A Liquid Inspiration
Summary: (A re-telling of Classroom of the Elite sparked by a certain conversation between Masterpiece and Professor.)
One day, Ayanokouji Kiyotaka receives a surprising invitation from his father, Ayanokouji Atsuomi, to join him for a drink. It was unusual for Kiyotaka, who normally wouldn't be summoned by his father without a hidden agenda.
That's why even the emotionless Kiyotaka was surprised when his father began to open up about his own experiences with love and relationships.
For the emotionally distant "masterpiece," this conversation is a rare moment of connection with his father, and it sparked a curiosity within him to explore the world of human relationships, to be more specific: romance and intimacy.
It was that spark that pushed Kiyotaka to demand something from his father:
"Father, teach me everything about human relationships."
This then begins a ripple that changes how Ayanokouji Kiyotaka would approach the world in the foreseeable future.
Do check out this fic on Wattpad. It has the same title and content, but we do have illustrations there to increase immersion for the fic. Thanks, and here's the chapter!
Vol 3. Chapter 2 - Mujintō Shiken
Ayanokōji Kiyotaka
August 1, 2015 - Saturday
At 4 AM, my alarm rang, its insistent beeping slicing through the peaceful silence of the early morning. Its sharp notes abruptly pulled me from the warmth of sleep and into the cool dawn of the day. Slowly, my eyes fluttered open, my senses fighting off the lingering tendrils of sleep to adjust to the waking world.
"Alarm... turn it off... loud... too loud..." A muffled grumble erupted from my right, where Yuki was entangled in a mess of sheets, her golden hair splayed haphazardly across her face. I reached out to silence the alarm, the sudden quiet making my ears ring.
With an annoyed grumble, Yuki dragged her pillow over her head, her half-lidded eyes shooting me a disgruntled glare before disappearing under the soft fabric.
A hand tugged at my shirt. Looking down, my eyes met with Chiaki's, her inquisitive gaze glowing under the soft light. "What... time is it?" Her voice was sleepy, the words struggling to escape her lips.
"4 AM. Time for us to get ready," I replied, rubbing my eyes in an attempt to push away the remnants of sleep clinging to my eyelids.
Yuki's muffled response was barely audible, but the sudden energy that possessed her as she bolted upright was unmistakable. "Oh, right! Island vacation!" she exclaimed, all traces of sleep vanishing as quickly as they had appeared. She quickly began untangling herself from the sheets, her movements energetic and full of excitement.
Chiaki let out a sleepy chuckle, shaking her head in disbelief. "Don't tell me you... forgot to pack, Yuki-chan," she joked, her voice growing more alert with each passing second.
"Of course not. It's just too early," Yuki shot back, stretching her arms above her head. "Why does the roll call have to be at 5 in the freaking morning?"
It was a valid question, one that I was sure most of the students would be asking themselves... especially if they weren't morning people like Yuki. But, knowing the school's penchant for unusual schedules and demands, it wasn't too surprising.
"Well, if you girls would get moving instead of whining, the earlier we could get ready," I interjected, kicking off the sheets and swinging my legs over the side of the bed. The cool air in the room brushed against my skin, a stark contrast to the warmth of the bed.
Chiaki laughed softly, slowly pulling herself to a sitting position. "I guess you have a point. But before we leave, Kiyotaka-kun..." Her voice trailed off, her eyes sparkling with a mischievous glint as she sent me a teasing smile.
I caught her intent instantly, and a light sigh escaped my lips. "No. I haven't even brushed yet," I immediately turned down her incoming demand, anticipating what she was about to ask.
"Eh?! Just on the cheeks! Please, Kiyotaka-kun?" Chiaki's pleading voice echoed behind me as I made my way towards the bathroom.
"Yeah! It's fine if it's just on the cheeks. No need to be concerned about that," Yuki chimed in, supporting Chiaki's request.
Ignoring their pleas, I closed the bathroom door behind me, the click of the latch serving as my final word.
"Guess that's a 'no' then, Yuki-chan," Chiaki's voice floated to me from beyond the bathroom door, a note of amusement lacing her words.
I could barely make out Chiaki's voice over the sound of running water, her words just a faint murmur that seemed to blend with the hum of the shower. As I leaned into the soothing cascade of warm water, I felt the last remnants of sleep wash away, the comfort of my bed replaced by the refreshing sensation of cleanliness.
Later, soft giggles echoed from the room, followed by a hushed exchange of words. It sounded like Yuki and Chiaki were having one last playful conversation before they left. Their voices eventually faded, replaced by the distinct rustling of fabric. I assumed they were fixing the bed.
A few moments later, I detected the soft patter of footsteps growing closer.
"Just before we leave," Yuki's voice resumed, this time with a clarity that suggested they had moved closer to the bathroom door. "You didn't forget to pack that swimsuit of yours, did you, Chiaki-chan? The one we picked up last week?"
"Of course not! I wanted to impress Kiyotaka-kun with that one," Chiaki responded. "How about yours, Yuki-chan? You bought something more daring!"
"To be honest, I didn't have much choice. It was the only one in my size," Yuki chuckled in response.
"I guess having big breasts isn't always a perk..."
These girls... They had to be doing this deliberately.
As if acting on its own accord, my gaze reflexively darted downwards. Thankfully, the shower's chilly cascade saved me from dangerous physiological phenomena.
2.1
The morning was still young, the sky a deep navy with twinkling stars, providing a picturesque backdrop to the campus. The occasional bird's call echoed from the darkened canopy that surrounded the dormitory building. The atmosphere was serene and calm, a stark contrast to the personality of the person I was about to meet.
Emerging from the shadows of the dormitory building was Kōenji Rokusuke, his golden hair shimmering under the faint light of the moon as he strode towards me with his usual air of grandeur.
"What a beautiful day! A perfect complement to my beautiful self! Wouldn't you agree, Ayanokōji-boy?" His voice was loud, yet elegant, each word delivered with a theatric flair that only Kōenji could manage.
