(A/N: As you may realize, English is not my first language therefore I need AI to double check and revise the word mistakes but sotis so words that should be correct, are replaced by AI and cause word mistakes.
Therefore, if you see so word mistakes, just comnt on that section and I will fix it imdiately. Thank you~~)
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Golden Week had co to an end, and my school life resud once again.
"Guess who~♡"
As I stepped out of the dorm entrance after the break, soone covered my eyes from behind with both hands. I had noticed soone nearby, but I hadn't expected such an obvious approach.
"Amasawa . What are you doing?"
"Huh? Wow, you knew it was right away~!"
The hands withdrew, and when I turned around, as expected, there was Amasawa , her bright red hair standing out as she grinned at like a mischievous child.
"I recognized your voice. Yours is pretty distinct."
It was the kind of voice that stuck in your ears—sweet, you could say.
"Ehh? Senpai, do you like my voice that much?"
"What kind of logic leads you to that conclusion?"
"Ah, also, when I covered your eyes just now, my chest kinda brushed against you. Senpai, you perv~"
"I'd win if this went to court."
If I kept indulging Amasawa , I'd be late, so I started walking again. Naturally, she followed right behind .
"You planning to tag along again?"
"Of course~! I finally got to see you, so I wanna walk to school together!"
Finally was a stretch—she was the one who approached . She moved from behind to my side, closing the distance slightly.
"Tch. Do whatever you want."
"Yep~! I'll do just that!"
Amasawa gave a crisp salute.
Given our history, no amount of complaints from would make her back off. Sotis, it's best to just give up. Walking to school together wasn't a big deal anyway.
Amasawa humd happily beside , a cheerful smile on her face. What was she so happy about?
"Oh yeah, senpai, did you know? There's this rumor going around among us first-years."
"A rumor? Haven't heard anything about that."
The word rumor piqued my interest, so I played along.
"Wanna know~?"
Amasawa smirked, her eyes teasing as she sized up.
"...Yeah, I do. Tell ."
I could've brushed it off, but this was worth hearing. A little push wouldn't hurt.
"Hmm~, what should I do~?"
She kept glancing at expectantly. If I didn't offer sothing, this conversation wasn't going anywhere.
"...If it's sothing I can do, I'll do it. So, tell ."
"As expected of senpai! You caught on quick~"
So her goal from the start was to make agree to a condition. I already knew Amasawa was sharp, but this was even more calculated than I expected.
"So, what's this rumor about?"
"Well, first off, it's not that big of a deal. It only started going around recently, like, mid-Golden Week?"
After saying that, Amasawa took a breath before continuing.
"Apparently, Class 2-C—the one with Ichinose-senpai, right?—they threatened so first-years during the last exam."
"Threatened?"
"Yep. A lot of first-years got help from Ichinose-senpai's class, so people are kinda split on whether to believe it. But it'll be interesting to see how this plays out~"
As Amasawa said, rumors tend to grow and distort. What might seem insignificant now could turn into a major issue later.
Second-years had been ordered not to spread rumors, so there wouldn't be any overt damage, but reputation among first-years was a different story.
"What do you think about it, Amasawa ?"
"The rumor? Honestly, I don't really care either way~. But if it spreads, Ichinose-senpai's class is gonna have a hard ti."
"I agree. There'll be more exams where first-years and second-years have to pair up."
Even as we talked about it, it was still soone else's problem. It wasn't our concern.
"Oh, right, senpai. You rember our deal from earlier, right?"
She abruptly changed the subject, her eyes sparkling with excitent.
"Yeah. So, what do you want to do?"
If it was just private points, I could manage, but if she asked for sothing excessive like taking off my clothes, I'd refuse imdiately. I owed her nothing.
I braced myself, but Amasawa's request was completely unexpected.
"I want you to pat my head."
Whether it was an act or not, her cheeks flushed slightly with embarrassnt.
"...Pat your head?"
"Yeah, yeah. I've been kinda curious about it~"
Not waiting for to fully process it, Amasawa stepped in front of and motioned for to hurry up.
