Several days after the deserted island test had ended,
I found myself lying on an incredibly luxurious bed that I couldn't experience in my own room, experiencing a refreshing awakening since the morning.
Suppressing my drowsiness and checking the time, it was already 10 AM, much later than my usual waking time. It seemed I had overslept a bit due to the overwhelming luxury of this bed, which I had never slept on before.
"As expected, it's amazing!"
As I sat up and looked around, I noticed my roommates—Ishizaki, Komiya, and Kondo—engrossed in lively conversation about something, seemingly unaware of my presence.
I forced myself to stand up, still feeling sleepy, and it seemed the three of them had been engrossed in their conversation and hadn't noticed me until now, as I hadn't heard any noise until then.
"Oh! Hikigaya, good morning!"
"Hey, good morning. What were you guys talking about?"
"It's about Ryuen-san!"
Ah, I see.
Listening in, it seemed their admiration for Ryuen had intensified once again as they discussed his impressive posture when he secured first place in the deserted island test. Ryuen's remarkable achievements were clearly a topic of excitement.
I couldn't help but think again that these guys are way too fond of Ryuen.
Well, certainly, Ryuen's performance on the deserted island was nothing short of impressive. He single-handedly devised strategies, executed them, and led our class to victory. Usui and the others might seem unaffected, but admiration for Ryuen, who accomplished such feats, was undoubtedly growing.
"With Ryuen-san around, Class A could really become a dream!"
After the deserted island test, the class points were as follows:
- Class A: 1174 cp
- Class B: 813 cp
- Class C: 718 cp
- Class D: 142 cp
Compared to May, Class C showed the most growth in points. This was undoubtedly because of Ryuen; it made sense that Usui and the others would say that.
But this school operates on collective responsibility and group battles. While other classes strengthen their bonds through events like the deserted island test, Class C lacked that. Even during the test, only Ryuen, Kaneda, and Ibuki took action, so there was no cooperation on strategies.
Currently, Ryuen's autocratic leadership holds the class together, and his trustworthiness has risen significantly since May. However, it's a dangerously fragile balance. Ryuen's methods might be effective in the short term, but this school spans three years with the same group of people. Depending solely on Ryuen could lead to vulnerabilities in the future.
To prevent that, the entire class needs to grow together and strengthen their bonds.
"Well then, let's go grab some food!"
It seemed they had been waiting until I woke up, so without giving it much thought I thanked them and left the room with Ishizaki and the others.
...
After having lunch with Ishizaki and the others, I parted ways with them and hurried to the meeting place I had arranged yesterday with Ayanokoji.
The meeting spot was a free space on the lowest floor of this ship. While it wasn't strictly off-limits, students rarely ventured there, and even the staff avoided it. It was perfect for our needs.
"Sorry to keep you waiting."
"No worries, I just got here."
As I arrived at the meeting place, I found Ayanokoji leaning against the wall, waiting.
"So, I have some things I want to ask..."
I had called Ayanokoji to exchange opinions and strategize regarding the White Room. He might have information about the White Room that I didn't know, and I also wanted to discuss the results of the deserted island test.
We talked about the White Room for a while, but we didn't uncover much. It seemed Ayanokoji had similar information to mine, so there wasn't much progress.
"Indeed, assassins might be sent from the White Room."
"Yeah, but it would be difficult for that guy to do anything at this school. If they were to come, it would probably be when we advance to the next grade... or even before that."
Ayanokoji's assessment was spot on. This school was protected by the country, which was why both Ayanokoji and I had chosen it. Even with that guy's power, it would take time, and forcibly retrieving us would be impossible against this school.
"I'd be glad if our predictions were wrong, but if it's that guy, he'll try any means to bring us back."
"If he finds that a direct approach won't work, he might try to expel us based on the school's rules."
Ayanokoji quietly nodded in agreement with my words.
"So, what do you say we join forces?"
"...What exactly do you have in mind?"
This idea had crossed my mind since I first encountered Ayanokoji . Despite the different circumstances bringing us here, our goals aligned. Moreover, knowing Ayanokoji's father's nature assured me that he wouldn't view us as enemies.