"Are you normally this loud this early in the morning, Kōenji?" I countered, raising an eyebrow at his dramatic entrance.
"Ha Ha Ha! It should be natural. After all, we are about to embark on a summer vacation, are we not? I look forward to exploring the seas, enjoying this school's benevolence, and appreciating the wonders of nature." The gleam in his eyes matched the enthusiasm in his words, his usual air of aristocratic pride replaced with an unexpected excitement for the summer trip.
However, his initial request to meet up this early was still unanswered. "So, why did you even ask to meet up?"
"Ah, I am in a reminiscent mood, you see. How long has it been since we first met, Ayanokōji-boy?" His demeanor had shifted, his eyes suddenly taking on a distant look, as if he was gazing at memories rather than the school grounds.
His question caught me off guard. "About 19 months now. Why?" I asked, curious about where he was going with this.
"Indeed. And this perfect existence found it surreal that he was able to meet his match this early on in life. In fact, he had become even more perfect since. Ha Ha Ha!" The haughty grin was back on his face, his chest puffed out in a display of overbearing pride.
A wry smile tugged at the corners of my mouth. I had an inkling about he was headed with this conversation. "Where are you getting at?" I asked, my gaze meeting his.
"I want our 51st match in this vacation. It's time we end our streak of 50 draws, wouldn't you agree?" His gaze was intense, a challenge gleaming in his eyes as he stared me down.
I let out a sigh, shaking my head at his declaration. "50 draws? I clearly remember winning all those matches, Kōenji."
"Irrelevant details. Why? Because in those 50 draws, your opponent is not the Kōenji Rokusuke of today!" His hand shot out to gesture at himself, his eyes shimmering with the Kōenji brand of confidence.
I let out a sigh in exasperation. This guy... stuck to his bizarre logic and wouldn't even bother considering anything else. His obstinance, while amusing, was also a little tiring.
"Fine. Just let me know when you want it."
Just as I finished speaking, I had to dodge an incoming punch directed at my head. On instinct, I swung my elbow at Kōenji's exposed chin, stopping just as my strike was about to land.
I straightened up, looking at the grinning Kōenji in disbelief. "Seriously, Kōenji?"
"Ha Ha Ha! Good to see you're as sharp as ever. Well, I'll see you later, Ayanokōji-boy." He retreated with a careless wave of his hand, leaving me standing in the pre-dawn chill, shaking my head at his retreating figure. Some things never change.
2.2
"What did Kōenji want to talk about, Kiyotaka?" Yuki asked, breaking the relative silence. Her voice, though soft, cut through the pre-dawn stillness.
"Kōenji? He just wanted to spar during the break," I shrugged, brushing a hand through my hair as I tried to downplay Kōenji's dramatic request.
"He sure doesn't know when to give up," Chiaki commented with a dry tone. Her yawn, stifled behind her hand, made her words sound raspier than they were.
"It's his odd way of showing that he values our friendship. I could do without the theatrics, though," I replied, scanning the dimly lit surroundings. The sharp edge of dawn was beginning to slice through the darkness, casting long shadows over the school grounds.
"Without the theatrics, he's not Kōenji," Chiaki retorted, causing Yuki to snort in agreement.
"What a terrible reality." My comment drew another round of giggles from the girls.
As our banter died down, we continued to make our way towards the assigned gathering point. The hum of quiet chatter could be heard from a distance, gradually growing louder as we approached.
Several students were already present, their faces barely discernible in the early morning light. Yōsuke and Yukimura were huddled together, their bodies shivering slightly in the chilly dawn breeze. Kōenji was standing alone, his posture upright and composed. Chabashira-sensei was also there, her stern gaze scanning the surroundings.
"Kiyotaka!" Yōsuke waved us over, sending us a small smile.
I nodded in response, acknowledging his greeting as we joined the group. "Yōsuke. Where's Karuizawa? I thought you were coming together."
Yōsuke let out a short laugh, the sound echoing slightly in the silence. "Kei's not a morning person. She'll be here soon enough, though. She and Sato-san slept over last night alongside Mori-san and Mii-chan."
"And yet, Wang is already here," I noted, my attention turning to the shy, indigo-haired girl who had just arrived. She seemed slightly startled by the sudden mention of her name.
Wang blinked in surprise before quickly recovering, giving us a small bow as she greeted, "Ah! Good morning, Hirata-kun, Ayanokōji-kun."
"Good morning," Yōsuke and I echoed.
"Where are Kei and the others, Mii-chan?" Yōsuke asked.
"They woke up late and... Sato-san misplaced her phone, so they had to look for it too," Wang replied, giggling slightly.
"Sounds like Sato, alright," I sighed.
Sato Maya... had a tendency to be absent-minded at times.
Yuki, who had been silently observing the exchange, finally decided to chime in. "I'm surprised you didn't stay to help them out, Mii-chan," she said, chuckling as she overheard Wang's story.
A blush crept onto Wang's face as she fumbled for words, "I went ahead because they told me it would be fine if I went out first. I get... a little anxious when I'm cutting it close."
Ah, that must explain why she would always arrive early in class and just about every gathering of our friend group.
The serenity of the early morning gradually faded as more of our classmates arrived, their laughter and conversations mingling with the chirping of the waking birds. A sense of anticipation seemed to ripple through the group, the forthcoming trip injecting a sense of excitement into the cool morning air.
As the digital clock on a nearby building flickered to 5:00 AM, Chabashira-sensei, her gaze stern, began the roll call.
As the names echoed in the quiet morning, I quickly scanned the crowd of students. My eyes narrowed slightly when I noticed the absence of a familiar figure— Horikita. But as if on cue, Horikita arrived, her face slightly flushed as she hurried over to our group.
That said, it was a little surprising that she was almost late because Horikita tend to strictly follow a routine.