This wasn't what I expected. But it wasn't impossible, and if she wanted it, why not?
"Alright, I'll pat your head."
"Mmm... be gentle, okay?"
Ignoring the easily misinterpreted remark, I placed my right hand on Amasawa's head and stroked it with just the right amount of pressure—not too hard, not too soft.
Lately, I'd been fulfilling Hiyori's requests for head pats too, so I'd gotten better at figuring out what felt good.
"Fwah! S-Senpai, you're amazing. That felt way too good..."
After a while, Amasawa pulled away, seemingly satisfied, and held the spot where I'd been patting her.
"You're way too good at this. Like, it doesn't even feel like your first ti?"
"Really? I wouldn't know."
I hadn't realized my skills had improved so much. Not that this particular skill would be useful in the long run.
"Hmm... Yep! I've decided!"
As I stared at my hand, Amasawa nodded to herself, then flashed a bright smile.
"I hereby grant senpai the right to pat my head anyti~! You can do it on your own, or when I ask for it, okay?"
"...Is there any benefit for in this?"
"Huh? You an getting to pat your cute kouhai's head isn't a reward, senpai?"
She tilted her head, genuinely confused.
She had a point—she was cute—so I didn't argue.
"Well, jokes aside... I kinda want you to pat my head again soti. ...Is that no good?"
She fidgeted slightly, her expression turning sad as she looked up at with puppy-dog eyes.
...This was probably how she chard all the guys.
"Fine, fine. Just stop making that face. You're making look like the bad guy here."
If anyone saw a beauty like Amasawa acting like this around , regardless of the truth, I'd be labeled the villain.
"Yay! Then I'll be counting on you, okay? Senpaaai~♡"
Once we reached the school entrance, Amasawa waved cheerfully and skipped off to her classroom, looking delighted.
Sohow, I felt like I'd been strong-ard into this.
In the end, I still didn't understand her true intentions.
It was just another mont where Amasawa Ichika beca even more of an enigma.
....
It's already been two weeks since we entered May.
As usual, there's been no movent from the White Room student, and there's no sign of any action or sches being directed at .
Then, one day. I was waiting for Ryūen in the lobby. I wasn't the one who set this up—it was Ryūen's invitation. Naturally, there's so ulterior motive.
"Hey. Sorry to keep you waiting."
As I fiddled with my phone while waiting, Ryūen showed up slightly before the agreed ti.
"I wasn't really waiting, but you could've at least told what we're doing today, don't you think?"
All I was told was to be here at this ti—no details whatsoever.
"You'll find out when we get there. Let's go."
"Tch, fine."
Well, it's not like Ryūen would just explain things upfront.
After walking for a while, we arrived at a sparsely populated café. Following Ryūen inside, I scanned the interior.
"You're late. You're a full thirty minutes behind schedule. Can't even keep ti as a high schooler?"
"Shut up. Be grateful I even showed up."
"Both of you, starting off hostile isn't good, you know?"
Ryūen stopped at one of the seats in the café.
There, waiting, were Kanzaki and Ichinose from Class C.
"...Why did you bring Hikigaya? I only told you to co."
Before Ryūen even sat down, Kanzaki shot a sharp glare.
Apparently, Ryūen had brought along to what was supposed to be a discussion between him and Ichinose's group.
"If you're bringing two, then it's only fair I bring two as well. Quit whining. No wonder your class points keep dropping."
"What did you just say?!"
Kanzaki stood up at Ryūen's provocatively grinning remark, the tension instantly reaching a breaking point.
"Both of you, calm down. Kanzaki-kun, it's not really a problem if Hikigaya-kun is here, right?"
Ichinose stepped in between them, addressing Kanzaki.
"No. Letting Ryūen have his way is exactly what he wants."
"That might be true, but right now, isn't it more important to focus on the discussion?"
Kanzaki didn't seem convinced, but perhaps wary of the discussion falling apart entirely, he held back from saying anything further, though his glare at Ryūen remained.
