[I don't know what to call the Arcs... help...me...] - Kyoro Keikēko (Kyoro's my nickname, Himora is my last name.)
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'Three days on this boring ship and in this boring infirmary...' Kyoro said with a tired glare into space. 'For a cruise with supposedly everything, this is the most bland vacation ever.' Kyoro said before pulling out his phone.

"Man... that bastard that caused the whole case is after me... Can't be helped..." Kyoro mumbled before Hirata entered the room. "I knew you'd still be here. Weren't you discharged the second day?" He asked. "Maybe. This is my hideout. Horikita can't hurt me here, if she does it's a hate crime." Kyoro said with a smirk. "Well, that and there's nothing to do." Kyoro added with a huff. "That's not true. You have Sudō-kun, the guys, me, Horikita-san, Kushida-san, and I've been seeing you get close with Sakura-san, too." Hirata said making Kyoro smile. "You're a solid guy, Keiko-kun. I think with the right mindset and opportunity, you could have a lot of friends." Hirata added.

'Tch. Yeah, right. If I had the choice, I'd be a NEET.' Kyoro thought with an eye roll. "I'm planning to meet up with Karuizawa-san and the others at 12:30 to have lunch. Do you want to come with? I think it'll be really fun." Hirata offered. "Karuizawa and the others?" Kyoro asked. "Yeah. There are about three other girls. Want to come?" Hirata asked. Kyoro gained a thoughtful expression but sighed. "I'll have to pass. I don't think I'm on good terms with her group." Kyoro said with a sad smile. 'They'd be pretty weirded out if I went.'

"I can understand that you're feeling hesitant. That's exactly why I want you to rely on me." Hirata said. "You only have 10 minutes before you have to meet with them. It'd be better if you leave me here." Kyoro said shaking his head. "There's no need to hurry. Besides, I like spending time with you." Hirata responded. "Well, how about just the two of us have lunch together, you and me? Would that be okay?" Hirata asked. 'The hell? Is... he making a move on me?!' Kyoro thought in confusion. "That's not a problem with me, but didn't you already promise Karuizawa?" Kyoro asked. "I can eat with Karuizawa-san and the others any time, but I haven't really had many opportunities to eat with you, Keiko-kun." Hirata replied. 'It's Keikēk—... never mind. He'll never get it right.' Kyoro thought in annoyance. "I'd feel bad if she blamed you later." Kyoro added. "Don't worry. I don't think Karuizawa-san's the kind of girl to hold a grudge." Hirata said.

'What?! Yes, she is! She most definitely is!' Kyoro said squinting his eyes. "Okay. I'll turn Karuizawa-San down for today." Hirata stated. "W-Wait! You shouldn't—" "Is there anything you'd like to eat?" Hirata interrupted. "Literally anything." Kyoro answered with a sigh as Hirata called Karuizawa. He watched as Hirata bluntly said he was canceling before hanging up abruptly. "Well... can't fake being crippled anymore." Kyoro said standing up. "Where to?" He asked.

"How about the deck? I'm in the mood for a light meal, eating their should be best." Hirata responded. The two began walking down the hall. "Thank you for helping on the deserted island. I'm sorry I didn't thank you enough for helping find the culprit, Keiko-kun." Hirata began. "No need to apologize. I didn't really do much. Horikita found the underwear thief." Kyoro said. "Even so, I'm grateful to you for helping." Hirata insisted. "Did Karuizawa get her underwear back?" Kyoro asked. "Yeah. When she heard Ibuki-san was the culprit, things went smoothly." Hirata answered.

'Man, it's good the stuff on this boat don't cost points...' Kyoro thought as they reached the top deck and entered the restaurant. The two sat down in the almost full establishment and Kyoro began to smile until: "Honestly, there's something I want your advice on." Hirata said in an apologetic way. 'Damn it... I should've known.' Kyoro thought with annoyance. "Advice?" Kyoro questioned with a sigh of irritation. "I wondered if you would act as a bridge to help me reach Horikita-san. After all, Class D will have to come together and work hard in the future, and I think Horikita-san will be indispensable." Hirata requested. 'Jeez, guys are all over her.' Kyoro thought in even more irritation. "Go on." Kyoro said reading his menu. "The other day, Class D got a major boost thanks to Horikita-san. Class Morale has shot up, and more than anything else, the number of people who idolize Horikita-san has increased. This is a big opportunity." Hirata informed.