"Good morning, Horikita," I greeted. "Is everything alright?"
She quickly nodded, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "Good morning, Ayanokōji-kun. Everything is alright. There was just a slight inconvenience that I had to deal with when I was preparing my things. Nothing to worry about," she replied.
"Bold of you to assume I'd be worried. Have you been practicing that line?" I couldn't help but tease her.
Her response was a glare, and a hasty, "No, I'm not. Don't make it sound weird."
I glanced at her for a while before turning my attention back to Chabashira-sensei.
"Alright, head inside the bus designated for Class B. We'll have to be in Tokyo Bay as soon as possible," our teacher instructed, gesturing towards the waiting vehicle stationed a few feet away. A signpost next to it clearly read 'Class 1-B.'
At Chabashira-sensei's urging, the students of Class B loaded the bus. Originally, I had planned to occupy a spot near the back, but a quick game of rock-paper-scissors between Yuki and Chiaki determined my seating partner for the trip. Victory grinning from her face, Yuki led the way to the front left seat. I thought of complaining about it, but I eventually decided that would be a waste of time.
Across from us, Chabashira-sensei took her place at the right front side of the bus, settling into the seat with a sigh.
With everyone loaded, the bus roared to life, the familiar hum of the engine signaling the start of our trip.
2.3
Our arrival at Tokyo Bay shortly past 6 AM was greeted with the ethereal glow of the sunrise, the early morning sun casting a golden hue over the vast expanse of water. The port, bustling with the morning's activities, was alive with the distant hum of machinery and the chatter of workers.
Upon disembarking from the bus, the sight that met our eyes was nothing short of breathtaking. Anchored at the port was a colossal cruise ship, its pristine white exterior gleaming under the dawn light. The ship was named Speranza, an Italian word that translates to 'hope.' It stood proudly, like a beacon, embodying its name with grandeur and promise.
With our bags slung over our shoulders, we climbed the boarding ramp onto the vessel. The inside was just as impressive. We were immediately herded into a spacious dining hall lined with long tables and illuminated by grand chandeliers. The enticing aroma of breakfast wafted through the room, and we were instructed to eat within the next 30 minutes.
After the meal, the ship was ours to explore. Speranza boasted nine decks and a rooftop, each level filled with various facilities ranging from well-maintained pools to fine dining restaurants. Much to our delight, these amenities were available for us to enjoy free of charge. As we took in the grandeur of our surroundings, the name Speranza seemed truly fitting— the vessel certainly brought us hope for a memorable summer vacation.
Eventually, we headed into our quarters. For this cruise, I was assigned to bunk with Kōenji, Yōsuke, and Yukimura. Upon entering our room, the amenities present seemed to stir Kōenji into excitement. He strutted about our room, taking in every detail with an appreciative glint in his eyes.
"What a wonderful beauty Speranza is! Truly a fitting setting for my beautiful existence. I look forward to the next two weeks, Ayanokōji-boy," he declared. "Look at this fine mirror! It accentuates my perfect beauty! Fu fu!"
As bizarre as his reactions were, Kōenji had a point.
The accommodations on the ship were nothing short of first-class. For our rooms, boys and girls had their rooms on separate decks for obvious reasons. The third deck was assigned to the boys, while the fourth deck was assigned to the girls. Each room was well-appointed with comfortable beds, modern amenities, and a spacious balcony offering a breathtaking view of the endless expanse of the sea.
Turning my attention to Kōenji, I sighed. "Of course, you'd be excited."
He let out a hearty laugh, now preoccupied with combing his hair. "Ha Ha Ha! Don't pretend like you don't share my enthusiasm," he challenged.
Begrudgingly, I admitted, "You got me there."
Yukimura, setting his bag on his chosen bed, chimed in, "This cruise ship is just too over the top..."
Yōsuke, ever the optimist, offered a counter perspective, "On the bright side, Yukimura-kun... this simply means we'll be able to fully enjoy our summer vacation."
Yukimura sighed, plopping down on his bed. "I guess you have a point there."
"Ayanokōji-boy," Kōenji suddenly called out.
"What now?" I asked, already expecting some kind of a challenge.
"Let's go to the poolside," he invited, though his tone made it sound more like a command.
"I'll pass. I need to talk to Yuki about something," I replied, not willing to partake in his shenanigans.
"Is that so? Well, you'll be missing out on witnessing my perfect form. But be my guest," he said nonchalantly before rifling through his bag, presumably for his swim trunks... though knowing Kōenji, it was more likely a speedo.
2.4
Amidst the vast expanse of the summer sea, our eyes were treated to an infinite canvas of blue, where the horizon blended the azure skies with the deeper hues of the ocean. This mesmerizing union painted a picturesque panorama of nature's sheer splendor. The air was palpably crisp and clear, carrying the tangy undertones of sea salt that intertwined with the fresh, aromatic breeze.
While midsummer typically brought oppressive heat, here on the sea, it was a gentle caress on our skin, courtesy of the cool sea breeze that delicately danced over the rhythmic waves.
This magnificent view before me was truly an oceanic paradise.
"Whoa! This is the beeeeeeesssssst!" Ike's exclamation rang out, echoing across the ship's expansive deck. His joy was palpable, his hands raised high towards the clear sky, his face split with a wide grin.
Under normal circumstances, his loud enthusiasm would have earned him a grumble or a sharp "Shut up," but not today. Instead, everyone indulged in the moment of bliss, soaking in the impressive scenery from the "special seats" on the deck, which afforded an unparalleled panoramic view of the vibrant seascape.
"This view is incredible! I'm honestly super moved right now!" Karuizawa's voice was imbued with genuine awe as she voiced her sentiments. She stood at the rail, eyes captivated by the sprawling oceanic canvas in front of her, a radiant smile painted on her face.
As if on cue, Mori, Sato, and Wang emerged from the ship's cabin, drawn out by the allure of the scene. They quickly joined Karuizawa, their faces reflecting the same joy and astonishment.