"Let's collaborate on dealing with matters concerning the White Room. Our goals are aligned, right? It's better to tackle them together. Besides, having an ally who knows you makes it easier for both of us to act. Don't you agree?"
Mutual interests make for the best partnerships. Ayanokoji and I had that.
"...Alright. It's a welcome proposal from my side as well."
Ayanokoji agreed and extended his hand, seeking a handshake from me.
This was certainly a beneficial agreement for both of us.
Still, we both understood that this could potentially backfire on us.
"Yeah. Count on me from now on."
Even so, I shook Ayanokoji's hand.
…..
"A message to all students. An email containing a message from the school has just been sent to all students. Please check your sample and follow the instructions. I repeat--"
As Ayanokoji and I were about to part ways, an announcement from the school echoed through the ship.
"Seems like there's still something going on."
"Well, this school does have a nasty character."
We exchanged these words and checked the email that had been sent. It instructed us to go to a designated place at a specified time.
When Ayanokoji and I compared our emails, we found out we were assigned the same time and place. It appeared to be a test where groups would be formed within each class. The staggered times were probably to explain the instructions to each group, and it seemed like Ayanokoji and I being in the same group was just a coincidence.
"Shall we go then?"
"Yeah."
Since it was almost time, Ayanokoji and I headed to the designated location.
...It feels kinda weird.
Ayanokoji and I have had some interaction, but we're practically strangers. The first time we really talked was after coming to this school.
It almost feels unbelievable that we're walking side by side now.
"By the way, why didn't you move during the deserted island test?"
As we climbed the stairs, feeling uneasy, I asked him something I had forgotten to do earlier.
"...I didn't intend to win that test. I thought it would be better to lose this time for Horikita's sake and to raise the class's standing."
"Is that part of your plan against the White Room?"
"That too, but also because the teachers in my class are troublesome."
"Teachers? What's the issue? You should be able to handle anything."
"They seem to have hints about my past. Right now, I'm cooperating with them reluctantly."
He said it with his usual expressionless face, but could it be that lightly said? If they know about it...
"You seem to be thinking, but maybe they're just pretending to know."
As if he understood what I was thinking, he responded to my question.
"I doubted it at first, but what you told me dispelled those thoughts. The chairman here must know about the White Room, right? So, they wouldn't leave our information lying around."
That makes sense. There's no way a mere teacher would know about the White Room, and Director Sakayanagi wouldn't make such a mistake.
"I see. So you're cooperating now just in case something happens."
"If the teachers get orders from the White Room, I'll follow along. Is that the idea?"
"That's about it. And in that exam, I even tried to figure out who the leader of Class C was. Did you advise me on that?"
"I didn't do anything. It was all decided by our leader. I was just enjoying my vacation."
"...I also thought Class C was the best option."
"...Yeah. Do your best."
He must be struggling too. After all, the class itself has its problems.
As we continued chatting, we arrived at the designated location. I realized we had arrived about five minutes before the assembly time, which was quite close, but still okay since we were early. I opened the door.
…..
Upon entering the room, we were prompted by the teacher present to take our seats, apparently being the last to arrive. From Class C, it seemed that Ibuki, Manabe, Yabu, and myself were the members of this group.
Across classes A to D, about four students each had gathered in this room.
Once the teacher confirmed everyone was present, they began explaining about this special exam. We were divided into 12 groups, each represented by one of the zodiac signs. The group I was in belonged to "卯" (the sign of the rabbit).
The key to this test is how to treat the one "favored individual" in the group.
There were four possible outcomes from this exam:
Result 1:
If, after the exam, the entire group shares and aligns their answer correctly including the designated special person:
- The special person receives 1 million PP (Points),
- All others receive 500,000 PP.
Result 2:
If someone in the group provides an incorrect answer:
- The special person receives 500,000 PP.
Result 3:
If the group correctly identifies the special person before the exam ends:
- Each student who correctly identifies receives 500,000 PP,
- Their class receives 50 CP (Class Points),
- The special person's class loses 50 CP.
