploy bare open in the sun."

I got up to leave but she seemed to have something else in her eyes today.

"Listen here mister...you ain't going anywhere, not until you spill the beans..why was Class C involved? Remember, A boy and a girl in a room all alone...rumours may float"

Did she copy me?

"Well, I simply wanted what's the best for my class...so the sim exchange was done.While I could have just used Yukimura for my purpose, I had certain reason to bring Class C into the ploy."

"Aww, you are hiding so much"

"You are becoming like Hoshinomiya-sensei"

I spilt too much of my true thoughts before I could control myself. Ichinose's expressions stiffened and for a while, silence spread

"I will ignore that comment you just made, be careful with what you say."

Her voice deepened at that moment making me shiver involuntarily

"Yes Ichinose-san"

"Only Ichinose, and ya...tell me, how did you establish contact with Class C?"

"I just asked them politely...I added a please as well."

"Ayanokouji...It seems...we are not on the same wavelength, how about I say what I did ...and then you say what you did."

Perfect.

"That's fine..and let's keep our phones outside."

"Careful huh...not bad."

We kept our phones in the corner and she narrated along

Flashback

Ichinose's POV

Katsuragi's gaze faltered as he said," You are jesting...right??"

"How so? This is an important conversation. Joking around would waste out time."

Katsuragi asked others to leave, " So what do you want in return? Is it just cooperation? Do you guarantee our rise to class A in this exam?"

"Yes, your class will be in Class A after this exam."

Why did I do such a crazy thing? The reason was quite obvious...I know when I am outmatched. I had heard Kushida-san gossip about it to my class. Ryueen would not just destroy us...but I am not ready for the aftermath. He fractured Class D completely which quite fortunately they don't realise...except for Ayanokouji and a few others.

Ayanokouji...you are an anomaly...thank you Kiryuuin-senpai for that announcement confirming my hunch.

Although Ayanokouji-kun...you are really brave,I admire that...the way you stood tall and proved to the whole school you were innocent.

If only I could be that brave

"Ichinose I agree, but remember I will be breaking the previous deal with Ryueen, be careful not to jeopardise our deal for that."

"Got it Katsuragi...pleasure doing this deal with you..."

I continued speaking

"The honour is all mine...by the way, nice plan Katsuragi."

"What plan?"

"Please Katsuragi, don't joke around...we both know you tricked us all."

Silence ensued, as he sighed.

"You really are smarter than you look"

...Did he just...

"I don't have all day Katsuragi...so please."

"As your know, I had purposefully asked our class to create this lie that we were aiming for outcome 2 with the reasoning that we had colluded with Ryueen"

So he used rumours to his advantage, quite surprising.

"Why collude with him? Didn't he cause your class to fall behind?"

"We had no choice, he...more specifically someone else did something which tied our hands.So we used this situation to our favour."

It seems he doesn't want to give this damaging info, well I shouldn't force him. He kept talking

"While, I could have asked my classmates to choose outcome 1 and make this simpler...but then you wouldn't have come forward with this deal. So it was simply a bait.. and you fell into it."

"You are right...it seems I lost."

I got up quietly and walked away but not before saying my final words

"The game isn't over Katsuragi-kun... don't underestimate me ."

After all...whoever said I was aiming for Outcome 1?... Oh, wait that's me...

But who said... I can't lie.

Flashback ends

Ayanokouji's POV

"So you aimed for outcome 2...didn't you?"

She nodded grinning that her plan worked

"I simply used a rational deception by saying I wanted outcome 1, acting as if I cared for my ego, when in reality Outcome 2 as expected..was the most favourable because now our class will be Class B...but if I had not given up Class A then we would definitely be in Class C."

"I see.. so you lied"

Why not choose outcome 3 and get a better reward? After all she caught that Karuizawa was the VIP

" Noo...anyways, you must be wondering why I didn't choose outcome 3"

She walked up close to me and put her finger on my forehead

"Because I didn't want to make my friend an enemy...or we both may be destroyed...I want to make a good relationship with your class."

She is right, if she tried going against me I would have had to destroy this group.

"Well played. I have to go now."

She pulled my hand in an iron grip

"Ayanokouji...tell...me... how"

I sighed seeing no escape

"I may have struck a deal with Manabe and group with Karuizawa's public apology as an exchange for carrying out the plan. And the sim exchange may have been done with Karuizawa's phone as a double-layered setup ."

She claps quite loudly and theatrically...but it was triple-layer setup.

"Amazing, a perfect plan..honestly, I am glad our goals align or I couldn't imagine what would have happened if I had to guess...I would lose wouldn't I.Also how much did the sim change cost?"

"How would I know, that's a future we didn't have...About 20,000 per sim exchange"

It almost left a hole in my pocket...but hopefully give me some of her points out of pity.

"Hmm..You are right, but I have a feeling...call it intuition."

Her intuition and behaviour analysis is top notch...no doubt about it.

"Can I leave?"

"Oh sorry...please go ahead"

I walked out unlocking the door to meet with an eavesdropping Karuizawa.

"What are doing?"

She jumped a bit

"AHHH mou, don't scare me. I-I was just concerned for Ichinose's safety...after your disgusting act I am scared for her."

"I see..."

An awkward silence brewed but was stopped by Karuizawa's question

"Did you tell her the whole story?"

"No."

"Hmph...you didn't tell me I had to apologise..that was very scary...both your eyes and speaking out."

"You did good"

"I know I did...but I was like super nervous back there and I really didn't hurt her that much...and NEVER make me do something like that again. By the way~give me back my phone okayyy...I don't a loser dude's hands touching it. And here take your phone back too...I don't want it"

Ignoring the insult and refusing to take the phone I asked

"It was necessary and now you will have quite a few points right?... I think this was worth it. Also, give me your sim."

"Hmph...you are standing on thin ice mister...And why should I give you my sim? The exam is over. I already gave you my phone earlier and where is my phone by the way."

She asked indignantly

"Just do as I say, you can live without your phone for a while...it ain't oxygen."

"Say one more word, and I will rip the oxygen outta you."

Her voice was quite threatening but it didn't have too much substance behind it

"Oh really."

"Hmph whatever dude, just gimme my phone back later... here's the sim."

She quickly backed of remembering that threatening encounter between us.

"Thank you"

She irked at that comment

"Whateves..it's not like I have much choice other than following your command."

Kei Karuizawa is self-centred yet a good follower, even if her talent is not quite socially recognised...but her capability to follow orders is quite something. People who can follow instructions are always in high demand...

Karuizawa is in high demand.

Though when her demand will dwindle...she and I both know I will discard her...but that promise will still be viable.

"Oyy, where are you lost in thought mister? Are we done? I don't want to be walking with some creep."

"Don't worry, I am hardly known, people won't assume anything."

"Ugh! Are you that dense? You are the most infamous and famous dude in class...Most hate and love you AT THE SAME TIME."

"Stop screaming will you...and why so?"

"I don't even know which world you live in...but alright, since I am so nice,I will tell you...Before that Matsushita incident you were mildly known because of her...and after that controversy hate soared you at great heights...and now after you are proven innocent there are still some people quite salty at that but still admire the way you defeated the class so-called leader...in a sense...you catch my vibe?"

Her explanation fitted in my theory so I accepted it.

"Hmm...thank you for the info"

She pouted a bit and said

"Hah...I am the best at this...and from my end, you are strong...hella strong...that's for sure."

Was she talking about my physical strength or strength within...because If she is talking about my heart...she is wrong, I am weak...weaker than everyone who has a heart, I gave up my emotions...I gave up humanity long back...which made me lower than all humans in this world. It's as distinct as that.

"Anyways bye...and gimme my phone back later dude."

"Alright."

She walked away with brisk steps and just after she left my field of view I went to the Class C area and at exactly

11:00am

"Manabe, you came"

"Well..duh, you forced me so it's not like I had a choice, you bastard...This is the fucking 2nd time I have to see your normie face."

She was right, I had texted her the timings and everything else on the day I first texted her.

"Not like I care, anyways... here is your Phone back, so give me my sim back."

"FINALLY! I made up over 100 lies about why I couldn't text my friend...and because of you Ryueen will f*ck me over if he finds out...thanks...Mr AYANOKOUJI"

" Evil begets evil, anyways bye"

She knows my identity which I am quite sure Ryueen will deduce soon...and then...things will be quite confrontational...

For now, after Matsushita...I have to take up the pedestal...for a while at least

"Hey, can you like...I don't know...stop Ibuki from being hella creepy and asking me how and why I lied about being VIP."

I sighed and seeing her in quite a pathetic situation between 3 beasts, I decided to give her a bit of leeway

"Tell Ibuki that X forced you...and act as scared as possible with everything from hyperventilation and heart attack...do anything you can to show how terrified you are even of remembering the incident. It will deter them for a while...practice your acting beforehand"

"Is this a joke?"

She looked at me with disbelief at these theatrics.

"I am absolutely serious...goodbye, I have no interest in staying here any longer."

I walked off quickly before she started acting in front of me.

The final destination is Karuizawa's room

Knock

An immediate opening brought an un-ponytailed Karuizawa...cute

"What?"

"You look cute."

She looked confused...then was irritated..then proud for some reason.

"Tell me something I don't know...anyways, you have my phone?"

"Karuizawa, here's the phone and sim"

"GOOD! Ugh, I was worried for a sec there."

Not wanting to make things awkward I attempted to retreat.

"Alright...now I will leave."

"Bye"

"Bye"

I finally reached my bed and thought of the layers of planning supported on two identical beams of similar constitution...Karuizawa and Manabe.

Flashback

"The plan is simple, we exchange our phones and sims."

Karuizawa spat her drink as we sat at an isolated corner

"WHAT?"

I repeated while ushering a napkin to her

"My phone and your sim...your phone and my sim."

She took the napkin and wiped her black dress

"Ohhhh! Ok, by the way why did you bring me here?"

"It's simple I wanted to carry out this deal...and try to at least repay you for what I did."

While I didn't feel guilty...acting so will make my tool more easy to work with.

She indignantly nagged

"You should be Mr spread your-"

I put my finger on her lips before she uttered the next word

She sucked her lips in to form a puckered face as she nodded in understanding.

"Anyways...it will be better if we can work properly...or I have other means."

She waved her hands wildly

"I know...I will do as you say."

After this small interaction I headed off to the location I texted Manabe beforehand as that mystery person.

She was wearing a white cardigan as she walked up to the location and cautiously looking around to find this unknown person aka me.

I walked up to her and waved

"Karuizawa's bully? A pleasure to meet you."

She gave me a glare as she said

"I thought you would come with a mask or something like in the movies."

"What am I? A villain?... Don't answer that."

"Yaya, dude...whaddya what?"

"Manabe, exchange phones and sims."

She almost slapped me at that but I hovered my hand over the phone

"Be careful Manabe...one wrong move and it's over."

She without caring asked quite arrogantly

"What is in there for me"

"Karuizawa's public apology."

That one sentence shook Manabe and made her mellow down.

"Alright fine."

"You understood what I mean?"

"Ya, your phone my sim...my phone your sim...I ain't that dumb. And...umm..thanks dude, you have no idea how much that means to both me and her."

"Didn't you punch and abuse her?"

"SO? She deserved it...but an honest apology was something I wanted...something my best friend wanted...that something we couldn't get by force. So this is fine."

"Sure...I didn't think you are dumb...it's just, that you reminded me of something. Also, send me a photo of Rika's bruises."

"Whateves."

"And...do you like Rika?"

"Whaddya mean?"

" I mean romantically? While a friend would go to some lengths...usually only a lover does so much."

Her eyes got shifty as she panicked a bit

"DON'T MAKE ASSUMPTIONS."

I left her on her own as a blushing mess.

Flashback ends

While certain things don't add up...I have no interest in finding out...

The true mastermind of Ryueen's class...will show themselves to me... solving the puzzle.

AUTHOR'S NOTE

Dear Readers,

(if image is unclear click on the interest circle and zoom into the pic in the new window)

EACH AND EVERY INTERACTION IS SEPARATE AND NOT KNOWN BY OTHERS

Weirdest mind game yet ...and I know very well...some may have difficulty keeping up...as some have their brain cells on a Hawaii vacation.While mine were on overtime for 2 days...now I will go broke paying them back.

AND THIS IS JUST PART 1

NOW ALSO ANOTHER CH

...which idk when I will release

Btw, ManabexRika confirmed

Idk..why...but I felt like making it a part of the arc...so here you go...

Have a good day while knowing the fact yall are murderes of my braincells.

Thank you

Word of Caution

Dear Readers,

Think twice before pressing the enter button.

I don't want to repeatedly send such messages to any of my readers.

Everything has a limit, please be mindful of that.

Thank you

𝕊𝟚-ℂ𝟠: 𝔻𝕖𝕔𝕚𝕡𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖𝕕 𝕃𝕠𝕔𝕜𝕤

S2 ends!

Ryuuen's POV:

--

Class B--Class A

Class A--Class C

Class C--Class B

Class D-- unchanged positions

--

( A/N: Ryuuen--Class B, Kiyo--Class D, Arisu--Class A, Ichinose--Class C)

Kukuku!

This school is messed up! I couldn't have asked for a better outcome for this exam. Matsushita has been crushed and so has Ichinose. Hah, just fabulous! Even I could have only destroyed Ichinose, thank you, f*cking servants, for destroying that Matsushita.

This exam should set everything in place for Class A.

Though, that Karuizawa escaped. Well, it doesn't matter, I don't even know how and why she asked me to destroy that Karuizawa.

I can't wait to see their faces Kukuku

"What's up! Suzune doing a get-together without me! Are you cheating on me?"

I guffawed at my joke at the scorned look of the defectives and the losers.

"What do you require Ryuuen? I believe that you have no business here in the cafeteria, after 10 pm."

I pulled a chair and sat with the group having Suzune, Orbiter, Karuizawa, Hirata, Ichinose and Kanzaki. Ichinose, the goody-two-shoes, is asked," Ryuuen-kun how did you win the exam? It was quite a marvellous victory."

Oh? She is being such a pointy pain in the ass.

"Hmm, maybe because we are capable..."

It brought the famous shitty faces from them but I was far from being over

"...and obviously because we knew all the leaders."

Those shits turned into beautifully twisted faces upon realising how strong me...no...my CLASS is.

Suzune like those irritating students in classes asked her amazing doubt

"How did you know the leaders?"

Bingo b*tch

"What will I get in return for sharing such information?"

Silence zipped their ignorant lips shut as I waited for a response and was disappointed.

RING

I saw who it was and realised I had to leave

"Kuku, jealous Suzune? Well, it doesn't matter...I have a date to go to...don't stalk me Horikita and all you dimwit surnamed people...use your heads, if you have them."

I wanted these f*ckers to figure it out and I desperately wanted to see their reactions when the realisation hits them like a brick wall.

The library brought me back to how much time I spent in this crappy place in middle school to get into this freaking Y. Goddamit old man!

"Good evening Ryuuen-kun! It's a pleasure to meet you at this fine evening just 2 minutes and 23 seconds late. Congrats! The last time it was 4 minutes and 54 seconds late. You are being punctual."

Shiina Hiyori, the Angel of my class and my Ace...or I maybe her ace.

Kukuku...who knows? And that's really fun.

"Kuku, Hiyori remember our deal? "

She closed her book... Atomic Habits -by James Clear

She did what most would call a cute pose but for me, it was nothing more than another irony of her strategic and scheming.

"Oh, Ryueun-kun, what do you mean.Please explain."

"Hiyori, my mind ain't one of your books, don't try to trick me.And I think you very well remember what I said earlier when I accepted your offer..."

Flashback to the first month of school

"I want complete autonomy over my actions without any form of constriction from you Ryuuen-kun."

I looked at Hiyori surprised at her bold demand. No one in their right mind had the guts to even question me after I f*cked Ishizaki and Ibuki up, yet this b*tch comes walking over asks something like that to me.

She stared at me waiting for a response as I gave none...

"I see, you want something in return. So how about I advice you from time to time...Hmmm"

She put her finger to her lips as she whispered

"As an adviser."

"Kuku, why can't I just force you to do the same?"

"A fair question Ryuuen-kun, but that wouldn't work. I am not like the rest."

I pushed her to the wall and ask

"Really? Why is that?"

"It's simple, I am neither hot headed nor..."

She tilted her head sideways and I followed her gaze.

B*tch...

There was a f*cking camera! Goddamit! I thought I had located all the cameras!

"Now, Ryuuen...should I dictate what will ensue if I complained about you attacking me in such a precarious position. Quite unfortunate isn't it Ryuuen."

The class watched with bated breath as I went up to the camera with hiyori being held by Ibuki

I am certain this camera wasn't there yesterday...it was a fake, smart girl.

"Kukuku, Hiyori you are f*cking genius...but here is the thing."

I pulled her out of Ibuki's hands as I again forced her against the wall with hands trembling and her face riddled with tears.

"I-I...please...let me go, I am a girl."

She tried to trick me first and now she expects me to let her go because she is a girl...should I?

Hell no, I believe in gender equality.

I drive a blow in her stomach as she coughs in pain

"R-Ryuuen kun...can you please come closer...I-I want to apologise."

My seething anger calmed down a bit at her weeping state...even I can't say no to this crying angel.

"Ya what?"

I sat down to her level as she whispered

"Sorry to inform you Ryuuen-kun, you lost."

She then lifted her finger and pointed behind the last row, where their was one of the school assigned cameras...

F*ck...this fake camera was bait to lure me into the real one with my anger.

I got up and acted normal as I commanded to the unruly and blabbering classmates on the fight that ended moments ago.

"Saw this you freaks, this is what happens...I don't have mercy.And you, Hiyori...I will deal with you later, first I have to teach a lesson to these freaks on how to behave in class."

I can't let them figure out that I was outplayed and Hiyori purposefully whispered it to me hence preventing that. She will be a worthy ally and not a freak like these morons. I have to use this opportunity wisely.

After the classes were over I went to the library to find her reading a book... The 48 laws of power, Robert Greene.

I remember the old man mentioning this book to me.

"So Ryueen, do we have a deal?...or not, and you wish to be expelled in the first month?"

F*ck this girl, she has surrounded me for now.At least she won't try bossing me around. I have be way more careful around her

"We have a deal."

I put out my hand to shake on it and she looked at it for a while. She then walked up to a shelf and grabbed a book and placed it onto my hand.

Claudius by Robert Grave

"Read it overtime."

Not wanting to argue with her anymore I grabbed the book and left giving her one last glare.

"B*tch is hella creepy...and cute ."

What the hell is wrong with me?

Flashback ends

"What happened Ryueen-kun? Lost in thoughts, are we? And I did help you in the exams right...don't ask for too much greedy fox of disheartened grape ventures."

Her gaze ever so perceptive looked into me.

"Yaya, I know my limits. But at tell me what shit you are planning. I am especially confused about that Matsushita and Karuizawa plan."

That was bothering me all this time on how she came up with it and it's implementation.

"Ryueen-kun, it's quite simple...I suppose there is no harm in sharing my thoughts after the bok is over. Well, considering the fact that due to quite a few novels I had been able to understand Matsushita's obsessive mindset I simply sent you as a decoy saviour in her worst moments, like Fairy Godmother to Cinderella, except...this time... Cinderella doesn't get her prince ."

"What about that Karuizawa then, why attack her like that?"

"Do you even need to ask?"

"What the f*ck do you even mean?We could have just threatened Karuizawa like Horikita, with a show of strength then blackmailed their class to force outcome 3 form their group as well did in the other groups. Because of your elaborate scheme, while we won overall, we still lost in Ichinose's group"

"While your plan would work, there is a risk in war. As Sun-Tzu once quoted

Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle, but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting. "

"I am not here to listen to some crappy quote from some old dude from sh*t book all I want is a straightforward answer to my question which had been asked over 10 minutes ago."

" Never insult my books or me. Is that clear Kakeru? "

The temperature of the room dropped as her previously angelic smile reduced to ashes in her demonic flame of negative aura. As if, in a single moment it would be over.

She pulled out her phone and after a while, a video was sent to me from an unknown number.

It played...and left me yet again, shook.

"Tell me Ryuuen, Horikita and your little scrimmage was recorded...who might have done it?

If I had to guess... the person who suggested it aka me."

F*ck my life, she did give me a hint to forge this plan of using Horikita. All this while I thought I had come up with it on my own but during one of our meetings she did say

' The opportunity of defeating the enemy is provided by the enemy himself

Her quotes actually were the starting point of this, she predicted I would do this using me as an indirect decoy to make Horikita her saviour while keeping a sword dangling over my head by taking a recording of it hidden in the shadows while I encountered Suzune, if she sends it on the forums or the school, we go down.

How deep does this rabbit hole go?

By the looks of it, she wouldn't give a flying f*ck about the class if she can have her books.

"It seems, you have grasped the silhouette of my play, congratulations Ryuuen-kun, no wonder you are the class dictator."

She was mocking and praising me at the same time, as expected of a book nerd to have her way with words.

"Ya sure whatever, now what? What next? Why ask me to make Ibuki beat the shit out of Rika ?"

"Now now Ryueen-kun, I never specified it...all I said was if you can't dye someone's hands in blood, dye them in red, from a book"

B*tch that's what you meant! Make Karuizawa's small push cause a spark and I make the fire using Ibuki to draw that weak Rika flopped over in the cafeteria to a secluded area and beat her up blaming the whole thing on Karuizawa. After that just as I planned Rika was contacted by her overprotective one-sided lover, Manabe and boom everything falls into chaos leaving my path to the goal clear.

"Why do you always talk so obscurely? It gets on my f*cking nerves, we both know you are messed up, so why act all holy."

"Hah, you talk a lot of nonsensical things Ryuuen-kun, your mind is making things up. I am far from a twisted person. I never said you do anything, I for the most part said out quotes from my books aloud. You are nothing but words with no actions to prove this illusory demonic image of mine."

"Do you get high on the fact that your so-called pure actions hide the motives you have?"

"Ryuuen-kun, you are being quite loquacious."

F*ck her big words

She caught on as she spoke

"Oh! I apologise for my words being outside of the fists lexicon."

"You should be glad my fists are inside my pockets and not in your face."

"You wouldn't hurt someone who has your life in this school at her fingertips. How Imperious of you after falling for my tricks twice in a row."

She was getting on my nerves but she was f*cking right. She ain't like the normies, she is a helluva lot harder to get a hold of and control.

"B*tch go rot in hell I am leaving."

I got up and left leaving both satisfied and paranoid with the answers I just got from this bookish demon.

x--x

Hiyori's POV:

Kakeru Ryueen was quite a horrible individual indeed as he walked around with an iron fist which I had escaped with nothing but deceit. After all, mystify, mislead, and surprise the enemy.

He may be smarter than many in this school but thankfully not smart enough to make a dent in my beautifully articulated plan with the person in question himself, in nothing but silence. I wonder if he will make himself known. I wish to wait here for that one moment, from the first time I met him... Kiyotaka Ayanokouji .

The moment we first met and the way he jumped on the shelf immediately showed similar movements compared to my late mother . I had to know more, but the announcements brought a new wave of threat and anticipation by others. I had to come up with a strategy and sound as vague as possible whenever I met Ryuuen.

The reason was as simple as my mother had said

'Wall have ears Shiina. Be cautious of what you say and think before you say.'

This was especially true here where my reputation as a sweet and quiet person has to be maintained as I can't be as careless as Ryueen and show all my cards to the enemy.

Ironically I do hope to show Ayanokouji all my books, I am so curious about how he won the island exam I just can't stop thinking about it! That's how this school is so interesting on how a tyrant like Ryuuen was defeated by a so notoriously called Orbiter by Ryuuen.

He was a walking definition of Sun-Tzu's quote in the exam

'He will win who, prepared himself, waits to take the enemy unprepared.'

Did he really expect me to not find out? What am I? Class D?

I wonder what his reaction will be!

Even this time, my plan should have completely destroyed all the groups, leaving only our allies of Class A standing with us. Yet, his group was the one abnormality stopping us from reaching Class A.

"Is this seat taken?"

A boy who I knew very well came right to my venue with a book by Christopher J. Hadnagy, Social Engineering: The Art of Human Hacking

"Not at all Ayanokouji-kun! Please sit down."

"Thank you Hiyori. I would rather sit with someone I know."

A sudden compliment? A hidden motive by any chance?

"Thank you Ayanokouji-kun for considering me your acquaintance."

"Welll I wouldn't call you an acquaintance."

Quite a cruel rejection of my proposal.

Nonetheless,

"I see...it's okay."

I dropped my head back into my book to stop my face from being red from embarrassment.

"I think we are friends...aren't we? Or am I overstepping my boundaries?"

Friends? That's a first in my autobiography. Did he mean it? Doesn't matter...at least this is better than being a hermit.

Thinking so I failed my arms around wildly

"No not at all! You are my friend as well, I also had similar worries about calling you a friend. Now that we are on the same wavelength I think I should show you my books."

Was I too direct? Isn't that what friends do? Share their hobbies and stories. I really can't tell with the stoic expression he has...was he faking his smile back then when we first met? It could be true because upon recalling it wasn't a smile even just curled up puckered lips.Maybe this quietness is him.

"I see, that would be lovely."

That broke into my thoughts as water to a deserted man as I ruffled through my bag recommending all the books I had, this is quite new and exciting.

After over 30 minutes of me ceaselessly running my mouth and smiling all the while I realised that he hadn't said a single word and simply had been listening to my train of thoughts on

'Romance novels need less drama and misunderstandings.'

or

'Why books on self help are clique and redundant.'

and even

'Why horror books need to implement better and unique adjectives.'

Shinnaaa!! What were you thinking?

"Eto-Ayanokouji-kun, was I being a nuisance?"

Finally removing a hand from his chin he replied

"Not at all, each and every argument and thought you had regarding books were quite controversial and yet you delivered tantalizing evidence from both history and writings on why your thoughts are quite befitting."

Ahh! He actually paid attention!

"Oh...thank you, umm...can we be book buddies?"

Please don't say no!

Please don't say no!

Please don't say no!

"Aren't we already?"

A friend...and a book lover...fireworks spread out in my mind.

He spoke once more,"Now, I have a few recommendations...do you want to hear?"

"Yes please!"

"A bullied girl by hands of deceit

A framing by an obsession

A control of classes

I am quite certain you will LOVE these books."

...

...

..

.

So, he figured all of it out and openly threatened me...

My hopes of a friend...

He gave a reply to my unspoken thought, "We are friends Hiyori...There wasn't a lie in the past 30 minutes."

That gave me some relief as I spoke

"Well, I was caught awfully quick, how unfortunate!What do you want Ayanokouji?"

"One answer, why did you target me? This whole thing had a third layer to it. A layer to specifically attack my peace."

His voice has dropped in tone as his eyes were focused on me with an unshakable gaze.

"I see, a reasonable query as you must have wondered why I would attack you after meeting you just once...It's just, I found you unique."

"Isn't that too vague and mundane of a reason?"

"I could also say that I wanted to see if you are a threat like I felt so I tested you in this exam and my suspicions were right making me aware of a previously hidden enemy of the class."

"What made you suspicious?"

"Now...let's not get personal this quick Ayanokouji... do you understand?"

I shut my book with vigour as I stared into his golden eyes

He replied with a hushed yet seething remark

"Don't think I am Ryuuen."

and continued

"Regardless, I have no interest in breaking our new friends...so, next Saturday?"

"Are you talking about-"

"Yes, we are book buddies after all. Have a good day Hiyori"

"You too book buddy."

His erasing visage from the background left a lasting impression...

Huh, I was right, yet I feel not happiness...but paranoia.

Ayanokouji's POV:

I have to find the mole from our class, too much information has already been leaked. While me using Ryuuen as an oblivious pawn I had successfully retraced him to Hiyori as I was certain that after my group's anomalous victory he would go to his ally. A final delicate yet important layer to my plan.

Cutting to how I suspected her was from three incidents, first from the day I met her giving me a feeling she was quite refined in her way of asking multiple questions in a single word a skill which was either just luck or worked for. Not just that but her book choices as well, which could have been a coincidence on the day of the island exam announcement...but I think not...

since both books, I had seen tucked under her arm were...

Robinson Crusoe

and

The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell

Both related to the Island theme...which she might have caught onto when they announced 'important location' by the speaker on the cruise. This further confirmed her observational attitude.

The other was the island exam where she was the only one unperturbed by Ryuuen's cruelty. A classic show of power coming from either her negligence...or she is bad at acting.

And lastly, the USB itself called her the Sybarite book .

( A/N: Sybarite-her self-indulgent nature, book-obvio )

Considering we now have what one would call a complex relationship of enemy and friend with a stack of books being the bridge this will be a long game with casualties to the minimum..

At least as I hope.

The battle is won by Ryuuen no doubt but the war is left undecided.

Author's note--

Dear Readers,

That's the end of this exam and season.

Umm, ya Hiyori...is well smart...is putting it lightly

USB!!

and finally, the 3rd layer of the plan was explained.

What the blackmail was with Class A? Well, it won't be revealed yet...

Oh!

MY OC IS IN THE NEXT SEASON...LMAO

Whether you all like her or not...I do hope she will be a good intro to the fic

and...

well a few SS are ahead keep a lookout for them

also...

Read my Ayanokouji Travels fic, even if u didn't read Violet Evergarden fic, it will still make sense

(While I shouldn't be plugging my fic like this...umm, my writing over there took a while...soo...um..ya)

Have a great day ahead

Thank you!

SS-1 Koenji: The Dignity of the Worthy

A/N: Here is the culmination of what I understand of Koenji as a character from the surface research. It's up for debate, though please give educated opinions if you have any.

Koenji's POV:

Wishes

Fantasies

Dreams

Goals

and

Reality...

Quite a few beautiful things aren't they? They obviously remind me of myself. My throne is on the pillars of worth after all. Strong and mighty are traits of being perfect, which I am.

"Koenji will you please concentrate on the class meetings"

Horikita-girl disturbed my masterpiece of a monologue, revolting indeed.I have not even a moment to deal with this insect.

Looking back at my gold plated mirror I combed my gold hair giving a million...no...trillion dollar smile.

How beautiful!

Walking out of the defective class that a being like me resides in, I walked back to my room while deleting a few of the messages from the peasants who think they have a chance with the beautiful me. I love myself and my mirror alone. I don't need such lacklustre and frivolous relationships with creatures below me.