Moments later, a group of girls led by Kushida appeared. They headed straight for Karuizawa's group, their chatter adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
"Seriously, the scenery here is just amazing!" Kushida exclaimed, her eyes wide as she took in the sight. From the look on her face, it was evident that the extraordinary view had captivated her.
"Everyone's fired up, Kiyotaka. Why can't you act like you're excited too?" I was pulled out of my reverie by Yuki's playful jab. She was standing close by, an impish grin on her face, with Chiaki a step behind her.
"I have my own way of expressing my excitement," I retorted, keeping my voice light.
"Own way of expressing excitement? By creepily staring at everyone? At least it's not like Kōenji's way..." Chiaki chimed in, her tone a mix of amusement and exasperation.
"What did he do now?" I asked, though I had a feeling I already knew.
"Maezono-san said they saw him walking around the cruise ship in his Speedo. He's way too eager for this vacation," she explained, her expression caught somewhere between amusement and embarrassment.
I let out a weary sigh, shaking my head. "I swore he was wearing a bathrobe when he left our quarters."
"Must have been hindering his perfect existence," Yuki chimed in, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
Chiaki let out an unladylike snort. "Sounds like him."
Sometimes, it was hard to decide whether to be exasperated or impressed by Kōenji's brazen audacity. More often than not, I would end up just picking both moods.
"Anyways, Kiyotaka-kun, Yuki-chan and I were able to confirm something: Sakayanagi Arisu is absent from the cruise," Chiaki shared, steering the conversation towards a more serious topic.
"She is? Who told you?" I questioned.
"Someone from Class A said that Katsuragi-kun is leading Class A for the summer vacation," Chiaki answered.
Ah, so basically, no one really said anything about it. They simply inferred that solely based on word choice.
"It makes sense, you know? I doubt that little girl could withstand the heat of the sun," Yuki quipped, a wicked grin appearing on her lips. She must have been visualizing the scene on her head.
Quite harsh, Yuki.
"That comment aside, I guess that changes things a little bit," I mused aloud.
"What do we do now?" Chiaki queried, her gaze on me.
I took a moment, glancing at her before refocusing my attention on the endless sea. "I'll tell you both later. For now, I want to enjoy the view."
"I guess we'll leave you to it, Kiyotaka," Yuki acquiesced, her voice carrying a hint of laughter. "We'll be joining Karuizawa-san and the others. If you need us, just call, okay?"
I nodded my consent, my gaze still on the sea as they retreated towards the throng of chattering girls.
Finally, some peace...
"Kiyopooon!"
... so much for peace.
The shrill call shattered my brief moment of solitude. I turned around to find Haruka approaching with a beaming smile on her face, and Airi trailing behind her, a shy smile playing on her lips.
"Haruka, Airi," I greeted, nodding at the two girls as they approached.
"Good morning, Kiyotaka-kun," Airi greeted me.
"Kiyopon, do you know where Kenchin and Miyacchi are?" Haruka asked, her eyes scanning the ship.
I gestured towards the edge of the ship, where Ken, Ike, and Yamauchi were huddled together in deep discussion... with Ike juggling his hands in front of his chest.
Was he trying to pretend he had breasts?
"Ken's over there talking with Ike and Yamauchi," I replied, my gaze then shifting to Akito, who was keeping a watchful eye on the trio from a safe distance, his expression one of detached boredom.
"And Akito's babysitting them, I guess," I continued, a hint of amusement creeping into my voice.
"Yano-chan really should tell Kenchin not to hang out with those guys," Haruka muttered with a grimace, clearly disapproving of Ike and Yamauchi. "Maybe it'll work if she does because she's like the only girl he listens to."
Airi, ever the peacekeeper, chimed in, "There's nothing... wrong with Ken-kun being friends with them. It's not like... he's turning into them."
Both Haruka and I exchanged a surprised look. An indirect insult coming from the typically gentle Airi was a rarity.
Switching gears, Haruka adopted a tone of child-like amazement. "But wow... this ship really is great, isn't it, Kiyopon?"
"It is," I agreed.
A few moments later, Ken and Akito spotted the three of us huddled together and joined us.
"I really don't understand why you're still friends with them, Ken," Akito said, sighing heavily as he shot a pointed look at Ken.
"They can be funny at times," Ken defended, a small shrug lifting his shoulders.
"Nothing about Kushida's breasts is funny, just so you know," Akito retorted, his tone deadpan.
"They're talking about Kyo-chan again?!" Haruka interjected, a look of disgust marring her face.
"And you, probably," I quipped, my eyes darting downwards to her chest before leaning back as Haruka attempted to pinch my cheek.
The moment was interrupted by Airi's timid voice, "Um... guys,"
"What is it, Ai-chan?" Haruka turned to her.
"Can we... take a picture together?" Airi suggested, holding out her digital camera.
"With the digital camera?" Akito questioned.
"We can always ask someone to take photos of us," I proposed. Spotting a familiar figure, I waved at Kushida, calling her over.
"Oh, Ayanokōji-kun!" Kushida exclaimed, veering towards us. "Good morning, guys! The cruise ship sure is amazing, isn't it?"
"Definitely! I'm really looking forward to the next two weeks, Kyo-chan!" Haruka gushed, her previous disgust completely replaced by excitement.
"Mhm-mm!" Kushida nodded enthusiastically at Haruka before turning to me. "What did you call me for, Ayanokōji-kun?"
"If it's fine with you, can you take a photo of us?" I requested.
Her face lit up at the request, "Take a photo? Sure, I can do that!"
Airi handed her camera over to Kushida. We gathered together, striking casual poses while Kushida snapped away, her finger pressing down on the shutter button at least 20 times before she returned the camera to Airi.
"Thank you, Kushida-san," Airi thanked Kushida, a soft blush dusting her cheeks as she accepted her camera back.