"I suppose so." Was all Kyoro said. "That's why I think she should try and get along with everyone right now. If she cooperated with us, I think we could get up to Class C, and then B... No, we could even reach Class A." Hirata said with confidence. "That's a lot of faith. Even if I bring you two together, it wouldn't be that easy. She's pretty difficult." Kyoro said. "Yes. I do understand, of course. Horikita only opens herself up to you, Keiko-kun. I don't want to force her confidence. That's why I wanted to tell you my intentions, so that you can talk to her. Then, pretend I never spoke to you." Hirata explained. 'So I'm supposed to be just some whisperer? If I did this it'd be a partnership with Hirata with out Horikita even knowing...' Kyoro thought. "If I thought she'd listen to me, things would be simple. But it won't be that easy. I... usually... just go along with whatever Horikita says. I've never really forced my opinion on her. If I just suddenly start voicing strong opinions, she'll probably find it suspicious, and if she traces them back to you, I think she'll shut down completely." Kyoro stated. "But I can't come up with anything else right now. I don't think I have the confidence to speak with Horikita-san, let alone persuade her. This is my last resort." Hirata said desperately. "Don't you think it's to soon for last resorts?" Kyoro asked. Kyoro ordered a sandwich, a soda, and a strawberry shortcake on the side.

"Yeah, you may be right. Like you said, Keiko-kun. My plan was really short-sighted." Hirata said in defeat. "I should probably reconsider how to do this. Horikita-san seems very fastidious and hypercritical. How do you manage to get along with her, Keiko-kun?" Hirata asked. "Who knows, I don't even think she likes me as a friend." Kyoro said before taking a bite of his sandwich. "But it does seem like Horikita-san gets along well with you alone, Keiko-kun. You're special to her." Hirata said with a small smirk. Kyoro shook his head taking a sip from his drink. 'Sure~...'

"There's no need to get inpatient, right? The first semester's only just ended. Horikita isn't the type to make friends easily." Kyoro said with a chuckle. "That's probably true. I wasn't thinking about her feelings. I was just thinking of myself." He said before smiling. "Sorry. I invited you out to eat and made it all about me. Let's eat, shall we?" Hirata said. "Already ahead of you." Kyoro said taking another bite of his sandwich. Kyoro took a sip from his soda but saw Hirata giving him a confused look. "What?" Kyoro asked.

"Ah, so you're here after all, Hirata-kun. Let's eat lunch together!" Karuizawa approached the two with a group of girls. "Um... Karuizawa-san, I thought I canceled our plans..." Hirata said sounding unsure. In seconds Karuizawa's group grabbed chairs from empty tables, pushed Kyoro away a bit, and circled around Hirata. Kyoro grumbled in annoyance before standing up with his food. "I'll be going. Thanks for the invite, Hirata-kun." Kyoro said leaving, giving Hirata no time to protest.

•

'I think... I'm safe...' Kyoro thought leaning back on the infirmary bed. 'I guess I could've stayed with Hirata, but I was already annoyed...' Kyoro thought thinking about past events. 'Everyone's after Horikit— holy shit, I'm jealous... that's— just, wow...' Kyoro thought in shock. Kyoro felt his phone vibrate and took it out of his pocket. "Why not." Kyoro said after reading the email.

•

Kyoro walked up to a sighing Sakura.

"You alrig— Ugh!" Kyoro was elbowed in the stomach as Sakura turned around with a yelp. 'My lunch...' Kyoro said falling to a knee. "Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry!" Sakura said flustered. "You're... good." Kyoro said standing up. "Anyway, what's up?" Kyoro asked rubbing his stomach.

"Keikēko-kun, you're roommates with Hirata-kun, Kōenji-kun, and Yukimura-kun. Right?" Sakura asked. "Well, before the infirmary, yeah. What's the matter?" Kyoro responded. "Oh. Well, to tell you the truth, I... I'm a little worried about the people I'm sharing a room with." Sakura admit. "Don't think you can get along with them?" Kyoro asked. "I'm not sure. I have mixed feelings. I do want to get along with them, but I also want to be alone, too. I'm just hopeless, aren't I?" Sakura said trailing off. "Who are you rooming with?" Kyoro asked. "Oh. Didn't I tell you? Shinohara-san, Ichihashi-san, and Maezono-san." Sakura informed. 'Shinohara...she had me patted down. All of them are followers of Karuizawa, almost like henchmen. All of them have strong personalities, each of them contrasting from Sakura's. Hmm... ' Kyoro thought. "So, why'd you ask me?" Kyoro asked with a suggestive smirk. "I... just thought any advice from y-you would be good..." Sakura muttered. "I-I'm sorry to just come to you for help like this out of the blue. You're probably still recovering." Sakura mumbled. "I'm not, anyway, let me think." Kyoro said before closing his now glowing eyes. Before Kyoro could get deep in thought the two heard a door open up near them.

"Huh? Kyoro and Sakura-san? What are you doing here?" Kikyō asked coming out of a room. Sakura's happy expression immediately disappeared, making the atmosphere uncomfortable. 'Good lord woman— don't make it so obvious you don't trust her!' Kyoro said seeing Sakura's change in emotions. "Ah, did I interrupt? I didn't mean to. I was supposed to meet up with some friends." Kikyō asked. "I'm going back to my room." Sakura said before escaping quickly. Kikyō clasped her hands in apology before turning to Kyoro. "Oh. I'm sorry. I guess that was bad timing. I probably shouldn't have said anything." Kikyō said. Kyoro just sighed before shaking his head. 'I'll get back to her.' He thought before turning to Kikyō.