Result 4:
If the group incorrectly identifies the special person before the exam ends:
- Each student who incorrectly identifies loses 50 CP for their class,
- The special person receives 500,000 PP,
- The special person's class loses 50 CP.
Answers provided by students from the same class as the special person are invalid.
We were required to discuss in the designated rooms at 1 PM and 8 PM respectively, and spend an hour in each room.
That roughly summed up the contents.
Looking around the group, it was clear that many students hadn't fully grasped the explanations yet, as they seemed perplexed. This exam would likely involve various strategies, but it was different.
The key would be whether we could pick up on a single hint.
Given this school's penchant for wordplay, this exam was likely designed with that in mind.
…..
After finishing the explanation for the special exam, I headed towards my room and was approached by a young man and woman.
"You're Hikigaya, right?"
"...Yeah, that's me."
Who are these people? Despite having few friends, I should remember acquaintances I've met before.
"Oh! So you really are Hikigaya! Just as Hime-san... Sakayanagi said, you fit the description."
A blond guy walked up from behind, eyeing me as he spoke. So it was Sakayanagi's doing.
"I'm Hashimoto Masayoshi, and this is Kamuro Masumi ."
"Hey, could you not introduce us without permission?"
Hashimoto introduced himself, but Kamuro seemed dissatisfied, glaring at Hashimoto.
"I'm Hachiman Hikigaya. What do you want?"
"Well, you see, Hime-san couldn't make it to this exam. She said she was feeling lonely and wanted to hear your voice. She asked me to get your contact info."
Hashimoto grinned as he spoke, but it was hard to judge if that was really his intention.
...Well, if that's true, I guess I'm somewhat glad.
I took Hashimoto's contact info and, on impulse, exchanged contacts with both Hashimoto and Kamuro. Kamuro seemed reluctantly pulled along by Hashimoto.
"Well then, we're off. Still have things to do. Hikigaya, make sure to call Hime-san soon~"
Waving goodbye, Hashimoto left with his usual smirk, and Kamuro, without saying anything, followed. I glanced over Sakayanagi's contact info.
But Kamuro... definitely seems to have a weakness exploited. That demeanor suggests they've been caught since enrollment. Hashimoto is an easy type to understand. A versatile guy who gives a good impression to everyone. Seems like quite a capable ally.
...Anyway, what should I do? Of course, I should probably call, but it's awkward to ask why they gave me their contact info.
No, perhaps it's all calculated that I'd be this flustered. Maybe it's better to call soon.
I gathered my resolve and pressed the call button.
"Is this Hachiman?"
The call connected almost instantly, catching me off guard.
"Isn't this a bit too fast? This is the quickest connection I've ever had."
"Hehe, I thought it was about time. Did you hear about the results of the unmanned island test? Did you do it, Hachiman?"
"No, it had nothing to do with me. It was all Ryuuen's achievement."
"Well, well. He might end up being my opponent too."
"So, what about today?"
"Haven't you heard from Hashimoto? I was feeling lonely, so I wanted to talk to you, Hachiman."
"...I see."
"There was quite a pause."
Without realizing it, I'm already following Sakayanagi's pace. No, is it always like this?
"There's one more thing I'd like to ask you."
"What is it?"
"I also want to spend time with you, Hachiman. So, would you give me the rest of your summer vacation?"
"What... Do you mean by that?"
Not sure of the exact meaning, I asked Sakayanagi again, and she replied with a slightly different tone.
"Just as I said. I want to make memories with you. Since everyone else seems to be enjoying their time with you, I want to be with you too... I realized I felt jealous."
"...Well, if that's what you want, I'm fine with it."
I agreed since spending time with Sakayanagi seemed enjoyable. We chatted for a while, and just as it was about time to end the call,
"Good luck, okay? A-na-ta~."
She said that last bit and hung up suddenly.
It caught me off guard, and for a moment, my thoughts froze.
"...Was that a bit too bold, perhaps?"
=================================
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Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!
Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!
Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!
Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!
The shipboard exam has finally begun.