"No problem, Sakura-san. Well then, I'll be going now!" Kushida announced before waving goodbye.
"Kyo-chan's really nice, isn't she?" Haruka said to Airi as she watched Kushida depart.
Airi nodded in response, but to me, her agreement was seemingly more hesitant than genuine. It looked like her keen instincts for reading people extended even to individuals like Kushida.
2.5
About 15 minutes later, I decided to venture towards the fourth deck. The chatter and merriment of the girls echoed through the corridors, creating an atmosphere quite different from the tranquil seascape I had been enjoying. Turning a corner, I came upon a familiar sight: Yuki and Kushida, huddled together in hushed conversation.
From my vantage point, their backs were turned towards me. Kushida's shoulders were tense, her head slightly bowed as though she were bracing against the chill of an unseen storm. Yuki, on the other hand, stood tall and confident, her silhouette outlined against the dim ship lights. It was striking, the power dynamics playing out between the two.
The way Yuki managed to instill such a tangible level of fear in Kushida was grimly impressive.
And since the two of them seemed preoccupied with their conversation, presumably about Class A, I made a beeline towards one of the rooms in this deck, the room where Horikita was supposedly staying at.
I didn't see her anywhere earlier, which struck me as odd since she was no longer deliberately isolating herself from the class. And so, I figured she might be holed up in her room.
Approaching her room, I lifted my hand, pausing for a moment as I took in the richly-grained wooden door. "Horikita?" And so I knocked, the sound echoing down the deserted corridor.
Silence responded from the other side. According to her roommates, they didn't think Horikita had any plans to go out. Was she sleeping?
The thought was cut short by a muffled flurry of footsteps within the room. The otherwise silent hallway amplified the sound, making it distinctly audible.
I instinctively stepped back as the door creaked open. "Ayanokōji-kun?" Just as I had anticipated, Horikita was within. She appeared slightly disoriented, her expression mirroring her bewilderment, and her eyes were still clouded with remnants of sleep.
Resting against the door frame, I crossed my arms, maintaining unwavering eye contact. "What were you doing?" I ventured to ask, my voice steady.
"I was reading a book," she replied, a hint of defensiveness creeping into her tone.
The faintest ghost of a smile flickered across my lips. "Really? It doesn't seem that way to me."
Her eyebrows knitted together in a frown, the spark of indignation flaring in her eyes. "Quite the assumption you're making there. What's your proof? Do you even have one?"
"What book were you reading, then?"
"For Whom the Bell Tolls."
"Where is it then? It should be on one of the desks here if you were just reading. I don't see any book lying around."
"..."
"You're definitely lying. You were sleeping."
"How can you say that I was sleeping?" Horikita asked with a glare, but even her glare seemed to lack its usual fierceness.
I raised an eyebrow, unfazed by her defiance. "Your pallor is slightly off, and your voice lacks its usual sharpness. Plus, your hands." I gestured towards her slightly trembling hands clutching the door frame for support. "Those aren't the hands of someone engrossed in a book, but someone rudely awakened from sleep."
Taken aback, she glanced at her own hands before hastily dropping them to her side. "Alright, I was sleeping. Happy now?" she relented, annoyance flickering in her gaze.
"Why were you sleeping?" I inquired, deciding to peel away more layers of her defiance.
"Because I was sleepy," she returned flippantly, her usual composure seeping back.
I should have let Horikita-senpai smack her that one time...
"You're lying again, Horikita."
"What?"
Moving forward, I extended my right hand towards her forehead, an instinctive move that seemed to catch her off guard. She instinctively recoiled, slapping my hand away. Unfazed, I tried again with my left hand, but she slapped it away all the same. If that's how this is going to be...
Sigh
Deciding to bypass her defenses, I grabbed her wrists gently yet firmly and pinned her against the wall. Then I leaned in, pressing my forehead against hers. Her eyes widened in surprise, but she didn't struggle.
"If you try to punch me or kick me, I will kiss you. Just calm down and let me check your temperature," I said, my voice steady despite the close proximity.
"K-Kiss?!"
"... Did I somehow motivate you to punch me?"
"Shut up! Fine... do what you want," she muttered, glaring at me.
I quirked a brow at her acquiescence. "So, does that mean I can kiss you?"
A faint blush started to bloom on Horikita's cheeks, and her typically impassive eyes widened in surprise. "I didn't say that, you idiot!"
Ignoring her outburst, I held my position, our foreheads still pressed together. This was the closest I'd ever been to Horikita. I could feel the faint warmth of her skin and smell the hint of her shampoo. For a moment, the ship seemed to quieten, our shared breaths becoming the only audible sound.
Her blush deepened as she squirmed slightly. I would be lying if I said that my heart wasn't beating faster. Horikita was, after all, a very beautiful girl. But, shaking off the sudden rush of thoughts, I focused on the task at hand.
"You have a fever," I stated simply, releasing her wrists. Her eyes fell, a flush spreading across her cheeks.
"I'm aware. Your point being?" she retorted, defensively folding her arms.
"Are you really trying to be passive-aggressive now?" I sighed before flicking her on the forehead.
"That hurts..."
"That should remind you that you're being stupid," I retorted, meeting her harsh glare head-on. "There's no way I'll let you just rest your fever away. Come with me. I just passed by the ship's pharmacy earlier."
"I don't need any medicine..."
"...Nonsense," I interjected firmly, cutting off her feeble protest. "You're unwell, Horikita. And the fact that you're even arguing about this just proves how clouded your judgment is right now."
She frowned at me, but the defiant spark in her eyes had dimmed considerably. It was evident that she was struggling to maintain her usual steely facade in the face of her physical discomfort.
"But-" she started, only to be silenced by my firm gaze.
"No buts," I asserted, my tone leaving no room for further debate. "You're coming with me to the pharmacy."
For a moment, she glared at me, her lips pressed into a thin line. But as the seconds ticked by, her shoulders slumped, the fight seeming to leave her.