"Oh, that reminds me. I feel like this is only the second time we've talked since getting back in the ship. I did see you hanging out with a bunch of girls earlier, from a distance." Kikyō said with a sly grin. "Psh. Yeah, right. More like bullied. I'd never willing put myself in that much drama." Kyoro said with a playful scoff. "Hmm. I've made plans to go see some girls from Class C today. Do you want to come, Kyoro?" Kikyō asked. "Hmm... You sure?" Kyoro asked. "Huh?! You'll come?" Kikyō asked in shock, her normal tone being replaced by her cold one. "Ha! Sike. I just told you I'd never do something like that, didn't I?" Kyoro said with a chuckle.

"Oh, ha, ha. Jeez, come on. You surprised me a little." Kikyō said. "Well, I'll be going." Kikyō said before both of our phones made a loud ringing sound. 'No...' Kyoro said in horror. The two took out their phones and saw a message from the school. "What is it?" Kikyō asked. 'Please, no...' Kyoro thought before opening the email. Kyoro ignored the announcement that began playing and closed his eyes.

"A special test will begin soon. Please gather in the designated room at the designated time. Anyone who arrives later than 10 minutes after start time may be penalized. Please gather in room 204 on the second deck by 18:00 today. Because it takes about 20 minutes to reach the area, we ask that you please use the restrooms now if necessary. Either silence your phone or turn it off, and make your way over."

As soon as Kyoro finished reading, he reeled back his arm while shouting, "SON OF A B—"

•

Kyoro didn't end up throwing his phone and sat against the wall, Kikyō standing beside him.

"What's your meet time?" Kyoro asked. "20:40, what's yours?" Kikyō asked. "18:00. Hold on." Kyoro said before pulling out his phone again.

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—•
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[Kyoro]: Did you get a message from the school just now?

Yeah. I did. :[Suzune]

[Kyoro]: My designated meeting time is 18:00. What's yours?

Mine says 20:40. That seems like a pretty big difference. :[Suzune]

[Kyoro]: 20:40, huh?

I'm curious about the difference in start times. That might be unfair— some people will get more time to prepare that others.
:[Suzune]

[Kyoro]: We can't know anything for sure at this point.

There are several things that I'm still curious about, but we don't really have the time. Well just have to show up to the meeting spot. Because your time is earlier, I look forward to hearing your report. :[Suzune]

[Kyoro]: Yes, ma'am...

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[ • ]
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"Kyoro?" Kikyō said leaning over to see his conversation. 'Welp. More fu— flipping problems...' Kyoro thought standing up.

"Well, I've got like 18 minutes now. I'll be seeing you." Kyoro said before walking away.

~•~

'You're messing with me... Lord, although thou doesn't believe-th, please help me.' Kyoro thought entering the designated room.

His sights were set on two of his classmates, Sotomura, aka 'The Professor', a stereotypical otaku, and Yukimura, another nerd.

"So, one of the remaining two spots belongs to Keikēko-dono, I see! Most agreeable!" Sotomura said with enthusiasm. 'I recommended one anime, dude. Chill...' Kyoro said squinting his eyes. "This is rather odd, isn't it, Keikēko?" Yukimura asked, one of Kyoro's roommates. 'Alright, what the hell is going on?' Kyoro thought before sighing. Kyoro took a seat next to Yukimura and noticed an empty seat beside himself. "We are still waiting on one more. Please sit quietly." Mashima-sensei said without looking at the three. Kyoro and the others sat in silence until someone opened the door.

"Pardon the intrusion!" Karuizawa said entering the room. 'Another unexpected twist... great~...' Kyoro thought placing his head in his propped up palm. "I believe you were told punctuality was key, and yet you're late. Hurry and take you seat." Mashima-sensei said. "Okay." Karuizawa said emphasizing that she wasn't pleased to be there. Karuizawa grabbed the seat beside Kyoro, not before moving it a bit away from Kyoro. "You think you're funny?" Kyoro whispered in annoyance. "Yup." Karuizawa said with a smirk.

"Sotomura, Yukimura, Keikēko, and Karuizawa, from Class D. Without further ado, I will now explain the special test." Mashima-sensei started. 'Finall—' "W-Wait a minute. I don't understand. What do you mean, explain a test? The test was already over, right? Also, what's the deal with these guys? This is really weird." Karuizawa said going on a tangent. "I will not any answer any questions at this time. Be quiet and listen." Mashima said giving Karuizawa a cold leer. "Jeez, alright. Fine, I'll shut up." Karuizawa said rolling her eyes. 'I've been told this guy is cold-hearted. He's even colder than Chabashira-sensei, well, she's not that cold to me, I guess. But she always looks unbothered and uncooperative, he just looks impossible to read. I wonder if he keeps everyone at a distance...' Kyoro thought.