Having such modest thoughts, I reached my room to find...is that a speck of dust on my full-scale mirror?? Such blasphemy cannot be tolerated! I quickly took out a silk cloth, specially bought for my mirrors that showcased my beauty in full display to my stunning eyes. After cleaning it I looked gravely into the mirror and vocalised my thoughts.

"Such beauty cannot be encased in a mere object like a mirror. But for now, it's doing a well enough job."

I sat down at my chair and surfed through the school socials and cross-referenced it with my knowledge about each and every student in my school by charting each of their capabilities upon gauging their daily posts flaunting their creations from photos to craftsmanship. After that, going to the school achievement page and scrolling through the daily updates and finding nothing of relevance I closed my phone and reviewed the charts I made today.

I let out a perfect smile as my pride increased

"Yet another day of none of these creatures defeating me! How magnificent!"

Closing my 500-page notebook and placing it on the pile with the other 9 notebooks I left my chair and headed to the gym to do my daily supremely efficient routine. After I finished the last rep after 2 hours of rigorous training, my star-like droplets of sweat glistened showing a fraction of why I deserve to be the perfect being.

I went straight to the cafeteria to consume the perfect amount of calories by being cognizant of my dietary needs. Looking at the distance to the pizza and chips snacked on by the corpulent mongrels... it looked appetising.

'Perfection and pleasure don't go hand in hand Rokusuke.'

'As you command mother.'

Feeling compunction, I threw away the desire of eating such disgusting things I left the cafeteria...after all, such foods haven't touched my palate in my 15 years of living, another day won't cause any difference.

Reaching my room I revised the notes I made with extreme precision and stunning handwriting. I spent the first month completing everything in the school texts comprising over 120 chapters in total and encompassing them in these. This is a small feat for a being like me.

Carrying out my nighttime face care and body care, I went to my kingly bed as I fell into slumber to dream the same dream...or should I say nightmare again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The same lucid dream with multiple doors in view and a lamp shedding light on my visage and relishing at my suffering as payment for it.

I opened the rainbow-coloured door.

The bright walls of my childhood room never felt less morbid as I saw the little disgusting me, filled with alacrity unaware of the acumen possessed by my mother. If she saw this side of me I would be dead at least mentally .

Closing the door to one of my memories I walked down memory lane for the millionth time.

Revisiting, reliving and returning to my past.

Reaching the door with nothing but black and having a sign posted in big red words

'AGAIN?'

As if the door is mocking me...I entered the same room of mine...but this time, painted with a deep shade of black and a little perfect me sitting on the chair getting admonished by his instructor.

This is what perfection is...we get nothing without the pain...it is the fact ingrained into my perfect brain. The person who advocated this came walking in with a sharp tone

"Rokusuke, why haven't you completed your dinner yet?"

"Mom, T-the...instructor said...I-I have to complete it...b-by...10 pm..."

She came to the kid who was shaking with his pencil in his hand as she touched his hair and ruffled it

"Rokusuke...I know you are working really hard to make mommy proud. You love me right, my boy. You are not like your father...right?"

The kid relaxed his hand... hah, pathetic.

Her expression changed from one of sweetness to one of vexation as she pulled his hair and banged it on the desk to make his nose bleed... how repulsive.

"Then do better...and follow my commands...do you understand, boy?"

This was the first time, she met this young 3-year-old boy in over 10 days...after that man left her. She left him to rot in these 4 walls with an instructor who came only for an hour every day.

I turned my head from the kid's crying and the mother's yelling to find 15 cameras installed in the room. Even the bathroom was no exception...

This room was fairly spacious and filled with what most would call 'richness'. The kid was rich in talent. The mother was rich in money. Yet they were both poor in love. Both demanded it, yet none had any to share. This situation never changed. It never will, that's the reality we live in.

The boy followed his mother with a broken nose and a will to love his mother. I went along to the dining hall which was thrice as big as his room. It had a broken chandelier in the centre of the long table as the boy with his puny feet waddled to one end. While his mother sat on another.

A chef came with the food upon being ordered

"1 minute and 12 seconds...Serve."

If that time limit was broken, he would lose his job. Imperfection was never tolerated in that house. Not in time...

After being served she tasted it

"The salt...is 1/4th tablespoon more...why?"

The room went ghastly silent as he spoke

"M-Madame'...my son...was sick...so I-I-"

"Doesn't matter...because of you, my son was about to get his diet destroyed because of your negligence. You will face the consequences...have a great day ahead."

Her smile was wicked and it would later spread to his resignation and his son's demise due to the chef's inability to pay for his treatment.

For now, the chef went away with his fate sealed with a salty tear.

"Rokusuke, why is your fork not held properly? And where is your napkin?"

The boy quickly let down his fork and placed the napkin gently on his lap

"Is this okay mommy?"

His eyes brimming with the desire to show his love for his mother...how utterly naive.

"Never repeat it...Mistakes such as this won't be unpunished."

The voice of his mother was loud enough to be lodged into his heart.

This was the life, I lived...one of the constant repercussions for my actions. Every mistake pointed out from posture to food to words to... even how to brush.

Every move had to be absolutely perfect.

I closed the door and entered another similar door, marked

'AGAIN? AGAIN?'

"Rokusuke, WHY ARE YOU SO LATE??"

I was exactly 6 seconds late to my 6th birthday. The only one waiting for me with a scrunched up face was the mother I had tried to love.

The cake was... perfect.

As always...

"Look here boy, this was made by 2 of the biggest chefs in the country. Just perfect right?"

I nodded quietly, never uttering a word

'If what you say isn't right, stay quiet...Don't speak if you are wrong.'

Those words reverberated in my head as I watched the boy cut down the cake exactly from the centre, perfect...

"Boy, as your gift, here is a treadmill with a gas mask...You will run on it starting from 10 km and increasing it every week both by a 2 incline and 5kms increase."

This was simply done to recreate high altitude running. Why? The reasoning was simple, to improve my body which hadn't been trained yet even minutely. I remember all the stretched muscles and plastic surgery I had to do, for removing the stretch marks I had.

I did it since I didn't want to face the consequences. My want for love had diminished and my will to obey had increased. My room was now filled with notes and charts showing my grades and sports results compared to the other kids in school.

Her voice yelled, "This will not be tolerated. I want your line on this graph to be the highest one. Do you understand? I give you one month...or else."

I didn't let her finish the sentence. My fear was too much to bear listening to it. Her manipulation of situations had set an overgrowing sense of dread in me. The earlier kid wasn't me...this was me.

A scared 8 year old me...

A me, who never wanted anyone's love...

She left the room to a weeping me, now running on the treadmill reciting the periodic table at the age of 8.

Just perfect...both in efficiency and skill...as it should be.

Leaving the room I went to the next door

'AGAIN? AGAIN? AGAIN?'

"ROKUSUKE?? What is this?"

I looked silently at the boy in front of me, 12 years of age looking at the trophy I had just won in the Krav maga tournament.

"THIS IS 2ND PLACE?"

This tournament was against professionals all of age 17 to 25. I had gotten a 2nd place in the country under an anonymous name

'Rokusuke, to show your pieces to the world...wait for the right time'

"Woman, I was a little less than perfect. I won't disappoint any further."

Her anger hadn't subsided but had definitely changed to one where she pulled my collar and shouted

"Your father left me...because of not being a perfect woman for him

All day, every day...it was 'Woman!! Why do you earn more?'

'Woman!! Why are you so ugly?'

'DAMM WOMAN!! Why is your having stretch marks??'

'I HAD IT! YOU ALWAYS MAKE MISTAKES! You can't cook! You are a fat pig!! You made such a useless creature!! Now I can't deal with you and this menace! Listen here you sl*t! if you ever try to find me, I will bury you and your goddamm child and no one will ever find you.'

Rokusuke never is less than perfect...because if you are...you will never find your love or respect, you will be an insect of no value."

She had lost the love of her life, who gave her a parting gift of another wound on her scarred body. She was not perfect...she tried to make me perfect .

Her words had been buried deep in me

'PERFECT'

'PERFECT IN STUDIES'

'PERFECT IN SPORTS'

'PERFECT IN LOOKS'

'PERFECT IN BODY'

...Yet, never perfect in life.

I had, in a few weeks topped all my charts. Always coming first in everything with every win increasing the gap between me and those mongrels. The treadmill had now been converted to a gym with over 10 instructors forcing me past my limits. Dieticians were assigned to me to follow the food requirements to absolute perfection.

5 instructors made me read and understand everything in my school textbooks with remarkable accuracy and diligence. I never enjoyed learning but force...can make the strongest yield...Books were hoarded in my room as it was now more of a library than a living space.

Plastic surgery had been done over 15 times. My face was now perfect. Laser toning,bone lengthening surgery, LASIK...even it was illegal to perform on a child...money was everything.

' Your hair reminds ...me of something...change it's colour'

'Your freckles remind...me of something...remove them.'

'Your vision has deteriorated...let's change it.'

'You are too short...change it'

'You are too dark...change it.'

I was perfect.

My mother worked a day in and out and had made over 8 companies all associated with Koenji Conglomerate. I had now stopped seeing her at all. It was a fixed schedule for me consisting of everything needed for me to be a perfect person in eyes of my mother and society.

Yet I missed...perfection...

Closing the room and reaching the final door

'AGAIN? AGAIN? AGAIN? AGAIN?'

"Koenji you have been selected in ANHS it seems."

"A perfect being like me without a doubt would be selected."

"Now, you have to complete this place and be the elite that I want to see...Do you understand?"

I had tricked my mother for the first time in my life. Using every single connection my mother had given me over the years I had found a boy who was ready to reveal the school's working for me after he had graduated from ANHS.

Class D...was the choice I had to pick. It would give me the relaxation I needed for my perfect life to be content. I had worked hard enough to deserve this...I had one chance and I succeeded.

I saw the 15-year-old me looking in the 3 mirrors in his room and calling out

"I love you! You are just perfect!! You are amazing!!"

By then all I had left was my self-love. The only thing which kept me alive...it was my survival.

Everyone everywhere hated me...it didn't matter...it was jealousy. It was unwarranted. They never worked as hard as me, yet they expect to be as perfect as me. They will never be at my level...they are nothing but a bunch of insects.

The laugh sounded hollow , yet it didn't matter...after all...it was my perfection that left me a polished diamond with a hollow core.

In this world, the only thing that matters...

Is to be the best...

To those who say, perfection doesn't exist, they are wrong...

Because

I exist...

AUTHOR'S NOTES--

compunction--regret

corpulent--overweight

acumen-shrewd by good insight

alacrity-lively

If you are wondering why i didnt' focus on his regiment or his factual life...the reason was simple...I wanted to show his emotions...not his actions...and in dreams...our emotions are dominant.

His narcissism was a self coping mechanism...In this fic...he is one who lives of the fact that no one is better than him...the day he realises...that's not true...things will be different.

Ngl, I got really upset while writing this and reading about such things happening...soo..umm...sorry if it was a bit too ...umm..strange in a sense.

Have a great day ahead

Thank you

SS 2 Arisu- The Fallen queen's Checkmate

Arisu's POV:

C h e c k

and

M a t e

The black and white of the board and life, follow the same principle...we play countless games of chess every day with fate. Some we win, most we don't. Some accept the loss, others fight it.

I Arisu Sakayanagi, never accept a loss...I may be what most consider a bad player, at least in sportsmanship. But, in the game of life, there are no rules...only checkmates.

"Hey loli, how does it feel to win, not just to Class A...but against Katsuragi?"

I gripped the cane tighter signifying my dislike of the name she used to call me. Masumi Kamuro is what one would call a bishop. She was an important piece, even if she tried to poison the concoction I created...her reward for that will be served in due time.

With this win in the recent exam, our position as Class A has been sealed. But I still lost to one person...Kiyotaka Ayanokouji. It was a subtle defeat...not one affecting our classes in the slightest. Joining hands with Hiyori who manipulated both Ryueen and Katsuragi into the deal they had managed to reach the desired outcome., provided it be a win...yet a loss to him.

' Fufu, so you want me to stay in the class competition for a while?'

'You heard me Sakayanagi-san, and in return, I will keep Ryueen away from any confrontation with your class'

'Hiyori, while that sounds quite enticing...I presume you realised I am better than Ryueen and can crush him. Hence why even put forward such a meaningless proposal'

'While I know that's true and it's exactly why I want to keep you from stepping in and competing...Given that Katsuragi-san is still the leader of your class. I can predict that it will take some time to remove him...and get the title for yourself. Keeping Ryueen at bay is a plus.'

'So you are simply keeping a knight away while I checkmate the king...I see. Very well...but...you will return this, with another favour, free of cost'

'May I know, what that favour is?'

'Non participation in 1 Class event.'

' Alright I agree'

' Fufu, pleasure doing this with you.'

She could be a potential Rook...but for now, she is a threatening piece. Who knew?... That a library encounter would be that eventful.

Tapping my cane and ushering Kamuro to guide me back to my room, I walked behind her. I have been quite slow with my 3 legs. Some walked behind me out of fear or respect. Others walked in front of me, ignorant or unbothered by me. Kamuro was one of the latter.

Yet, I yearn for a one...to walk beside me. Whether that will be a reality or not...only time will tell.

"Fufu, Thank you Kamuro. Do you want to come inside for tea?"

"No thanks. You are simply going to trap me and make me follow another order. Since school is over, I am not your pawn for a while. So please, let me be" She huffed and went away.

While she was right, I was going to make her follow a few orders to make me the leader...yet in a corner of my prideful heart...I just wanted to talk to her.

But I know quite well, how life will checkmate me from things I hold dear...getting close to someone is just a poisoned move. Will, I will ever be able to take that risk...and win? More importantly, Do I even want to win?

Thinking such useless thoughts I let down my cane next to my bed as I brought out my chessboard, playing yet again. I wrote down the number in my worn-out notebook titled,

'Black/White'

I opened the final page of that book and wrote down a number

'5, 001'

I always chose white as my pieces unless forced otherwise in an alone setting, as it would go against the illusion of purity I created for myself. After an hour of checks and attacks, I stopped in an hour with a draw between 2 sides. This has been the case for the last 5 years until Ayanokouji defeated me...he wasn't a computer like I was. He didn't just play best moves but went beyond that. He used deliberate errors to force my attack, trapping me in his charade.

Faking weakness...interesting.

Thinking such myriad of thoughts I wrote down a tally in the win section of my book

'4,999'

My phone buzzed an alarm that signalled it was the time to be locked in what I would call a leash. I have to monitor my heart rate every day carefully and map it out with the average readings to find even the smallest change as early as possible. If I am unable to catch a problem early on, it may lead to potential complications, bringing death to give a checkmate to my life.

This congenital heart disease I suffer, what medically doctors call Tetralogy of Fallot, alters the heart structure causing less oxygen to be sent out of the heart.

As the name suggests, it has 4 different conditions affecting my heart at once and just like me...it's quite rare. Another thing which fascinates me about this disease is that...ifnarrowing of the pulmonic valve and the ventricular septal defect have a perfect balance, then I may have never suffered this until adulthood. 2 of my 4 conditions would have cancelled each other out... how cruel and interesting.

Chess was one of the few games I ever felt I could play with complete elimination of luck, which has always been quite difficult to beat...

I washed my face and while reaching for my phone, I accidentally called my father but cancelled the call immediately. Everyone in this school is away from their parents, hence I have to maintain that rule too.

Though, I did talk to him once...as a father..the day I met Ayanokouji. He left my father in tears and fear. Someone of his stature and power breaking down to a high school boy, would be shocking to most...but not me.

I felt at that very moment...he was not just any high school boy but one with great strength. His parents must have been the reason for his strength...after all...true geniuses are just genetics at play.

Kiyotaka's Ayanokouji is a true genius

I am going to defeat him

I will prove to him, my true strength

The strength of

Arisu Sakayanagi

Author's Note--

Dear Readers,

This is not a backstory SS, but more like a daily life kinda thing. I wanted to clarify a few things about her, so I wrote this.

1. Her disease (this was the closest diagnosis I could find..as most congenital ones are curable or deadly at birth.)

2. Her perception of Ayanokouji, since she doesn't know about White Room

3. Her love for chess

4. The reason why Katsuragi played along with Class C

5. How Hiyori knows about Arisu's capabilities...and vice versa.

6. Her Ideology

Have a great day!

Thank You

SS 3 021- Past that entails Future

A/N: A very short glimpse of my OC's vision.This is the last SS of S2

021's POV

"Are those files ready Doctor?"

"Yes, I have analysed all their behavioural traits from the video feed I have been sent."

"Very well, send them to me ASAP."

"Yes Madam."

I switched off the voice distorter as I opened the package I had just received. It had the basic uniform and a red jacket. I tried them on and they fitted me perfectly. It was finally time, to meet my true adversary . The one reason why such a devilish place still exists and the only reason why I have suffered for so long.

Kiyotaka Ayanokouji aka 007

While I may not be the masterpiece, I have equalled the playing field long ago. I will annihilate him, both to save myself and to save the upcoming generations.

Armed with both money and power, I can hopefully turn the tables...no I have to .

I can't let their sacrifices go to waste, I owe my life to each of the 4 who laid down their very lives to help me escape with their last echos being

' L i v e f o r u s '

I picked those strands of bandages and put them inside a locket and adorned it. It's my last remembrance of them, I will have to cherish it...It's the only true emotion I hold dear...

The emotion of love

They acted as the only family I ever had...007 was one of them...he left me... they didn't.

That place was serene and quiet with no screams, as the children never cried... not out loud .

One would mistake it to be a world of white angels when in reality, it was just wolves of misery in sheep's clothing.

That place had no sadness...as most never showed it . Not until the last moment.

Every single one there was average...below average...and even useless as normal humans as least in normal skills. Most didn't fit in those neat little boxes society had planned out for us.

They were shunned and discarded by the cruel hands of society and taken up by that man. He threw us into something much worse than living in the streets, he showed us what suffering truly felt like.

Yet...

He gave us purpose

' In this world, everyone has the indomitable power to surpass

anyone they desire, given enough time and effort. It may take

days, months, years...even decades. But, it is possible, all 30

present here, can rise up to the pinnacle of humankind.

This place is your very last hope. The world may finally

acknowledge you...or else...you may be discarded

from both the world and this room...PERMANENTLY.'

That speech was the only time he ever spoke to us, yet it was enough to strike a concoction of extreme fear and motivation into our innocent hearts. We finally had hope...in ourselves.

Maybe it was my fault, for trying to convert that living hell into my paradise. It was a place which bred individualism, yet I tried to change it... I tried fighting it, maybe it was a mistake...but if that mistake helped me escape , I have no regrets.

In the Whiteroom I had soon realised,

I had to sacrifice the ones I loved and held dear..

If I had to live, this was the ultimate sacrifice...

After all, my survival always comes first.

Since the Whiteroom doesn't shackle me any longer, all I can do...is stop future monsters like me from existing.

I sent a final call to the police, informing them of the current location of a particular human...rather my old instructor.

It was time to say goodbye to his freedom...and time for his crimes to be paid in full. All those children he mercilessly let over the cliff of life by slowly chipping away at their morale.

I heard screams from inside the building as I left it. It seems that police had just arrived...How lovely.

I switched on my cellphone one last time, "Is his daughter safe?"

'Yes...'

Not wasting another second I crushed the phone along with the sim card and threw it away, leaving it all behind.

I got into the car and quietly nodded at the driver to lead me to my new life...

If it means showing you true defeat

I will do so

No matter the cost

No matter the failures

It will all be worth it

All those innocent lives will be saved

The White Room will end...and so will you.

Y o u t r a i t o r

𝓢3𝓒1: 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓐𝓻𝓻𝓲𝓿𝓪𝓵 𝓸𝓯 𝓕𝓪𝓶𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓪𝓻𝓲𝓽𝔂

021's POV

I have a thought.

W H A T I S T R U T H ?

A wise man once said,

" Truth will set you free ."

People use these words as philosophical nonsense as motivational quotes on a daily basis, yet most don't realise, that this quote isn't complete...

" Truth will set you free.

But not until it's finished with you."

We don't realise that the pursuit of the truth, it captures us whole. While it's inevitable that truth does provide a clear image of the world and it's various happenings. Yet people don't acknowledge the essence of what truly happens to the person when they have to accept the truth.

We often follow a truth from a person's perspective, when we forget to acknowledge that multiple truths exist simultaneously. A well-known example of this is simple, our history. History is simple the truth of the winning side, we won't ever know the truth of the losing side.

My truth is mine alone. I often don't make great choices, yet the choices I make, I stick to them. Some worked, some didn't. I was pitiful to have failed, I won a few friends...were they really friends? Or were they just parasites? I won't know. My yearning for the company may have slightly deluded my thoughts, so my hatred may be wrongly placed.

Maybe I am making a mistake.

Yet maybes. are just maybes...they are simply there, they won't change the certainty of the past I had,

Or the truth,

Ayanokouji's end will be the end of the world's innocents...even if he is innocent

Death for the life of thousands to come, is a worthy trade, by all standards.

Guilty or Not...

That is the

T R U T H

of each and every one of the students of the White Room.

Slow music played in my earphones as the car came to a halt, in front of the school...

Both the monsters have to die

to bring peace to this world of ours.

Forgetting they are fallen angels

Avenging the lives and sacrificing for the world

Will wash away the carved sins

In the pathway to hell.

--

Ayanokouji's POV

Having sat down on a new setup desk of mine, removed of the past carvings by my dear classmates. I felt a familiar face appearing in my vision as she entered the class.

Oh...

It was Matsushita, her arrival was welcomed with ghastly silence and uncomfortable glances. It was to be accepted after the truth was left naked. Her visage had now changed to one of pale fatigue.

Her hair was unkempt and the eyebags truly shed light on the horrible situation she is in. A small jitter travelled through her body as she made eye contact with me and I noticed her nails bitten off. I have yet to gather more info, but she definitely has changed as she had definitely gotten stronger. Her hands were more rugged

Suzune quickly got up and spoke, "Please sit down on your seat...Right there."

Suzune's bold attitude was in contrast to her earlier meek attitude to Matsushita. While she did have a certain level of nervousness in her, as I could see her clutching her skirt tightly.

She pointed at a chair and table, which earlier had been mine. It seems the others had exchanged them.

Matsushita sat down with absolutely no complaint.

"Aa-"I heard Shinohara starting to speak up.

" Not another word." I stopped her from speaking. "This matter was between me and Matsushita. None of you, have any right to interfere." Shinohara tried to counter but was pulled down by Mori.

Over the past few days, I have gotten vocal and colder, this hadn't gone unnoticed by my classmates. However, it never raised any suspicion as after what they had done to me, it wasn't out of the blue for me to act distant from them.

I got up from my seat and walked up to her seat. I looked at her silently and she got up from her seat. Even after all this while, it seems she can still get a read on my wants from my eyes.

I then turned my head in the direction of my seat and she nodded. After a while, I had my old seat and desk back while she had her belongings back too.

Suzune asked me quietly by tapping... not stabbing, with her compass on my hand as the class began, "Kiyotaka, why did you replace the desk we had exchanged for you?"

"Because it belongs to me, the curses, the insults and the hate too." I went back to staring at the window, wishing for winter to come by . After all, I had led Matsushita who earlier was the amazing and wonderfully mature girl of the class and brought her to such a pitiful condition.

All of it was

M E

I did that to her

Suzune tapped my hand again and pointed to another carving on my desk made by her while I was looking at the window alongside the word

'MONSTER'

It was

'KIND'

Oh...A kind Monster, how Intriguing

--

A person tapped on the door while Sae Sensei jotted down the last problem

"Good Morning, Sensei."

A girl with headphones dangling out of her pocket and a smile on her face spoke with a cheery tone, bringing the warmth of summer.

Yet it contrasted, her hair was like the wavy cold sea and her eyebrows arched with sharpness and poise. The beads dangling from her ears were like the Christmas bells showing a wintry glow.

" Hi everyone! I am Yuzuki Noriko. I am your new Classmate. It's a pleasure to meet you all!"

She handed over a paper to Sae sensei before she could intrude. After reading the paper, Sae sensei spoke up with slight hoarseness

"She...is your new classmate. Please treat her well."

A new chair and table were brought and set up behind me, which was to be expected considering I was the former last seat.

She walked over to the desk and nodded at us, her new seatmate while sitting on her seat.

I noticed she gave a quick glance at my table before looking at sensei again. Her face had become expressionless.

Sae sensei spoke up, "This is an order from the principal. While I don't much information yet, It's crystal clear, that she is a part of Class D now. Would you mind introducing yourself properly Noriko?"

Hirata also asked Sae sensei, "Do tell us a bit about yourself! Like what kind of hobbies and things you have done, I am sure all of us are excited to get to know you more."

"Hello everyone! As I said just a few minutes ago. I am Yuzuki Noriko.I have transferred due to certain familial reasons. I hope for no further questions on that.

I am quite decent in my studies and have won a few medals in basketball and Football, though those were a while back, so I might be rusty.

Fun fact, I am a polyglot with fluency in English, Mandarin and Korean along with my mother tongue being Japanese. I hope we have a fun time together"

Those two sports.. coincidentally were the same sports that Hirata and Sudo were veterans in... how freaky.

Whispers spread through the class as she stopped talking. While she was extremely average to look a but her versatile skills had garnered a lot of attention

She sat down with a slight smile and Sae sensei spoke up, "Alright, settle down everyone and since we are done with the introductions... let's get back to class."

So many questions and so many unknowns had swept the class up with its epicentre being this girl, hah...

It seems you lived, 021

Welcome back

AUTHOR'S NOTES--

Dear Readers,

SOO...here she is:

( A/N: Ahh...You guys can think of her as whatever you want to, this is simply an envisionment of what I wanted her to look like. Cough...umm, the sketch is a rough one...soooo umm, sorry. I just can't draw anime characters well.)

Name:Yuzuki Noriko

Gender: Female

Age: 16

Height: 5'9"

Hair Colour: Light Blue, long, wavy hair

Skin colour: Wheatish skin (Idk, basically mean skin colour of Japan)

Guess what...she also looks absolutely average, what an unexpected surprise...she ain't one of the beauties in class at least not the very beautiful ones.

Oh also she is taller, again...it has a plot reason and just...well I felt like it.

Hope y'all have a great day

Thank You!

𝓢3𝓒2- 𝓣𝓱𝓮 𝓔𝓯𝓯𝓲𝓬𝓪𝓬𝔂 𝓸𝓯 𝓛𝓮𝔁𝓲𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓼

Ayanokouji's POV:

"Ahaa!! Oh wow! I see!"

The whole last day of school passed by, as people flocked around her like a moth to flames. Some had blank thoughts about her, others had positive ones.

None were negative...

It seems she has won over a few people already. She is quite friendly to almost everyone around, a perfect fit for Class D.

Our reunion was blander than expected, I supposed a whole another scenario with a lot of action and heartwrenching drama, reality is often disappointing.

"Muling over a thousand thoughts are we?" A voice came next to me gently tapping my cold shoulder

It was none other than a pretty boy...I mean Hirata

"Hello Hirata, how have you been?"

"You are never going to get rid of the formal streak, are you? I suppose it can't be helped, hey...so, do you mind joining me and the girls in Pallet. Always being the odd gender is kinda strange. You are free to reject."

His voice dropped as I looked over at his group, an interesting choice indeed.

"I don't mind."

His expressions lit up like a 1000 watt bulb as he spoke in a joyous tone, "Oh alright then, let's get going."

"Hey, do you mind, if I bring Suzune along?"

I could feel Hirata's metaphorical jaw drop in shock.

"A-Ah if you can, that would be great...and when did you start calling her by her first name?"

"Alright, thank you. Just wait a while ago I felt we were closer."

"Oh, that's quite lovely to hear Ayanokouji-kun. I will be out with the others."

I walked back to Suzune who was packing her bag after the class ended, in a prim and proper manner. As expected from the elegance she often showcases.

"Suzune, mind going along with us?"

Her hand stopped packing and her face puckered up as she looked at me in slight interest.

"And where to exactly? While I don't have many plans for today, I would rather get some revision done."

"Don't worry, it's nothing too wild. Simply, a get together at Pallet that Hirata invited me to."

Upon hearing Hirata's name her expression dropped as she sighed in exasperation.

"Look, Kiyotaka, with all due respect to Hirata...I would rather not hang out with a bunch of girls for whom this world is a large mall and money falls from trees."

Wow, she went quite condescending with the insults she spouted.

"But I am not asking you to hang out with them. I am asking you to hang out with me."

She tilted her head as she said "Only if you used your word gimmicks in your English exam. It would truly do you wonders...Mr 50-kun"

"Was that an insult?"

"Who knows?" She shrugged...copycat.

I sighed deeply as I asked one final time

"Is that a yes or a no, Suzune?"

"1 hour at most, after that I will leave."She then took off leaving me to catch up to her.

Let's try to take a step towards a real friendship...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As I went along with Horikita outside the class, I found the group consisting of Karuizawa, Hirata, Kushida and Noriko.

Hirata spoke up, "So, are we ready?"

After a mutual agreement, we walked on.

I heard Noriko chatting and getting in touch with two of the most influential girls in this school. While any other, would feel insecure about themselves with such beauties around them, Noriko showed nothing but absolute confidence.

She works frightfully fast. It isn't a surprise considering how quickly she formed an army of consenting tools in the White Room or as she would like to call it...allies.

Suzune nudged me slightly as she asked in curiosity.

"Are you going to keep taking glances at the newcomer Kiyotaka?"

"Nothing of that sort Suzune"

"Don't make it another Matsus- I am sorry, never mind "She apologised for her slip of the tongue while I acted as if I hadn't heard what she tried to insinuate.

Yet her disturbed face made me speak up

"I honestly don't mind you bringing that topic up. So please don't hold back."

I spoke without care about it, yet Suzune's face screamed dissatisfaction.

Suzune spoke in a hushed whisper

" I can never forgive myself for what I and she did...so just be careful, that's all. "

I halted in my tracks as I looked at her as I spoke "Hey Hirata, you guys head along. I think I forgot my pencil kit. I will catch up soon."

"Oh, that's alright!" Hirata readily nodded at my lame excuse.

I walked back to the class and waited at my chair. Horikita soon came along

"I said I lost my compass."

"Pathetic excuse."

"Hypocrite. Anyways, I think you were expecting me to follow along."