"Fine," she finally conceded, although the grudging tone of her voice made it clear that she was far from pleased with the situation. "But I'm not helpless. I can walk on my own."
"I know you can," I responded, offering her a small smile. "But I also know you well enough to realize that you'll probably try to brush off your symptoms and overexert yourself."
Her gaze flickered away from me at that, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. It was oddly adorable how Horikita was trying hard to keep up her act... and failing. I didn't push further, however. I merely stepped back, allowing her some space as she slowly pushed herself off the wall and steadied herself.
Without another word, I turned and started walking down the corridor, knowing that she would follow. Her pride wouldn't allow her to back down now, especially not after conceding to my argument.
2.6
Horikita and I moved in silence for a while, save for the occasional clinking sound of metal from the unseen parts of the ship. She didn't try to pull away or argue anymore, which I found amusing. After all, Horikita was always so obstinate, ready to argue her points until you submitted or gave up. That said, I really should count my blessings because "Obedient Horikita" was a once-in-a-blue-moon phenomenon.
The trip to the pharmacy was brief. There, we managed to get her some over-the-counter fever medication. After that, I steered her towards the dining hall to get some water and something light to eat.
She silently followed my lead, her eyes still clouded with fatigue.
As we entered the dining hall, the smell of fresh bread and soup filled the air. The soft chatter of the students around us, coupled with the rhythmic clink of cutlery against plates, added to the background hum. A few students glanced in our direction, but most were too engrossed in their meals or conversations to pay us any mind.
I guided Horikita to a secluded corner where we could sit. She complied without a word, sinking into the seat and resting her forehead against the cool surface of the table. It was a rare sight to see her so undone.
Retrieving a bottle of water and a light sandwich, I set them down in front of her, and presented the medicine. "Eat something before taking these," I advised.
She nodded, sitting upright and taking a small sip of water. Her fingers grazed the sandwich, but she didn't seem inclined to eat it just yet. Instead, she looked up at me, a question lurking in her clouded eyes.
"You didn't have to do this," she murmured, her voice barely audible over the din of the dining hall.
Her words weren't a reproach, but an observation. And perhaps a mild surprise that I, of all people, would go out of my way to take care of her.
"I know," I said, shrugging lightly. "But there was no way I'll let you hold it out. And you're pretty stubborn when it comes to taking your medicine."
"H-How do you know that?" She asked, sounding a bit surprised.
"Horikita-senpai told me. It was as if that guy was trying to create a curriculum designed to make me understand you," I replied, sighing at the thought of Horikita Manabu's not-so-subtle plans of playing matchmaker.
Her gaze flickered to the side, a blush creeping up her neck at the mention of her older brother. "Of course he did..." she muttered under her breath, picking at the edges of her sandwich. Her fingers trembled slightly, and I noted that she was still struggling to conceal her fatigue.
"So why are you doing this?" She asked after a moment, her voice barely a whisper. "You could just ignore nii-san's words, you know?"
I tilted my head, considering her question. Why indeed? Was it simply because I felt like it? Or because I wanted to help her? Or perhaps it was a blend of both.
"Because, Horikita, there's a difference between being independent and being obstinate," I responded finally. "You can't do everything alone. Even you've admitted that to your brother, didn't you? You should really just stop asking and let people help you."
"Besides, we're friends, aren't we?"
She stayed silent, regarding me with a slightly surprised look. Her gaze flickered to her sandwich, and for a moment, I thought she was going to ignore my words. But then she let out a sigh, her shoulders drooping a bit.
"You're right," she admitted softly, surprising me with her straightforwardness. Her fingers traced the edges of the sandwich, but she didn't make a move to pick it up.
"Then eat," I said, keeping my tone even. "And take your medicine."
Horikita finally picked up her sandwich, taking a small bite. As she chewed, she glanced at me, a strange look in her eyes. I held her gaze, unflinching.
"You're acting...strange," she finally said after taking another bite of the sandwich.
I raised an eyebrow at her. "How so?"
"Being caring... doesn't seem like you at all," she explained.
"Ouch. I may not sound like it, but my feelings are hurt," I replied. That said, my empty-sounding tone probably didn't help my case.
Horikita's gaze softened, a hint of a smile touching her lips. "Idiot," she said before turning her attention back to her food.
We lapsed into a comfortable silence, her focus on her sandwich and mine on observing her. Despite the exhaustion, there was a determination in her gaze. Pretty funny, considering she was just trying to eat a sandwich.
She finally swallowed the last piece of her sandwich, reaching for the pills next. Her hand trembled slightly as she held the bottle, a telling sign of her fatigue. I held out my hand, offering to help, but she brushed me off. "I can handle it," she murmured, her words tinged with stubborn pride.
Of course, she would say that. This was Horikita, after all.
She took her medicine with a grimace, washing it down with a sip of water. After a few moments, she rested her back against the seat, closing her eyes as if summoning the strength to continue. Her pallor had slightly improved, but her fatigue was evident.
"We should head back to your room. You need to rest," I suggested, standing up.
"No. I think we're almost on the island now," Horikita replied, turning her eyes to the window, showing an island close by. "I don't want to sleep in."
"Alright. Let's join the others, then." I extended my hand towards her, ready to support her if she needed it.
She looked at me, her gaze cloudy with fatigue and a strange glimmer I couldn't quite decipher. She hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Okay," she said softly, taking my offered hand.
Her grip was light, her hand slightly cold. As we walked towards where the others were, I found myself contemplating her vulnerabilities. Horikita was usually so guarded, so unyielding in her demeanor. To see her like this, reliant on me, surprisingly felt nice.
Once we reached the gathering area, I let her hand go, watching as she took in the beautiful view of the island. She then glanced back at me.
"Ayanokōji-kun," she began, her voice soft.
"Yes?" I responded, my tone neutral.
"Thank you," she said, her gaze sincere.