"In this special test, all first-year students will be divided into twelve groups based on the signs of the Zodiac. Everyone will participate within their respective group. The purpose of this examination is to test your thinking." Mashima-sensei explained. 'Test our thinking? What does that even mean?' Kyoro thought in confusion. "What do you mean by 'test our thinking'?" Karuizawa asked, not being able to keep quiet. "I've already told you. I will not be answering any questions." Mashima-sensei said sternly, Karuizawa picking up the gravity of the situation. "Society needs three fundamental qualities in order to progress: action, thinking, and teamwork. Those with the necessary qualities will become wonderful adults. The previous exam on the uninhabited island focused heavily on testing your teamwork. However, we shall now test your thinking in four ways: your ability to thoroughly process information, which is an essential component of this test. Your ability to analyze your current situation and clarify the task at hand. Your ability to solve the problem after you've clarified the process and identified the task. The ability to utilize your imagination, and the ability to create new values. Those are qualities you'll need." Mashima finished. 'That didn't tell me shit.' Kyoro thought as his eye twitched. "As I've said, in this test we have divided you all into twelve groups. Are there any questions thus far?" Mashima-sensei asked.

"I don't get what any of this means. Can you explain it in a way that's easier to understand? I mean, okay, I understand that we're being divided into twelve groups, but why am I together with these guys? What about Hirata-kun? Or the other girls? And I still don't get what we're doing. Tell me. Come on, please?" Karuizawa rambled. 'She's obsessed. And the hell are you trying to say?!' Kyoro thought, reaching his last nerve. "You four gathered here will be in the same group. At this very moment, students in other rooms are receiving the same explanation you are." Mashima-sensei added. "If that's true, then wouldn't it be way faster and easier if you just gathered all our classmates together in one place and explained? Also, what's the reason for putting me with these three? These guys gross me out. Just look at him," Karuizawa said glancing at Kyoro. "His eyes look dangerous. They're freaky..." Karuizawa said as Kyoro gave her a side-eye, his giving of a glint of malice. 'I'm just gonna be quiet. I respect Hirata too much to snap at her.' Kyoro said shooting her a small glare, Karuizawa flinching before looking away. "How about you shut up and try listening? The rest is probably going to start soon. If they dock our points because you keep blabbing, are you gonna take responsibility? Even back on the deserted island, you dragged us all down. Can you try not to cause any more problems?" Yukimura said losing his patience. 'Guess I wouldn't have need to.' Kyoro thought shaking his head. "Huh? When and how exactly did I cause problems? You're pissing me off." Karuizawa retorted. "Calm down, you too. Yukimura, your concerns are groundless. The test hasn't yet begun, so you won't be affected. Besides, your attitude has no bearing on this test." Mashima-sensei informed. "See? Now you get it, right?" Karuizawa said to Yukimura with a smug smile, said boy glaring in irritation.

"Karuizawa, you should watch your tone with teachers. Could be on your permanent record, and that wouldn't be good, right?" Kyoro said without looking at her, Karuizawa giving a huff, Yukimura giving a snort. "Before any of you start bickering, or adding comments, shut up." Kyoro said making his eyes glow. The three other students flinched and turned forward in their seats. "Please continue, Sensei." Kyoro said taking his head out of his palm, his eyes returning to normal.

"Thank you, Keikēko. It's rather simple. The groups don't consist of members from just one class; they are made up of about three to five individuals from each class. If we didn't explain things in advance, we would run the risk of confusion." Mashima-sensei started. The others looked like they wanted to speak but Kyoro gave a glare making them stop in their tracks. "Right now, you shouldn't spend your energy on trying to understand this test. Rather focus on how to think. Your group assignment is 'Rabbit'. Here is a list of the members. You will be required to return this list when you leave the room. If you feel it's necessary, I would recommend trying to memorize it now." Mashima-sensei said before passing out postcard-sized pieces of paper.

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Class A: Takemoto Shigeru, Machida Kouji, Morishige Takurou

Class B: Ichinose Honami, Hamaguchi Tetsuya, Beppu Ryouta

Class C: Ibuki Mio, Manabe Shiho, Yabu Nanami, Yamashita Saki

Class D: Keikēko Kyoro, Karuizawa Kei, Sotomura Hideo, Yukimura Teruhiko
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'Ichinose and Ibuki are the only recognizable names. This is going to be chaos...' Kyoro thought with a sigh.

"Don't worry. I will answer any questions you have. I believe you will be able to understand everything afterward. Probably. The point of this test is to ignore the prior fraught relationships between Classes A through D. If you do, you'll have a shortcut. From this point on, you are no longer acting as members of Class D, but rather as members of the Rabbit group. Whether you pass or fail this test depends on each group. There are four possible outcomes that can be achieved in this special test. No exceptions. We have also prepared handouts with grade items so that you may better understand them. However, you are prohibited from taking these handouts, taking photographs of them, or anything if the sort. You should verify the contents here and now." Mashima-sensei finished.