"I mean, I was quite obvious with my excuse."

"Sureeeee it was."

She purposefully exaggerated the last part as she sat down too

"Well I won't take long, I just wanted to ask you something."

Suzune nodded as I continued

"Are you forcing yourself to be more polite?"

She was taken aback as she made a crooked smile

"Ahh..You are honestly quite bothersome Kiyotaka. Are you insinuating that I am not nice?"

"Maybe so...but I felt, that you are trying to be nicer, because of the guilt you felt...am I right?"

She remained quiet for a while, the silence was deafening

"What...if I am?"

"I would ask you to stop it then."

"W-Why? Don't you want...me to nicer to you...or maybe more polite..or maybe-"

"None of that, simply be yourself. It would be better if you didn't poke me so often with a compass...but I feel the marks...made by those, are running pale."

Her eyes softened from one on guard to one now mellowy at that. I can't use guilt as a method of getting closer to people. Already I faced a casualty in the case of Matsushita, I can't use this...albeit it would be more effective. Resorting to it might cause long term damage.

Almost all the books I had read, a true friendship...has to be organic, trying to bend it, taught me that... the books were right.

This will be a proper beginning to being normal...

"I didn't know you are a masochist."

"I know you are a sadist."

She smirked at that and spoke, "I guess I will have to...do so...though don't think, I did this because you asked for it or anything... maybe I am lying. " Her voice whispered in the end.

"Let's hurry along."

"Don't tell me what to do Kiyotaka."

"I apologise."

"Such a bland apology, how insincere of you."

...She is back alright...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We entered the cafe and sat down with the rest of the group.

Fortunately or unfortunately I had to sit next to Noriko and Suzune was next to Kushida.

Noriko greeted me,"You are Ayanokouji-kun if I am not mistaken?"

"Yes, that's me."

"It's nice to meet you"

"Likewise"

I still am terrible at making small talk with strangers...or in this case, a past associate.

I went silent and twirled my coffee as it arrived. She quickly diverted her attention from me to Suzune.

"So you are the de factoleader of Class D. "

She spoke with a knowing smile.

"How did you know?" Suzune implored while sipping on her Macchiato.

"Oh, my classmates told me."

My...a possessive adjective, she has always chosen her words carefully. Using this, showed a sense of belonging, while subtle, highly effective.

"Oh, I see, I didn't realise you were well acquainted with them just after a few hours."

"They are just so lovely, I can't help it. The way Kushida-san was so sweet and made me feel comfortable. Or how Karuizawa-san was trying her best to get me into fashion all made me feel at home." Noriko matched her emotions with her every single action.

She went on singing truly beautiful praises of my fellow classmates.

Her hands waved around along with her words, increasing the engagement of others. It was quite clear how effective she was, as she had everyone's vivid attention at her, while she spoke with such charisma..at not just of our table, but of the neighbouring ones too.

This is the power of The Alluring Conductor of the Whiteroom.

( A/N: Alluring-Charisma, Conductor- reference to a conductor guiding an orchestra)

After her orchestra of words ended, she left everyone hooked and trapped in her cage of gold. She had just captured the trust and companionship of the 2 in front of her... and she didn't even try.

Suzune's cold attitude did provide better defence and Kushida's genuine emotions are bothersome to pinpoint.

After a while of me sitting around and blending over 3 packets of sugar into my coffee, I drank it, and drank up both the extremely sweet coffee to drown the bitter taste of the overtly happy conversation placed in front of me.

If she wanted to put up a show...of how far she has improved in her skillset, she definitely accomplished her goal.

After an hour or so, we left the cafe and parted ways.

Will you be a threat, 021?

If so, this will be war and you may be a really strong opponent

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I was taking a small walk at night around the park, when through a small glimpse I saw Matsushita coming out of the Counsellor's office...interesting enough. So this is where she has been to every single day for the period of her absence.

I simply turned my head and kept walking off. I had a reason for this stroll.

As I reached a bench well lit and checked the time... 12 am.

Perfect.

"Hello, Karuizawa."

"What do you need from me?" Her red dress was dissolving under the darkness of the night as she spoke such words in contempt.

"Give me your number."

"That's it? Here..." She without hesitation handed over her number.

"Hey, how did you get my email to send me the time and place we met?...it was so weird, seeing a classmate using grandpa's texting services," She asked haughtily.

Was that a joke?

"Oh, I asked Hirata."

"...Hirata this, Hirata that...ughh, Anyways, if that's it...bye."

"Wait, I have work for you." I sat down as she sat beside me.

"Oh? What is it?"

"Be the closest friend Noriko has"

She looked bothered at this sudden and seemingly random order.

"...While I don't mind it but why do you care about me getting buddy-buddy with Noriko-san? Are you like...in love with her or something? Wow, degrading to a bland girl from a beauty like...ahh Nevermind"

Why does everyone's tongue slip so often?

"Nothing of that sort, just do as you are told."

I can't take Noriko lightly at all, even if there is a slight chance she is a threat, I will have to gain more information about her. Ignorance can be fatal in her case.

Karuizawa will form an excellent candidate for this position as Noriko does want to get closer to her, probably to gain class power and climb the hierarchy as soon as possible. So this should be doable.

"Ahh, always so vague, give me something to work with here."

"I am terrible at making friends, so this is completely up to you. I just need results."

She stayed silent for a while and nodded. I got up from my seat and started heading back.

She tapped my shoulder as I turned around to find her fidgety self shivering and asking

"Fine finee...Ahh...also, that Rika, she ummm, tried contacting me...so like...what now?"

She then showed me a text

'Meet me at central annexe tomorrow at 3 pm'

"You have my number don't you? I will be there with you. Maybe in a corner or so."

"No need for that and all...just like, if I call you, will you help me out?"

"My promise isn't made of glass, to shatter at the slightest hit.I will be there if you need me for the 3 years...of your school life."

Her eyes showed gratefulness as she spoke up.

"Your confidence that you can both protect yourself and me...brings relief. Thank you for that.

You know what...

You are so bad...yet I just can't seem to hate you.

I know it's a deal for us...but maybe...if things were different..

We could have been friends... if you hadn't tried to assault me. "

She left with a smile and slightly damp eyes.

I will try...

I hope one day, I can be different from what that man had wished for...

I have 3 years...maybe somehow...

Author's notes--

Dear Reader,

So, this is another smaller chapter, I simply wanted to write for a bit, so here you are.

I will do bigger chapters for exams or events as such. These chapters are mainly focused on character interactions.

Hope you enjoyed it! Have a good day

Thank you.

𝓢3𝓒3:𝓕𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓾𝓷𝓮? 𝓸𝓻 𝓜𝓲𝓼𝓯𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓾𝓷𝓮?

S3C3: Fortune? or Misfortune?

Ayanokouji's POV

Summer vacations are a time of joy and fulfilment. Yet it was none of the above for me. Rather it was just peace and quiet that I hadn't experienced up until this point thanks to all the situations that had entangled and shredded my peace.

I did receive a few invitations here and there but I am certain those were guilt-ridden ones and not ones of friendship. It was honestly quite simple to identify. My classmates and I had a rather tough time reconnecting after that incident. Mostly because none were what most books would call as

Genuine

I had no issues accepting them if they were just for the reason of hanging. What they wanted was to satiate their own guilt and calm their inner conscience.

So there you have it, I rejected over 11 offers. At least Manabu and I had gotten closer, albeit it's all because of the bet. While Suzune was off studying the entire summer for improving her chances of reaching Class A.

It seems my search for something genuine is yet to be uncovered and taught to me.

How pathetic isn't it? The supposed masterpiece, the one who is supposed to be 'perfect' and the 'best' of everything. In reality, he is 'imperfect' and the 'worst' not only in humanity but also in every possible social situation.

What a cruel irony, that in the words ' perfect human'. ..the human had to be missing.

I was laying in bed with closed eyes contemplating such thoughts as, my phone buzzed and I picked it up to see the caller id.

Sudo?

"Hello there Sudo, it's been quite a while."

"A-ah...ya man, so... like ahh...are you free?"

I could feel his fidgeting and nervous streak transmit through the phone call. We hadn't talked in quite a while, as he was also quite busy with improving his basketball skills.

I remember his last words of his prior to this call

' I will work harder and harder...just you wait Ayanokouji, I will give it my all to defeat you!'

Watching his dedication to his sport is awe-inspiring to many, every day in the cafeteria I had seen him absolutely exhausted to the point that he couldn't even order his food properly.

Maybe one day, he can do as he says.

I responded in a joyful act, "I am...do you need anything from me?"

"Oh perfect!! Hey, do you want to like to hang out this Sunday? There is this really cool Fortune teller gig going on."

Is this another one of those types? It doesn't sound as much out of pity or guilt but rather of nervousness. I really don't have much to do, so I suppose there is not much harm in attending. Anything to improve my social skills is worth it.

What is interesting is the occasion he is inviting me to, as I had never truly cared much for fortune-telling and assumed he didn't either.

"You believe in those Sudo?"

Considering Sudo's intense hard work-oriented gameplay it would be quite unnatural for him to believe in something as unpredictable and obscure as fortune-telling.

"Nah, not really...if I did I would have never taken up basketball... Anyways, wanna go for fun? Like we haven't hung out in a while and all this basketball stuff really sucks my soul out. Ahh, hey also I may need some advice. B-But only if you want to dude, no pressure. I just want us to chill out a bit, we both went through a sh*t ton of stuff."

It seems he really wished for us to hang out, is this what a good friend is?

" Don't worry about me. I am alright and we can talk after reaching there. Sounds good?"

He spoke in elation as he shouted a bit

"YA DONE!..."

I cut his words as I kept speaking

"Text me the details soon, I will meet you then?"

"Ya, see you then Kiyotaka."

Oh? Was that why he was nervous?

I returned the same manner of speaking

"Sure Ken. See you then."

"Y-Yahh...uhh, see ya!"

I heard Sudo's...I mean Ken's slight inaudible gasp as he cut the call leaving me to my thoughts yet again.

The call ended and so did my isolation... I wonder what my fortune has in store for me.

Probably more misfortune...

=

--

=

I adorned a black hoodie and a white shirt as I waited at Keyaki mall. It was quite crowded with many girls and guys chatting and walking around. And the line was quite big too. It seems this is much more of a trend than I had previously expected.

I decided the check the fortune-telling gig before actually entering. Oh...only for couples?

"Hey, Kiyotaka! My man, what's up!"

"Oh Ken, good afternoon."

Ken was wearing a navy blue shirt which was a contrast to his red hairstyle. I decided not to question it.

"Soooo, are we going??"

"Oh, I see. Hopefully, we will be acquainted soon."

"Yup! Anyways let's go stand in the line. That shit is so freaking long."

As we tried to enter the line we were blocked by an attendant

"Are you both a couple?"

Hearing her question Ken and I simply said no as she pointed at the sign that I had noticed before

' Couples only '

It seems unless we both were romantically involved it was impossible to carry on with this. Who knew, that love is required to read someone's fortune.

I could see Ken's excited visage pucker up as he sighed and spoke

"I am so sorry man...Ahh, I should have fucking checked before asking you here."

I dismissed his self-blaming thoughts as I said calmly,

"Don't fret. Do you want to do anything else?"

He sighed in defeat and resignation as he spoke in a mutter.

"Ahh...I only planned the fortune-telling stuff then a game of basketball not gonna lie."

" I see...well"

Then began quite an awkward staring session as we heard another voice...

=

--

=

A blue-haired maiden's voice tingled our senses,

"Oh hey! It's Sudo and Ayanokouji. How are you both!"

It was Noriko, Karuizawa and Hirata. I should have expected it, considering Karuizawa's bond has deepened with Noriko, as ordered.

I spoke up greeting the three in return,

"Oh hello there. It seems you all are also being a part of the fortune-telling?"

Karuizawa, who still couldn't meet my eyes spoke in a joyful voice,

"Ohh it's y'all! Anyways let's go Hirata and Noriko-chan."

"Ahha anyways bye guys!"

Noriko flailed her arms in a quick goodbye as Karuizawa dragged her and Hirata out of our sight.

Only if things were that simple...

Sudo shouted in excitement as I saw a metaphorical alarm go off near Sudo's head.

"HEY NORIKO!"

"H-Hey Karuizawa wait... Ya Sudo?"

Noriko heard it well as she stopped Karuizawa from dragging her away

Sudo quickly warned her of the same disappointment we faced a while ago.

"Oh,I just wanted to like inform you guys this fortune-telling is only for couples."

Silence and discomfort spread between the three as they had this revelation.

Karuizawa broke the silence as she quickly apologised

"Oh goshhhh! Sorry Noriko-chan, I should have been more careful!"

Her attitude towards not just her but also many around her, had mellowed down quite a bit after the frightful encounter she had with me as she readily said sorry, owing up to her mistake.

Noriko quickly stopped Karuizawa as she spoke in a firm tone.

"Nah, don't worry about it. I was the one who tagged along in the first place. Why don't you go with Hirata? I will just go home."

"Ahh, sorry again! Wait a sec! You both, one of you act like her boyfriend and go along with her!"

Karuizawa quickly figured out a solution for this which...was quite obvious but no one had the guts to bring it up.

"I think we should get going Karuizawa. After all, we wouldn't want to be late" Hirata intervened to stop her forceful attitude as she brought her solution to the table.

It left us in a deadlock as we simply stared at each other for about a minute.

After that Noriko simply looked up to find a familiar face...Ibuki.

She went up to her as she gave her a tap on her shoulder,

"Hey, Ibuki! Remember me?"

Ibuki's guard immediately went down as she realised it was her...so they know each other?

"Oh, it's you...hi."

Noriko asked Ibuki immediately without beating around the bush

"Soooo...are you going alone for the fortune-telling thing?"

"Ahh...maybe? Why do you care?"While Ibuki might have not wanted to sound rude, her words and attitude showed otherwise.

Noriko didn't mind it at all, as she continued speaking.

"Ahh, well...this is a couples-only fortune telling event."

"Oh...goodbye." She huffed and started walking off.

Noriko grabbed a hold of Ibuki's hand and spoke, "Hey since you have come this far. Why don't we singles form a pair and just go together?"

"Oh, that's a fu*king great idea!" Sudo who was eavesdropping on their conversation spoke up as Noriko pointed us out.

This was now an acceptable idea, as earlier with just Noriko, it would mean that one of us boys would have to leave.

It all depended on Ibuki now.

"So you want us to go with...Mr Volcano and ...Mr Blankface?"

Wow, Ibuki made such wonderful nicknames for us...

"Well, we don't really have an option do we?" Noriko had locked her opponent down with a slight sigh.

"...Alright...I guess I will have to go...Hey Blankface...let's go."

"Ibuki I have a name..."

"I know that Ayanokouji, just f*cking get over with this Blankface."

Noriko spoke up suddenly to stop her it seems

"Hey, Ibuki! I would rather go with Mr Blankface, he is the only one I didn't get to talk to much in the class's get-together...and he is my seatmate...I hope you don't mind. And..."

She whispered the last few words

" He is kind of a bore...soo, I don't want you to ruin your fun. Sudo and you have a lot in common..."

Her words were quite sweet but in reality, they were a simple order, that Ibuki had to follow.

Usually in such sentences, two things are generally important, the first is how we say it. No matter how cruel or insulting it might be, there is always a way to make it sound much better given the right vocabulary.

Noriko is very well versed in 23 of the world's languages and their dialects. So she wouldn't ever have a problem whatsoever.

The next thing...is appeasing the reasoning, if we can create a reason that satiates the mind of the opponent, even if it might be a complete lie...it works, quite well.

Of course, that was the only way, she was able to control so many of them and make them end their lives willingly for her ...

A great example of this is salesmen, who create problems we never had and gives us solutions for those non-existent problems.

" Ugh, finnneeee. And you are right but it's not because I trust Volcano, rumors about him aren't very nice. Listen here Blankface, take care of her."

How did Ibuki become such great friends with her...

"Hai-Hai...I don't plan on doing anything" I said as I raised my hands in submission.

"Heh, he was never like that..." Noriko sighed upon hearing that as she spoke under her breath very lightly...A slip up it seems...

I wonder if she noticed it? She was one of the few people whose facial expressions I never had a proper grip on.

"Fine, let's go Volcano..."

"Hey, I am Sudo! Don't fu*king call me Volcano!"

Her attitude has shifted quite a bit...and the controller of this was the blue-haired girl in front of me.

"Let's go shall we Ayanokouji?" She spoke with a smile, and I tried to mimic her voice.

"Of course, let's go the line is already too long." I went forward and we waited.

"So, Ayanokouji tell me about yourself. What an irony, that the closest person to me is the farthest ." Noriko asked in a calm voice as she gazed at me.

I am now certain that the earlier comment wasn't a slip-up. She wanted to garner a reaction this time as well. She is trying to ascertain whether I know about her.

What a deadlock, we both know each other and expect the vice versa to not take place.

Right now, she seems to not have clue whether I know it's her. This is a reasonable deduction as I hardly kept any communication with anyone in the Whiteroom after that day. Yet on the contrary to everyone's beliefs, I knew the most about each of them.

I spoke up in a nonchalant response,

"Oh, I suppose it's because of my shy nature. I have no clue why you would establish communication with a gloomy average looking guy like me."

"Hah, why wouldn't I? I am also quite average in looks though not as gloomy as you~"

She smiled a bit to show it was just a joke.

It seems she wants to get to me better and there was no way to dodge this question as the line was still 5 minutes long.

"Fair enough, if you want to know about me. There isn't much to say, I am a completely average person with an absolutely average life."

She accepted it and spoke in a playful tone.

"Alright Averagekouji, then why is such an average person so popular in the class? The whole class talks about you."

Oh, it seems those controversies hadn't died down at all.

"Are these talks making me famous or infamous?"

She thought of it for a while and tapped her finger on her chin as she spoke

"Hmm, how about...famous for all the wrong reasons. It seems our turn is next Ayanokouji."

I saw the line ending sooner than expected.

"It seems so."

=

--

=

An old woman with a large bead necklace and a white ball on the table spoke,

"Please sit down, Which of these plans do you both wish to purchase."

She handed us the pamphlet as I and Noriko simultaneously said

'Basic'

It seems we both are trying to save money

Though the old lady had other thoughts regarding this.

"Oh, an auspicious sign of a deep bond." The old lady said with an all-knowing smile.

A very vague statement...

"Alright, let's begin with the girl here, please put forward your hand." She ushered Noriko's palm

as she read it and started speaking

We quietly stared at the Woman caressing her palm as she observed it with a magnifying glass.

"From the palm reading, I can visualise a long lifeline with no major illness. Great hurdles with various lessons to be taught will cross your way. I also see a will for redemption. "

Quite a vague set of statements were said by the fortune teller and could be applied to a much larger public as well. I decided not to pry too much as it was her fortune...not mine. Next was my turn as she grabbed my hand and spoke a very similar set of statements until she stopped...

"Y-You have the fate Tenchuusatu"...Oh

"Ayanokouji Tenchuu-" Noriko started speaking up but I blurted out interjecting her words.

"It is a bad period derived from stories that if zodiac signs that are master of time and ones that are master of space are get paired with, two zodiac signs would be left. So the years of the zodiac signs are said to be a bad period"

"Wow...you know a lot about this young man." The fortune-teller praised me but even Astrology was a subject we were made to study in the Whiteroom.

She continued speaking

"As you just said, it's a bad period of life but it means you are your own controller, you decide your own fate. You would be the harbinger of your success or your failure. Never leave anything up to luck."

Wasn't that something I had already planned to do, for these 3 years?

As we left after her lecturing both of us a bit more the woman said a few final words

"I don't generally do a couple-type horoscope in the basic plan yet I wish to tell you something, as it is important. If both of you collide, catastrophe will strike...and peace, was never an option, to begin with.

And please don't take detours, if fallen astray...stay calm and solve it."

What did she mean by that? If we fight...we cause chaos, if we don't...still chaos will ensue.

Noriko asked as we left the room,

"So, How did you feel about it Ayanokouji? She is acclaimed to be quite well versed in this field."

While she did do quite a few gross generalisations yet she made a few prophecies which may or may not be true. I can chalk it up to her experience and observation skills.

"It was very enlightening"

She lifted her hand for a dramatic effect as she spoke in a fun-filled tone.

"No need to get hyperbolic Ayanokouji."

We soon reached a crowded elevator as Noriko's phone rang to inform her that Karuizawa and Hirata will be taking a while.

"Why don't we go to the other elevator?"

"Taking a detour, alright then, in this way we can verify the legitimacy of the fortune teller." Noriko smiled as we both finally reached it.

It was an isolated old elevator and as we entered I could see Noriko's hand touching the outward panel. I wonder...

The elevator suddenly stopped and the power line had short-circuited it seems.

She spoke in panic,

"Oh...now what?"

I tried to lighten the mood as I tried to put on a joking voice,

"Well, it seems the fortune teller was right, I will have to cancel it out of my belief system soon."

She returned back the joke in good spirit.

"Hah, is that so, I will have to do so then as well...and...now what? Any ideas Ayanokouji?"

"I heard there is a code we can type in the elevators which are supposed to be for maintenance purposes and reset it hopefully."

"Sounds quite bogus but we have nothing to lose do we? Carry on!" Her voice was filled with child-like curiosity. Her curiosity about everything kept her alive there, just like me.

I spent the next 2 minutes trying to find the right combination through trial and error until it got too bothersome to repeat. I gave up and sat back on the floor where she was sitting.

"Now what bob the builder?"

Bob who?

"Alright, do you have any form of reception on your phone?"If we're stuck in here even 15 minutes longer, the heat would cause a lot of harm to both of us. The Whiteroom never really prepared us for summer temperatures, did they?

I could see that her phone was switched off as she spoke, "Oh shit! I forgot to charge my phone yesterday."

She slapped her forehead as she dragged herself down on the ground.

I sat up straight and decided to try the only person I could contact at that moment...

"I will try to get in touch with someone, albeit only 12% charge is remaining"

"Alright, just hurry up please."

I could feel both of us getting quite drenched in sweat and I suggested, "Remove your blazer."

"What...?" She turned sideways as she pulled her blazer closer to herself.

"I asked whether you would remove your blazer since you are sweating quite a lot, "I spoke in the same monotone voice as I removed my blazer and pulled down my tie.

"Oh, alright whatever. This heat will kill me." She pulled out her blazer and sat down in despair.

When all hope was lost, finally the door opened to find the ex-leader of Class A, Katsuragi.

"Are you both okay?" Katsuragi rammed the door open with panic as we finally got out.

"Wow, today was something alright..."

"Yes, I would agree on that."

"I will go home and take a bath. I don't think I want anyone to see me in this condition. Hey Ayanokouji, uhh here is my number. Hope we stay in touch."

She gave me a piece of paper as she said her final words."Bye!"

I went to my room and opened the piece of paper she gave me.

' I wonder, what would have happened, if I pressed allegations, a boy and a girl, coincidentally stuck in an elevator. Don't bother using this paper as evidence, you might regret it ...'

This part was completely printed out to remove any form of recognition through handwriting.

Although she had wrote down her number with her hand at the end

'12XXXXXXX03'

It means that if I handed this over, she could very well dodge the allegation by simply blaming me for trying to make up false evidence as she had mimicked her handwriting to mine.

So, she gave a threat and her number. The pieces align but how deep was this rabbit hole really?

She was right, any allegations she made up at that point would be quite threatening to my reputation. She had simply given me a glimpse of her prowess as a Whiteroomer.

This will be tiresome.

I put my phone on charge and let it on high volume as I called up Ken.

"Hey Ken, quick question. From whom did you learn about this fortune-telling event?"

"Oh I was listening to Noriko and Karuizawawho discussing it when the class went to the party...wait a sec, you weren't there were you?"

"No. I was busy. Did something happen?"

"Well...Noriko has like gotten so friendly with everyone in like just a month. Kinda surprising. Like I think she was the one to announce the fortune-telling event to the whole class at the get-together. "

Oh, so she is the reason, this event is taking place.

So even the sabotage of the lift by short-circuiting it was again..her plan. If I am not wrong, then from the start of that party, she had meticulously crafted the whole scheme in order to get acquainted with me.

What was the purpose of this? Was it only to know of my existence and affirm whether she is incognito or is it also to gauge my capabilities after the Whiteroom with my knowledge both about her and my school behaviour for future reference and further attacks.

I still need more proof to convincingly finalise this theory but first...how much had she carried out in this summer alone.

Quite a lot of questions and very few answers

Misfortune indeed, that she has gotten the information she needs.

Fortune indeed, that she had laid her plan open for me to crush.

AUTHOR'S NOTE--

Dear Readers,

I hope this fortune-telling story was able to give some more traits of Noriko's

I know she will take time to grow on you readers, I hope you give her a chance to be a good antagonist.

Thank you!

Have a great day ahead!

Vote and comment if you liked it!

𝓢3𝓒4-𝓑𝓲𝓻𝓽𝓱𝓭𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓜𝓲𝓼𝓱𝓪𝓹𝓼

S3C4-Birthdays and Mishaps

Ayanokouji's POV

Using Katsuragi's help was something I never thought I needed. It simply happened. I had helped Katsuragi on that fateful day, for something entirely different. But a small side effect of it was displayed today.

Flashback

1 week ago

"Sorry I won't be attending Inogashira's birthday." saying so I plopped on my bed as I heard Kushida's sigh

"..huh...alright...Whatever mot*herf*king loner. Your lazy ass won't even come to a single event. Go to hell."

She slammed the door shut as she left. I contemplated her crude side being a part of my daily life during summer vacations as she barged into my room uninvited at 4 am in the morning.

'Wh y are you up so early?'

'Why not? I need to f*cking vent before I start my day.'

'I barely slept through.'

'Look dude, I hardly give a f*ck if you start snoring while I talk. Let me just vent.'

'Alright...'

I sighed deeply as I wondered...she didn't really need me there as a friend...rather as a favour for Inogashira. I vividly remember her trying to ask me before summer vacation started. And since she was unable to, due to the incidents that took place, she decided to take to Kushida for help.

This is all just a theory though...I mean, it's impossible that Kushida even cared a tiny bit about me being there...right?

Another call popped up on my phone...it was Kushida.

What now?

"Hello?"

"If you ain't coming to the party at least fu*king help me choose a gift for her."

"Why should I do that? You have countless other friends."

"Listen here, don't go and think you are high and mighty or anything. Just come, or I will leak the harassment thing to everyone."

A direct threat and no hesitation.

As expected of Kushida.

"Alright, I suppose.When should I reach?"

"10 minutes, Keyaki mall...Or else..."

Well, it seems this doesn't count as an invitation, since I can't really accept or reject it. It seems Kushida is on edge today for some apparent reason.

As soon as I reached I was met with the ever so-lively face of Kushida...

"Hello, Kushida."

"Oh hi! Ayanokouji-kun, I am so glad you came! I was just really really confused about what to get Inogashira for her birthday."

"Oh I see, I am not great at picking gifts. It seems I should go now."

She wrapped her arms around my hand as she gave me a wide smile with her eyes glaring right at me

"Now now...both negatives make a positive Ayanokouji."

...This is not algebra or arithmetic

"...OK"

I realised that between her firm grip and piercing eyes, it would be a bother to say no.

"Okay."

"GREAT!!"She giggled as we walked to the gift shop to find it brimming with life. From the corner of my eye, I could see Ike and Yamauchi shouting and arguing about some gift. I could see Kushida trying her best to hide behind me, in order to hide from their lecherous gaze.

I kept walking while shielding her as we reached the toys section of the shop.

"Ah...well, that was awkward..heh" She rubbed her upper hand as she spoke those words to take the stress of the situation we were in a while ago.

I started moving through the section as I spoke, "We all have our comfort zones. Sometimes, we don't want to interact with certain people...and that is okay, most wouldn't judge you too harshly for that."

"YUP! Soooo, I think we should choose this robot toy for Inogashira" She spoke up in the suggestion as she closed the distance between us and pulled out a red robot toy.

Why did she have such an odd suggestion?

It didn't matter much to me as I spoke

"You have been her friend for longer, you must know."

"Nah, I hardly know much about her..."She went silent for a while as she quickly scanned her surroundings to find them empty. She started speaking again.

"You see Ayanokouji, some people are shy and once we break the social barrier, it's simple to get to know them. Then there are those, who I would like to call paranoid freaks. These b*tches always have their social barrier the easiest to break. But all their inner walls are impenetrable. They have either intentionally or unintentionally the masterful ability to dodge a question. Inogashira is the second kind...and so is her best friend, Mori"

It made sense if I looked back. Back when we were closer, I realised that Mori had taught Inogashira some of her communication skills to help her stop her stuttering, it seems she sprinkled some amount of control over the information Inogashira revealed as a cautionary measure, given her timid nature at that beginning.

"I see, anyways, do you want to choose something more apt for her?"

"I don't know really, why don't you choose something Ayanokouji. What do you think she will like?" I saw Kushida's hand gliding to her pocket.

Is she trying to record this conversation? What might be her purpose?

"I think she would like a bouquet?" I spoke trying my best to guess her choice.

I heard a really long sigh as she spoke,"Maybe, something a bit less...uhh, common." She whispered 'cringe' at the end

Oh...

"How about a ring?" I suggested another thing, I felt pretty good about my choice

"Wow, do you want her to get the wrong idea?" She coughed as she spoke this.

Nevermind... I am really terrible at this.

"Maybe a teddy bear? I think it would suit her."

"Oh, why so?" Her eyes perked as she asked.

"Inogashira, as much as I knew her, she was a really sweet person. She was also one of my first acquaintances and always treated others with softness. Hence just like that, a soft teddy bear...is also resonating with it, doesn't it?"

Kushida stared at me with somewhat of a mixed emotion...confusion...and happiness?

"Ahhha...you know what...why don't I buy this...ya this is perfect." She picked it up as she left for the cash register.

I felt another presence close to me, it was none other than Katsuragi. It seems he is also buying gifts for someone. I felt like giving him privacy as I started walking toward the cash register but fate had other plans for the poor old me.

"Hey, Is that Katsuragi-kun? Hiii!!!"Kushida went up to him as she made her presence known.

Katsuragi seemed to be breaking out of his thoughts as he noticed our presence. He spoke

"Hello there."

And went back to his shopping, it was clear he wanted to be left alone. But Kushida seemed to have other plans.