2.7
As Horikita and I stood by the rail, the expanse of the sea sprawled before us, shimmering in the morning sun. The air was a mixture of sea salt and a hint of the tropical fragrance that wafted from the nearing island. Horikita's shoulders were pressed lightly against mine, providing her a modicum of support as she still seemed a bit unsteady on her feet.
Around us, the chatter had begone quieting down, our classmates' attention drawn to the emerging island. They spread across the deck, some leaning against the railings as they watched the island, others chattering quietly amongst themselves, the excitement palpable.
A few minutes later, Yuki and Chiaki emerged from a staircase; both of them probably came from the fourth deck. Their eyes scanned the deck, and upon spotting us, a look of surprise passed between them. With an almost synchronized movement, they bolted in our direction.
"Horikita-san, Kiyotaka!" Yuki called out, the tone of her voice indicating her mild surprise. "Wait... why are you...?" She let the question hang in the air as she noticed Horikita's fatigue and how she was leaning her head against my shoulder. A flush of red colored Horikita's cheeks before she quickly removed her head from my shoulder.
There was a brief silence as I explained everything that transpired, from Horikita's sudden illness to our trip to the pharmacy and the dining hall. They listened intently, their expressions a mix of surprise and... as expected, envy.
Yuki broke the silence with a wistful sigh. "I wish I was sick as well..."
"You're an idiot, Yuki," I remarked, unable to conceal my disbelief at her statement.
"No, no... she has a point, Kiyotaka-kun. I wish I was sick too," Chiaki chimed in, a dreamy look in her eyes as she nodded in agreement with Yuki's statement.
Exhaling in exasperation, I returned her comment in kind, "You're also an idiot."
"But you're so lucky, Horikita-san!" Chiaki lamented, her pout becoming more pronounced. "Kiyotaka has never... and I mean never, done something like that with me."
"Or me!" Yuki added, her gaze switching between Horikita and me.
Horikita's sigh echoed in the silence that followed their statements. "Wanting to be sick just so someone could take care of you... is pretty stupid, Tsubaki-san, Matsushita-san," she replied. "Besides... I didn't ask for him to do all that."
"But still, lucky..." Yuki muttered, a forlorn expression crossing her face.
Chiaki, mirroring her sentiment, nodded in agreement. "Definitely lucky..."
The conversation left me shaking my head, their priorities were truly baffling.
Suddenly, the silence was broken by the sharp ring of the ship's PA speakers. "Attention, students. Please assemble on the main deck. You will be able to see the island soon. This is a good time to take in some rather significant scenery."
As the announcement ended, I glanced at Horikita, ensuring she was alright before turning back to Yuki and Chiaki.
While the announcement was carefully worded, the hidden intent of the announcement would be easily spotted by those actively trying to piece the puzzle together.
"Guess I was right," I told the two.
Yuki and Chiaki shared a look before nodding at my appraisal. There was definitely going to be a Special Exam for our summer vacation.
"What do you mean, Ayanokōji-kun?" Horikita asked, obviously out of the loop.
"You'll know about it later," I replied, pushing myself off the railing. "Well, you heard the announcement. Let's go."
With that, we headed to the main deck. Upon arriving at the main deck, I idly observed certain weird things from it, like the helipad on the cruise, for example.
"So you're Ayanokōji Kiyotaka..." An unfamiliar voice spoke out.
The four of us turned our heads in the direction of the voice and were greeted by a tall, bald-headed boy, and a good number of students standing behind him.
"My apologies for my rudeness. I am Katsuragi Kōhei of Class 1-A," the boy introduced himself, bowing his head slightly.
So this was Katsuragi, huh? Chiaki's files sure were accurate in describing him as a stern, well-mannered guy.
"A pleasure to meet you, Katsuragi," I replied, extending my hand towards him.
Katsuragi took my hand and nodded his head. "The pleasure is mine."
Chiaki, Yuki, and Horikita then took turns introducing themselves. After all the pleasantries had been exchanged, Katsuragi walked past us and positioned himself at the front-most part of the deck, around the helicopter pad.
The Class A students followed along. Most of them seemed to be happily observing the now-visible island.
"Quite the divided class," Yuki mused as she observed the Class A students.
"That's quite odd, considering they're Class A," Horikita added. "You'd think they'd be the first to unite among themselves."
That was a reasonable assumption. However, in a Class that supposedly comprised of the best students of our year, there was bound to be some conflict of interests—a clash of personalities, if you may. This arena of clashing ideals came with the territory of excellence.
"That would just make it easier to take them down," I confidently said. "But..."
Katsuragi was not our target.
"But?" Horikita queried.
"Now's not the time for these thoughts," I replied.
I would leave Class A to Yuki and Chiaki. With Sakayanagi out of the picture for now, it would be easier for them to complete their plans, whatever that may be.
2.8
Later on, the ship, which had been lazily meandering through the cerulean waters, began to pick up its pace, moving about thrice as fast as how it had moved just a couple of minutes ago. Its bow cut through the water like a knife, leaving a trail of foaming white in its wake.
From our vantage point, I noticed that we weren't charting a direct course towards the island, despite it being clearly visible in the distance. Instead, we passed the welcoming wooden pier and began to circle around, skimming the clear blue waters that surrounded the land mass.
"You noticed it too, Kiyotaka?" Yuki's voice broke into my thoughts, her fingers tugging lightly at the fabric of my sleeve.
I nodded my head in affirmation, meeting her curious gaze. "It's not just circling around for no reason. Great sights, though."
A soft chuckle escaped Yuki, her eyes reflecting the twinkling of the azure sea. "Yup. I'm making sure to pay attention to it," she replied, her gaze returning to the breathtaking view unfolding before us.
"So that's what you meant..." Horikita's voice was hushed, a flash of realization sparking in her eyes as she pieced together the reason behind the words I had said to Chiaki and Yuki earlier.