[A/N: I'm lazy... sorry...]

'This is tedious... With these eyes it can't be that hard.' Kyoro thought. 'I think there's something else, though...'

"This exam has one critical element. Understand it, and this test will not pose a problem. The key element is the existence of the VIP. There is only one VIP in the group. In the test, you're after the name of the VIP. It's that simple. For example, Yukimura, let's say that you were chosen as VIP. The correct answer for the Rabbit group would be 'Yukimura'. That answer would be shared with all members of your group. Then, after the test concludes at 9:00 p.m. at the end of the third day, the school would accept answer submissions only between 9:30 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. During that time, each member of your group should enter the name 'Yukimura' in a message and email it to the school. Your group would pass, and we would confirm that you've met Outcome #1, and thus every member of your group would be awarded 500,000 points. In addition, as a reward for leading their group to achieving Outcome #1, the VIP would receive double that amount— 1,000,000 points." Mashima-sensei explained.

"O-One Million?! Whoa." Karuizawa said in surprise. "Wait, everyone receives 500,000 points? And if you're the VIP, you get double?" Yukimura asked. 'Good lord, that's a lot no matter what... Now I want to win...' Kyoro thought with a unimpressed gaze.

"Now then, as for Outcome #2... In the event that the VIP's identity is not discovered before the end of the examination, and no one in your group found out the identity of the VIP or some even attempted to lie about the identity, then only the VIP will be awarded points, just as it says. He or she will receive 500,000 points." Mashima continued.

'Now that's just bullshit. They're just rewarding randoms and not the hard-workers... I'm a hard-worker... I want points...' Kyoro thought in sadness. "Jeez, everyone's gonna be jealous of the VIP! Not being picked for it would be unfair! No matter what happens, that person still gets points! And if we get Outcome #1, it's a million points!" Karuizawa said. 'That's only two of four outcomes, others might gun for the third and fourth...' Kyoro thought before nodding toward Mashima-sensei.

"Regarding the remaining outcomes, they are written on the reverse side of the handout. However, please wait a bit before turning the paper over." Mashima-sensei started, his eyes turning sharp. 'Seems like the exam is starting.' Kyoro thought seeing his shift in attitude. "Ah, wait a minute. I'm not following you at all." Karuizawa admit. '...Really?' Kyoro thought squinting his eyes at her.

"Very well, I will explain in simpler terms. Have you ever played the game Werewolf?" Mashima-sensei asked. 'Okay—what the fuck?' Kyoro thought visibly confused. "Werewolf? Oh, that game's been popular for a while, right? Yeah, yeah, I've played it. It's pretty interesting." Karuizawa answered. 'Okay—what the fuck?' Kyoro thought showing even more confusion, Karuizawa seeing his expression. "Wait a second, Keiko-kun, don't tell me you don't know about Werewolf? Woah, I can't believe it." Karuizawa said amazed. 'I'm not into that Twilight bullshit! Even if it's not Twilight— I've never heard of it! And it's not like I can play by myself...' Kyoro thought with a sigh, going back to a bored look.

"I'm sorry. It's just, like, not having friends must be so sad." Karuizawa said sounding apologetic. "Retract the sympathy." Kyoro spat with a glare, Karuizawa rolling her eyes before beginning to explain. "Well, you get together with your— some friends, and then you divide people up as either villagers or wolves. The one who survives at the end is the winner. Get it?" She asked. "The hell I did! You didn't explain a single rule!" Kyoro said with a tick mark. "I'm just gonna assume it's like the exam, and go from there..." Kyoro said waving her off.

"Although I said that there is only one VIP in the group, of the VIP is exposed right away, then Outcomes #3 and #4 will appear." Mashima-sensei started. Kyoro pointed star the paper while looking Mashima-sensei, getting a nod in response, the group flipped over the paper.

'Well, at least that shows the bigger picture. This would be pointless without Outcomes #3 and 4. Traitor rules, huh...' Kyoro thought.

"The school will take anonymity into account during this test. At the end, only the outcomes for each group and the increase or decrease in points for each class will be announced. In other words, we will not announce the names of the VIP's or those who submitted answers. Also, if you wish, you may have a temporary ID assigned to you, to which you can transfer points. If you yourself remain quiet, there should be no fear of discovery after the test. Of course, if it's not necessary for you to hide your identity, you may receive your points openly. That is perfectly fine." Mashima-sensei informed. "Outcomes #3 and #4 are very different from the first two. That's why they are listed on the reverse side of the sheet. With that, the explanation is complete." Mashima-sensei announced.

"Umm, umm. I kind of get it, but I kind of don't." Karuizawa admit. "Heh, I must confess that I myself am somewhat confused." Sotomura said as well. "You two are idiots. I'll explain it later, so don't keep bothering Mashima-sensei." Yukimura said, kissing up to Mashima-sensei. Kyoro ignored them with a blank face.