"Ohh, are those chocolates? Who are you buying them for?" She asked him, trying to fish for more information like a greedy fisherman.

But the bait didn't work

"I think I should leave. Have a good day." He quickly left the vicinity with his hand curling around the rope of the bag tightly.

It seems Kushida realised that she went in too hard.

Ring

Ring

She picked up the call and quietly cut it too. It seemed to have bummed her mood as she took her leave

"You know what? I would rather be at home...bye Ayanokouji"

Quite suspicious but I already have a fair idea of what is about to unravel before me. For now, I decided to go back to my dorms when I yet again encountered Katsuragi near the Council Room with Manabu by his side.

"Katsuragi, while I would have assisted you. Unfortunately, my hands are tied in this precarious situation..."

He saw me as I was walking away from this private situation.

"Kiyo-I mean Ayanokouji!"

"Yes president?"

"Come here please."

"Do you need something from me, President?"

"Nothing of that sort...Katsuragi please continue."

"I don't understand why I must. I would rather speak to you in private."

"Don't you want your problem to be solved?"

"Yes I do.."

"Then this person right here can do it."

I think I was thrown under the bus.

I looked at Manabu in despair.

He looked at me and whispered, " Next time...in Mlinecraft...don't let the creepers blow up my house."

Oh...that...

'Kiyotaka what the heck!!'

'Oh, what happened?'

'You left the house unguarded. The creeper blew it up!'

'Oh...I see...but...there were flowers'

'Ahhh, this is the 3rd time Kiyotaka...just wait.'

He probably wanted to test my skills in this situation..but I think that incident played a more vital role in his decision.

He started talking about what had gone by as I quietly listened to his explanation

(A/N:Read the LN)

"I see, so the gist of it is you want to send this gift to your sister but are unable to do so because of the school's no outside contact policy...and the president here is of no help whatsoever." I turned to meet his glaring eyes.

"I would have if I could. But sadly, the school rules shackle me."

While I knew very well that he definitely could have come up with something but he wouldn't do it for a kouhai that easily. So he was using me as bait to take the fall if it did fail and henceforth get an understanding of my skill level. He would probably save me if something went wrong and use that debt of saving me as revenge for the previous blackmails I played on him.

I was simply a spectacle for Manabu to watch in action and test me...what a good friend.

All of it is just a theory but Manabu is a shrewd man. He just had thrown me into a moral trap where if I didn't help, it would make me a target of both Class A's ex-leader and if this interaction did spread, it would cause a chain of unwanted reactions.

"President, can you forget this conversation ever happened?"

"Oh, hmm...I can very well do that." Saying so he went back inside his council room as Katsuragi said, "You don't have to assist me. I will figure something out."

"I would rather do otherwise as the President did ask me to. I would rather not offend him considering the difference in our positions."

"I might have a way to solve this issue but there is a clause."

"If that idea works, then I am ready to follow any clause... as Kohei..."

Oh so he meant, he won't be of any assistance as a student of Class A, Katsuragi. Rather as Kohei...I could work with that at a later date.

"Very well then, let's first try to send your gift to your sister Kohei." He looked at me in curiosity as I started calling a specific person.

I could hear panting on the other end

'Huff huff, what's up Ayanokouji. Huff How have you been...wait a sec...

HEY STOP FOR A WHILE WILL YAA!!

Continue'

'YES, will you be free soon? I had some work with you.'

'Well...1 sec

HEY YOU GUYS! WHEN WILL THE MATCH END?

Ya Ayankouji, I will be there in 15 mins.'

'Alright'

"Let's got to my dorms, your helper will be there in 15 mins." I ushered Katsuragi to my room

"Wow, there is barely anything in your room. Quite strange for a boy of my age." He commented on my minimalistic approach to furnishing.

"I have heard that comment earlier too. I guess I simply don't have many things to buy. Coffee or tea?"

"Black Coffee would be great."

Katsuragi spoke up as I went to the kitchen to make it while thinking of my plan. If this plan didn't work, it would cause too many bothersome issues.

After a few minutes, I brought the Black coffee outside as I heard the doorbell ring too.

"I will open the door," I said to Katsuragi as he nodded and sipped on his Black Coffee.

As soon as I opened the door I was greeted by the familiar face of Sudo as I let him in.

"Hey! Ayanokouji!...Is that Katsuragi?...Uh..."

"Yes he is, come inside."

Even before we went inside he grabbed my shoulder and whispered

'WHAT is he doing here?????'

"I will explain everything, also do you want tea or coffee?"

"Nah, don't stress over that dude. What did you ask me for? I am getting hella curious." Sudo's anticipation had reached new heights as he sat down next to Katsuragi giving him a small nod as a hello.

"Alright, Katsuragi can you explain what happened... in detail, to us," I added stress to those 2 words to get the information across, which Katsuragi had caught onto as he spoke about a few more key details, where he mentioned that his sister was sickly and he was the only one his sister had left.

This brought on a sympathy stare from Sudo as he stood up and said

"Ahh!! Why is the school so f*cking heartless! Hey Ayanokouji, let's go to the President again and explain, maybe he will listen to us three if we say it together."

"No, that would be rather futile. Here's what I suggest. Why don't we..."

(A/N: Read LN)

Sudo's POV

"Look man, while this is hella risky and if I get caught. Things would f*ck up big time...BUT I

WILL DO IT!!" I spoke with gusto as Katsuragi pointed out.

"Why are you doing this for me? I didn't think my sob story would be that moving nd even the 100k points...are you sure about this, risking your basketball career over this?"He said in confusion.

I immediately tried clearing his idea of me...damm this will be embarrassing as hell.

"See, when I was in a really f*cked up situation Ayanokouji was there for me.

Never asking foranything in return, this is my chance to pay him back for bearing with an oaf-headed idiot like me.

So ya, it has nothing to do with you...it's for him...BUT, you will give me the 20k points in advance, right now."

He nodded and started fiddling with his phone, but he stopped...nooooo...

"What if this is a trap? What if I am being tricked by Ayanokouji..."

What the actual f*ck...

"Calm down Sudo." Ayanokouji stopped me from raising my fist...

SHIT! I got angry again didn't I...ahh, I have to control it better.

"Ya sorry about that man," I spoke as I backed off.

Ayanokouji said, "If I wanted to set a trap, I would have done so a long time ago. If you want further protection, send the 20k points to me as a mediator. Later I will send it to Sudo."

"Alright...I also need video evidence. Since individual phones are confiscated, I want it to be your phone Ayanokouji...I will give you 10k points for that." Katsuragi offered...so many points.

"Alright, I will take the 10k points and we will talk about the favour after that deed is done."Ayanokouji immediately agreed. It seems we all are hungry dogs for points.

I went up to him and took the bag and smiled, "...I will make sure I win the tournament and deliver this gift."

I tried to smoothen things over, after all, I did get too angry at him for a moment. He nodded as he took his leave.

Ayanokouji spoke up,"Sudo, I won't be giving you my phone, instead, I will hand you over another phone tomorrow morning."

"Ya sure dude! I will see you then, just before I leave. Bye! I gotta go practice."

Saying so I took my leave as I felt happy that finally, I could help my friend out a bit.

=

--

=

The next morning I woke up ready for my mission and the tournament at the sound of Ayanokouji knocking on my door.

"This is the phone you will be using."It definitely wasn't his...was this Yamauchi's??

"How did you get your hands on Yamauchi's phone?"

I asked the obvious question.

"Points and Airi's email."

Woah...shady as hell.

"All the best Sudo and focus mainly on the tournament. Rest assured,I have made sure that everything else will go just fine... that's my promise." Ayanokouji's words always had a sense of calmness in it. He was truly a trustworthy guy.

"I believe in you man! Don'tcha worry about a thing either." Saying so we both took our goodbyes as I left for the bus.

As soon as I reached the bus stop I was met with the sight of none other than Noriko...why was she standing in front of the school gates?

"Hello, Noriko." I decided to give my greetings to the new classmate before boarding the bus.

"Oh hey, Sudo-kun!How have you been?" She asked in a pleasant tone

"Oh I and my teammates were going to board the bus. Why are you standing here in this heat?" I asked in curiosity.

"Oh, I just wanted to invite you to the party day after tomorrow. I am doing this since I wanted to get to know everyone. Here is the party envelope. Open it in your free time." She said so as she gave me an envelope. This envelope looked the same as the envelope Ayanokouji gave me.

"Wow, seems fun! I will definitely attend this." I spoke in approval

I started to put that envelope in my bag as the others started walking forwards.

Suddenly Noriko toppled over and shoved my bag as they both fell to the ground.

"ARE YOU OKAY?? HOW DID YOU FALL?"

I hurriedly went over to her as I picked her up.

"Oww, it seems that I might have been accidentally pushed by the group. It was an accident! Here take your bag." She handed it over...

Wait for a second...

I quickly checked whether the parcel was tampered with.

Never mind, it's still there...Thank god!

"I am so sorry Sudo-kun!!"

I immediately became suspicious of her. Maybe it was just my paranoia.

" Don't worry about it. Also, you could have given the letter later right?"

"Oh, I could have! But I really wanted to see you and your teammates off too. All the very best, from my side!!" She gave a hearty thumbs-up and a bright smile.

That was sweet of her! I simply doubted her for no reason...but still.. .I felt something was off.

GRR

Never mind, it was my empty stomach.

"Thank you! We will fu*king rock this!" I heard shouts of approval as we boarded the bus with the principal and SCP and a few other school members coming along with us.

This is nerve-wracking.

As we reached the first security check, it went by without a hitch. The guard just patted us down as we entered the locker room...this is where things would get tricky as not only our coach but all the important school members were there for motivating us.

But right now, in this situation...I am getting demotivated by so many people

What if I f*ck up...

I remembered a calming voice in my mind.

'Everything will go just fine'

I just have to trust Ayanokouji. He has been a true friend to me. I will be fine.

Now I could see the phones being deposited off...and our bags being rummaged through by this school's security...

F*CK

I could feel my heartbeat rising...

If they find the water bottle having the gift wrapping or the hidden phone or most importantly

those chocolates!!

SHIT

SHIT

SHIT

Next came my turn as they started checking my bag. They opened my last compartment.

A hand stopped the checker from looking into that compartment...

Thank God, who is this angel

It was...

HIMM????

WHYY???

Author's Note--

Dear Readers,

I am sure you have many questions about why and what did Noriko do. or why the Principal and SCP were there all of a sudden. Or what was Kushida's motive in forcing Ayanokouji,

SO MANY QUESTIONS!!!

I wonder too...

I mean...I did leave hints...

HMM

Well, I also decided to cover Sudo's POV in this situation, as I have never seen it done before for fanfics or LN.And as you can see, I decided to gloss over some parts, as it might get redundant and I am lazy to rewrite what's already there in the LN.

Oh and trust me, this short story...will be vastly different from the LN. Of course, because of the connections that have been established between the characters beforehand.

Hope you readers enjoy it! Have a great day ahead!

If you enjoyed reading it, hope you vote on it!

And if you have any criticisms or comments I would love to hear them

Thank you!

𝓢3𝓒5:𝓡𝓲𝓹𝓹𝓵𝓮𝓼 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓤𝓷𝓬𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓻𝓲𝓷𝓰

S3C5:Ripples and Uncovering

Sudo's POV

"Excuse me, his bag has already been checked." I heard a distinctly clear voice echo. I looked up to find a roughly 50-year-old man with a black suit grabbing onto the worker's hand. This older man was none other than the Principal of my school.

Shit! Did I mess up? I gaped as I saw my saviour move that worker to the next bag. I quickly got up trying my best to look presentable in front of the Principal. But heh, who am I kidding, I was quite literally falling to his feet a while ago.

He spoke with a quick tone,"Get up and leave with your bag immediately." His voice was slightly quivering but I had a much bigger question hanging on my mind.

Why did he save me?

Chalking it up to my good grace, I beamed at him, "Thank you, Principal!" But I had a lingering set of questions unanswered but those will have to wait for the game to end. Goddamit! This game is way more stressful than most.

But I have faced worse, I have faced Ayanokouji and Ibuki.

Pumping my fist high into the air and releasing a final sigh, I headed towards the stadium with my bag safely stuffed inside the locker.

Then started what I would only call a brutal beatdown, our score of 120 completely obliterated the opposing team having a mere score of 30. Our ceremonial handshake after the match, was non-existent as they shoved our hands-off. I seriously wanted to shove my hand on his fucking throat right now.

Calm down Sudo, don't get angry...

Heh, I just lost my cool there again. I took out my tiny red notebook from my bag and I wrote down, another cross on it.

That's a total of 34, this week. At least it's better than last week's 60.

Step-by-step, I will have to improve.

After that, I headed towards the nearest post office and deposited the letter and the chocolates, giving it one final check. This letter will at least fulfil some of my debt towards Ayanokouji. I filmed myself doing it as I sent the video to Katsuragi. I quickly went back home, avoiding the peering eyes that looked at me.

We boarded the bus and went back to school with satisfied grins on our faces.

I did it!!

In the front yard, I saw a familiar face yet again, it was Noriko. What is she doing here again?I waved at her, "WE WON!!! Also, what are you doing here again??"

Noriko smiled at me and said...

Noriko's POV

"Welcome back!!! I am so glad you guys won!! I kinda, misplaced the last envelope I was supposed to give to Ayanokouji ...soo I kinda wanted a favour." I said with a smile on my face.

The scenery went dark and so did my intentions.

"Ahh! If it's for him, I am ready to do anything." He spoke like a true dog, wagging it's tail to it's master.

"Aww~You know what, I am kinda jealous of you guys. True bromance huh! Can't relate. Hehe~"I complimented him and he accepted it like the rest.

"Ohh!! Ahh, yaa!! But, I won't lie, we ain't as close as that. Like, he has always helped me out like, I owe him a lot. Though, I really want to be friendlier with him. Anyways, what's that favour you wanted to ask me?" He didn't accept the compliment, but rather exposed their true dynamic with each other.

They aren't friends , after all,

SUDO

OWES

AYANOKOUJI

Hmm, now, it's time to exploit this.

"Oh! It's nothing much, I just wanted you to give your letter to him as well, could you please do it?" I spoke resting my face on my freshly painted black nails.

Today's first interaction had set up bases, often humans connect in odd memories. That falling over and him assisting me, gave him a sense of connection. Most people use this tactic without knowledge, like asking for a pencil as a form of a small help from someone, opening them up slightly to you. Or maybe a slightly embarrassing moment, this also works. And both combined do miracles. I had used all these methods to connect with the others as I had distributed the cards. Sudo was thought a special one, as he and Horikita are the only ones close to 007--I meant Ayanokouji.

Horikita wouldn't be of much help and would be obtrusive hence only Sudo remained. I also played this game in his favour, giving him a chance to talk to Ayanokouji while giving him the letter, a well-knit plan altogether.

He immediately agreed as he spoke,"YOSH!! Definitely, I will. Don't worry about it. Byeee!!!" He waved his hand at me and I returned the favour, hopefully, this is the last interaction I have to have with him. Ayanokouji, let's see, how strong are you mentally and how much do you remember.

After all, information is the greatest weapon.

But, misinformation is the greatest curse.

Ayanokouji's POV

"OII!!! AYANOKOUJII HEY MAN OPEN UPPP!!!!" Sudo yelled making an absolute ruckus as he entered my room. He walked up and slammed my poor door.

"What is it Sudo?" I raised my bored gaze at his sweat-stained face. It seems he has been running quite a bit. He started blabbering

"Y-Y-You huff huff need..."

"Wait, do you want some water? And call Katsuragi over." He nodded excitedly, it seems the mission was successful. I went and got him a cool glass of water and sat down after opening the door to the second guest.

"Ayanokouji and Katsuragi, we won and the mission is accomplished!! Here is the proof." Sudo gleefully spoke sending us the video to cross-examine.

"Hello, Thank you both for your assistance. As for the reparations, here they are." Immediate I got a ping on my phone and a smile from Sudo. Not bad at all.

"Ohh!! uhh...hey Katsuragi, do you mind if I talk to him in private?" Katsuragi gave an affirmation after which he went out of the room leaving us alone. I stood there to find Sudo giving me an envelope marked as an invite. Before my curiosity could reach it's mark, Sudo announced it's contents.

"Noriko sent us an invite. So, do you want to go?" He tugged a bright smile on his face. Unfortunately, I would have to burst his bubble. I had no interest in participating in this event. The reason is the content of the letter itself . It was abnormal.

"I will see. Now please leave." While that might have sounded rude and I could see his face drooping, I added, "Why don't we hang out later someday." It immediately went back up. He nodded, "SURE!!! Done! Though, do come huh if you can. I don't really have many friends these days...heh."

"I will try." Saying so I bid him goodbye and lay down on my bed. I reopened the letter, in this case, an invitation and read it yet again to confirm.

I was right, this was a threat.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

--

From Noriko,

It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am delighted to inform you about the upcoming get-together arranged by the Class leaders on the 3rd of this month, in the multipurpose hall at 7 pm. Awaiting your benign presence.

Party Name: ℌAUL B𝔒W J𝔒𝔜LIK𝔈

Thank You

--

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now, this letter seems as normal as it could come by. But the paper had a hidden engraved element, that strange Party name. A threat, in order to see if I would react. Yet, it couldn't be obvious or gather any form of suspicion. Her plan is indeed a crafty one.

I took out a pen and paper, to confirm what I had caught onto.

ℌAUL B𝔒W J𝔒𝔜LIK𝔈

Upon removing the stylised letters, it becomes, AUL BW JLIK

Now using a vignerre cypher table, I just need the keyword.

Hey 007!!! Look, lookkk!!!!

What is it 021?

See, this thing I madeeeee

Oh, the Vignere Cypher, what's the code

Hehe, it's White. We will use this as a hidden system when we want to escape!! Pretty genius right??

I see, all the best.

You are coming with us okayy. I won't let you live in this hell, got it?

Okay...

Her favourite form of cypher, she could have used it. She must have, after all, she wants to gauge how much I remember. I used WHITE

(A/N: Read Determination Chapter(pg 1-2), it has an in-depth explanation on how this cypher works. )

It decoded,

END IS NEAR

As expected, I was right. So, if I do go to this party, it will be a proclamation that I know her. As she knew, I had never turned her challenges down. That part is what she must remember vividly, yet she is wrong. I changed, after that day.

Hence, I won't be attending this party. For a while, I want to keep her in the dark, I am still unaware of how much has she changed. One must know their enemy, after all...

Information is the greatest weapon.

Anyways, it was time to meet a certain individual. I walked down silently to the Headmaster's office to which I got a quick response. It was him, quiet with a few more grey hairs than the last time we met. He ushered me inside the room

"Please enter quickly."

I nodded and entered the room, sitting down on the cosy leather chair in front of him. I peered at him, as I spoke

"Was it successful?"

He nodded hastily putting on his black oval specs as he sat down on his chair.

"Yes, now is this is reparation enough for the lie I said about her attending period. I was in a risky position when I decided to bend the school rules, after your call, of no outside contact for you hopefully it was worth it. The package was delivered. "

I did assign him to pose as a backup plan in case something went wrong, as one small mistake on Sudo's part could leave all of us in trouble. I would rather not jump into the fire pit if possible. All I had to do, was use his fear of betrayal as barter. After all,

I don't trust Sudo.

I put my hand over the oakwood desk as I rested my face on my palm and asked,

"It depends, I wish for the whole story. And, this time, you aren't forced by her...but by me."

I added a bit of strength to my words to give him a jist of the consequences, I could see him gulp as he spoke in a hoarse voice,

"Yes, I realised that. I had to follow the Investor's orders, considering they had doubled the school's revenues and added programs to benefit our students."

I needed more details, it seems she had been working behind the scenes.

"What are you referring to?"

He spoke with a sense of hope in his words,

"The psychologist appointed is one of the greatest in Japan. Your classmate, Matsushita has been visiting him. His name is Dr Frost."

( A/N: This is that character whom y'all didn't select in that Questions regarding complexities chapter.)

I remember this man, he supposedly was extremely costly to hire, because of his skillset. If the students did consult him, it would bring at least mental peace. In the white room, he was called once, if I can remember. Unfortunately, we never interacted but he was one of the reasons, the subjects survived longer in that place.

"Anything else, that I should know?"

He continued speaking with slow deep breaths contemplating his actions,

"Well her father has caused a few changes in the special exams which had been set up for your classes. Not just that, he has also added a few more additional classes such as cooking and art. All of which will be linked to world-class experts, this will definitely make our school a hub of success. After all, this is one of the few schools, which will prove to the world. All students are capable."

He put a smile of satisfaction as he spoke the last few lines.

He was right, usually, schools don't put much concentration on other subjects of life. By the investor's incentive, this school will revolutionise the world. Catering to the multitude of different skill sets that students possess and giving them world-class training, will almost guarantee success in that field. A perfect school...

I still had a lingering doubt in my mind,

"Weren't you scared of the consequences when I came to know about your lies of her entering the school, in the second year?"

I saw the hair on his hand, stand up as he got goosebumps but he spoke,

"Please don't get me wrong. But I was and still am extremely scared of what you might do. You may harm my daughter and destroy my reputation. But honestly, before being a father I was a politician and before that, I am and always will be a teacher. And I can sacrifice everything for the benefit of the school."

It seems his priorities have changed.

"This wasn't something you had said when we met the first time. You have changed." I spoke in a sense of curiosity.

"Well, I did change. And I wish to thank you, I am horrified and scared of the time when you will pull the metaphorical trigger and as they say, in the end, our lives flash before our eyes. Let's say, something similar happened to me but it was my wife, she had put this badge on my shirt..."

He pointed to that badge decored in gold.

ℍ𝕖𝕒𝕕𝕞𝕒𝕤𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝒮𝒶𝓀𝒶𝓎𝒶𝓃𝒶𝑔𝒾

I could see his eyes getting cloudy as he reminisced about his late wife and finally said the last few words

"...I realised my truth. It was the students, including you."

"Do you have Stolkholm syndrome? Why do you care about me? All I have done is harm you."

"Because I shall repeat, you are my student. And, I believe I made my daughter capable enough to not relinquish easily, hence I shall fulfil the reason of my wife's last smile . Not just that, you have changed me for the better. I yet again apologise for lying to you."

He was right, Noriko had set up everything, she had given the Headmaster everything he wanted as an educator. She had controlled him, better than I could.

After all, money and social power, are things I am lacking at.

If I can harness fear, she can harness ambitions.

And, ambitions always win.

"Then I will also repeat, you have done your task of going along with Sudo to that sports event and stopping any mishaps from happening. Hence this is the one and only time I am forgiving you."

"I realise that I understand the situation I am in all too well. If possible, could you answer, why is this Noriko under your radar?"

"All that you need to know, is that she is an excellent student...and one of great calibre, by my standards...and also an anomaly."

"So can I expect you to attack her like you did with me?"

"Not at all, she will catch on easily. All I know is that she needs to be removed."

Saying those final words I took my leave, waiting for all the cards to be laid on the table. It will take quite a bit of time indeed.

AUTHOR'S NOTES

Dear Readers,

I will stop censoring words from now because it's been rated Mature! At least one positive aspect is that I can do that freely.

If y'all have noticed, Noriko and Ayanokouji have some similarities in them, subtle but present.

Do share and vote, if you did, it would be nice having more exposure

Sigh, Anyways, hope you enjoyed it.

Have a great day!

Thank you

𝓢3𝓒6: 𝓢𝓮𝓵𝓯𝓲𝓼𝓱? & 𝓦𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓽𝓮𝓷 𝓛𝓾𝓼𝓽

S3C6: Selfish? & Written Lust

Ayanokouji's POV

Has this eternal question been resolved, what is love? None of the hundred thousand books I have read answered this question uniformly. Some books call it, biology to be specific as

Dynamic Interaction between organisms of a species for mutual homeostasis. growth and reproduction. It involves physiological and cognitive triggers, to incite vigorous emotional responses...

Yet we realise that this is defining the phenotypic nature of love...yet through biology on it's own, there are countless exceptions. Sex never needed love. Even the mother of the progeny can abandon them momentarily after birth.

So is love necessary...what a strange...and bizarre concept.

Philosophy suggests, a wise quote

The reciprocal recognition of two freedoms

I wonder...what's your definition of it...The reader of the fanfic...?

Sigh...I am hallucinating.

If I am asked for a personal opinion, love is something ordinary people barter in hopes of better lives with each other. After all, humans are social animals. The reason of it's importance is simple.It's the desire for more...or...greed. But all sins, in small amounts, make life worthwhile.

A man in front of me is asking for a favour

"Hey Ayanokouji, you are close to Airi-chan right? Give her this letter for me to her!!!?"

Not just any favour but one of love and I was supposed to be his cupid. It seems Mars and Venus...are sparkling today.

( A/N: Cupid is the child of Mars and Venus)

"I see, but wouldn't it be better if you gave it to her instead? A third party usually causes miscommunication." I tried to squirm my way out of this precarious situation that I had been staggered with right before I had a meet-up with someone else. Honestly, I had no interest whatsoever in being involved in such things. Whether it was Ichinose or Yamauchi, their situations were equal

"Look man, Airi-chan is a perfect girl for someone like me. And while I can totallyyyyyy do it on my own. But you know I am somewhat shy, so I decided to give this letter to your hands. After all, who would like a boring dude like you even remotely, even Matsushita made a fucking rape case against you..." As he said that last line he guffawed in joy showing his donkey-like teeth.

" S H U T Y O U R G O D D A M M M O U T H !!!!!"

A shrill voice screamed loudly enough for us to take notice, it was none other than Inogashira. The one I was supposed to meet up with. I wonder what brought her over here, in the boys' dorm. Her sudden arrival and outburst had been enough for Yamauchi to shove his letter into my hands as he whispered," Hey man, give it to Airi-chan. Just fucking do it or Sudo will pay. "

I wonder what he would concoct. If I had to make an estimate, it's probable that he would isolate Sudo even more. I closed my tired eyes, reminiscing his last encounter after the elevator scuffle.

'Hey Kiyotaka, sorry we couldn't hang out today. Fucking hell!!!'

'It's alright, we can schedule another meetup soon.'

'Damm right you are!! ...I get one fucking chance to socialise and shit goes wrong'

He grunted as he sighed in disappointment

'Hey, Ken. Why me? I am sure you have other friends from the Basketball club or Class to hang out with.'

I had to know, after all, it was off-putting to hear that he sounded eerily similar to me.

'Well, I wish that was the case. Look man, my rep in like everything other than my skills is dogshit. I don't know what the fuck happened but no one ever fucking talks to me without a back insult. Like rumours run wild.'

'What kind?'

'Dude, like the weirdest one was about me was that I had paid private points to get in the basketball team...fucking hell!! '

While that's the most prominent memory I have of such happenings. Though I could sense a shift in the class's view of Sudo, it might be because of my connection with him. If Yamauchi decided to tarnish his image, once more. It would be quite difficult for him, to stay a worthy tool.

Sigh, It seems I might have to step in...is this what a friend does? How would I know?

"Hello, Ayanokouji..." The earlier voice ringed my ears as I opened my eyes to an embarrassed Inogashira as she waved at me. I waved back as I started walking toward her. But, it seems she had other plans, as she ushered me to walk with her. I nodded as we silently let ourselves out of the elevator to the school park. Upon reaching, I decided to crack the silence as I spoke out,"So, what was your business with me, Inogashira." She stopped in her tracks as she spoke with her body facing away from me.

"Hey... Kiyotaka, I wanted to share something with you. So I wanted to meet you in private." She turned to me with a sad smile on her face, yearning for something.

"What is it Inogashira? Also Happy Birthday." I decided to wish her, as, after all, she is still a classmate. It seems, it increased the sadness she felt. She whispered, " Happy..."

It seems I upset her.

I sighed deeply as I walked up to the same place I first encountered Manabu and made her sit down as I bought a chocolate milkshake for her. I pressed the cold can on her shoulder as she looked dazed right in front of me. It sent shivers down her spine as she jolted around,

"AHHH!!...Ohh it's you, sorry...of course, it's you. Thank you for the wishes,sorry I seem outta it. I am just really upset that my friend didn't attend my birthday." She finally reached the crux of the topic, as she spoke her mind. I sat down beside her and sipped on my cold milk carton. I glanced at her before speaking slowly, "I suppose he thought, the invitation was out of guilt. It seems he had mistaken, given that you are here."

"You, really think that way...huh. But, I won't say you are wrong.."Her voice trembled, as silence spread yet again. However she smacked her face really hard as she turned violently to me as she spoke, this time with the resolution,"Look, while it's true I called you because I was guilty...but, it's also because I wanted to enjoy my special day with all my friends...especially with an old one."

"It seems this friend is quite a bothersome person, to not reach a birthday sent by you." I went along with her manner of speech as she sighed,"Nope, In fact, I was the one who hurt him.It made sense why he didn't want to see me. But, I am selfish...I want to see him. I want to apologise...to my friend...I want to him...and that person...is...Kiyotaka...A-Ayanokouji. "

"Hmm, why? I am simply another person in the masses. Why apologise, you can simply move on." I said softly as her lips quivered at my question. It seems she is having trouble answering this question. I spoke the final words,"If you can't answer this question. The conversation is over, goodbye." The words were colder than the wind, it sent jolts down her spine as she sat down on the bench once again.

I started stepping back as I heard her whispering voice,

" Stop...please...stop..."

I pretended to not hear it as I kept walking

The voice became louder

"Please... don't leave..."

I stopped and stayed still

Her voice albeit trembling, spoke up

" KIYOTAKA... STOP...I will tell you why. Remember how we met, you bumped into me and my world toppled over. I was the quiet and silent Inogashira, hiding in her shell. I love this school, it has let me meet such a wonderful friend, one who broke my shell and let me free. You made me Kokoro...you...made me...a better person. THANK YOU for that. I know, I should have stopped...I should have said the class...to stop. But, it was equally my fault, I was a coward. I didn't want to lose, all the new friends I had. I was dumb enough, to lose the one who gave them to me. I apologise from the bottom of my heart, I promise to change and..."

She stopped herself as I heard rustling behind me.

Click

'" Inogashira, as much as I knew her, she was a really sweet person. She was also one of my first acquaintances and always treated others with softness. Hence just like that, a soft teddy bear...is also resonating with it, doesn't it?'

Click

It seems Kushida gave the recording to her...