"Done with your strategy eting?"
Ryūen arrogantly took his seat. I followed suit.
"So, what do you want with ? I don't have ti to waste on you guys."
"...There's been a rumor spreading among the first-years lately."
Ignoring Ryūen's taunt, Kanzaki cut to the chase.
"The rumor claims that our class threatened first-years during the recent exam."
I see. So they're trying to pry information out of Ryūen, who seems like a likely suspect.
"Pfft. Yeah, right. So you think I'm suspicious?"
"That's exactly right."
Without hesitation, Kanzaki confird.
Ichinose kept watch, likely worried the situation would deteriorate again. Probably, it had been decided beforehand that Kanzaki would take the lead in this discussion.
"I don't know shit about that. First I've heard of the rumor, too."
"Sorry, but I'm not naive enough to take your word for it."
"Says the guy who let weaklings drag him down and cost him the win. Real convincing."
Sensing the atmosphere growing hostile again, Ichinose stepped in this ti.
"I get your point, Ryūen-kun. But do you have any proof?"
"Proof, huh? Why suspect in the first place? If it's about rumors, Sakayanagi's the pri suspect."
On this point, Ryūen's right.
Back when we were first-years, Ichinose was targeted by rumors as part of Arisu's sche. Given her track record, suspecting her makes sense.
"At first, we thought so too. But we don't think Sakayanagi-san would repeat sothing that didn't work before. Besides, this rumor involves first-years."
Targeting first-years is sothing that could've been done during the recent exam—aning the list of suspects is endless.
"Ask as many tis as you want. I've got nothing to do with this."
Ryūen's answer didn't change. Ichinose and the others probably realized they wouldn't get anything further out of him.
"Ichinose. Grilling Ryūen is pointless. Any more of this is just a waste."
Having lost patience, Kanzaki stood up, and with an apologetic-looking Ichinose in tow, they left the café.
"So why'd you call here? There was literally no point in being here."
Having not said a single word the entire ti, I couldn't help but feel a strange sense of lancholy.
"Like I said. Just evening the numbers."
"...Hah? You seriously called here just for that? No hidden agenda?"
Ryūen really had called just for that reason.
...From now on, if Ryūen called , I'm getting the details before agreeing.
.....
The peaceful days without any special exams continued, and ti flew by quickly as mid-June approached.
Class Points as of June:
- Class A (led by Sakayanagi): 1,192 points
- Class B (led by Ryūen): 831 points
- Class C (led by Ichinose): 552 points
- Class D (led by Horikita): 281 points
For the students who still rembered the large-scale special exam from around this ti last year, there had been plenty of ti to prepare themselves.
As if testing that resolve, an unusual morning horoom began.
"First, I'm glad to see everyone here."
After taking attendance, Sakagami-sensei began operating his tablet, likely to display sothing on the monitor.
"You've probably already sensed it. The longer you stay at this school, the more you'll co to understand."
His words implied that a new special exam was about to begin.
"You will be participating in a 'Deserted Island Survival' competition."
The Deserted Island Survival—a special exam. The class-based battle that took place during the first-years' sumr vacation was still vividly etched in everyone's minds.
"Whoa! We're doing that again this year?"
While other classes might have bitter mories of it, ours was different. Last year, Ryūen had dominated alone, allowing the rest of us to simply enjoy the vacation.
That said, no one was letting their guard down.
"You're probably thinking of last year's exam, but this one will be fundantally different. To be honest, it will likely be the harshest and most grueling exam so far. Of course, the point fluctuations will be just as significant."
Harsher and more grueling than last year? The answer to what exactly would change was soon revealed.
"First, let explain the schedule in detail. You'll be able to download and review this information on your devices later, so there's no need to take notes."
With that instruction, Sakagami-sensei turned on the monitor, displaying the schedule for the special exam.
July 19: Gather at the grounds, depart by bus, and board a passenger ship at the port.
July 20: Special exam begins—explanation of rules and distribution of supplies.