"Do tell," I encouraged her. I wanted to see if she had actually picked up on it.
"The summer vacation... it isn't what it seems," she replied, her voice low yet confident.
Chiaki affirmed her statement with a curt nod, her eyes never leaving the supposedly deserted island. "A lot of strange things are very noticeable," she added cryptically.
While I'd surmised that there was a purpose behind the cruise ship's odd detour, the actual motive remained a mystery. Why did they want us to see certain parts of the island?
Eventually, the ship completed its circuit, offering us a 360-degree view of the island. It then continued its circling trajectory, maintaining a steady speed and leaving minimal disturbance in the water as it cut through it with almost unnatural grace.
Well... I guess it wouldn't be a bad idea to mentally map out the island. It might come in handy later.
Suddenly, the silence was broken by the sharp ring of the ship's PA speakers. "We will disembark in thirty minutes. Please assemble on the deck. All students should have changed into their jerseys. Make sure to check your designated bag and your luggage, and do not forget your cell phone. Please keep all other personal items in your room. There is a possibility that you will not be able to visit the bathroom for some time, so please do so now."
The announcement echoed around us, prompting a flurry of activity as students began to follow the instructions. With one last glance at the island, I turned to the girls.
"I guess I'll see you later," I remarked, stretching my arms upwards before weaving through the crowd towards my room.
"See you," the girls chorused in unison, their voices floating behind me as I disappeared into the crowd.
2.9
As the island drew closer, an air of excitement began to swell among us. The students, now all changed into their jerseys, were buzzing with anticipation, their chatter echoing across the deck. Most faces lit up in expectation of the paradise that seemingly awaited them.
"Is everyone ready?" Yuki's voice cut through the hum of the ship, addressing Class B, clustered together on the sun-washed deck. Murmurs of excitement rippled through the students as the island's shoreline, dotted with lush greenery and untouched beaches, seemed to promise a paradise.
Echoes of delighted giggles from the girls bounced off the ship's hull, mixing with the high-spirited cheers of the boys. The air was thick with excitement, palpable even amidst the salty sea breeze. Yet, beneath this guise of anticipation, a few had their suspicions.
A sudden announcement by the teachers deflated the buoyant mood. "We will disembark now, beginning with the students from Class A. Cellphones are prohibited on the island. Please hand your phone to your homeroom teacher as you leave."
Orderly lines began forming, snaking across the wooden deck beneath the increasingly glaring sun. Complaints about the heat started to rise, as the students shielded their faces with their hands. Their anticipation was met with an elongated disembarkment process. This excessive procedure was strange and excessive, even to the untrained eye. But to those of us who were on guard, it was telling.
Yōsuke and Yuki joined me, their expressions mirroring my own curiosity. "They're unusually cautious," Yōsuke murmured, his eyes scrutinizing the scene before us. "It's way too strict to be a normal inspection."
Yuki nodded, her eyes keenly observing the disembarking process of Class C and D. "Spot on, Hirata-kun. They even went as far as to confiscate our phones when they didn't even do that during final exams," Yuki replied. "But you should have an inkling of what's going to happen."
Yōsuke chuckled lightly. "No, not really. I just figured something strange was going on... not what was going on," he replied. "That's Kiyotaka's thing," he added, his gaze flicking to me.
"If the school intended to have us play in the ocean, then this is certainly going overboard," I finally broke my silence, keeping my gaze locked onto the unfolding scenario. "Have our classmates gather near. Let's keep our heads focused," I instructed, my tone brokering no argument.
Yōsuke and Yuki nodded, splitting to round up our classmates. The shift in the air was almost palpable as the students began to catch onto the tension. Ike and his group, once brimming with high-spirited anticipation, now donned more serious expressions. Even the girls' excitement had dwindled, replaced by an aura of apprehension as they picked up on the sudden shift in the class' general vibe.
"All right, I will now start a roll call. Please respond loudly and clearly once you hear your name." Chabashira-sensei announced, her tone impassive and professional as ever. She had a list in her hand, and she started going through the names, checking each student off as they responded.
One by one, we responded, marking our presence. That said, the roll call felt more like a final check before a mission rather than a headcount for a school trip.
As the roll call ended, another figure emerged, catching everyone's attention. It was Mashima-sensei, Class A's advisor, known for his towering stature and rigid personality. He took his position on a prepared white platform, the midday sun casting a long shadow behind him.
"I would like to express my relief at everyone's safe arrival. Unfortunately, one among us couldn't join due to illness," he stated.
A lot of the students started murmuring. Ike and Yamauchi, for instance, were whispering about how pitiful the student was.
I idly wondered what Sakayanagi would do to these two should she know they were insulting her. Would she try to expel them, perhaps? But it wasn't like Ike and Yamauchi said something unreasonable; their words were just rude.
Mashima-sensei's speech was still underway when I spotted some uniformed adults erecting a peculiar tent nearby. It was soon filled with computers and other high-tech equipment neatly arranged around a long table. The odd sight finally drove the point home, stirring a sense of dread among us.
And so, the tension grew. Each second felt longer than the last, dragging out the anticipation. Mashima-sensei took a deep breath before delivering his next line.
"Without further ado," he paused, letting his gaze sweep across the crowd of students one last time. The silence was heavy, only punctuated by the distant crashing of the waves. "We shall commence the current academic year's first special test."
The announcement hit like a bolt from the blue, the shock tangible in the stunned silence that followed. As the reality sank in, the joyful anticipation of a summer break was replaced with the bitter taste of an unexpected exam.
The summer break had suddenly taken a rather daunting turn.
End of Chapter
A/N: Now, the chaos begins.
Clarifications:
MujintōShiken - Deserted Island Special Exams
Speranza - Italian for Hope (name of the Cruise Ship)
Airi's wariness towards Kushida - Airi is canonically portrayed as a good judge of character that could read people to some degree. She had been wary of Kushida even early on.