At the designated time, I head to the specified location, knock on the door, and enter the room. From here on, it was time for the students to think. It seems the school has left whatever results come from this to the students themselves.
The exam has started, but no one seems eager to start talking.
"Well, since there are some unfamiliar faces, how about we start with introductions?"
Breaking the silence in the room is Ichinose from Class B. Ichinose seems to be quite popular, rivaling the top students in this school—I've heard rumors to that effect.
Ichinose's suggestion is met with agreement from Class B and even some from Class D. Introductions proceed from Class D up to Class B, and then it's A Class's turn.
"For this exam, we in Class A won't be discussing. That's our policy for this round."
"Does that mean you won't be involved in the exam?"
"Yes. That's Katsuragi's idea, the strategy of Class A."
I see. Katsuragi must be aiming to maintain the status quo. It seems typical of Katsuragi to think in such a self-preserving way.
"I see... Well, I guess that can't be helped."
Despite the disapproval from members of Class A, Ichinose doesn't seem bothered.
"Anyway, isn't it best to aim for the top result, result 1? Wouldn't that be the best approach?"
Karuizawa from Class D speaks while messing around with his smartphone.
Voices seeking result 1 are heard from classes other than A. It seems aiming for a result where no one loses out is indeed the best approach.
Following that, discussions aiming for result 1 take place, and the discussion time for this round concludes.
"This exam is such a hassle."
I stand up from my chair and stretch. Next to me, Ibuki, who was sitting there, speaks up.
"Yeah, really. I'm not confident in my communication skills, so this exam is depressing for me. It was reassuring to have you here, Ibuki."
"Yeah, it might be. Without you, I might not have been able to participate in the discussion."
We in Class C have become the center of attention after ranking first in the recent exam, drawing wary glances from the other classes when we entered this room.
While complaining to Ibuki, we notice Manabe from our class confronting Karuizawa from Class D with an irritated voice. It seems they're having an argument, but eventually Karuizawa asks for help from Class A and the conflict ends.
"...I'm really glad you were here."
Even classmates like us find this situation so troublesome that Ibuki and I simultaneously sigh.
…
After wrapping up the discussion in the initial group, I was resting in my room when I heard a notification sound on my smartphone.
"Those who received special treatment, come to my room to show me what you've got. I intend to reward those who come to show."
The notification is from Ryuuen, and it seems he's trying to strategize for this exam. Depending on the outcome this time, Class C might become a target. How to handle that is crucial this time.
What also concerns me is Ayanokoji. He seemed to ponder a bit after the earlier argument between Manabe and Karuizawa. If he's thinking strategically about the exam...
Well, whatever. I could foresee this to some extent, and it doesn't pose any problems for me. Ayanokoji and I are currently in a cooperative relationship, so if Ayanokoji becomes more active, it might actually work out better for me.
I stop pondering and lounge around the room for a while when my phone chimes again with a new notification.
"Let's go eat. Come to this restaurant."
Once again, it's Ryuuen messaging me. He even sent detailed information about the restaurant.
I hadn't been keeping track of time while in the room, but it was already past 7 PM. Saying "let's go eat " must mean he's finished confirming the special treatment recipients in the class.
I didn't expect to be invited by Ryuuen. Since there's no reason to refuse, I leave the room.
….
Right now, Ryuen and I are having dinner. The restaurant Ryuen chose is the most popular one on this ship. It's rare for Ryuen to choose such a crowded place, but I'm digging into a steak that's a whopping four centimeters thick.
"You seem to be enjoying it quite a bit."
"Yeah... this is... really delicious."
I chew and swallow the thick meat. It's my first time eating such hot meat, so I'm quite impressed.
"But seriously, what's gotten into you all of a sudden?"
"Heh. There's something I want to discuss... about the exam."
Ryuen raises his voice slightly when he mentions the exam. Naturally, students from other classes also use this restaurant. Talking about the exam here is like revealing what's on his mind. As expected, with the uninhabited island exam in mind, it seems like all the students in the restaurant are eavesdropping on our conversation. Among them are faces of leaders from various classes, attracted by the popularity of this restaurant on the ship.