But why? I can't find malicious intent, in this. What made Kushida support my friendship with Inogashira? Was this why she was so forceful the other day? Is Noriko involved? Well, for now, let's focus on the present moment.

I turned around to finally meet her face, which was now tear-stained as she spoke with nervousness.

"Y-Y...ou...are a-amazing. You are one of the most genuinely sweetest...the person I have ever met.You, never held any resentment. I know, I messed up. I wasn't a good friend, I was a bad person. I really hate myself for that but...can I selfishly, take your hate towards me, as well."

She ended her speech as she gasped for breath. I walked up to her and took out my handkerchief and ushered her to wipe her face.

I made another girl cry, I truly am despicable.

"No..."

Silence

She looked crestfallen, as she slowly started walking back...but I grabbed her hand.

"If I let you finish, you should let me do so too.I said, No...I won't give you my hate because I don't have any. I never hated you, I simply stayed out of your way. But, it seems it was wrong of me. Hence, let me selfishly stay your friend...Kokoro."

I truly wanted my friend back, one without any other form of adulterated emotion like guilt or something else polluting it. Hence this was the perfect opportunity to reconcile

She giggled a bit at that as she said,"You are good with words~ Let's both be selfish...

My best friend, Kiyotaka."

...Best friend?...It has a good ring to it.

( A/N: Don't ship them, friendship and love are different.)

=

--

=

I sent a call from my phone as I came back to my room and freshened up, "Hello Airi, can I speak to you for a minute?"

I heard something crashing as I heard follow-up a rustling and finally,

"H-HAI...A-airi here. Umm, Ayanokouji...y-you c-called." She nervously said.

"I wish to talk to you in private, can we meet in the school front tomorrow?"

"P-Private?...Kyaaaa..." The call cut...immediately, I suppose she got the message. Otherwise it will be troublesome.

I added Kokoro's number back into my phone.

4 contacts...

I plopped on the bed waiting for tomorrow.

Timeskip

"A-Ayanokouji..eto...why d-did you call me here." Airi came with a nervous blush on her face adorning a white dress and black jeans. She really looked stylish.

"Hi Airi, hope you are doing well. You look lovely." I complimented her as she fidgeted upon hearing that as she stuttered,"T-Thank you."

"As I was saying, here is a letter. It's for something special." I gave it to her as she grabbed it and hurriedly opened it, and read it for me to hear as well

Dear Sakura,

I am proclaiming to be your boyfriend. I know you must be really grateful, but don't be. Just consider it a favour and in return obey me. Waiting for you outside the park today at 9 pm 3 hehe...

Also wear that red dress, you look ravishing in it. I would love to see you in it. And also, from now, you are mine babe!!!

Your future Boyfriend.

And with it there were certain pictures of her, in her model getup.

If I had emotions i would have laughed at it, all I do is a fake laugh. It seems Sakura looked scared...hmm, it was quite bad I suppose.

"A-ayanokouji...did you write this..."She was really nervous and stepped back.

I immediately scraped that idea,"No I didn't...but do you want the person who did this to stop."

She immediately nodded as she spoke, "I-...I don't like this...way of addressing me...I hate it...I am sorry to this person but this is disgusting...I can't...accept it."She pushed the letter to my hand as she started to leave teary eyed.

"Why did this upset you...so much."

"...After that day...I don't...think I am the same...Sakura...I am scared...of such things, from likes to comments to such letters."She fell down on the ground as she shivered

and repeated the same sentence

'I hate such words...'

It seems, it's time for me to make my move.

I whispered, "Do you want to get rid of him?"

She looked up at her saviour and nodded.

I wonder...how...this will pan out.

=

--

=

Timeskip

I stood behind the wall as Airi reached the destination.

"Hi Airi chan!!!!You came!! How are you? Did you receive my letter!! I sent it through Ayanokouji." Yamauchi grinned as Airi reached the place with her red dress as she looked absolutely stunning.

She walked up to him and as she reached within his boundary.

Thwack

A tight slap was imprinted on his surprised face as he couldn't comprehend what was going on.She spoke up,"I-I will report you to the school tomorrow, you...are DISGUSTING. You tried to blackmail me to be your girlfriend, I hate you."

She roughly walked away, as I clicked send on my phone. This should do the trick, but this time...it was from my account. I needed the whole class to know it was me.

As she left the confused Yamauchi alone in the ground, I walked up to him. I could see him distraught, anyone would be after their love has such a strange reaction.

"Yamauchi are you okay?" I gave him a hand as he got up

"What happened man? I didn't write or blackmail her like that." He shouted at me

"But the letter did have your handwriting and a lot of her pictures." I revealed.

"WHAT??I DIDN'T DO SHIT. I FUCKING ...AM INNOCENT...HEY HOW DID IT HAPPEN...WAITT...DID YOU DO SOMETHING YOU FUCKING SHORTY I WILL RUIN SUDO'S LIFE." He grabbed my collar and glared at me.

I sighed, as I grabbed his hand and kicked his shin, toppling him over. My knee rested on his neck...his eyes were filled with fear and shock.

"...Don't touch me...and...I did it...You won't ruin his life. You were bothersome to some people I needed, hence it is wise to eliminate you...don't you think so?"

The sun had set on the world and his fate as I spoke my final words

"Goodbye Yamauchi...ANHS, says goodbye."

"They won't expel me just for confessing or saying some crap." He retorted in fear as I tore his original letter in front of him. I had replaced it with another one copying his handwriting and calling him here, to set up the perfect scenario.

"I repeat...Goodbye."

It seems, I was too cruel but it was necessary to eliminate pests. This should make my work in future much easier

A ping was sent to my phone

HARUKI YAMAUCHI IS EXPELLED AND CLASS D LOSES 100 CLASS POINTS.

I am not a sweet person, Kokoro.

I am not a good human, Sudo.

I am simply a monster

Author's notes---

Dear Readers,

Updates may be slow, life is kinda hectic. Anyways hope you enjoyed the chapter, and maybe it left you with more questions.

Hmm...keep thinking.

Also umm, if you didn't know, kiyo is changing, albeit his ideology is the same.

Also Inogashira and airi are getting character progression!

And ya, didn't I say, I will expel Yamauchi.

Here ya go.

Please vote and comment, if you enjoyed the chapter.

Thank you have a great day.

Moving forwards & Watty2022

Alright, let's get somethings clear.

First of course comes the sports fest, should I subject it to change. The changes can be of modifiable degree,

1. Minimal (Change in a few rules or scenes)

2. Moderate (Change in games and certain ploys Minimal)

3. Maximum (Change in threats, completely different plans with multiple plansModerateMinimal)

Remember, the higher the level, the more brain cells will die. So be careful and of course pay homage to them by voting or sharing or even just reading the stuff properly.

Next, please revisit the earlier chapters that I will be soon revising and adding bonus content, I will keep announcing, if I make major changes in certain chapters with indepth monologues and maybe some pictures (not certain)

I will be adding my story to Watty Awards, well, why not? Albeit the Wattpad algorithm is a dangerous one, especially for dialogue-heavy stories and I probably have zero chance of being shortlisted in this condition due to this situation. Considering Machine Learning which will reduce the priority of such books. (Not my words, but Wattpad said it themselves)

Shortlisting:

Simply put, more dialogue = low chance of being shortlisted

More monologue= more chance of being shortlisted

Bad grammar = 0 chance of being shortlisted

Higher vocabulary (mainly from what I heard, it's those old Watty winner books and Gutenberg classics)= higher shortlist chance [the increase in similarity is directly proportional to shortlisting.]

Book has to be marked complete

Now of course, if I structured my entire book to meet such criteria, dear readers you might have to get a college degree to make head or tail of this. And I will need my grandpa's specs to figure out the stuff that I wrote, basically hot garbage.

Hence, I will simply be adding a bunch of monologues and refining the words just enough to form an intermediate spectrum of things.

And if the shortlisting doesn't happen, there is almost zero chance, that the book will ever be read by a human. Computers are your readers now, how funny. Again, Wattpad is helpless when thousands of books are submitted to just a double-digit amount of judges (guess). Point is, chances are slim. But regardless, it's fun!

So, ya just wanted to inform the readers as such and writers, who are wishing to submit their books(if you already didn't know, then it's just regurgitating information at this point).

And my final question, what about my OC, Noriko? Do you guys want her to:

1. Be at Horikita level

2. Be at Nagumo level

3. Be at Ryueen level

4. Be at Arisu level

5. Be at Manabu level/Kiryuuin level

6. Be almost at Kiyo's level. (Ngl, I am rooting for this)

Shortlists of some relationships that need to be clarified (on the surface):

1. Suzune(Close Friends)

2. Kei (Enemies who can turn friends but unlikely romantic interest to a high degree)

3. Matsushita (YEET)

4. Hirata (classmates)

5. Akito (Friend)

6. Inogashira (Supposed Best friend)

7. Sudo (Somewhat of a debt kind of friendship)

8. Ichinose (Wary but friendly enough)

9. Ryueen (Competition)

10. Manabu (Close friend)

11. Arisu (Admires him)

12. Kushida (Give and take relationship)

13. Katsuragi (Friendly but keeps distance)

14. Noriko (too complex to explain)

Finally, choose your Titanic ships (Best girl to worst girl):

1. Kei

2. Horikita

3. Kushida

4. Ichinose

(I will probably do all of them, but you readers can choose the ones which you prefer to see first)

That's all I wanted to cover, and as you can see, without a doubt my book has sunk quite a bit down the iceberg in reads and votes and stuff. So, it would be wonderful, if a bit more reader connection is present, but of course only if you feel I deserve it. And thank you, all of the ones who stuck around for the crazy ride. I really appreciate you taking your time to read and enjoy my content!

Thank you for this

And Bye! Have a great day, and if not, I will hope tomorrow is a bit better.

𝓢3𝓒7 𝓣𝓻𝓾𝓽𝓱 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓯𝓸𝓻𝓬𝓮𝓭 𝓶𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓼

S3C7 Truth and forced moves

Yamauchi' POV

Damm, she isSexy! Hot! Beautiful!!

All are simply things, that runs through my mind almost the entire day. Can you blame me? When I am surrounded by such beauties of the country, it's obvious where my mind would wander. I know, what I think, might sound really corrupt and disgusting to some people but this is what I am. I took a deep breath remembering...

Pervert

Creep

Go Die

I heard these phrases more than the number of tissues I use in a month. Quite a lot for a 15-year-old teen. Do I think I deserve these insults? Maybe I do but does it matter now? After everything is over? Thinking such thoughts I was handed my expulsion letter by the same mail, which gave me the acceptance letter. Crazy right? How my life here, came to a circular end. Sure, I might get admission to another school but what most wouldn't realise,is the aftermath. The moment I step out of this abode of perfection will be a world of hell. Like I am jumping off heaven, straight to hell. Quite hot right?

Sadly, my dick will burn itself off here.

This school isn't any other school, this is ANHS. Hence getting cucked from here, means straight-up social fucked. Is that even a saying? If not, I, Yamauchi will make it one. Point is, imagine a dude suddenly getting kicked out of the biggest school in Japan and the reason being as petty as a love letter, which I didn't even write. Pathetic honestly, heck, I can even see myself mocking me. Just like I mocked Sudo and that fat snob, Ijuuin. I am basically gonna be in their place soon enough. Could I lie? Well, I can. I guess, I can say, that I didn't want to focus on too many class competitions and dropped out. But, my parents, will know everything in full detail. I am pretty sure, the school will reveal everything to them...What if they don't? Should I lie? Maybe they will accept it.

Because if I said the truth...

Will they believe their, noble Yamauchi? The one, who lied about everything in order to show his parents that he was a good boy? What will they say about that letter, will my mother hate me? Will she really think I am fucked up enough, to write that? What will my father say? Will he beat me? Or will kick me out of the house? Maybe I can promise to never do it again?

I will be lying again, won't I?

I reached outside school but came in front of the reason for all of this. Kiyotaka Ayanokouji, this motherfucker was the reason I was in this condition. He tricked everyone, he is the fucking bastard.

I don't still understand how the fuck he copied my handwriting but he did it. And he tricked me, to reach there at that time and set up the whole scenario destroying my whole school life in a flash.

I will not forgive him, he ruined my life and luck. I could have had everything, babes and a good chance at a career, but he snatched it all away. Without thinking of the time and place, tears started streaming down my pathetic eyes, as I went in running for a punch on his bloody boring face.

The face, that broke my chance to talk to Matsushita-chan and Horikita-chan. That face, never changes, I bet he would fuck a pig with that same face. What even was there in this dogshit average face, he looked ten times worse than I ever could.

CRACKK

One moment, it was me rushing to him. Next, I am on the ground, same as that time,I tried hitting him and accidentally tripped...right? Wait a sec, did he actually hit me so fast, that I didn't even notice? Nah, impossible, I am strong enough to take on a hundred of him right? He kneeled down to me, as he spoke a few weird words, as I felt nothing but pain as my chin bled out.At least I could make out some of it,

'Truth is the only way, you can survive this reward you got.Be honest.At the time of adversity, honesty, is the only way out.'

Hah, easy for him to say. As if he ever will suffer as much as me. My parents will hate me if they know about my truth. My sister will despise me, the one I loved so much...at least, I prepared myself to be hated by her at least. I knew that once she grew up, she would hate me. Her disgusting pervert brother. They will think, that they failed as my parents,

"Do you even have parents?"I whispered as my jaw seared in pain. I could see his eyes go blank, as I pulled my body back instinctively. Behind my own whining and tears, I could hear him say, "I read about it." He spoke in his usual boring tone, as I looked away from him. Fuckk!!!! Why can't he ever give a straight answer, even after he destroyed the living fuck outta me?

I saw him get up and spoke finally explaining the shit he did and why he did so, "You are scared to admit your shortcomings. So you exaggerate any other fact, to such a high degree that it turns into complete idiocracy. If I am not wrong, you playing tennis was the truth, the rest was utter lies. You didn't injure yourself, you simply became lazy. You lie to escape people making fun of you, yet you try to hurt Sudo, to make yourself feel better. You are nothing more than a, as you would say it..."He lifted his shoe and placed it on my chest as I screamed..

"AHHHHHH LET ME GOOO!!!" I tried my best to move his foot but it's like a metal crusher trying to break my body. Goddamit, when did he become so strong!!Really a weird dude.

He kept speaking, this time looking at me, "...A piece of shit. But, I would rather use a civil term, a hypocritical coward hiding behind pathetic lies and basic bullying. You even tried to hurt me, didn't you? But unfortunately, you never did manage to graze me. Right now, since I destroyed your life and threw you down this hole, let me give you a rope, the truth...is all that you have left."

I remember to being the first one to write on his table, those words, DIE. I didn't think it was a big deal, after all, I have been told that a whole bunch of times. Looking back, the context really makes me fucked up huh...

Did I really mess up, all this time. Was I ever the good boy, that my parents boasted me to be?

'My son got in ANHS!! My SON YAMAUCHI DID IT!!' I remember dad going around the neighbourhood distributing candies and stuff while mom stuffed my belly with enough good food to last me a lifetime. I did work hard which is why I got in. I was a great talker, for real this time. I have many recitation certificates to prove it. Not just that, sure I was a pervert yet I somehow studied by training my mind to study after each tissue.

But I exaggerated it, he was right.

Will dad yell out my name as,'...He isn't my son. Is that how you raised him?He disgraced the family. Never step foot in this house ever again.'I can hear it, he would shout at mom, whenever I messed up. Weird isn't it, when I did something good, I was his son. But when I did something bad, I was her son. Will my mother ever feed me with her own hands, if I say the truth? Will my sister ever play hide and seek with me ever again? Truth sucks.

But that's all I have left.

I didn't write that letter but I definitely am a pervert. An extremely horny high schooler.

But it seems, I got the punishment I deserved, just not for the right reason.

Ayanokouji's POV

After seeing him off personally yesterday, I suppose it was posted in the school forums but I didn't bother to check the school forums to see everyone's reactions after I deleted the video from the servers with private points.I still gave him a chance to grow, outside the school, if he listens to me, things might turn out better than he imagines. Right now, I wanted to relax. But it seems peaceful life isn't in my fate.

"What was your purpose Kushida?" I decided to confront her during one of her venting daily hours in my room. Her voice dwindled from curses as her body did a twist as the black shirt embracing her figure crinkled to face my retiring visage. Almost every day, right in front of my eyes, I can see her contradicting and ironic nature which is often a treat to watch. Like a scientist, watching it's lab rat running amock.

"FUC-What do you mean? Clarify it." She barked as I added, "That recording, what was it's purpose? I don't see any strange motives entangled with it. Why did you give that to Inogashira?"

"Oh that crap, dude she has been eating my head off 'Please bring Kiyotaka along' or 'Kushida-san, I beg you.' Fuck after a point, I felt pity. God, this venting is making me somewhat better of a human and I want to fucking puke." Her rough voice added with a gagging reaction made me think she was serious and I showed her the bathroom.

That simply incited one of the most disappointing reactions I have seen from her in a while. She growled as she fell on my bed where she was sitting earlier, "You are fucking hopeless. I can't deal with this, I am leaving." She sighed deeply and left with a...

BANGG

If the door breaks one day, I will make sure to take revenge, on every single one of them.

I decided to take a bath after this encounter as the summer heat burned through my head. I really need to wash this heat off or my brain might just melt off.

Ring

Ring

Who was it? That was also, right after Kushida left. I opened the door to see a blue-haired individual

"What is it, Noriko?" I spoke in a calm tone, without any sort of reaction to my old friend's sudden arrival at my doorstep. She had clad in a white shirt and black leggings with two dangling knives from her ears, truly beautiful. Unfortunately, it seems, such beauty falls flat when it's encasing an enemy.

"H'ola!! Ayanokouji, wanna join us at the pool? It will be fun! Ike asked Kushida-chan and us to join. It will be fun!" That was quite a coincidence.

Am I experiencing plot convenience? Of course not, I am just a side character.

"I think it would be lovely." I tried to smile but remembered the countless times, it was called off-putting and decided not to.

"Was that a half smirk? Oh my~ Are you thinking something naughty?" She spoke that last word extra loud with a slight smile, such cheap tricks, uncharacteristic of her. I wonder, what is she trying to achieve.

After all021 always orchestrated the most harmonious and intricate plans, in the Whiteroom.

"Oh not at all, I simply thought of seeing my friends there. Do you mind if I call some others as well?" I asked to which she nodded readily as she went away with the final words, "Sharp 1 pm in the school pool."

Just before I closed the door, I heard a familiar voice, "Hey Noriko, watch'a doing in Kiyotaka's dorm?" continuing it, came Noriko's giggling voice, "I was getting mister shut in, to shut out."

Bad joke

"HAH! Good one! Anyways see ya at the pool, I will be going too!" He waved at her, as I shut the door in order to appear as if I didn't hear the insults being hurled at me.

I am not a shut-in, I am just lonely.

As expected, the hard knock arrived soon after as I opened the door welcoming the red-haired giant. I gave my greetings as Sudo barged in, as always, sitting down where Kushida previously sat. I wonder, is my bed really a chair or is everyone blind? I sighed and brought a cup of tea for him and sat down on a chair waiting for him to stop sipping the black tea and remove the black veil over what he wanted to say. He finally spoke with a sense of urgency absent just a while ago, "Kiyotaka, stop the girls from going to the pool please." Seeing him plead, I tried to learn more about this situation.

"Explain further. I can't help if I don't get the entire picture." I sipped my tea as he told me his entire story, which was oddly interesting. According to him, a few infamous students of our class with their ring leader, Ike, grouped up with a plan in mind. It was as expected, peeping into the girl's locker with a camera and taking nonconsensual pictures. Quite the criminal endeavour indeed. Sudo, being the reformed being he is, asked for help stopping them without making him the torchbearer of the revolt against this morally degrading situation.

The coffee was bitter...

So was the situation

I agreed to assist but of course, it was simply to further my game. After all, Yamauchi was simply the opening move, which will lead to a chain reaction. I gave a quick call to Suzune.

Suzune's POV

"B square minus four a c is the determinant...B square minus four a c is the determinant..B squ-"

Ring

Ring

My phone buzzed as I dropped my book and grabbed it as I sat on the bed. It was only one person, Kiyotaka. After all, he is the only person I saved in Id. The rest were named as digits 1, 2 and so on. Of course, Nii-san was saved with, a few emojis. But that's it. Upon picking it up, I could hear that same voice, that earlier brought me nothing but irritation and now, brought me nothing but comfort. I let a slight smile arise on my face, "Hi, Kiyotaka?"

"Yes, that's me, didn't you save my number?"

"Why would I waste my time saving your number? I am really busy, what do you want?"

I screamed internally, 'Why can't I just be honest!!!!'

"Sorry Ice queen, I assumed too much. Do you mind cooling the pool?" I heard him joking in that monotone voice of his. Trying to insult me~ How dare he!

"Goodbye..."

Stop me, please

"Wait, sorry. I meant, do you want to go to the pool with me." He finally reached the point.

"...What if I don't?" I decided to ask him, when in reality I did feel like saying yes.

"It would be disappointing." My earlier smile grew slightly upon hearing such an answer

"Alright, no need to be dissappointed,I will be there in 15 minutes." Saying so I hung up.

Time to get ready~ I shut my book, which already had over 5 different highlighter shades making it look like a rainbow. Even if others were there, it would be fun to see him after a while. He never even tried to invite me!! Is that what friends do.

Forget that, I did the same.

I had a slight yearning to see, if he was okay..after the incident that I caused.Today I will get an answer to that question!I took out my diary and made another line on it...

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=

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Upon reaching the pool I came in sight of people such as Suzune I had invited along with Kokoro, Ichinose and Akito who brought along Haruka.

It seems all of them were having fun and I was...

"Latee!!!" Kokoro thumped my back as she grinned. I looked at her, as she had a neon jacket over her orange swimwear, she looked pretty I must agree. I tried smiling back as she stifled a giggle.

She was unsuccessful.

"Kiyotaka, you need to work on that.Oh, and did you hear what happened to Yamauchi?" She inquired about the recent events I caused. Another voice came over."What about him? I couldn't get the details properly." It was none other than Suzune, who wore a white scantily clad swimwear. She looked...

Control

"That creep sent a disgusting letter to Airi-chan and she slapped him really hard. As deserved, he was expelled. But the video is suddenly gone. Just a few more days and someone would have made it public to the whole country...ugh!!" She let out a disgusted sigh as Suzune caught up on it. It seems she was worried about class points. I tapped her shoulder and said, "It will be fine, the points can be returned.Also, you look stunning." I decided to compliment her fashion.She stepped back at the sudden touch, wow, I am a creep aren't I?

But why does she seems slightly flustered? It didn't matter much, as she spoke normally,"Mhmm, I got it. It's better without a dead weight anyways, even if we had to lose some points. It's good for the long run...and thank you for calling me...stunning." She spoke optimistically and accepted my compliment. Kokoro suddenly dragged me to a corner, as I wondered, how does she have this much strength...

"Hey, Kiyotaka...you are into Horikita-san aren't you!!" She spoke with stars gleaming in her eyes, while I simply was confused. I asked, "What do you mean? I simply said she looked pretty. You too, look quite pretty." I honestly, didn't see a big deal to make out of it but it seems, she had other plans in mind.

"You really think that trick will work on me?" She deadpanned as she sighed, "Kiyotaka, you are...painfully oblivious at times...ahh~" Before she could say any further, her friends called her over. She simply gave a wave and skipped away leaving me to my thoughts.

Do I like Suzune? I don't know...but, do I deserve her? Absolutely not. After all, a monster doesn't deserve love.

I turned around to see the swimming pool and waited for the pieces to move and to be driven to a checkmate.

The question was, is Noriko, somehow involved in this?

Author's Note--

Dear Readers,

Was this a decent enough end to Yamauchi's character? Was his backstory, somewhat good? After all, no one has done it before...I think...right?

Anyways, I will still be counting the poll votes and use them as a reference when the time comes.

Do vote and comment! If you enjoyed it!

Thank you

𝓢3𝓒8: 𝓥𝓮𝓲𝓵 𝓸𝓯 𝓝𝓸𝓫𝓲𝓵𝓲𝓽𝔂

S3C8: Veil of Nobility

Ayanokouji's POV

A beautiful overview of the swimming pool was ready for my eyes to feast on as a quivering girl wearing a proper swimsuit walked up to me and tapped my shoulder. It was Airi with her desperate attempt to push me inside the pool. Oh my , such strength!

Jokes aside, I spoke up, "You missed the element of surprise. A better method would be kicking me followed by a strong push. It might have done the trick."She quipped out in a meek voice, "h-heh...you seemed, to fear the pool. So I deci-ded to l-lend you a hand."

"After watching Ike and Yamauchi shed their dignity in this pool. I was afraid." I mocked fear as I sat down back again. From the corner of my eye, I saw a beet-red Airi as she started stuttering and uttering incoherent gibberish. She backed off shyly as I went back to watching the blue while thinking about the upcoming events. After all, I couldn't tell her that It was quite awkward being the only guys here, as the rest were busy somewhere else scheming.

"Did you call me out here to sit here like a rubber duck, Kiyotaka?" Suzune joined me as she sat down next to me and greeted me with her insult. How pleasant indeed. "Not quite, I simply was waiting for you to complete talking to the others, until I formulated my thoughts." I disagreed to her speculations when reality dictated she was absolutely right. I just wanted to bring enough people, to increase the gravity of a certain situation.

But it's often advised to lie if it's to save yourself from imminent doom.

She looked at my body and questioned, "You barely ever do any physical activities. Do you have some monstrous metabolism or something?" She gave me the perfect excuse! I nodded as she sighed and said under her breath, "I lied...and you fell for it. Classic."

A cruel trick.

She simply gave me a knowing smile and started talking about the future of the class, "Hey, Yamauchi's expulsion has set back the class by 30 points. What do you think about the situation?" I listened to her as I formulated my own thoughts, this was after all the most probable question in the aftermath of such a situation. And I also knew, only Suzune would be bothered enough to ask about it. I put my hand on my chin as I sleepily spoke, "The next exams will be a chance. Or if we can find a loophole. Now Suzune, I was wondering if you will be ready to take responsibility in the future? After all, you are the de facto class leader." She considered my question and mulled over it for a while. I simply stared at the water and dipped my hand inside it and flicked it at her face. She looked horrified as her eyebrows arched like the Himalayan ranges.

Scary...

"Hey, what was that?" Her gaze steeled at my pale visage. It seems, she didn't enjoy that. But that didn't stop my mouth from going rampant,"I wanted to see if the water would turn into ice, Ice Queen." As soon as I said that, she immediately did what Airi couldn't do. She kicked me, but unfortunately for her, my reflexes saved me as I ducked and grabbed her foot, pulling her and throwing her body into the water.

Splashhh

"The water didn't turn into ice...that's unfortunate." Upon hearing my insolence again, her eyes turned into daggers as she spoke, "You are so childish. Ugh! Kiyotakaa! At least pull me up." I sighed as I let my hand forward, which she grabbed...too willingly. It seems out of the blue, her bloodlust was raised to the maximum as she pulled me in, leaving me no room to breathe. But it seems, her smirk showed satisfaction at my pain. Truly a sadist.

After everyone had their fun for the day, most left, while what irked me was Noriko's smirk as she gave a wave. I waved back as I was left alone in the pool, waiting for an individual.

"Hey, I did it." A voice behind me spoke as the blonde-haired girl proudly showed off her prize, the SD card. Not bad, while I was certain it would be accomplished, I assumed it would take a bit of a toll on her as she despised coming to the pool. I looked at her smiling visage as she came close to me wearing her hoodie over her red swimsuit, she looked really cool. I waved at her, as we started walking by the pool side having chlorine tingle our nostrils.

"Well done" I congratulated her as she gave me the sd card and proudly confessed, "I lied so well! They didn't even realise." During the summer vacations, It seems her attitude towards me has shifted to a more positive side. She craned her neck at me and immediately attacked my thoughts," Oh don't get the wrong idea that I have forgiven you or I started trusting you.

It's can't be further from the truth I enjoyed being the good person in a story for once. It gives me a funny feeling in the heart and is like totally nostalgic." Her phrasing led to alarms buzzing in my head but I simply kept walking while twirling the card in my hand, "What do you think I will be doing with the card?"

I asked her trying to gauge her reasoning. She didn't disappoint completely, infact quite the opposite, "I don't really know but if I had to bet my money on something, it would be on you trying to use them like you used me.

After all, a person like you has zero morals. Don'tcha? I wonder if anyone ever even taught you the concept." I responded while trying to unravel her brain, " What makes you think I wasn't taught such things? And how are you analyzing so well right now?"

"Look dude, it's simple after that incident, I played the thing over in my mind like a broken tape recorder. Point is, I tried to think of every single angle. I know I have a pea sized brain but even that can at least, understand something after repeating it the thousandth time.

Y'know I feel you haven't been taught because of what you said later. You wanted to help me, quite strange right? Why would you help me, when you can literally blackmail me all you want. Yet you are trying to make a two sided deal, quite strange right? Not to mention Matsushita-san, you really did help her, in the island exam. You could have left her in her panic attack but you didn't. You are weird but again, we all are."

It seems she was waiting for this moment to reveal all that was running in her head. But she really did try to understand the situation and did so quite well. As a reward, I aided her, "I didn't help Matsushita out of goodwill, I simply wanted to gain her trust. The reason I did a deal, is simple. A deal works out in the long run, while when blackmailed, the victim can turn the tables on you. Constantly monitoring you would be too tedious so this seemed the better option."

"Wow, it seems you are worse than I thought. But I still don't getcha, if your ideals are so shitty how are your actions at max, borderline criminal? Shouldn't ya be more like, I don't know, maybe evil...ohh like that Ryueen dude. He is an asshole according to Class C." She questioned me while giving me quite a bit of detail on her friend group which reached other classes.

Maybe I can use that detain in the future, for now I simply had to keep watch on Ryueen's future moves. I replied after my second of silence, " I presume, it's just the way I am." I vaguely responded to dissuade her from prying any further.

"Woah dude, you went all secretive there. Gotcha, won't ask more. But one last question...I get that since I helped you don't I?" She demanded a reward for her actions, which I wasn't hesitant to offer. I nodded giving her the pass to ask me about it.