'This is so boring... It's just going to bratty teenagers being uncooperative. If I wanna get this over with, I need to start strategizing...' Kyoro thought. As Kyoro was thinking he heard Mashima-sensei give two bits of information. "There should also be a list of prohibited actions on the sheet. Make sure to examine it thoroughly." He said before seeing them gaze at the paper again. "Tomorrow, you will go to your designated room at 1:00 p.m. and again at 8:00 p.m. Your group's name will be displayed on a nameplate outside. Be sure to introduce yourselves when you meet the other members for the first time. After you've entered, leaving the room during the examination is not permitted. Please use the restroom ahead of time. In the event that you feel ill or can't endure it any longer, please contact your homeroom teacher immediately and make a request." Mashima-sensei continued. "The explanation is written on the sheet. The discussion period is one hour. Aside from self-introduction upon your initial meeting, you are free to use that time however you like. Once the hour has passed, you are free to remain in the room or to leave." Mashima-sensei added.

"Ugh. I just wish we had a test that was more fun." Karuizawa said. "The school is committed to fairness, so we will be strict and impartial. After the VIP has been selected, we will not accept any changes, not even if the VIP wants to be changed. In addition, copying, deleting, transferring, or modifying emails sent from the school is prohibited. Understand these points clearly." Mashima-sensei replied. Kyoro looked as if he was ignoring them, his hand on his chin and his eyes closed. "Hey, Keikēko. You've been quiet. Do you actually understand everything?" Yukimura asked.

"Of course." Kyoro said standing up. The three males noticed Karuizawa pulling out her phone. 'Give him a break...' Kyoro thought feeling sorry for who she's about to call. "Ah, hi, Hirata-kun? There was something I wanted to talk about." Karuizawa started.

"Maybe in the morning there'll be a notification that one of us was chosen as the VIP. If one of us is chosen, it'd be smart not to spread it around carelessly. We don't know who might be listening. Let's get to a secure location before sharing info." Yukimura said taking the lead. "Sure." Kyoro responded. "Karuizawa may be gone, but I want to talk about tomorrow. It makes sense to discuss it with just the three of us. Let's go." Yukimura added. "I am terribly sorry, but I must decline your invitation. For you see, the Love Love Alive anime class, and I cannot afford to miss its siren song. I bid you farewell. Hi-yah!" Sotomura said before leaving. "It's useless if it's just us two..." Yukimura said shaking his head.

'Well then, our vacation is over... Let Round Two begin.' Kyoro thought before leaving with a wave.

•

Kyoro was walking with Hirata to a spot on the second deck.

'I just can't catch a break. I wanna sleep. Maybe the usual five hours. Maybe a difficult eight. Maybe forever.' Kyoro thought staring into space. "It doesn't seem like all of these people are in my group." Hirata said as they arrived. "Then who are they?" Kyoro asked placing his hand in his pants pockets. "That's Morimiya-kun, from Class A. And that one near the elevator is Tokitou-kun, from Class C." Hirata answered. 'Does he just know everyone?' Kyoro thought in confusion.

"Unless I'm mistaken, you're also in the group meeting at 20:40, yes?" Katsuragi asked someone. Kyoro turned to his voice and saw he was talking to Suzune. "Yes, I am. And what exactly does that have to do with you?" Suzune asked. "I knew it. That's good news. I wanted to speak with you again. I'm also in the 20:40 group. Starting tomorrow, we will be working together." Katsuragi replied.

'They're fucking with me. They have to be. Why does she get such a broken team. I'm stuck with normies and nobodies...' Kyoro thought before groaning with volume.

"You wanted to speak with me? Funny. Didn't you completely ignore me the other day?" Suzune asked. "You're correct. I certainly haven't acknowledged anyone in Class D until now, that was including the Mystic Eyes. I am to think he is a fluke under influence..." Katsuragi said trailing off at the end, a scowl on his face. 'I heard that, asshole!' Kyoro thought with a small glare. "However, considering the incredible results from last test, it would be impossible for me not to pay attention to you. Wouldn't you agree? You laid the groundwork to win, and succeeded handsomely." Katsuragi praised. 'From his perspective, and everyone else's but Suzune's, they all think she's the only mastermind. My lie made her popularity throughout the first-year girls. Unfortunately, Horikita didn't respond well to people who wanted to become friends with her. Surprisingly, she hasn't hurt as many girls as she used too. I guess they see her selfishness as concern for the class. Due to her new status, people see her as a superior student— no, a puppet master, the mastermind behind the scenes. They now all see her... as a threat.' Kyoro deducted in his head. "I don't know what the future might hold, but... should Class D overtake Class C, know that Class A would attack without mercy." Katsuragi declared. "That's rather petty. From Class A's perspective, are we such a big deal? I mean, there's a significant gap in points between us." Suzune responded. "That's certainly true. However, we must be cautious. It's no laughing matter when those who have been perceived as weak and stupid begin to rise up. If one class manages to change its station, we must be vigilant. I would give the same warning to both Classes B and C." Katsuragi exclaimed.