August 3: Special exam ends—rankings announced on the ship, rewards distributed accordingly.
August 4: Free ti on the cruise ship.
August 11: Arrival at the port, return to school, and dismissal.
The exam would last two weeks—twice as long as last year's.
"Two weeks?! That's gonna cut into sumr break like crazy..."
Komiya's complaint was understandable.
"Unfortunately, there will be no compensation for that. However, you'll be guaranteed a week on a luxury cruise ship. Depending on how you look at it, that week could be worth even more than two."
In other words, they were supposed to use that as motivation.
Given last year's experience, few voiced further complaints. A change of pace from the usual routine was welco, and the point rewards were more substantial this ti. It would help relieve stress.
"Now, back to the main topic. The biggest difference from last year is the scale. Not only is the duration longer, but the deserted island itself is also significantly larger."
The monitor displayed an aerial view of the island.
"And this ti, all grade levels will be competing together—not just your own year."
This was an unexpected twist. A survival exam involving all grades? Competing against not just peers but upper and lowerclassn was surprising.
"With that in mind, let's move on. I'll now explain part of the new rules for the Deserted Island Survival exam."
The word "part" made the students exchange glances.
"That ans we won't be revealing everything today."
The screen changed, displaying the word "Groups" in large letters.
"First, let's talk about groups. In this exam, you can form large groups of up to six people, working together under specific rules. These large groups can consist of students from any class within the sa grade."
"Wait, so... other classes can be our allies?!"
Ishizaki, who had assud everyone else was an enemy, raised his voice.
"From today until July 16, you second-years will have about four weeks to form small groups of up to three people by choosing any two students you want. However, there are restrictions. As I said, group mbers must be from the sa grade—you cannot form groups with first-years or third-years."
aning they could team up with anyone from Class 2-D, 2-C, or 2-A.
First-years could form small groups of up to four, while third-years, like second-years, could form groups of up to three. It was even possible that all classes could collaborate to create the strongest possible team.
"Sensei, what happens if soone doesn't—or can't—form a group?"
"It's not mandatory, but while going solo might seem easier, larger groups have clear advantages. Not only do numbers help, but there are also bonuses for bigger groups. Choosing to fight alone is not advisable."
With such a blunt warning, most students would see forming a three-person group as the bare minimum.
"While groups seem overwhelmingly beneficial, once ford, you cannot switch groups for any reason."
Once the groups were set, they were locked in until the exam ended—effectively becoming fate-bound teams.
"Now, about large groups. Once the exam begins, small groups can rge into larger ones. Two three-person groups, three two-person groups—it doesn't matter. But there's a condition: any large group with four or more mbers must consist of at least 50% girls."
From a two-thirds majority last year to a 50% female requirent now. With these restrictions, staying in a one or two-person group could also be a viable strategy.
"If soone in a group drops out, the exam continues as long as at least one mber remains. In other words, the more mbers, the better you can handle accidents."
Makes sense. The importance of groups was undeniable. No matter how skilled a student was, injuries and illnesses were inevitable. Spreading that risk was essential for victory.
"Now that you understand the importance of groups, let's talk about rewards."
For the first ti, the impact of this exam on class standings was revealed.
Rewards:
- 1st Place Group: 300 Class Points, 1,000,000 Private Points, 1 Protect Point
- 2nd Place Group: 200 Class Points, 500,000 Private Points
- 3rd Place Group: 100 Class Points, 250,000 Private Points
- Top 50% (Including 1st–3rd): 50,000 Private Points
- Top 70%: 10,000 Private Points
The rewards displayed on the monitor—both in Class Points and Private Points—were staggering.
"While the rewards are substantial, the penalties are equally severe."
The word "penalties" sharpened the students' expressions. The specter of expulsion lood in their minds.
"Penalties will be imposed on the bottom-performing groups. Class Points will be deducted based on the results of the bottom three groups, but worse—students in the bottom five groups will face expulsion."
Summarizing Sakagami-sensei's explanation so far:
- A two-week survival exam on a deserted island.