"About the exam... so, did you come up with something?"
I decided to go along with this conversation for now. The moment I engage, Ryuen breaks into a smile, so it seems my choice wasn't wrong.
"Well, I'll let you in on it. I've figured out the VIP rule."
At Ryuen's words, the restaurant falls silent for a moment, then buzzes with new commotion. Whether this is true or false, this seems to be Ryuen's intention.
"That's impressive. With that, it's almost like you've won this round of exams. Why not share your answer?"
I intentionally reply, and Ryuen smiles wickedly...
"I'm just being kind, you know. Giving the idiots from the other classes even a slight chance with such an easy VIP rule."
A bold provocation.
To make such a statement in front of so many students is, needless to say, stirring up anger among the students in the restaurant. Katsuragi , who happened to be here, and even Horikita are frowning, apparently not believing Ryuen's words.
Well, it's kind of like saying you guys are idiots indirectly.
"It's just like you. But as a member of the same class, I'm grateful. By the way, I heard you were treating us today, but are your private points okay?"
I steer the conversation to Ryuen's liking, and he responds with a smile, apparently enjoying my response.
"I don't mind that. I'll be getting points from Class A, after all."
"Points from Class A? What do you mean?"
I ask again, this time more conspicuously. The students in the restaurant seem even more curious about my last statement, and Katsuragi is frowning.
"There's someone who made a contract with me during the uninhabited island exam. They fell for my plan and are sending me 800,000 points every month from Class A."
This new revelation astonishes everyone in the restaurant. Obtaining such a large amount of 800,000 points naturally elicits such reactions.
"So that happened. In that case, let's eat generously."
I start eating my steak again.
"Getting points so easily, and from Class A at that. I wonder how long you'll remain in Class A."
With this high-level taunt at the end, one of the guys from Class A who couldn't bear it any longer suddenly stands up roughly from his chair.
"You!!"
He runs towards us, fists raised, clearly intending to punch Ryuen.
We're a few seconds away from him due to the distance, so I look at Ryuen to see what he'll do. He was waiting for me to look at him, it seems, as he points at the guy running towards him and then points at me.
"What?"
In other words, he's telling me to stop him.
Hey, what are you saying without consulting me first?
Even if I tried to say that, he's already almost here. Despite that, Ryuen just smiles confidently without saying a word.
"I guess there's no choice."
"What...!?"
"...Huh?"
I'm not sure whose voice that was, but it seemed to come from somewhere.
Looking around, all eyes are on me, staring at me with looks of disbelief.
What I did was simple. As the guy ran towards me, I tripped him and restrained his arm, rendering him powerless.
That's all I did. There are probably others who could do this. Yet the stares directed at me don't disappear. It's as if they've seen something unbelievable.
"Oi oi. What was with that speed just now..."
Ryuen, who was watching from closest to me, let out a surprised voice.
Yeah. Probably because the stares aren't on me due to a series of speeds. It was sudden, so I put a little effort into it.
"Let go! This guy! This guy!!"
The man I was holding down seemed to have realized his situation and started to flail about, glaring at Ryuuen.
That's right. Maybe I can use this situation to get away with it.
"Stop! Yahiko!"
"K-Katsuragi-san..."
"Huh. I want you to discipline your subordinates properly."
Katsuragi rushes over from behind and scolds Ryuen, but ignores him and looks at me.
"Sorry. One of my class members was rude. Could you let him go?"
He bows his head and apologizes, so I decide to let go quietly, hoping that what happened earlier will be forgotten.
"Hey hey, are you ignoring me?"
"Shut up! All you've been spouting since earlier is nonsense! You think you've figured out the rule of the privileged? There's no way someone like you would understand!"
"That's scary huh... Hey Suzune, what do you think?"
Turning my gaze towards her as I had been watching from the sidelines, I looked at Horikita. Ayanokoji was also near her. Wait, you were here too?
"Why should I have to answer? I distinctly told you not to address me by name."
Despite her puzzled expression, she responded to us.