She responded immediately with a bold question, "Did you have a shitty childhood?" I simply sighed as I responded, "I don't know. I don't hold any preference for it. What made you ask it?" She smirked as she responded, "Alright mister, keep your secrets. I simply was curious since I am damm sure you weren't taught the limit of things, always limitless. Which is a good thing but also terrible. Anyways, you might be gonna blackmail them, all the best dude." She gave me a strange sigh as she slowed her footsteps and I replied truthfully, "Not right now. Once they are useless, I will do the deed."

"You sound like those scary B grade film cheesy villains. Hehe~" She smiled letting out a small grin, oh this was quite an interesting side of her that I was fortunate to witness. I questioned, "Don't you feel bad for them? They are your classmates and will suffer your fate." She looked into the distance as she spoke,

" All I care about is myself. I am selfish that way."

"Fair enough, it just makes the ordering you easier. Was Noriko around you when this happened?" I questioned as she quickly hit her head and spoke in a ditzy tone, "Oh god! How did I forget ittt~ Ahh, Ayanokouji she did talk to me for a while before I was left alone. I think it was about the school events.

She sounded so innocent but I am pretty sure that sickly sweet voice was a weird one, after all, I am way too habituated to hearing such things right before getting my hair pulled or having thumbtacks on my chair."

"I see, if that is the case, I have a change of plans." I immediately sat down on the floor as Karuizawa crouched down with me. I pulled out my phone and changed the sd card right in front of her and downloaded everything on my phone.

I got up as quickly as I sat down but Karuizawa couldn't keep up with my sudden movements and slipped causing her to almost fall into the pool. But since I didn't want to splash again by her fall, I caught her in time. It was an awkward position for us, as our legs were hinged at the end of the edge of the pool floor. A small mistake would throw us both in. I let her go and stepped out of the way immediately.

Splashh

"Glug...Glug...You moron, what the hell! Dude, my jacket got soaked." She shouted at me as she threw her jacket in a desperate yet futile attempt to save it. Her eyes widened as it dawned on her, that her scar was visible. She shoved her hands down to her stomach to try and hide it but it had already polluted the surrounding eyes in her opinion it seems. I could see her eyes water, as I sighed. Another...girl...cr-

Never mind, not this time. I jumped into the pool as well and grabbed her cheeks. They were quite soft, contrary to the hard fact that I was about to state, "My pawns, don't have any visible weakness. It seems your scar may cause a hindrance, for now, just concentrate in my eyes. Look at them." I took my two fingers and pointed from her eyes to mine.

I repeated,

"LOOK"

Her eyes dilated as she focused on my unchanging expression as her heartbeats calmed down, while her pulse normalised. I let out a bit of my true self as I spoke, "No one cares about you. Everyone is too selfish and their mind is preoccupied with themselves and how others perceive them. You are an extra in their story, so it doesn't matter. I repeat...

NO ONE CARES

She snapped out of it as she sighed in relief, "Thanks I needed that. Sigh, now get me outta here will ya? Also, I was right, your ideals and actions are the complete opposite." I ignored her as we both got out of the water and sat down on the floor. I then took the sd card out of my phone that I left behind and gave it to her. She questioned, "What do ya want me to do with this? Didn't you want it? Oh wait, you already downloaded everything. Do you want me to throw it away?"

I gave my orders to her, "No, rather I want you to give it to me again, right after a minute to be exact." She looked at me strangely, but agreed nonetheless. Exactly after a minute she handed it over to me and I dropped it inside a water bottle and crushed it while dropping it in the nearest bin. I ushered her to walk with me as she realised her work was done and left the scene, so did I. Unfortunately I couldn't say bye to the visage that followed our trace.

But congratulations Noriko, you did win slightly. You did catch me a bit offguard, I simply will have to adapt better next time.

Noriko's POV

Shit

I walked upto the trash can to see the broken SD card and shut my phone's recorder. The moment I came here, Kiyotaka took the Sd card from her...a perfect moment lost to this trash.

Truly curse you, Ichinose and your good two shoes blabbering for wasting my time.

I really believed that I use your tactic against you, that was quite idiotic of me. Never mind, at least the SD card is disposed of and I got some vital information from this. Though, did Kiyotaka really try to help without any personal gain? Why help out the girls like that? What is his overarching purpose? I presumed it was to expel them or blackmail the others but that's not possible since the SD card is broken.

Calling him out here, I wanted to see how he acts. After all, I remember very well how he hated perverts. I knew he would take charge, so I did call him, even upon getting strange looks from my beloved classmates. But it seems, he used Kei for it.

So if I am not wrong, the reason why Kei is getting closer to me is because of the fact that Kiyotaka had his hand in this. But right now, he knows that I may start putting the pieces together, wow Kiyotaka. What happened to your perfect defence?

But, you still did break through this plan. Quite unfortunate...isn't it?

You lost your sleuth and I lost a chance to threaten you.

Sigh!

Not bad indeed, I wonder if I can play with you

Kei Karuizawa

AUTHOR'S NOTE-

Dear Readers,

I really needed to get over with the short stories, as I wanted to head into the sports arc . So yup, here is the end of it!

I hope you enjoyed Noriko's part in it!

Do vote and comment your thoughts on the chapter.

And have a great day ahead!

Thank you!

𝓢3𝓒9: 𝓓𝓪𝓻𝔀𝓲𝓷𝓲𝓼𝓶 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮𝓼 𝓼𝓹𝓸𝓻𝓽𝓼

S3C9: Darwinism loves sports

Ayanokouji's POV

YOU ARE WEAK.

YOU ARE PATHETIC.

Survival of the fittest, is a concept first introduced by Charles Darwin upon observation. This was used in hyperbole by Hitler and Nazis to wipe out the 'weak'. Weak, such a subjective term in case of humans. Animals have been objectively classified as strong or weak. We have been too, haven't we? If I had a frail body, I would be weak. If someone couldn't speak, they would be classified as weak. But, here is where things get interesting. Usually in cases related to experiments, a fixed objective is used. In case of humans, they have a multitudes of objectives and what brings in obscurity in the sense of 'strong' and 'weak' is simply our brain.

Goals, brings uncertainty. It's activity, can enhance or decrease a person's strength and I am leaning towards physical strength in this context. Let's take Sudo for example, if he never had a reason to work towards his goal, he would never have had such physique. Even now, if he loses his will, he can very well lose his strength to keep going. On the flip side, there was someone like Yukimura, completely filled up to the brim with smarts but his goal wasn't being the strongest or the fastest, it was simply to be the smartest.

Let's presume, that today everyone's goal was shifted to a single thing, sports. Well, that's the situation we are in presently. The sports festival announced on the first day of school after summer vacations, encased the atmosphere in an equal sense of enjoyment and dread among the athletic students and others respectively. For someone like me, goals never mattered, I was simply an exception.

( A/N: Read the Rules of Sports Fest from the Vol 5)

Given a choice, I wouldn't have taken part but it was mandatory for every student to take part in this tiresome event, at least in a few categories. The rules were clear-cut yet could have possible loopholes. We reached the gymnasium where Suzune's eyes scanned the area possibly for her brother who was expected to be the leader of the Red team.

"Hello Suzune, what are you doing?" I decided to interfere in her quest, which she thankfully received without jabbing at me.

"I thought Nii-san would be here. Guess I was wrong, sigh." Her eyes drooped down to the ground as she tried taking her to leave. I didn't think she would give up that easily but I wished to give her a parting gift.

"You could try the Student Council." I spoke causing her to freeze up as I walked up to her, "Being vulnerable was never synonymous with being weak." I sighed as I walked away from her trembling visage. It seems her fears truly have captured her, all I can do is simply show the way. She will have to walk out of this by herself.

I sat down on the floor to see Fumikaje of third-year Class A taking the lead this time, instead of Manabu. It seems he is waiting to make his move. Will he make it in the 1200 meter relay race where every class and every year will participate? Only time can tell. I looked around to see discomfort on the faces of Class D as they sat close to their overachieving counterparts It was honestly quite fearsome to see them, after all, till now everything they do is untouchable but only individually. Sakayanagi walked up slowly with her cane towards Class D area as she sat down quietly on the empty chair next to me. She looked directly at Suzune for a while and then at Hirata. Finally, she gave me a fleeting glance.

"Fufu, it seems Class D's faces turned pale. Whoever is the class leader, I would like to have a word with them." She announced her presence in a slightly condescending mellow voice while maintaining her abnormal doll like appearance. Hirata took charge and walked up to her with his friendliest smile. He tried to make some form of amicable relation with the class. It was a smart move, after all, a weak individual can only ever hope at most to be of use to the strong.

"That would be me. Hello, I am Hirata, may we know the reason for your visit." He stood there waiting for a response from her. Instead, he got it from Kamuro, her henchwoman.

"Hoping to not cross paths in this event. Does that sound appreciable?" Her sharp voice had sowed fear in some of the girls of class D. Hirata seemingly unaffected by her put forward his hand and said, "We wish for the same." Upon hearing that Sakayangi walked away while taking her sweet time, leaving Hirata standing with his hand open. She simply showed her power of Class D by this small move, as Hirata couldn't voice this disrespect and closed his hand. Class A had no intentions of being our allies, rather they didn't want any unwarranted hindrance to themselves otherwise they wouldn't hesitate to crush us.

Having not just Class C but even Class A at our coattails simply signed our fate in hell. A commotion arose on the other side of the gymnasium were Class B and Class C seem to be having a confrontation.

"Does this clear that Class C is going to be independent?" Ichinose asked curiously as Ryueen started walking out of the room. Ryueen's neck twisted as he smirked, "Isn't that a favour? Otherwise you will waste your time probing for information that you wouldn't get if we did cooperate."

"Aren't you being overly paranoid of us? We have always tried our best to paint our class as approachable and friendly." She gave her most enticing smile while tilting her head, using a similar shield-like Hirata. Yet Ryueen's wariness was impregnable. He walked up to her and said, "After getting a character analysis just by playing cards with other classes, I think I have every fucking right to be paranoid. And paint wears off, yours will too Ichinose."

She simply smiled in response, this time it was wider, "Oh, I see. Quite unfortunate indeed. Do you really expect your fantasy to win alone will come true? Remember Ryueen-kun, a pack of wolves can fend off a lion." She growled cutely at them as Ryueen simply ignored this and walked off with his class following him, like a true dictator as he shouted,

"Don't get cocky. You don't wanna eat shit after talking so high and mighty."

I noticed Manabe's glare at Karuizawa and Hiyori's wave at me. I waved back while standing behind Karuizawa as she slightly trembled. Manabe looked at me and immediately averted her eyes and walked off while holding Morofuji's hand. Karuizawa looked back at me as I simply nodded providing her a wave of relief.

"Kiyotaka what do you think about the special exam?" Suzune sat next to me as we sat back down and asked but to her disappointment I stayed silent. She asked again and again. No response, then it dawned upon her as she asked again, "Kiyotaka what do you think about this festival?"

"Athleticism and probability would play a major part of it. This, as you figured out, can't be a regular exam where tricks could be employed, rather this was a true test of physical skill. Tricks would be bare minimum." I explained as she nodded accepting this as she whispered, "But not zero"

This time she spoke loudly, "We could probably apply tricks as a backup, for now, let's organise and prepare the teams and capabilities." What she said was the side of the coin that our classes were on. Class A and B were on heads while Class C and I were on tails. Hard work or tricks, she chose both. But will she be able to carry out both successfully? Quite difficult but not impossible.

"Horikita, what do you expect from this commotion that occurred earlier?" I decided to test her a bit as she gave her opinion, "I thought it was good for us but considering Ryueen I am having second thoughts, but...how...what made him do everything alone."She was accustomed to him, after the various interesting encounters she had with him. I turned around to see Noriko chatting away with her friends, it seems she and Karuizawa are having a fun time. I wonder what she is feeding her, right now considering she saw us together yesterday, all the information Karuizawa was going to supply me would be virtually worthless.

"Hey Kiyotaka, look at me when I talk will you?" Suzune hit my shoulder as she glared at me. I immediately turned to her as she continued showing her suspicion towards Ryueen based on her experience. Her reasoning capabilities had vastly improved, it would be interesting to see what she comes up with.

Sigh, it seems everyone is in full spirit and devoted to their training unlike me sitting alone in the empty classroom. Thinking back, I decided to set some traps. There were too many unwanted threats and anomalies in the school. I had to be wary of them, targeting me specifically. I sighed and contemplated my options as I walked out. I heard the water hose gushing out water near to me and I noticed Sae-sensei standing there watering the plants and she called out to me. "Ayanokouji, what are you doing alone? Usually, you are the first to leave."

She gave me a knowing smile as the water glistened the plants below. I looked at her as I nonchalantly replied,"I didn't know you were a gardener." She smirked at that and spoke,

"Us adults can multitask you see, unlike someone who decides to be the epitome of laziness."

"Oh really? At least I don't try to blackmail highschoolers"

"Sigh, you are right. I am bad, but not as bad as your ex friend."

"She was useful, can't say the same about you. Can I?"

"I would rather not be a high schooler's tool."

She smirked as I was tired from arguing with her. She repeated her question,

"Why are you here?"

"I simply wanted to be alone."

"Any strange plans for the upcoming event?"

"Arent you a curious one."

"I am your teacher, it's my job."

"I will do what I can, but don't expect too much from an average fellow like me."

"I don't know how you say that with a straight face."

"Me neither."

"Don't you want to win this?"

"Not really, my main motive is my peace.

I will achieve that, no matter what."

AUTHOR'S NOTE:

Dear Readers,

This chapter was a bit short, since I wanted to maintain the LN pace a bit for future reasons.

Hope y'all enjoyed it nonetheless, have a great day!

Do vote and comment if you enjoyed it

Thank you!

𝓢3𝓒10 𝓗𝓲𝓻𝓪𝓽𝓪'𝓼 𝓡𝓮𝓭 𝓵𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽

S3C10: Hirata's Red light

Ayanokouji's POV

The hustle was on with everyone beaming with a sportive spirit. The homeroom allowed 2 hours of their time to allow discussions as Sae-sensei sat on a chair next to me, basically at the end trying to observe the upcoming strategies. Hirata got up from his seat as his proactive nature shined through and he tapped the board and spoke up, "So, the sports fest is coming soon. For the events, we could possibly..."

In came the chalk noises and after a while, it ended in a halt. He turned towards us as two words were written on the board.

Raising Hands Merit

These would be the core foundations of his strategy it seems, as he continued to explain his idea, "Well, we have two systems one of simply getting everyone's choices...but as expected, the downside is, not everyone will get what they want. The other is, Merit, as it suggests it's simply choosing who is better at a sport and assigning it to them. Giving us a higher chance to win...but it will remove all individual gains. So, in all honesty..."

He rubbed the words and replaced them with more appropriate words...

YOU US

He kept the chalk down as he spoke, "How funny, the choices now are...you...and...us...so...I ask you, choose what's appropriate." He smiled as he sat down on the teacher's chair waiting for us to decide. I was quite impressed with how, Hirata turned it from a simple choice...to a choice of character. From what I can presume, is that he wanted us to choose the merit system and giving this new choice he will pressure everyone to choose us unless they want their reputation to plummet by choosing you.

Not bad...

It seems, he learned something from his failure as a leader. One that I am quite interested in...is his growth.

Flashback

Before classes started, the news of Yamauchi being expelled reached Hirata's ears. It seemed to have cracked a hole in his delicate position as the class leader. He was quite self-cantered in thinking he was the glue that held the class together. But today it shattered, though not his fault. It had crushed his ego. It seems Hirata, wasn't as angelic as I thought on my first encounter. Rather, a simple human.

Why am I suddenly talking about our class leader? Well, it did turn the tides because he was detached and provided a worthless tool to Karuizawa and to the class as well. Right now, I am here, as I searched for him all around. I had to convert his misery into an advantage, what better way was there than simply crushing him and building him up again?

There he sat, alone on a bench after I asked Karuizawa to confront him about it at this very location the day she said

'Hirata...is becoming...useless. So, now what?'

That coldness in her voice was quite interesting as she completely disregarded any emotions that could ever be present in between them. But right now, the situation playing in front of me was something I waited for.

"Hirata-kun, please getcha shit together...like come on...I need you." Karuizawa's words full of emotions quite different from one she showed back then with me were visually appealing, to say the least. Her words filled with compassion clashed against Hirata's despair as this time, despair won, "Shut up...Use someone else, I am...fucking done being a pathetic leader...don't count on me."

As Hirata's face went down so did Karuizawa's facade as she went from a sad innocent girlfriend to one who simply walks away. Hmm, It seems it's my turn.

Hirata's POV

Why can't everyone just let me be!! Is that too much to ask??? Sigh, this attempt failed...should I go back to the way I was? Is that the right answer to all my questions? Is that how it should have been in the first place? I heard a person coming up behind me as I sat there on the isolated bench. It was that classmate of mine, who has always, proven to be special. He was the only one capable of things I failed in. Both in Karuizawa's issue and the Island exam, only if he also could bring Yamauchi back. He asked, "Is the seat taken?" Is he blind now? I replied with my eyes still directed towards the ground. "I don't know." I heard him sigh as he sat beside me. I really don't want anyone here...not Mei...not Karuizawa...and specifically not Ayanokouji, as he will give me hope...but this time, this hope is different, it's a lie. Yamauchi is gone, a student of my class was expelled and I couldn't do anything about it and neither can he.

False hope, always hurts the most.

"The day is strange isn't it?"He asked but I didn't feel like responding to it. I simply was entrapped in my own self-loathing. Only if I wasn't such a useless leader. He said again, "The class is in a downwards spiral and the mocking matter is that it didn't start yet." I felt an urge to attack him as he said that, returning to my violent nature back then. But I knew better than doing that. He didn't deserve it, he has always helped this class and even when the class had betrayed him previously, he is still here for us proving to be a non-obtrusive and valuable asset to the class. Only if I could stop Yamauchi...only if I could protect Airi...only if I could protect him...

"Hirata you are right, you did work hard. But not hard enough, after all, aren't class leaders supposed to be gods who can protect everyone at every time." His voice had sarcasm encasing it as he stabbed me with that fact. I asked, "They really are, after all, none of the other classes had any expelled students yet." I stated that as a means of crushing my faith in myself as a leader.

"Should I be laughing?" I asked as I leaned back raising my downtrodden head. The strangeness I felt in this situation was a mockery of all my efforts. After the degrading of Ayanokouji's position, I felt it was simply a minor setback, one that I took in stride. Now that I recall that incident, it was simply the start of the inevitable, my demise as a leader. It was a warning for the future that I wasn't worthy.

Thus, I had always considered a vague end to my worries. Can I find an intermediate, to this? A way to retain my mind and continue being a leader without the guilt of overbearing failure. Sigh, I feel like nothing but fool's gold. Ayanokouji spoke, this time in a whisper, "This is the second time you failed."

His voice echoed through me as it broke a fuse in me and I revolted thinking that I could prove my point, "It's not easy! I had to drag a whole class filled with students all by myself for the last semester and I tried everything from wasting time with all the students to know their problems individually to handling all the calculations of class points all through the semester." I vented my frustrations at him. He stayed silent as I kept entangled in my web of thoughts. I sighed and I kept thinking about exactly what I did wrong.

"Tell me, Hirata, how does it feel to fail your friend?" Hearing those words from his mouth something broke in me as my hand rammed at his face but he just bent his head avoiding it completely as he spoke, "If I were you, I would have done the same. I apologise for accusing you in such a harsh manner." Sigh, Ayanokouji is considerate as always. I spoke in a scratchy voice revealing my hidden colours, "I don't know. I remember the last day I saw him, he smiled at me calling me a true friend.

The next thing I knew, I held a bouquet at his funeral. After learning about the fact that it was caused by suicide due to depression in attacks on his fellow classmates. I couldn't just let it go. So I took action...and eradicated...the looming fear that everyone had from them..." I didn't want to admit to the next part but Ayanokouji had me covered, "...and made yourself someone their fear more.

After all, everyone is truly united when they are scared of something much greater. Not a bad method I must admit, albeit it would be useless here." I looked at him in confusion and I asked, "H-How did you know? Not just that, why do you think that's not an option? Violence is the driving force of Ryueen's class...I-I can do the same. I know I can."

"Don't keep false hopes, remember the first special exam...the condition he left you in? This isn't an ordinary school, where everyone is much smarter and stronger than you. And to answer the question of how did I know, well...I just got lucky" He shrugged as he went silent after that letting me comprehend his words. He wasn't wrong, Sakayanagi was an unknown enemy to me, and someone too formidable for our class at this point. Similarly, for Ryueen, how could I ever forget the events of that exam?

And Ichinose's tactics are similar but are always on another level. Huh, I was right...I thought as I said, "I should give up. You are right, there is no way, we are going to win against them." He sighed as he spoke, "If you didn't think you failed your friend back then, you definitely did now Hirata. I guess my hypothesis was right,

nice people are truly bad at being good friends."

That was the last straw as I screamed,

"WHAT SHOULD I DO THEN? HUH? TRY MORE? SO THAT I FAIL AGAIN??? AGAIN AGAIIIIINNNNNN!!! I don't know...how..."

I started to feel dizzy, as the lack of sleep and food for the past few days took their toll on me. Ayanokouji grabbed my shoulder and prevented me from falling, "Stop being so egotistical. You really think the world revolves around you, don't you? What happened to Yamauchi wasn't in your control. If you think the other classes are so mighty then you do need to realise, that they have weaknesses equally vulnerable. You never really cared about the class, did you? You only cared about your one dead friend. You aren't nice, as I repeat ,

Nice guys aren't good friends."

He...was right, from the start, if I was assigned any other class, I would try equally as hard. It didn't matter who it was, they were all simply tools to complete a promise I made on the day of my friend's funeral. I repeated it to him...

' I promise, to try my best...to never lose anyone like I did today. I am sorry '

"Huh, well everyone truly be there? If I were to fail again?" I looked at Ayanokouji as he got up and spoke while looking at the distance, "You have matured a lot after the first special exam. You also realised this school, isn't a normal one. We will fail, only if you don't get class A, at the end of the 3rd year. Till that, nothing is truly a failure."

"Y-YA...I guess you are right, I can still keep my promise, can't I? " I asked him as he responded, "Don't get expelled, and your classmates will be there with you take care of the rest." Saying so he walked away as I decided if every class has its own method, I will simply use all of them...and add my own experience to it. Yes, that's the only way left.

Thank you, Kiyotaka Ayanokouji.

Flashback ends

As expected many classmates agreed to the US scheme, even if I could see unwilling hands rising as well. On the other hand, for the ME side, a few hands shot up, some idiots and some strong-minded ones. The idiots probably assumed that this was best as they would get points and won't care about the class, they wanted immediate self-gratification. While my pawn raised her hand for another purpose...

To challenge the class.

AUTHOR'S NOTE

Dear Readers,

Time for Hirata's character growth, hope you enjoyed the internal struggle in him. Didnt add too much of his past as it's well known

Do vote and comment

Have a great day

Thank you

𝓢3𝓒11: 𝓦𝓮𝓪𝓹𝓸𝓷 𝓸𝓯 𝓦𝓸𝓻𝓭𝓼

S3C11: Weapon of Words

Ayanokouji's POV

"Considering the overwhelming majority is on the Merit side, I don't see any reason to prolong this debate. Henceforth, let's assess the skillsets of the classmates and establish the highest chances of winning." Suzune spoke up as she stood up from her seat glancing at me. I sighed as most couldn't help but nod at her statement, after all, it was backed up by none other than Hirata. Karuizawa would have a tough time refuting this, without jeopardising the cracked relationship she has with Hirata as of this moment. But of course, not like she had free will, to begin with after I stole it.

Karuizawa spoke, "hey, wait up! I don't really like this idea. What about the rest of us? Horikita, you do know right, that not everyone is as hardworking or as athletic as you? Won't it be kinda unfair if we lost and only the top dogs of the class reaped the cool prizes?'" She used the word hardworking instead of luck or talent. This immediately made a positive impression on Suzune's as I had dictated Karuizawa. Horikita spoke up," Is that so? I understand and respect your concern but won't it be worse if we don't get the points, to begin with?"Suzune's counter was well placed. The other classes were nothing to scoff at.

Every class had it's Sudo, it's Horikita and so on who could very well dominate the events leaving us in a worse position than before. In the given instance, I had provided Karuizawa with a suitable answer beforehand which she used,

"Hmm you are right. But, won't that also mean that as a leader, you don't have faith in us? I mean, sure I know I can't run that well nor can I be a great basketball player so should I sit useless when everyone tries their best in the special events? Do you have any idea, how much that would hurt us or make us feel that when we celebrate the wins we didn't even have a single hair strand of a part to play in? I would rather have me play a part in us."

Karuizawa blended emotion into logic, immediately skewing the tables in her favour. This counter was a good disguise to hide the selfish intentions of many of my fellow classmates as they now raised hands in her favour. I could see cold sweat dripping down Hirata's and Suzune's faces. They underestimated the power Karuizawa had over her words, considering she faked an entire persona based on it.

Right now the opposition had an advantage but it seems Suzune's brain ran at breakneck speeds to come up with a befitting response,

"I see if we were to consider your point. Would you be ready to take responsibility if your me breaks us ?" Holding people accountable has always brought down many mighty speakers. After all, as the saying goes, easier said than done. Karuizawa looked at me for assistance but I provided none. She looked back at Suzune as she said,

"Like I get whatcha mean but come on, is winning more important for a leader than our class's unity? Kinda sus, not gonna lie. Isn't that right Kushida?"

She smiled at Kushida throwing the ball at her and as any smart two-faced person would do, she gave a diplomatic answer, "Well, for me, I think both are correct. On one side we have us, in which case there is a high chance of winning. Then we have me, where the ideals of our classmates are there. Both are equally valuable to me."

Her angelic tone had earned brownie points from her classmates as the dominos kept falling. Since this situation was leading nowhere Hirata stepped up, "Why don't we do a middle ground? Having teams being formed based on skill for now. Then the hardworking classmates will be considered for the special events as well. This will give everyone a chance, albeit a small one, but still one worth considering." Hearing this I nodded slightly as Karuizawa caught on to me and unfortunately so did Suzune. Karuizawa spoke up in a cheery tone, "Woohoo! That's just perfect Yousuke-kun." Her use of his first name led by a fake blush made the eyes of the girls in the class form awws gaining favourability in front of everyone, even if reality was quite jarring. I looked at Suzune who nodded to this from the corner of my eye, I could see Kushida's sour face as her plan was being hindered.

x--x

After the classes were over, I was met with arched eyebrows of Suzune as I was sipping on some milk. I thought that ignoring her would help but those eyebrows became daggers and I didn't want to know what was next.

I asked, "Do you want some milk or coffee?" I went up to the vending machine as I brought a coffee brand that she enjoyed even before she responded, "Coffee please."

I threw it at her as she caught it and stared at the label for quite a while. This was the same coffee I had given her when we first had a suspenseful encounter. She looked back at me as I sat next to her sipping on the cold milk in this hot sunset. She asked, "Why didn't you raise your hand in my favour? Was my plan a wrong one?"

Oh, so she was curious to know what she did wrong. I looked at her face a bit as the orange sunset had disguised the blush she had adorned. I nodded as I said, "Your plan made you a good leader but not a noble one. Leaders, have a duty to balance both aspects." She sighed as she said, "I really can't be like Hirata but still, I do want to be a leader. I realise what you mean, Hirata is...just better." She looked down as she uttered the bitter words but she was wrong.

In reality, Hirata had laid the groundwork and waited for all the good opinions to be laid out. He then laid the decision that was completely neutral.

Hirata is the epitome of a neutralist but he is far from an ideal leader.

But I wasn't going to tell her this. It was her duty to figure this out. I could feel the gears inside her head turning as she asked, "By the way, did you see something is off about Karuizawa today? I noticed that she spoke really well and that she looked at you for affirmation, uh...it's not like that matters...I was just being curious." She started playing with the ends of her hair as she turned around in embarrassment. It seems she had caught onto the signals sent. I remained silent as I felt the suspense building up inside her, I then responded, "I was talking to Hirata the other day and I formed a mild friendship with Karuizawa during that. I did notice the eloquence but I would just chalk it up to the fact that she is Hirata's girlfriend. He might have rubbed off on her."

"Oh thank god, I...uh.. never mind. So, are you going to participate in the upcoming sports festival? I have never seen the athletic side of you." She tried asking as I started wondering. If my predictions were right, this was where she said goodbye and left me alone after her work was done. This extra conversation wasn't something that I had a hint of.

I said, "Hmm, honestly I am quite average in such things" She started making a crooked smirk as she said, "I totally believe you. But you know something? You are truly one of a kind, after all, who is average in everything?" Her smile widened as her beauty started taking over my senses. I asked, "Was there a reason you asked me this? Are you going to add me to the list of participants?" She tilted her face as she kept smiling, "Well, I just might. If you want logic, well...isn't it better to have a player be an all-rounder average? Unlike most, who are just good at one sport and quite terrible at others. Also, I recorded this and will be showing it to the others at the discussion for teams...Sorry." She held her ear with her pale hands as she lied through her teeth. Her logic was spot on but it felt as if she had prepared it on the spot to hide the truth.

I sighed as she asked, "Kiyotaka, do you want to attend the discussions with me? I will treat you to ice cream."What am I? A dog that will wag it's tail to ice cream? Of course not I replied, "Alright, I will come with you."

I really lie well in my head.

After a while of comfortable silence, the sun had set and we both started heading back our separate ways.

x--x

I met yet another person. Karuizawa had been waiting for my arrival as she stood in front of the lift as I heard her speak, "What was all that back there? Why did you make me refute her like that huh?" Her voice sounded confused as I shrugged, "If I were to explain everything, it would take too long."

She got irked as she said, "At least gimme the jist of it dude. I am hella confused." I looked at her dismayed face as I thought of what to say, "I think it will make sense during the sports festival, if it doesn't, I will explain it to you. Is that fine?"

I said in order to escape the ordeal of explaining things. She sighed and said, "Ugh whatever. Mou~ you are always like this. By the way, after you sent me the text to refute Horikita and ask Kushida stuff. I did notice Horikita's glare at me for a few seconds, rather at my desk where my phone was. Do you think she caught on?" I listened to her, as I gained some intel and said, "Don't worry, I explained things to her." Karuizawa pondered on things a while and bluntly asked, "Are you two going out?"

"What brought on that question?" I really wondered why everyone was coupling us up.