"I don't like hanging up on people, or threatening other classes." An approaching Kanzaki stated. 'If he's in this group, it's official. My suicidal tendencies are back.' Kyoro thought seeing how stacked Hirata's group could be. "You don't need to waste time on Katsuragi. He's just trying to get to you." Kanzaki said to Suzune. "You needn't concern yourself. Class D has always been regarded as inferior. I'd welcome any change in our reputation." Suzune responded. "I see. It appears you feel we've treated you callously up until now. Certainly, many in my class have made light of Class D. However, your success on the island changed people's opinions." Katsuragi said before making a dismissive gesture. "However, just because you got lucky and won by complete chance doesn't make us equals." Katsuragi added. "What do you mean?" Suzune asked. "Anyone could accomplish something like that out of pure luck. It's better that you don't grow arrogant and behave foolishly after a win that came about by chance. Remember that the difference in our class points is still massive." Katsuragi answered.

"We haven't gotten into college yet. I don't think you and I are so different. The school arbitrarily divided us into different classes. Don't forget that." Suzune retorted. "Hirata, looks like you landed a troublesome group." Kanzaki said. 'Oh yeah. Forgot that they're against each other... Civil War.' Kyoro thought before smirking. "Yes. Though if I'm with you, Kanzaki-kun, and Katsuragi-kun, struggle has to be inevitable." Hirata replied.

"Oh I don't think so." Said someone walking from behind Kyoro and past him. 'This bitch.' Kyoro thought rolling his eyes. "Well, well. So many fish in this pond. I've come to take a look for myself." Ryuen exclaimed. "Are you apart of this meeting as well? Or were you just waking by?" Katsuragi asked. "Unfortunately, it looks like I'm with you." Ryuen responded as three of his lackeys followed behind him. "How about you put on a little show? What do you think of Beauty and the Beast?" Ryūen said looking at Suzune and Katsuragi before letting out a chuckle.

"I'm outta here. This is just battle of the egos at this point." Kyoro mumbled as Kikyō arrived and engaged in a conversation with the rest. "Good luck..." Kyoro added shaking his head.

~•~

Kyoro was wearing his pink hoodie and black sweatpants while sipping coffee at the ships cafe, Blue Ocean. He was seated in a shaded area in the pack devoid of people, looking awfully gloomy. It was 7:55 in the morning.

"And~ there she is." Kyoro said now making a small smile. He was referring to Suzune who seated herself in front of him. "You're rather early." Suzune commented. "I've been here all morning scaring away customers." Kyoro said placing his head in his propped palm. "Being a weirdo, as usual." Suzune said shaking her head. "Disregarding that insult, find out anything new?" Kyoro asked. "Just what you already told me. There are twelve groups, and four outcomes. Also, the school said they would send the names of the VIPs via email at 8:00 a.m. today. Any minor differences in the explanations they gave us could be attributed to differences in the way teachers communicate." Suzune answered.

"Kay then. Next up, Who's in your group and how many?" Kyoro asked before sipping from his coffee. "The list is honestly surprising. It's biased to the point where I can't imagine it's a coincidence." Suzune responded. She gave Kyoro a piece of loose-leaf paper with the names of everyone from her group.

______

Class A: Katsuragi Kouhei, Nishikawa Ryouko, Matoba Shinji, Yano Koharu

Class B: Andou Saya, Kanzaki Ryuji,Tsube Hitomi

Class C: Oda Takumi, Suzuki Hidetoshi, Sonoda Masashi, Ryūen Kakeru

Class D: Kushida Kikyō, Hirata Yousuke, Horikita Suzune

______

Kyoro began laughing quietly after reading all the names.

"This is hilarious," he started before taking a deep breath seeing Suzune's glare. "S-Sorry." He said before taking a glance at the paper again. "This seems a bit unnatural." Kyoro said with a raised eyebrow.

"You mean Ichinose-san being in your group, don't you? I suppose only the Class B students know if she's really excellent or not. A leader's qualities and level of excellence aren't necessarily proportional." Suzune said. "Are you talking about yourself?" Kyoro asked stifling a laugh. Suzune glared at him making Kyoro clear his throat and looked away. "From what we can deduce, I wonder if there's a certain method they're using to sort us into twelve groups? Kyoro, your grades are just barely above Karuizawa-san's. Are they grouping us based on our scores? Oh, but Yukimura-kun has high academic ability, and so does Kōenji-kun. They're at the top of the class." Suzune said. Kyoro squinted his eyes at the mention of his grades. "At any rate, this is probably going to be difficult. Trying to lead the group and to outmaneuver everyone, I mean." Suzune added. 'Duh. You and Ryūen are like Water and Fire. I don't like it; they're bound clash.' Kyoro said shaking his head.