"Just a little question. Do you think I've figured out the rule of the privileged? ...Hey Hikigaya, record Suzune's next response."
He muttered this quietly so only I could hear. I reluctantly pressed the record button on my phone; this was going to be quite mean if I used it.
"I have no intention of putting up with your nonsense. The fact that you haven't replied is proof enough of that. I'd rather you not involve me in your childish games."
"Y-yes! You have no evidence, so don't make nonsense!"
Horikita replied in a shocked voice, and the one called Yahiko replied in agreement.
"I apologize for that. Now then, Katsuragi."
"... What is it?"
"I'll let you off the hook this time around."
"What are you talking about..."
At that moment, Ryuen took out his phone, dialed someone, and put it on speaker. This action left those around him visibly surprised.
"What is it, Ryuen-san?"
The call connected almost immediately. Apparently, it was Kaneda.
"You were in the bird group, right?"
"Yes, that's right, but..."
"~ is the privileged person. Answer."
At that moment, a loud bang reverberated through the store. He had turned pale and was now staring in shock.
"... That's for sure, isn't it?"
"Do you think I'm reckless?"
"... It was a stupid question."
The conversation ended there, and the next moment–––––
"The bird group's exam has ended. The bird group no longer needs to participate in future exams. Please be careful not to disturb other students."
The announcement of the end of the exam echoed throughout the ship.
"No way... that can't be..."
Likely a member of Class A who was privileged in the bird group collapsed to their knees, staring at the ground in disbelief.
"I can't believe it... You're the privileged one!?"
Even Horikita, who had been looking down on him until the very end, couldn't hide her surprise at the revelation of the privileged member.
"Sorry, Suzune. Let's go along with my little game."
"!!"
Perhaps recalling his own words, Horikita's face twisted in frustration.
"Well, if my nonsense comes true... it'll be fun."
Saying this, Ryuen started to leave the store. Feeling awkward standing alone in this atmosphere, I followed Ryuen. He snatched my smartphone and turned the volume to the maximum...
"I have no intention of putting up with your nonsense.The fact that you haven't answered says it all. I don't want to be involved in such childish games."
"Y-yes! You have no evidence, so don't make nonsense!"
The remarks I had recorded earlier echoed through the store.
This guy is shameless. Just before leaving the store, I glanced over and noticed Horikita trembling with a red face and Yahiko looking angry with flushed cheeks.
….
From there, the exam proceeded without any particular incidents.
One surprising point was on the second day when the Monkey group's answer was revealed; that was likely the work of Kōenji. Considering the members of the Monkey group, only Kōenji would be capable of such a feat.
In my group, "U" (卯), the most noteworthy action occurred on the final day when the D class made some moves. By swapping SIM cards, Ayanokoji and Yukimura, along with the actions in Karuizawa, it seems likely that Class A made a mistaken answer.
However, the way I saw Ayanokoji in Karuizawa on the final day seemed a bit different. It appears he may have succeeded in persuading someone.
Just earlier, I received an email regarding the groups of Rat, Horse, and Boar. It seems Ryuuen has made a move. It looks like he's targeting Class A, so I wonder what the outcome will be...
Based on the results, the changes in class and private points in this main exam are as follows:
- Class A: -200 CP, +2 Million PP
- Class B: No change, +2Million PP
- Class C: +150 CP, +5,5 Million PP
- Class D: +50 CP, +3 Million PP
Class C finishing first and Class A last is as expected. Since Class C targeted Class A, this is natural. What's intriguing is Class D; I suspect Kōenji was responsible, but whether it was a shot in the dark or he noticed a pattern among the privileged, I don't know. Regardless, Kōenji is someone to be cautious of.
I stood out a bit too much in the restaurant incident this time, so I'll need to restrain myself a bit from now on. With that wish in mind, I settled into the final night aboard the luxurious cruise ship.
=================================
Want to support me?
You can join as member in my P4TR30N
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See ya!!
Creation is hard, cheer me up!
Creation is hard, cheer me up!
Creation is hard, cheer me up!
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