"Well, I don't really care but well...a few of...nevermind, I would rather go now." She said as she started to leave but I grabbed her wrist tightly. She looked at me as she got pulled closer. Anyone would have doubted my actions but I saw her eyes which said nothing but, " I know what you are but right now...I trust you won't do anything."

My hand reached her hair as I gently grabbed her shoulder and pulled her closer as I whispered in her ear.

"Listen closely..."

The next morning was rather a boring one since it was a holiday. But playing games with Manabu was still quite enjoyable.

"Hey Kiyotaka, thanks for this. I will be honest, this is something I look forward to every week."

Those words did make me have a small feeling but I couldn't pinpoint it yet. Though I could say, it was the same for both Horikitas.

But what was odd, is the sudden arrival of Hirata outside my room. He asked, "Do you mind if I accompany you to the meeting?" This would directly clash with the meeting I had with Suzune but I thought that I will be sitting and coming back with her anyways. Hence for now I agreed, "Sure." After walking a few steps he asked, "Did I do alright back there?"

He was most definitely referring to the happenings of the earlier meeting as I said, "You did, in fact the strange thing was that you did quite well. A bit too well." I questioned as his growth was quite exponential from normal standards as he smiled, "Oh, I had met up with Noriko-san after you departed. She had earlier seen me In quite a horrible state and decided to buy me coffee and we spoke a bit, so there I tried asking her suggestion due to her perspective as a classmate to me being a leader."

Not again. The problem is, she is still in the shadows and I can't pinpoint her attacks in any way until I get to know her better. She used Hirata's weak moment to her advantage and coerced him after I had moulded his ideology towards improvement. Right now, Hirata is leeching off the subtle changes I caused and Noriko's words. If we both keep on trying to mould him, he would turn into quite a dangerous ally. One that Noriko could have an edge over. Till that, these attacks will keep happening and predicting them would be impossible for now.

I was broken from my thoughts by a request

"By the way, can I call you Kiyotaka?"

What...

Author's Note:

Dear readers,

As some of you might have guessed. I took inspiration of Noriko from Johan Liebert. So yes, in a sense, it's Johan vs Kiyotaka.

Also, what do you think? Will Noriko turn Hirata to her side? And what about the development in Suzune's and Kiyo's well...relationship? The sweeter it is..the better it will feel when I crush- I meant...she has a crush on him...yup.

Hope y'all enjoyed it! If you did leave a vote and comment. Have a great day ahead.

𝓢3𝓒12: 𝓢𝓽𝓾𝓹𝓮𝓯𝓮𝓬𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷

S3C12: Stupefecation

"Aren't you taking things too quick Hirata?"

"W-what do you mean?"

.

.

.

.

"I meant you were walking at a very fast pace and yes you can call me Kiyotaka" He slowed down and gave a blinding smile and replied, "Thanks Kiyotaka." I returned it, "Don't mention it Yousuke."

He asked, "What do you think about the sports festival Kiyotaka? Do you perhaps have any thoughts or will you not raise your voice just like your hand in the class." That jab was straight at my neutralistic behaviour in class. It was caught up by quite a few people but I had no intention to choose a side. Similar efforts were done by one other person, Noriko. I had to say something, "Given the strange situation of the festival, this was the optimal solution. Though, the backups have to be prepared well." I added some crumbs at the end waiting for Yousuke to pick them up. He nodded as we walked silently to the room where everyone was waiting for us. I sat down next to Suzune who gave a stinging look at my side as she spoke in a whisper,

"You. Me. Talk. Later. GOT IT?"

So began the discussions, which were not anything to mock at. Suzune immediately took charge and laid down her proposal of using other means to win the exam.

"Isn't it strange that the entire happenings of the exam have to be only merit-based, on the surface? If it's anything like the other exams, won't it be futile for us to be in the open and try our skillset? If the entire field we fight on is unfair, to begin with that can be achieved by other underhanded means?"

While I sipped on my cold coffee waiting for others to tear down her paranoia-filled proposal. But, reality begged to differ as the so-called noble Yousuke grabbed down to her offer and furthered his propaganda,

"I think it's a part we have to discuss given the overhanging noose that's there in front of us right now. What if? That is a good question. So what if, Horikita's saying is true? I think we should also have a sort of backup."

Karuizawa there piqued her interest as she stopped sipping and spoke, "Guys come onnnnnn. It's just a festival, meant to be fun...let's just forget about it as an exam for a bit." She indirectly set a very crucial hint that could alter their sense of perspective. But...again...there is the fact that she has the gyaru girl persona; chances are slim that her words will be used to their fullest extent. Another voice seeped into the room, "That's right Karuizawa-chan. It's a festival guys, as its title says...A SPORTS FESTIVAL. Rules of regular exams are not going to be very effective here...are they?"

A bold delayed entry often garners attention and seeps public view towards a person. As expected, Noriko didn't leave any stones unturned to capture what she wants, that is attention. She entered the room and her lavender smell tingled my senses. I sighed as I sipped on the coffee Yousuke nodded at her and she sat next to him. Kushida waved her hand to say hi while Suzune looked in her direction for an instant and asked, "What's she doing her? Were you invited by someone Noriko?"

"Oh, I of course didn't mean to intrude but Hirata-kun called me yesterday asking me to be there. Isn't that right!~" Noriko's word had an impact that affected quite a bit. Considering every class leader and well-acknowledged members of Class D were present, there is no doubt that she orchestrated her entry yesterday while she and Hirata had coffee. Right now, she just insinuated that Yousuke had called her up, which some might have raised eyebrows. To say I wouldn't have predicted this, would be a misjudgement as the members present here are all unbothered by this form of trickery except the traitor, Kushida.

If I am not wrong, Kushida will now try to pry into Noriko's secrets after she announced this and piqued her interest. For Kushida, Noriko is just another prey. I can extract the information through other means once she extracts it from Noriko.

I can say with certainty that while Noriko has a surface-level read on everyone here, none is in-depth. Her method of learning has always been shallow and widespread. While it gave her coverage of all the students in the first year, it prevented her from knowing or connecting a lot with everyone. But she can achieve in-depth characters too, even if she is given half the time Kushida had.

Fortunately for me, she only had 3 months, which is why she assumed that everyone here would get somewhat intrigued and maybe spread rumours through Kushida's ears and Karuizawa's words of jealousy. But nothing of that sort happened, as Karuizawa didn't bat an eye while Kushida was more of a secret keeper rather than a spreader, a very fine line that Noriko wasn't aware of.

"Isn't that intriguing? Moving aside, Hirata what made you invite her?" Suzune pointed at the elephant in the room as Yousuke answered, "Well since she will be an important part of the games that are going to follow as well as her growing hierarchy among the girls I thought there wouldn't be any harm in inviting her."

A few were stunned to hear Yousuke talk about such taboo topics of an invisible hierarchy with such knowledge. Most would think Yousuke was oblivious to such things, but he was pulling out his cards. A pleasant surprise and a reasonable explanation had shut Suzune's curiosity as Kushida asked, "Maybe Horikita and Hirata are being too paranoid. What if other classes try underhanded tactics? We can always disclose the participant listing on the last day, right? Till that day, let's make sure everyone trains hard and we can tell the special event participants privately about their selection."

That was again a surprise to them, as Kushida had said a legitimate strategy which was on the surface, ironical of a traitor to say as given her motives though she was making things significantly more difficult. But, she mentioned talking about the participant list here itself which is simply giving her all the participants on a silver platter. Her suggesting this is also a countermeasure as when it's outed that there is a traitor, even if this method narrows to just the people in this room she will be the least suspicious person here.

A clever ploy indeed but this brings her motive into question.

Noriko then responded as she took a sip from my cold coffee without permission...how dare she.

"Well, your strategy is perfect...but, what's the guarantee that the participants can't be revealed on the last day...or even...what's the certainty that one of us isn't a traitor? And even, what's the certainty that there...is a traitor in the first place?" Repetition in wording and questioning had increased the doubtfulness of everyone here. If the conversation gets out of hand, it would cause a problem. I sighed and asked Noriko, "100% certainty is a fallacy. All we can work on our predicted outcomes."

The quietness in the loudness spread as the quietest boy decided to be loud.

Noriko's predatory eyes targeted me as she said, "Oh true that, hmm...why don't we work with a prediction that you are a traitor then as well? After all, it's a prediction." Hearing that Suzune said, "I think idiots like you need to know when to zip it, Noriko. Especially when you are targeting my asset."

Even Yousuke piqued up defending me, "And Kiyotaka clearly said, it has to be a predicted outcome. Won't it be much more advisable to hold the traitor as a variable rather than a person to counteract every possible traitor scenario at once?" Noriko got impatient and tried attacking with this half-baked weapon when her reservoir of information is empty. She realised it and immediately apologised to me, "Sorry Ayanokouji, I didn't mean to use such a false assumption." She held her ear waiting for my forgiveness as I nodded as a reply and grabbed my cold coffee from her and kept sipping it.

Sigh, I think that's a good block for the moment. The reason why speaking up worked in my favour is because Noriko has been waiting desperately to contact me and when I started speaking it set off her emotional side rather than her logical side and she bit back at me without waiting for the entire connection of relationships that everyone has with me.

It was her loss in a single move but It was simply a battle.

But, right now, she has a clear idea of Suzune and Yousuke's connection with me is more than classmates which makes me curious if she intentionally walked into my trap to get her hands on these details, in which case she Is crazy. But again, Noriko was always crazy.

Proceedings of my original plan of getting Karuizawa to throw her juice at Kushida worked magnificently getting her to give over her handprinted evidence jacket to Karuizawa. This simply put an end to the entire conversation as the only solution was a future meetup and we started heading back. I started walking with Suzune as she spoke, "Noriko...isn't she something...strange."

I asked, "What makes you think like that? I think whatever she did was reasonable."

"How can you even say that...Do you want a stab of a compass in your brain?" She glared nostalgically at me as she started rummaging through her bag.

I took a step back as I said, "I would rather not. But, it's worth considering that I can be a tra-"

"If you are what you say, then it doesn't matter. It's simple as that, after what Class D did to you, we would deserve whatever you do. But, I know at least for now...you aren't the traitor...and I am confident in my beliefs." She spoke with unshakeable conviction as we reached the lifts.

"This is goodnight then." I said as I waved at her. She stood frozen at her place.

"U-uh...Do you want to eat something at my house today? I made extra." She gave a wry smile as she said that and I felt a sense of dread. What if it's a trap? I decided to ask,"What do you want Suzune?"

Her cheeks reddened as she stammered a bit, "C-can we talk over dinner?"

I sighed as I saw her fidget and play with her hair. It was hard to say No to such a cute girl. I replied, "Alright have it your way."

We went into her room which was scented by Jasmine the moment we entered it as I sat down on the floor. It was a well-organised room with almost no clutter. I scanned her walls to find many formula sheets and motivational quotes stuck there. She asked, "Hey, here's food...it's not much but...don't complain."

She gave her familiar stubbing at me as she served a plate of omurice and I took a bite of it as the flavours exploded in my mouth. Sigh, now it was time to know what she wanted and whether this food was worth it.

"Since you ate my food, listen to what I have to say and give an honest response." Suzune's voice slightly cracked in the end as she took a deep breath and drank a bit of water. Her eyes looked at mine as she blinked a couple of times trying to formulate what she wanted to say. The gulps of hers and the sweat bead dripping down her forehead were a clear sign, this was going to be an important and difficult thing for her to say.

"Kiyotaka, I- I am honestly quite annoyed at the fact that it's so hard to say something logical to you and me. But I want to clear things up, as it's affecting me quite drastically with a myriad of unnecessary thoughts. From the start, you had my eyes hooked onto you with your fake and honestly repulsive smile..." Her words started to be more distinct as she continued while I sipped some water.

" as I talked about the book to the times you have been there for me as a classmate...as a decent enough assistant. Later I even realised that you taught me many valuable lessons...from humility to becoming a better leader. That made me come to terms with the fact that you are much stronger than me...at least mentally. The day the whole class turned against you, I saw the mental fortitude you possessed...and it was admirable...as you...didn't show a trace of any sense of negativity to that situation. Later when I ..."

She started coughing as she couldn't catch up with her words with her breath as I offered her the juice kept next to me. She sipped a bit of that as she looked at me with moist eyes.

"...thanks...and as I was saying When I pledged to be a better friend...I was guilty...I felt horrible every moment we were together. But that feeling slowly left...no..that's wrong...Instead, a new feeling overlapped it. Since I started thinking of you more, much more than usual. This was an issue...things like what you did now...increased the positive impact you had on me to the brink...and..."

She got up and stepped closer to me and faced my eyes head-on as I waited for her bravery to fade off...but to my surprise...it didn't...

"I think I like you...and...I want your response...yes or no...otherwise, this feeling of uncertainty will certainly distract me more than necessary...

So Kiyotaka Ayanokouji...Do you like me...too?

The Ice princess confessed...my first confession...and I am uncertain...how strange.

Author's Note:

Dear Readers,

Some might think that this was a random development...but...I have been throwing the growing changes in her...and well if last arc was one of control and obsession. This will be something..well...that's a secret.

I hope I did her confession justice as from her perspective...love is a bother...so she wants to clear the air..with the clearly logical steps.

Introduction to the issue

The reasoning behind it

How to fix her issue

Asking for a response.

By the way, did Noriko lose or did she walk in on purpose? What do you think?

Hope y'all enjoyed it and leave a vote and comment.

Thank you, have a great day.

𝓢3𝓒13 𝓐𝓷 𝓐𝓷𝓼𝔀𝓮𝓻

(Warning: Gets sensual.)

S3C13 An Answer

Ayanokouji's POV

I have a question, how much does a heart weigh? Anatomically it's an average of 245 grams or 0.54 pounds which truly isn't a lot. But, metaphorically, the heart's feelings are unmeasurable.

For me, Suzune's heart seemed to just weigh 245 grams, no more...and...no less.

Given that fact, what about her use?

if I assumed a scenario where she does become romantically involved with me, will she be able to fulfil my desire to know about love? Will she be a proper book?

Let me ask...

"Suzune, before I answer, I wish to ask you a question...How do you know this is love...?" I said as I sat in front of her withdrawing face."Hmm...that's an interesting question Kiyotaka. Given the fact that I have never felt so strongly a sense of longing towards a person from a sense of guilt transforming into a sense of loneliness without him I can deduce I have indeed experienced love."

Her wording was crystal clear as if she was appearing for an interview, seemed quite genuine and fake at the same time. Her face was finding it hard to maintain eye contact. To say it accurately, her words were true yet her emotions weren't.

"Is that so? So given that fact, I respect your answer."I said as I felt her giving off a small sigh of relief as she looked at the floor below.

If I were to follow through with this case scenario, I would likely help her remove this distracting emotion. But given statistical evidence, Would it be wise to just remove one negative emotion to flood her with many unmarked positive emotions and negative ones? Won't that be distracting as well?

The alternate approach would be to just say no to this. Given that case, what could be the outcome? If I knew the overview of Suzune's recent efforts to be closer and kinder to me and more level-headed in contrast to the overall stressful atmosphere she is going to face soon enough, it could cause a potential breakdown.

Now the question is, will this potential scenario turn into reality?

Either way, I have to prepare for the worst-case scenarios. After all,

The plan without a backup is nothing but luck.

Sadly luck doesn't give a fuck

In my case at least.

Hence the correct solution lay solely on my trust in whether Suzune can handle the truth.

"Can you accept me...if I said I could throw you away at any moment?" I said my words as I awaited her reaction. It didn't take too long for her questions to arise. "W-What do you mean by that Kiyotaka?" Her voice quivered as she asked that. She clutched on the seams of her dress as she waited for my answer.

"Sorry..that was a wrong question to ask. The right question would be, will our relationship affect our decisions in school-related activities?"My question was an indirect attempt to test her limits. She contemplated my words and quietly said, "What you mean is, you wouldn't consider me anything more than a classmate when it comes to exams...then I too respect that decision."

A correct answer but that simply tested my hypothesis...she is strong.

So, she deserves the answer, only the strong can accept.

"Then I shall give you my truthful and truly bitter answer. I haven't considered you anything more than a friend..." As I uttered those words her eyes filled with hope and cracked as I felt those irises of hers turn black as she shed a few drops of tears. Her body quivered as she seemed like helpless prey in front of me.

Sniff "W-What...do" Sniff "you want then?" Sniff

I continued

"If I know a thing that's true about love..it's the fact that a lover can be vulnerable around their loved one. I feel no such thing for you, in fact, I am wary around you..considering how you have been tricked by others before. You have grown... but not enough."

It was a lie, she was never the problem, to begin with...

It was me and it's always going to be me.

I won't repeat the mistake of making her go through what happened to Matsushita.

Especially, since she is my book of friendship.

A book has to be kept in good condition till its use is over.

I uttered the last words ending this conversation

"I am sorry, I can't return the feelings I have never shared. Hence, the answer is No."

I took a few steps back as I saw her nails digging into her palms as her head dropped in dismay. I wonder, how strong she truly is. It would have been easier to say yes, and momentarily improve her overall performance. Given my past history, it would soon spiral into her being a completely broken and useless tool.

But...just...maybe...

I don't want a person like her attached to a monster like me.

The door closed behind me as I heard the muffled sounds of sobbing slip into inaudibility. The walk back to my dorms was eerily silent as the tapping of my shoes became increasingly louder a silver-haired beauty stopped me in my tracks but not by her looks, but rather by her blocking my way.

"Hello Kiryuuin-senpai, it's quite unnatural to see you here this late in the night." I peered at her black dress and moss-green trousers giving a sense of camouflage to the surrounding air.

"Hah, hey there Kouhai-kun, didn't see you there." She smirked as she lied while looking straight into my eyes. I decided to play along as I knew very well, that I had no proof to say otherwise, "I see, do you perhaps have any purpose talking to a gloomy boy like me?" She snorted slightly as I l let the words slip and tossed a drink to me, "Enjoy Kouhai-kun, your senpai is gracing you with her presence. Why not drop the cutesy ditzy kouhai act?"

"It seems you truly didn't see me there." Her eyes showed playfulness as I showed a bit of wordplay and sat next to me sipping on the cold coffee. Her lips now having a shinier texture spoke looking at me, "How is your preparation for the Sports Festival?" Her question seemed harmless as I answered it, "Well, given that the physical fitness test hasn't begun, I don't even know if I will be participating in the main events." She followed up, "What if you did? What then?"

"If so, I suppose I would try not to be a burden," I said as she smiled and whispered,

" Average Kouhai-kun."

I asked her a question of my own, "Isn't it odd that just before my physical test you decided to show up just when I was about to go to my dorms? Isn't it too much of a coincidence?"

" Coincidences can be freaky Kouhai-kun. But what's freakier is you. But yes, considering you have been honest till now. It was no coincidence that I decided to meet you here just after you left the girls' dorm. As you might have guessed, this isn't a regular exam and to be honest calling it an exam is farfetched but that aside, the penalties in this exam are interesting and so are the schemes that are played. Isn't that so?" She spoke breathlessly as she ended her words taking a long sip of her coffee. I looked at the starry sky and then towards the girls' dorm. I had broken a star today and now I had to confront this silver-haired being, how tiring.

"Underhanded tactics can be used anywhere and everywhere, while the extent might vary, the results are always perfect if properly utilized. Given that, which underhanded tactic did you employ to realise that I was coming from the girls' dorm?" I asked voicing my question.

She smirked as she said, "I waited here for over an hour and the temperature is 18 Celcius. Quite cold..and got even colder when you came along. Strange isn't it? But you see, I simply asked your leader, the ideal Hirata about your whereabouts and ara-ara~ he was worried for a while as he thought you would accompany him back to the dorms. Of course, I had to barge into the male dorms for that and got some scandalous remarks, but that's just every Tuesday. After that, it was just sipping the 3rd can of coffee and waiting for you."

"I see, perhaps I had thought too much. But this shows you have a motive, I would suggest revealing it considering it might get even colder." I said as she sat up straight and took the last sip tossing the can in the bin and saying, "So impatient~don't you enjoy sharing the same air as me? Anyways, I didn't have much purpose other than passing along an unsaid request from both me and the president. Well, mostly me. I want you to give Manabu a proper challenge, as his friend."

She said that and got up from her seat as I said, "I could never reach the level of the Student Council President."She turned and put her hands on my shoulders as she stared into my eyes with her pinkish-violet glare. She bent down as she touched my ear and caressed it with her hand. Every touch would have sent shivers down anyone's spine if that hand belonged to such a pretty person.

She pulled on my collar coming closer to my ear and I got a hold of the jasmine scent from her body as she whispered, "We both know you are beyond capable. It's a secret~ but Kouhai...you are Manabu's first and only friend, so give it everything you have and of course, as a reward, you can~" I could feel her teeth grazing on the top of my ear as she said the final words, "~get the secret of ending Nagumo completely."

She withdrew her face from mine as her teeth slightly grazed my ear again and gave me a slight wave to me before heading her way, I had yet to finish one thing. I grabbed her hand as she tried to leave and pulled her closer and touched her face with my index finger running it over her soft cheeks as her devious eyes followed along and I reached the point of her chin, "What will you benefit from this?"

She held my finger and said, "Aren't you scared of being bitten... Kiyotaka Ayanokouji~?As guaranteed, you are very special and so, choosing you wasn't a mistake. Consider it as my goodbye gift to the President. Nothing more, nothing less" Her smile widened as she flicked her finger on my cheek and turned around walking off towards the girls' dorms.

We parted ways as I lay on my bed recollecting the odd light that had been lit from Suzune's room. It seems she was still in despair. The deal that Kiryuuin-senpai gave was indeed a valuable one. Getting enough information on Nagumo would help me better prepare for an unknown enemy. Would I really have to go all out for this? Giving it my all?

That's certainly impossible, I don't have a clue what my limit is after all.

Author's Note:

Dear Readers,

Hope this chapter had certain elements of my writing that weren't previously known to y'all. Anyways that was interesting, wasn't it? After all, the consequences of this could drastically change the future happenings of the plot.

Anyways, hope y'all enjoyed the chapter. If you did, leave a vote and comment,

Have a great day ahead

Thank you.

𝐒𝟑𝐂𝟏4: 𝐋𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡

Every second after my confession I held my breath waiting for an answer and once I got one, I started suffocating.

The door slammed shut as my ' friend's ' withdrawing silhouette left me with my thoughts. My knees couldn't carry my weight anymore and I fell down on the ground with my knees banging on the cold hard floor below me as I was crestfallen from the deadpan rejection. The pain seared through my legs but it was nothing compared to the words that Kiyotaka said to me that caused my heart to beat out of my chest.

I took in deep breaths as my body started feeling hot even when the fan was on. This suffocation was unreal and quite different from anything I have felt in quite a while. Usually the day before exams in middle school, I used to feel a milder form of this. This time though, it was just unbearable. I tried to get up but felt myself being dragged down. Logically, it was the pain in my knees which caused this yet my mind was not ready to accept anything logical. I had no will, to accept anything at this moment.

I have been thrown away like a rag doll more times than I could count in my sweat-covered hands. Though there was a stark difference, I had one thing which saved me and that was my belief in my innocence. I always had my shell to run back to, which would echo just one chant

'It's not my fault. They don't deserve me.'

However, this time Kiyotaka had come and broken that shell and ripped me off it's remaining pieces due to the extreme guilt I had burdened me earlier. And this single rejection along with the truth that he had spat on my face had shaken me and with no place to hide. This was something illogical, which I couldn't yet find a path out of. Did I run through the ends of my heart, trying to find out why? I had lost my rationale and all left was just a plethora of emotions. This time, the tables had turned...

'It's all my fault. I don't deserve him.'

With every passing second, I was getting overwhelmed by emotions as my cloudy eyes started forming tears without an end in sight. It felt as if an ocean of haphazard circumstances had swept me off my feet when I came face to face with him. Though there was something eating me up in the back of my head. Why do I feel a sense of failure rather than a feeling of loneliness? Isn't it strange? Maybe it's just me but why though?

It didn't make sense as I continued to pitifully and quietly weep in my misery. I held onto the hard mattress of my bed and pushed myself up to wash off my face as a melancholic expression etched my paled visage. Why was I so unworthy? What did I do wrong? Why am I so ugly inside?

I looked at the mirror as I couldn't face my own disgusting reflection.

Every instance I had my confidence overbear me, played vividly in my mind. Calling the others inferior, overestimating myself against Ryuuen, my inability during the special exam. Till now, this had been my strength but now, it is holding me back. I realised this feeling but had shut it down. Now that Kiyotaka had thrown me into this void of self-reflection, I can see one thing clearly.

I can't stay like this.

I can't keep carrying my defect.

I have to improve

But,

I am tired. I tried so much, yet I failed. I even went as far as to confess to him because I wanted to make him feel better and reduce my guilt...

I stayed silent as I replayed in my mind what I had just thought,

"Did I confess to him this suddenly, just to reduce my guilt? Was it just another way to rectify my mistake?...No...this..is not...who I want to be."

I was the perpetrator yet I acted as a victim.

I felt myself grasping for air again as my tears started flowing like a leaking faucet. I quickly rubbed them off and washed my face thoroughly as I took deep breaths reminding myself of the positive aspect of this, "It's good, I don't have to worry about unnecessary things like love. This is a school and I am here to prove myself, I am okay.."

I repeated it

"I am okay"

I said loudly

"I AM OKAY"

My voice cracked a bit but I kept reminding myself and the lonesome room.

"I AM OKAY! I AM OKAY! I AM OKAY! I...I...am...n-not...okay."

My raspy loud voice turned into nothing more than an inaudible whimper as I gathered the remaining of my strength and fell on the soft bed below me. This sinking feeling in my mind agonized me as I tried to fall asleep hoping desperately that this day would pass. I had to think clearly. If I let my emotions get a solid grasp on me, there would be no end to my misery.

I slapped my cheeks hard as they now adorned a vibrant shade of red. The shock of the impact and the pain from it distracted me momentarily. Though even in this, I could feel that numbing dull pain aching my heart without a single shred of relief. I sighed as I regained some strength as I stood up from the bed and went to the balcony.

I sighed as I looked at the two figures in the distance sitting together and sharing their company. The sight left a sour taste in my mouth as I looked away for a while. I then realised that I started showing signs of cowardice. How can I stoop to such a low level? And all for...a boy...who...was true...honest...unwavering...brave...

Oh... never mind.

His words rang inside my head, ' NOT ENOUGH' I think Nii-san and Kiyotaka would be good friends if they ever met. Saying such a self-deprecating joke in my mind, lightened me up minutely as I turned back to find that couple getting intimate. Having a tinge of panic at the invasion of their privacy, I left the balcony. Sigh, such is the student life of this school but at least they have the sense to do it in the dark so not everyone would notice and in my case, I couldn't get a glimpse of their faces as they were quite far off.

I thought of Kiyotaka, just once before the exhaustion caught up to me as my eyelids dropped down as I murmured

'I will change myself, not for Nii-san...not for Kiyotaka...but...for me.'

The gymnasium seemed smaller than when I was here the other day. But a more appropriate statement would be that our class was completely disorganised leading up to this claustrophobic environment. I had particularly no qualms other than the fact that I was next to Ike who was screaming off into space, "Why can't the boys and girls do this togetherrrrr!!!!!!"

It seems Ike was back to his old rituals again, as he had started seeping into my mind with his perverted desires. I remembered the visage of my senpai grazing on my face as she looked seductively into my eyes. I shook my head in dismissal as I moved away from Ike crashing into Ken who had just finished his grip measurements. He looked at me expectantly as he smirked, "Kiyotaka, we both know you can obliterate me in basketball. So better not hold back my man."

Well, not like he can threaten me...

"I won't, don't worry. By the way, what's the average grip strength?"I asked him, as he was well informed about such subjects given that he does play a lot of basketball. He scratched his head and pondered over it as he said, "Hmm, like 69 I guess?"His eyes had a glint of a lie in them as he turned around to give his result to Hirata. Isn't that strange, Sudou is trying to trick me. How unfortunate but it doesn't matter, I was going to participate anyways as it was easier to control the situation at hand if my main plan doesn't work out. After all, the world runs on backup plans.

I thought for a moment as I held the machine in my wrist. If I was right, Sudou intentionally should have told me a higher value to get me to participate in the events. So if I just follow Sudou's direction but reduce it slightly it would remove Sudou's presumption that I was too strong and derive his own explanation that he is strong...but...not enough.

Sudou right now has an inferiority complex towards me as he has started to forge me as this unbeatable rival which would in turn demotivate him to try harder. I need to show him, that his strength is more than my own and that all I do is use better techniques which he can hone on as time progresses. Thinking so, I saw the numbers go up in the grip scale as I slowly increased my grip and wrinkled my eyebrows showing slight trouble. This continued till I reached 40 and then I pulled my hand up and clenched my jaw mimicking what I saw Sotomura doing when he reached 20 on the scale and stopped.

The scale reached 60 as I skewed my wrist to show a last bit of effort I reached 63 and then stopped while breathing heavily and folding over as trodded over to Yousuke. It might have been a bit of overacting but I blame Sotomura for that.

"Kiyotaka, are you okay? You seemed to struggle quite a bit. Don't force yourself, I would hate my friend getting injured." Yousuke asked me out of concern giving me a worried look. His purity was indeed getting polluted around me, for that, I apologise.

"I am alright Yousuke, thanks for asking. Also, I got 63." He looked at me with a strange look as he said, "Wow, that's impressive!I didn't know you were that strong Kiyotaka! You are quite a level above average, which is just around 40. You will be an excellent participant!" His blinding smile hurt my eyes as he revealed the betrayal Ken had given me. I shot a glare that I had trained from being with Suzune all the time which led him to whisk away from my sight as I could see him slightly shivering. Sigh, why did Ken get smarter?

Just wait...

The walk back to the class was silent as I heard whispers in the background from my classmates. Karuizawa group gossiped about the impressive 60 that Matsushita had earned while Noriko was in an even higher range of 70. It seems they both were quite strong, but it's not like it would matter in the end anyways. I sighed deeply as I entered the class and sat next to Suzune who didn't follow my eyes. I decided to stay silent as I looked outside the window. I felt 4 pairs of eyes focused on me but heeded no attention to them. I waited silently until the bell rang and headed back to the dorm rooms.

The weather seemed chilly as I trodded behind Suzune silently. Before she entered the girls' dorms. I called out to her, "Suzune, did you get elected for the sports festival."