"It's just about time." Kyoro said just before the clock struck 8:00. Their phones buzzed and the two checked their phones. After reading over the school's message, the two showed each other their phones. "Seems that it's neither of us." Suzune said. "I'm not sure if we should be happy our sad. If you're chosen, then you could lead your group to any of the outcomes." Kyoro said. "Even so, I don't like how they wrote it. It's like they're saying I'm not qualified to be VIP." Suzune said with visible annoyance, Kyoro chuckling at her words. "In this test, there's a huge difference between the chosen students and the rest. Everyone who wasn't chosen will need to struggle to find the VIP. The school said there were no disadvantages, but that was a lie. Unless the VIP is in you class, there's a high probability that the point difference between classes will widen further." Suzune explained. "The leaders of each group should be coming up with a number of strategies already. If we don't decide early on how we're going to conduct ourselves, we probably won't recover." Kyoro stated. "I understand." Suzune said as Kyoro's eyes began to glow. He put his hand to his chin and looked down at his steaming coffee.

"Are you thinking about results?" Suzune asked hesitantly seeing Kyoro's expression. "There's something's I still can't process, like how some of the students I don't know will react. I won't know until I meet with them directly. But I thought if a way to lead us to victory." Kyoro said with a shrug, the glow dissipating from his eyes. "I look forward to your results." Suzune responded. "Don't be so formal," Kyoro said before taking a sip from his cofffee. "But I do look forward to yours as well." He added. 'Hmm. I still don't get why the worded it that way. They obviously hand picked the VIP, they said thorough consideration. Whatever, I don't have time for this.' Kyoro thought with a sigh. "For the sake of reference, who are you most wary of? Based on how things have been going, I wanted your thoughts." Suzune asked.

"Ryūen." Kyoro said without hesitation. "That was fast." Suzune said. "There's no one else I'd choose. I mean, he did break my arm." Kyoro said lifting his right arm slightly. "What about Katsuragi?" Suzune asked. "Baldie's an excellent student, but I'm still wary of Ryūen by a mile." Kyoro answered. "I'm curious about some things concerning the VIP's identity. Even after reading the message and thinking about it, did you notice any unnatural-sounding phrases in the school's email? And the strict—" Suzune was cut off by Kyoro pressing his index finger against her lips. 'Speak of the asshole and he shall appear...' Kyoro thought rolling his eyes.

"Nice weather, eh Suzune? You having breakfast with this cling beta male?" Ryūen asked approaching the two with Ibuki at his side. Suzune wanted to speak but Kyoro used his foot to move Suzune chair to his side. "Well if it isn't Ryūen. I suggest you keep her first name out of your mouth if you don't want round two." Kyoro said feigning friendliness. Ibuki flinched slightly but Ryūen just glared. "You should've received the message already. What were the results? Were you chosen as the VIP?" Ryūen asked no longer smiling. 'Seems he intended to mock us...' Kyoro thought with a smirk. "As If I would tell you. Perhaps you'd like to tell us about your message?" Suzune asked. "If you wish." Ryūen said before grabbing a different table's chair and setting in front of their table before straddling it. "But before that, I want to ask you something. How did you wrangle those results on the island test?" Ryūen asked.

"I have nothing to tell you." Suzune responded. 'Such a great facade!' Kyoro thought in awe seeing Suzune's calm demeanor. "I suppose you wouldn't give anything away, but that doesn't matter. According to my information, there's no way that your farcical bumbling on the island should've led to victory." Ryūen exclaimed. "I'm not so stupid that I'd let someone like her see through me. Things were simply more difficult because of my fever." Suzune said, irritating Ibuki. "In that case let's have a rematch." Ibuki challenged. "Regrettably, I must decline your offer. Violent actions are considered a violation of the test rules. If you do happen to strike me, I will not hesitate to report it to the school. At any rate, please feel free to do whatever you please." Suzune said. Ibuki clicked her tongue and closed the distance between herself and Suzune. Kyoro flashed as a grin making her stop and hesitantly back away.

"Since we're all together, how about we have some coffee? It seems like a good time to enjoy a nice cup." Suzune said. She ordered a cup of coffee and Kyoro ordered another two. Ryūen showed no signs of leaving, apparently wanting to continue the conversation. The two's orders arrived and Kyoro and Suzune simultaneously sipped their coffee. 'That was cool.' Kyoro thought with a smirk.

"Yesterday, it seemed Katsuragi was rather cautious of you." Ryūen started. "Well, that's understandable. He couldn't hav guessed that someone from Class D would do so well. Isn't that why you and Ibuki-san are here? You came to check on me. Am I wrong?" Suzune asked. "Heh. Well, I won't deny that. I cane here to measure your abilities for myself." Ryuen responded. "Of course." Suzune answered.

'Wonder how this'll go...' Kyoro thought seeing the two stare each other down.

____________________________________

I underestimated the length of Volume 4...

Anyway, this what you all have for right now... Sorry. I've only got a little bit of school work before I'm on this full time. But until then, have the GIF I made below.

Ciao!