- Requires diverse skills—overall ability matters, but teamwork is crucial.
- Top groups earn Class Points, Private Points, and other rewards.
- Bottom groups face penalties, including possible expulsion.
- Free to form small groups within the sa grade.
- Forming large groups during the exam won't be easy.
This was the gist, but the full picture still wasn't clear.
"I know this has been a lot to take in, but there's still more to explain."
"Seriously...? There's more...?"
Ishizaki groaned as if he'd had enough.
Taking a breath, Sakagami-sensei continued.
"Take a look at this."
The monitor switched again, displaying eight items.
Basic Cards:
- Advantage: Start the exam with 1.5x the usual points.
- Bonus: Doubles the holder's Private Point rewards.
- Half-Penalty: Cuts penalty Private Points in half (only for the holder).
- Piggyback: Gain half the Private Points earned by a designated group.
- Insurance: If disqualified due to illness, the holder gets one day to recover.
Special Cards:
- Extra mber: Allows a group to have a seventh mber.
- Null Penalty: Reduces penalty Private Points to zero.
- Trial: Increases Class Point rewards by 1.5x—but failing to rank in the top 30% results in a penalty.
"Wh-What are these?"
"These are like items that influence the exam. Each student will receive one card. Most of them are beneficial, with few exceptions."
From cards that boost performance to those that protect the holder, the variety was vast. The most intriguing was the Trial Card—a double-edged sword with high risk and high reward.
"Special Cards are limited—one per grade, distributed randomly. There's even a chance, however slim, that one group could end up with three Special Cards."
Between the exam rules, rewards, penalties, and now cards, the overview of the Deserted Island Survival was finally complete.
"I know this is a lot to process, but you still have ti. Think carefully about your group strategies."
As the bell rang, Sakagami-sensei left the classroom, marking the end of the explanation.
....
A new exam was announced, and break ti arrived.
The air buzzed with chatter about the upcoming test.
Amid the noise, Ishizaki and Kaneda stood up and made their way toward Ryūen—the usual pattern. These two would go to hear Ryūen's thoughts, and the class's direction would beco clear.
But—
"Ryūen-sa—?!"
Ishizaki's voice cut off as he staggered back.
Kaneda, too, retreated slowly, cold sweat beading on his forehead.
The entire class sensed the abnormality.
No one spoke. Everyone's eyes were fixed in one direction.
No—they could do nothing but stare.
At the current Ryūen.
Ryūen stood up, scanning the silent classroom.
"Tch...! Damn it...! Damn it all...!"
Unable to contain his frustration, Ryūen slamd his fist onto the desk.
A sharp **BANG** echoed through the room.
His gaze wasn't wandering. It was locked solely on .
His expression was indescribable. He was smiling, but there was no joy in it—only rage and intimidation.
Slowly, agonizingly slowly, Ryūen began walking toward .
I stood up to et him, and before I knew it, we were within striking distance.
"—You seem pissed."
Our glares clashed. His voice carried clearly.
Ryūen's grin was that of a man seconds away from throwing a punch.
"Damn right I'm pissed. Pissed that this goddamn idea even crossed my mind."
His voice was thick with fury, directed entirely at .
"An idea?"
"...I'm always thinking of plans to win. Because sotis, the best strategy cos from a single flash of inspiration."
An extre take, but not entirely wrong. Even the most well-considered plans can be overturned by a sudden epiphany.
Ryūen must've thought of the perfect strategy.
But for him, it was also the worst one.
"Heh. Worst. Fucking. Feeling. I thought of it first. It ca to first. Disgusting. I'm sick of my own goddamn thoughts."
Tilting his head back, covering his eyes with a hand, Ryūen laughed—a self-deprecating, almost cathartic laugh.
Then he faced forward again. Toward .
No hesitation left in his eyes.
His expression was one of acceptance.
And in the next mont—eyes wide open—Ryūen spoke the last words I ever expected to hear.
"—Partner up with . Hikigaya."
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