She turned back as her long eyelashes batted against each other, "Hmm, definitely. And given the talks and conditions of the class, you must have been elected too. Good work Kiyotaka." After saying that, she hastened her steps and headed to her dorms. Oh, it seems she observed quite well. I was the bullied silent student with a bit of controversy around me. Till now, no one would ever link me to anything physical.

Even during the physical, only two people knew my score of 63. One was Hirata and the other was Sudou. Both hadn't let it pass their lips. Given that, she must have scanned through the class as she she was too unsocial to actually ask Hirata himself regarding the participation list.

Now if she had eliminated Sudo from the list of candidates, rest was simply a game of body structure. She seemed to have to stored the information about me and the other boys in her mind during the swimming classes given that our uniform for that, was just trunks.

Suzune is such a pervert.

AUTHOR'S NOTES:

Dear readers,

The next Chapter will be the start of the sports fest, as per the poll I made, things would indeed be interesting.

Hope everyone sticks around for a while

If you liked this chapter, do leave a vote and comment.

Thanks have a good day

𝐒𝟑𝐂𝟏𝟓 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐮𝖕𝖕𝐞𝐭𝐬

What would define a good sport? I had been contemplating this question as the sports festival's inauguration began. One could say, it was fair play or proper rules with a clear reward. However, was fun a stronghold in this? Was fun the reason for a sport or was the sport the reason for fun?

While I was stuck in this nonsensical dilemma I felt a light tap on my shoulder and turned around to find a blonde-haired maiden giving me a curious look as she asked casually, "What crazy plan you have in mind this time...K-Ayanokouji?" Her perked voice indicated a tone of child-like curiosity. It seems those orbs looked at me with expectation.

"Nothing much...yet," I whispered the last part as she pouted at that bland answer as I peeked at her pinkish cheeks. "Gosh, you and your secrets!"

"I ain't going to pull out a bunny from my hat Karuizawa. I ain't no magician, I am completely transparent." Saying that I opened my arms in a cartoonish way causing a slight giggle to escape her pouted rosy lips. She smirked, "Baka! I hate how you can be the smartest idiot I have met."

Karuizawa has definitely become more comfortable with me, which was a welcomed outcome revealing itself sooner than expected. I suppose all those commands that I gave her and then unfolding the bigger picture must have been like a magic show to her making her keep such high hopes for a nobody like me.

I suppose, not acting like a pervert has given me some bonus points on her rating scale. I saw her go back to her friend group after giving me a slight wave and chatting away mindlessly as their small group of 3 got bigger on the other side of the field.

Even the laziest and bored eyes could notice why she was considered such a strong foothold in the class. Her connection with Hirata and her looks were the other two pillars holding up her reign in the class. She is valuable because I am the one using her. After all, the truth was simple, I had ignored Karuizawa for the most part given her parasite nature of latching on and selfishness.

Added to that, her wounds were quite deep which once attacked could pose a problem to my upcoming moves. She wouldn't have been a significant peice if she hadn't been a part of the VIP program. It's as if, a pawn travelled all the way to the enemy territory and became a queen of her own regard. But, a nail had hit my head, causing me to wonder, would I still use her?

Considering her position in class, I suppose certain instances could be simulated where she can be valuable. Honestly, though, Kushida would be a much better alternative.

What does she have that Kushida doesn't?

Looks? That's debatable, especially in certain areas.

Connections? Kushida can kick her off the field for that.

Loyal?... Trusting?... I think those words gave me the answer.

"Hey Ayanokouji, stop staring will ya? It's gonna be kinda weird if anyone finds out." She walked over to me as she said goodbye to her group which broke off immediately after her untimely departure. The grumpy girl tilted her head as I continued staring.

"I was staring at the bird over your head." I lied as I felt her eyebrows arching and a slight twitch in her cheeks, "Did you just call me a bird brain?... Fuck you!"

She huffed again and crossed her arms while looking at me in playful anger. I shot her a question trying to avoid her wrath," So can I stare at you, while we are alone?"

"Y-No! N-N-NO! YOU can't! Grrr..." She gritted her teeth as she bit her lips hard. It seems she really despises what she was about to insinuate. I shrugged in approval and stood staring at the events transpiring while Karuizawa stayed silent and looked down to the matted floor below.

The rules and games were screeched to the viewing audience and the contestants by Mashima sensei through the loudspeaker.

"Well, that's a lot to take in, ain't it?" It was a voice I hadn't heard in a while. I turned to find Noriko asking casually. I shrugged as I said, " It is what it is." She nodded and sighed deeply with me.

Such a copycat

"Kiyotaka-kun! Hii!" It seems Honami had found me stranded with this mess of a being and decided to save me, All hail Honami! Thinking that I quickly raised my hand a bit and dropped it down just as quickly realising the idiocracy I was about to do. I excused myself as I walked over to her and Kanzaki. I mimicked Kanzaki's forced smile while I waved to her. She giggled, "Look there Kanzaki-kun, such a copycat you are Kiyotaka-kun!"

Kanzaki nodded at me and invited a handshake that I accepted, though he squeezed a bit harder than I expected, "I hope we have a fair game Ayanokouji." The coldness in his voice was a far outcry of Class B's motto. I just accepted it blandly and turned to Honami, a complete 180 of Kanzaki, as she smirked, "I hope you and your class are ready. Also, you are a part of the contestants right???" I listened to her bubbly voice as I let out a small huff and said, "Yah, I will probably be forced to join a few events. I am mostly going to be a substitute, so don't expect much."

"Hah, sureeee...! Let's just have fun! Oh by the way,Mako-chan and the others were asking about your whereabouts. It's quite unfortunate class activities keep us so distant." The slight dismay in her voice was vivid as it was amplified by her crossed arms and dropped shoulders. Her expressiveness has increased exponentially in the past couple of months. Failures at every door, yet her smile just keeps on flourishing.

She is truly charming.

After a quick chat with my fellow classmates and the ones in Class B, I went back to the booths for the contestants. Watching everyone prepped and ready for the upcoming events had the crowd enthralled in anticipation. This festival was going to be a brutal one, in regard to the stakes being set with negligible positives in comparison to the negatives, of one losing. One thing that hasn't been considered is the individual standings in the class. Assuming the ideal scenario, everyone would do their best and there wouldn't be any issues whatsoever with sportsmanship.

But, if the realistic scenario is to be sought, there were plenty of pitfalls even in these harmless games. It would be quite cruel if someone tried their absolute best, yet was faced with criticism because they were portrayed to be lacking and 'You could have done better!'

Of course, that's just hypothetical...for now.

"EVERYONE PARTICIPATING IN THE FIRST EVENT, PLEASE GATHER AROUND TO THE CENTRAL VENUE IN 10 MINUTES." The loudspeaker spoke the command as the white rats started to assemble and move forward in an orderly fashion. Koenji waltzed up to me uninvited as he put aside his comb for a minute and spoke

"Keep your promise Ayanokouji-boy, if you want me to be interested in this game of yours."

He guffawed as he slapped my back and walked back to the bleachers with his legs over the chair in front of him. It seems, someone hasn't changed one bit.

But he was right,

This was essential

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=

Watching Kiyotaka loitering over to the stands made me feel a tinge of discomfort being unable to discipline him for the upcoming events. But, after the happenstance of the previous encounters between us, it would be unwise. "Horikita-san!! Over here!" It seems Noriko wanted to have a chat with me as she strolled over with a cheery grin on her rosy face. She was one of those stranger types like Kiyotaka, having the same unpredictable nature and mundane appearance. I bit my lip in frustration.

Just stop thinking about him Suzune! Why am I like this??

"Woah, you look really cute like that Horikita-san~" Noriko gave a teasing glance at me as she softly whispered that necessary comment. I looked up at her sternly, craning my neck to her height, "What do you need Noriko? I thought you would be dilly-dallying with your classmates."

"Owch! How can you accuse me of such deplorable things when I am a part of the contestants~Chabashira-sensei assigned it herself!" Her announcement came as a shock to me and also to multiple people in the area, particularly the class leaders. This made sense as after all, the teachers did hold the right to control the inlet of students in competitions either as flagbearers or just as someone who served water to the thirsty contestants.

"Oh, I see, do you mind if I confirm with the roster?" I asked as I heard another voice from the background. It was Hirata, "Wait up Noriko-san, you run really fast. You would be great in track in the field! But yeah, whatever she said is accurate. Cheer up guys, we just got a new member! Let's do our best!"

Everyone was happier as they thought this was a better outcome than anticipated, we had fear as very few could pass the physical tests with above-average results giving us a terrible level against the ones such as Katsuragi of Class A or Ibuki of Class C..and the list goes on. Given that Noriko didn't take part in the gym tests as she had recently joined and her official documents hadn't been confirmed until last week, she was our wild card.

We knew nothing about her physical capabilities.

and

Neither did the traitor.

How would we use this?

More specifically, how do I use it to weed that person out

And end their career as a student of this school.

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=--=-=-=

I could see the mystical gleam in Suz-Horikita's gaze. It was interesting, to say the least and nostalgic as well. I focused back on the announcement in front of me,

" We are about to commence the first event, let's start things off with something quite fun! For that...hmm, yes...you with the maroon top, please come forward."Mashima-sensei called upon a boy who If I remember correctly was from Class B. Mashima-sensei stayed silent as he handed him a bow with a blunt end to the 8 arrows he was provided with.

Sensei looked at him as he said softly, "Follow my lead and do exactly as I say...Shoot." The boy without a second to waste shot the arrow randomly at the crowd, mostly out of surprise. I being the one just behind Karuizawa who was in front of the line and absorbed in her world of virtual messaging, realised that she was going to be the target of the hit.

Thwack

The arrow hit my palm as it made a feeble attempt at piercing through my epidermis. It seems I was a bit too fast as Karuizawa was shocked, to put it mildly, she yelled, "Watch where you are shooting, you freak!" He didn't deserve to be called that considering it barely would make a scar on her face and he was forced to attack but that's only my thoughts.

"Oh shit! I am so sorry man!"He rushed over trying to smooth things over with me but Mashima sensei stayed silent, watching like a hawk. I brushed him off, "It was a blunt edge, so don't worry." I did my best to mimic the warmth of Honami's mannerisms whenever she talked to us. He looked relieved as he said, "That's good to hear, you sounded a lot like Ichinose-san there Ayanokouji-san. But glad you are okay!"

He gave a sigh and went back to sensei as everyone formulated their own thoughts at the spectacle that just happened.

"Was that painful Mr-" He checked with Chabashira-sensei as he said, "Ayanokouji?"Mashima-sensei's eyes darted from me to the arrow as he asked with curiosity, which wasn't him? This was an anomaly which I was yet to investigate. It seems, something has happened, for which I will have to see the bigger picture. While I have certain ideas in mind, nothing is concrete. It's all assumptions that I will have to cross out from my plethora of theories.

Crossing off certain impossible scenarios I kept flipping through the recent events as Mashima-sensei explained the sport,

"As you can guess, this game has to do with bows and arrows. Of course, the arrows are blunted out for student safety, they are coated with copious amounts of red paint. Now the question which encircles all your minds is, What game is it?"

Ike's shrill voice pricked up as he said, "Sensei I already know, it's like an archery game with points on the dartboard right?" Sensei looked at him and sighed as he said, "Don't interrupt in between, this is my last and final warning. I hope that's clear. Now, as I was saying This is a Japanese version of Dodgebow, we call it,

Kyūjutsu Kawasu

This game will be a homage to the heritage of Japanese archery and will form a good starting point for today's sports. One team will have shooters while the other team will have to dodge being shot for a total of 5 minutes in the venue which will be revealed shortly. It's rules are simple.

1. Archery team can choose their Yumis or Bows which can be either the longer daikyū or the shorter hankyū

2. Each person shot equates to 10 points, while a shot at the neck will equate to 15 points.

3. The archer group will be given up to 20 arrows in total which will be kept at the front gate of the event venue

4. Each team will comprise 4 members.

5. Once the paint touches the opponent's body, they are out

6. Severe violence isn't permitted which will cause a deduction of 80 class points.

7. Cheating will result in the elimination of the whole group and the deduction of 20 class points.

I hope the rules have been crystal clear, mind you, the whole venue is monitored by 60 cameras in total. Hence, abide by the rules, otherwise, you can say goodbye to this festival. Now only one member of each class will stay back and select their chits having their opponent's class written on them. Rest please go to your respective tents." He ended his speech and the moment the mic went silent, chattering spread throughout the whole field.

This wasn't some typical sport high schoolers were assigned to play after all. The school hid it's motives by veiling it with the charade of boosting Japanese culture, at least in theory. Yousuke walked up to the podium of our designated area as he spoke, "So given the rules and the game in mind, shall we begin with strategizing and selecting the team members? This game seems fun!" He gave a bright smile as discussions began.

Ken's excitement was vivid as he bounced up and down and raised his hand like the smart kid waiting to impress the teacher, "HEY HEY!! I will do it. I am the best and the fastest!" He thumped his chest with the utmost confidence as Horikita who was assigned to select the chit came back with a dejected sigh, as she showed it to the class

Opponent: Class A

Role: Targets

A looming sense of defeat spread through the air in just a second as the blooming smiles of excitement turned into morbid scowls. I got to watch the power of hierarchy with my own eyes. This school has always given me many such wonderful reactions from my lab rats!

It seems Yousuke was in a bit of trouble as he was unable to figure out what to do ahead, in such short notice. But, surprisingly Noriko tried boosting everyone's spirits, "Come on! We can do it guys! I get that it's Class A but I really do believe in our potential! Sudo-kun is already in a league of his own and Horikita-san isn't too far back."

"This game is indeed exotic but it lies in the fundamental principles of dodgeball for us. While from the opponent's perspective, it must be a game of archery. Given the time limit and the number of arrows, we will have to be on our toes for 5 whole minutes. And the arrows will definitely be used judiciously by the opponents if they use their pathetic brains for once.I also suppose Noriko has a point, so for the teams, we can first choose volunteers and if it falls short, we will choose them personally."As she said that, Sudo shot his hand up along with Noriko. This brewed trouble...

If I am not wrong, this event was crafted under her control. I refused to believe it was just a coincidence that getting Chabashira-sensei's approval happened to line up with this event. Whatever she is about to do, I have to keep watch. Horikita sighed as she saw the rest just stay quiet and with zero hope in them. I suppose it would be difficult to be optimistic against the best class of this year.

She calmly said, "Hirata we may need you for later, especially if it's something related to football. The same goes for Sudo but considering Sudo's stamina, it's wiser to let him and Noriko enter, to be honest, I don't think you both can do much. But, other than that, considering no one volunteered I will be assigning the next member, is that alright Hirata?"

"I don't have as much stamina as Sudo and if what you say does come true, it will be problematic. If anyone noticed, the speed of the arrow was quite a lot, Karuizawa-san could have gotten hurt if it wasn't for Kiyotaka-kun but I have to ask, do you think we can dodge it midair Kiyotaka-kun?"

"I am fine Yousuke but yes, considering my lack of athleticism, it might be very difficult for someone like me to block it but I am sure it's possible for someone like Horikita or Ken." I felt daggers being pierced through my skin as I saw Horikita staring at me through her broken lens.

Sorry but this is for the best, I need you to hate me Horikita.

That's how you will grow.

"Also, who do you have in mind?" Yousuke asked curiously to Horikita, I was intrigued too. After all, other than me, who would have caught her eye?..

Wait...a minute

"It's Kiyotaka Ayanokouji of course."

Her enchanting bright smile as she said that, was far from the real Horikita I knew. It hid her malice perfectly, like a masterpiece.

You are beautiful Suzune.

Author's note:

Dear Readers,

None of my books are dropped but Life has been a ride with no stops, so I will update whenever I get time. BYE! Do vote and comment, if you feel so. Have a good day.

𝐒𝟑𝐂𝟏𝟔: 𝐖𝐨𝐞𝐬

S3C16: Woes

False hope is like a paper aeroplane, it may soar for a moment, but it will soon come crashing down to the ground, leaving behind only disappointment and sorrow.

The washed-up feeling of needless pursuit soon set in as we entered the arena. The pitch-black areas and the well-lit areas had a contrast to them which led to perfect vantage points or baits, depending on the ones using them. Horikita stood next to me, peered at the wall, and commented, "Hey Kiyotaka, does the wall have my face in it? If not, stop staring at it and move on." I looked at her and commented, "Sorry, all I see is dark, both your mood and the wall. I got confused."

"You want to suffer that bad? Karma is a dangerous foe Kiyotaka, don't mess with it." She said with a slight smile that didn't reach her hollow eyes. Till now, her eyes had light in them yet after my rejection it seems those wells filled with hope turned into nothing but dried-up wells.

"I don't have any reason to. Let's move on. The timer will start momentarily." I hinted as we parted ways. Horikita, I expect you to overcome your innate feelings and flourish, otherwise, everything was a waste. Don't be a disappointment, prove yourself as a worthy tool.

I scanned the whole area to find the archers grouped up, which included Ryuuen, Ibuki, Tokitou and Kinoshita. I haven't seen Kinoshita before this or had much information about her, which is probably because she might be introverted. Her smug face reminded me of someone with a cane...

Her twin-tailed hair flew in the wind as she made eye contact with me and gave a wink. It seems she knows more about me than I know about her. More than that I saw Ryueen smiling at Horikita as he wrapped his hand around the shoulder of Kinoshita giving Horikita a challenging wave which seemed to have no effect on her...externally at least. Ryuuen was a dictator through and through, if he had chosen this classmate, they must have had something essential to contribute to this event. I simply had to figure out what it was exactly.

"There will be a total of 3 rounds. Do your best, as this is not just another sports festival"

Such ominous words, yet no one except the Ryueen seemed to pay attention

I looked around to my teammates comprising of Noriko, Ken, Akito and Me. Akito was a last-minute pull from our class given that he did attend the archery club. Even if he was on the opposite side of the arrow, he would be useful nonetheless. His eyes had been beelining towards her ever since he stepped into the arena. Considering that he already had his eyes set on Haruka, the only other option is that he is her acquaintance.

Now, an acquaintance wouldn't still strike that response of him staring towards her, he was far too mature for that. Hence, she must be a threat that Akito must have realised. Given the scenario, it's not hard to put 2 and 2 together and see that she might be in the archery club with him and is probably a rival to him of sorts but to confirm the hypothesis I had to ask Akito directly.

I crept up to him and asked,"Who is she?" I pointed at the brown twin-tailed girl, Kinoshita. His gaze broke as he stuttered a reply,"W-woah didn't see you there Kiyotaka. And as for your question, she is one of those prodigies of archery of sorts, if she is here. We are in a mess for sure."

I nodded as I realised that Ryueen is using one of his hidden pieces for this game, which was a smart move on his part. She was another anomaly in this cascading intricacy of a sports festival. First, there was Mashima sensei's strange behaviour and Noriko's sudden entry in this event and now this.

I looked around the arena as I witnessed everyone gearing up. The opposing team had a particular sense of order and discipline in them while ours was an apparent mess. Horikita who was supposed to be the one controlling the group seems to be distracted by the enemy team. I raised my voice, "I didn't realise Ryueen was that attractive Horikita." Hearing that her gaze broke as her glare as it shot at me faster than a desert eagle. A snicker escaped Ryueen's quiet facade as he smirked, "Naughty indeed Suzune~After you lose, join me the camp,you and I will have a great time kukuku."

His voice sent fits of laughter in his group as Horikita came up to me and punched my elbow with a right hook. Careful Horikita, next time you do it, you might not have a functioning wrist. Her resentful voice squirmed up, "You really enjoy hurting me, don't you? Sadist-taka.From rejection to calling me by my last name and now this, fuck you."

Hearing her rosy lips utter the words 'fuck you' had me quite surprised, which later made me realise, I might have unlocked a new fetish.

"Oh...umm...sorry?" I was honestly clueless about what I should say, while I had conversations prepared I wasn't usually at the other end of a rejection. So this was all a foreign concept to me, only if someone around me had rejected someone. I could have at least copied their mannerisms and mimicked them but sadly such a thing didn't happen and it's unwise to lament the passed.

"Huh, you and your monotone replies. Sigh, it's not new and I of course deserve it...after all, I am worthless to you." Her voice cracked a bit but she shook it off and headed to the team and clapped her hands, "Alright everyone, we will be going to spread out in multiple directions while maintaining contact through either signal or we have a predetermined plan, the choice is yours."

She gave the baton to her teammates while I looked at her with an interested gaze. Her plan wasn't a terrible one. Spreading out will be useful but she didn't realise the fundamentals of bows and arrows.

Akito participated as he informed, "Horikita-san, I think that's not a bad idea but if you have used a bow and arrow before but as you had seen, each player only has 5 arrows. And after each arrow shot, takes about 6-8 seconds to realign and take aim. So wouldn't it be better if we put up a decoy and we can use this reloading time to take away their arrows once they shoot?"

"Wait, is taking the arrows even allowed?" Ken asked a reasonable question breaking the silence as we waited for Akito to pour out his experience to us. Hearing it Noriko said, "Ooo, I really don't think so since technically we can get away with it since it wasn't in the rules as something that will take away points. But yeah, it will be a risk not gonna lie."

Her voice lucidly laid out Ken's answer making everyone weigh in their opinions. If I had to say, I think Akito's is a very aggressive opening tactic, which has it's fair share of risks. One apparent one is a copycat variation where Ryueen's team does the same and after one archer stops, the other archer appears protecting their teammate.

"It wouldn't work very well if they pair up would it?" Horikita scratched her chin as upon hearing that Ken gritted his teeth, "Fuck this, let's just rush in all at once and attack one archer at a time." Hearing such a reckless plan left most of us facepalming. Noriko suggested," Well, I guess I have a sorta good-ish idea. Want to hear?"

Everyone's attention went to the blue-haired girl as she spoke with a charming gleam on her face, having ken and even Akito's eyes fixated deeply on her eyes.

"What if, we target the bows? If I am not wrong, anyone with enough strength can snap the thing in half. So let's assume that each of us 3 will act as a decoy and get shot in order. While the last one will break the bows just after the person gets shot. But we have to get the timing right, we will have to spread out in such a weird way that while one is getting shot, the others are chasing the rest of us. Gosh! Anyways let's assume we are geniuses and we do it, then we won't have such worries of us getting ganged up on."

Horikita spoke up analyzing the ideas given, "Hmm, that will reduce the effort needed but it has a huge gamble, where we might lose all our teammates if we don't choose the perfect candidate who can not only do it with utmost efficiency but also acknowledges their surroundings and act stealthily. One mistake and that's the end of our squad and off we go, back to Class D where we belong." Her cruel note at the end let out a sombre sigh.

"You are very cruel Horikita. Y'know that?" Noriko spoke up speaking everyone's mind but was shut down immediately, unexpectedly by me, "The stakes are just as high, being like this is natural." Watching me speak up was a bit strange especially for Horikita judging by her uncomfortable expressions which I was quite certain, Noriko had caught on and was now theorising what might have happened between us. The reason I had spoken up was simple, I had to put an end to the sports festival as soon as possible in order to stop any potential threats from Noriko, she was in a way a shareholder of the school. Her capability of at least having a say in the events was a drastic enough difference for anyone to handle. I was powerless in the social sense in comparison to her, given that I had no connections whatsoever to the outside world.

This was simply a festival of puppets and us puppet masters.

Noriko put down her cards, "Hey guys, why don't I be the capturing card? I can run pretty well most of the time and I have won enough prizes to say for certain I have mastered taekwondo."She adopted a joking smug expression lightening the mood and also dominating the conversation.

Such a dominating girl~...what...

It's all Ike's fault.

"It will certainly be good given that Noriko isn't very well known yet like Kushida-san and the others. But I guess, having someone as a backup would be nice just...in..case but it's not like we have any other volunteers of having such a big responsibility."Akito's doubtfulness was raised from the fact that she was a wild card, so we ourselves didn't know her strengths. In the midst of this, I raised my hand, "I can do it too."

Hearing me again taking the lead raised a few eyebrows, especially Noriko's. Her research and if I am not wrong, her countless hours of watching us through cameras gave her power. I think she knows that I enjoy the peace and rather reclusive things, yet here I was taking the stand and forcing myself into the light. She wasn't used to me being proactive neither were the rest. Plato once said,

The wise speak because they have something to say, the foolish because they have to say something.

Was that me? Of course not, I am just an average antisocial teenager who just wants to come out of his comfort zone. Noriko's voice fluctuated a bit, which was a first. She had never used a single uhh or hmm in the white room, given that such words were a sign of lacking confidence. Whiteroom had abolished us from ever saying such terms but here the situation wasn't a fake one, her words came out with the uhh's and the hmm's, "Uh...okay, sure...I mean that was quite unexpected Ayanokouji-kun, wow...hmm, you must be quite confident in that." She mocked a fake compliment as she swiftly got a hold of herself.

Horikita's shock melted away as she said, "I trust his words, so it's decided he will be the runner. All the best to all of you, and I hope that you four show your worth for the Class's sake." She took a few steps back signing her departure. My words were agreed in quick succession as I added a small note to my mental notepad

Guilt makes people complacent making them accept anything softer than an order. How interesting.

Noriko's gaze didn't leave me as we got ready but it didn't matter as the loud buzzer pierced our ears

BBBBBBEEEEEEEEPPPPPPP

Not even a second passed as the buzzer started an arrow shot right past Noriko who skillfully dodged it with a twist of her neck. Watching this, Sudo shouted, "Fucking bastards! Didn't even give us a second to think!" Noriko deadpanned at his naivety as she started running on one of the ends. This map was a strange one, to begin with. It was having quite a few cut-offs but it wasn't something to fret over as we would use them to separate the opponents. The archers clearly had an advantage on this map, with any normal person expecting them to win. However, this overconfidence would also come with a price. But everything had to take place step by step. We had privately discussed a few countermeasures in the absence of Horikita when we came to an understanding of the map.

The other three had taken the 3 doors leading to 3 different ways while I ran straight ahead towards the end of this location. Ryueen's team would have probably started their attack aggressively on the rest by splitting up while I could hear Ryueen's cackling screams down the hall, "KUKUKUKUKUKUKUKUKU!!!!!"

He sounded like a witch from old horror games or bedtime stories played in the white room.

Noriko's POV

Right

Left

Switch

Duck

All the commands my brain fired off in all directions as I manoeuvred the clean shots sent my Ibuki towards me. Her mellow voice with slight regret interrupted my thoughts,"Look I am fucking sorry about this, that magenta-haired freak is forcing me to go after you. For him, it's fun to see me shoot my friends apparently."

"Hah, if I had to guess, the first shot at us was done by you? Hmm, don't worry I don't mind." I smiled gently as I turned around dodging another overhanging bar. this tunnel of sorts was filled with bars and hooks which while wouldn't cause extreme wounds, small wounds would definitely occur.

Her footsteps got closer in a flurry as her hand grabbed the end of her arrow and was ready to shoot her 2nd arrow towards me. How could you have such a simple and harmless plan my blue-haired friend!? Wow you are pathetic, aren't you??

"Hey, try better next time okay?" I gave a genuine smile as I did a side jump on one of the walls and drove my knee into Ibuki's face throwing her head. My smile remained plastered on my face as I watched her slip into unconsciousness. I started talking to her unmoving body in my mind.

Poor Ibuki, how could she possibly predict my strength? And don't worry, even after this, I promise to encase you in my web of words and make you a friend again! Do you know why Ibuki? It's because you don't have any friends! You are just another lonely person who rode on Ryueen's coattails! Why were you lonely? Isn't it obvious that it's because of your personality of using your fists to solve every frustration you had?

Taking off her arrows and bow from her I kicked her body to the side as I muttered, "Wasn't this exactly how we met? Cute!"

I silently walked back after shooting using one of the arrows to break the bulbs by climbing the walls.

Good luck Ibuki! Getting out of this mess will make you much stronger and pain tolerant!

It seems everything is set up perfectly. From blackmailing Director Sakayanagi with the threat to shut down the school thanks to the corrupted Government I had enough say to turn the tide of a normal sports festival into this massacre of an event as more was yet to unfold.

My steps slowed down as I could hear a slight scream in one of the other tunnels. Oh, it seems they carried out the map just as expected, enough traps to make anyone regret it!

It's unfortunate how kids of the outside world are so weak. Are they really the elites? This is the standard of the Number one school in Japan, filled with weaklings around me. No wonder Ayanokouji doesn't show off at all. It's strange though, how he did a 180 today in front of the others. Maybe it's a connection with Ryueen? Perhaps one of his ploys?

Hah, why am I even trying? I can never even hope to get a read on him. So how to defeat such a foe? It's quite simple yet complex.

Beat them with overwhelming numbers or control!

But that isn't possible yet, it will take time. Until that I will take the joy to relish the information you give me Ayanokouji, remembering every single step you take, trying and failing at each and every ploy to just gain more info about you.

Once this all comes to fruition, everything will be worth it.

My face had this uncanny feeling towards it as if it had turned icy cold with the black hue surrounding me, my toxic eyes had a vengeance in them.

Not towards Ayanoukouji entirely, more specifically the place that created us.

Have patience dear Whiteroom, for the apocalypse, is yet to come.

While The man behind the monster is dead, the essence and forebearers of that organisation remain.

The students around me are the nurtured pollen of the flowers of your end.

Fighting fire with fire

I will present, the next generation of elites

Ones not just the best in Japan

but

The best in the world

And enough to end the Whiteroom once they intersect

I will save Generation 6 and pay tribute to my predecessors, so please welcome Generation 7 or the generation of elites, dear Whiteroom.

A single tear fell down my grinning face as I walked off finding the demon of Generation 4.

Dear Readers,

I welcome you all to the 2nd main theme of this book. This is the very reason I introduced Noriko, to turn to pose a very real threat to the white room and end it. From now, throw away every idea you have had from Cote LN about normal exams because every one of them will have new elements making the characters much stronger and better than they were before the exam.

I hope you enjoy this, as I am certain, no other fanfic has ever done this form of arc development. I am not talking about the ones where ANHS faces off Whiteroom, this will be a different approach. I wish to experiment and make these ANHS students into their best versions and then have them attack Whiteroom instead. I want these characters to have their potentials fleshed out to the fullest through the exams and such.

I hope y'all like it

Do vote if you enjoyed this and comment!

Thank you have a good day