"Denko! Denko!"

In this yet sunny dusk, a large loud voice emerged from the jungle entrance as I guided the three criminals with me through a compilation of chains. That voice belonged to Karlos who would walk into the vicinity only to witness the scourging fire consuming the entirety of everything Percy had stood for previously.

"What is happening?! Why is everything on fire?!"

We stopped and we turned around in Karlos direction, who was paranoid beyond belief.

"You see, that guy tried to kill us."

The criminal Takeshi Kuzan spoke and then Saitou Rayazaki continued.

"Because everyone is out there hunting the others down, he thought that this would be the perfect chance to try and kill us..."

"That's where this nice lady came in! She saw the malice in such action and she decided to free us instead of allowing us to be burnt alive!"

It went without saying that their reactions were normal. They blatantly lied to Karlos without a second thought as this was all in Ryousuke Kawahara's plan. However, I couldn't do exactly that and so, in order to not raise suspicion, I fake a helpless attitude.

"I-It couldn't be... helped... I don't know what happened to Percy but if I had stayed any longer there I would've..."

"She would've died, tough guy! Hey, you made it out too! Guess you're both lucky as fuck then!"

Ryousuke Kawahara's verbal interference is only provoking Karlos as Karlos is unsure of one thing as he spoke to me in an uncaring tone completely dismissing my emotional facade.

"Denko! Why would you take these criminals with you?! You should've just let them die and then escape!"

"Wh--- I couldn't do that! I'm not a devil! I can't just stand and see people die like that! What is wrong with you?!"

"But the rewards!"

"What rewards, Karlos?! Percy is gone! There are no more rewards! At that point I would be nothing but a cold-blooded murder! Plus, they are under my control!"

"......"

Having acknowledged that Percy Phoenix is no longer alive, Karlos saw no reason to stay attached to this and as such, he lost a fair amount of willpower as he didn't know what to do.

He scratched the back of his bald head, looked down and then apologized.

"Ok, I am sorry. What now though?"

To this, Ryousuke Kawahara answered.

"Hey, baldy! We meet up with the rest! I gave all of them the others' locations so they are on the hunt for them. Join Denko, will you?"

If Karlos were to absorb Ryousuke Kawahara's words alone, he might suspect the current event even further, so I spoke in addition.

"It would be really nice if you were with us, Karlos. We need to meet up with the rest and inform them of the current circumstance."

I smiled and he then assumed something outrageous.

"Oh, I get it! Women need to be protected at a time like this, don't they?!"

With a wide laugh, Karlos then proceeded to attempt to touch my right shoulder as a method to comfort me, but I distanced myself a few centimeters to the back in order to reject his approach.

"Don't touch me, Karlos. I would like you to keep an eye on these three, so don't worry about me. Who knows what they might do."

Giving him a task to do, I pointed at the three criminals and I additionally offered Karlos the chains that I am currently holding. But he seemed more hung up on the fact that his approach was completely rejected.

"Why can't I touch you?!"

"Can you not? This is not the time for this, Karlos..."

I am unsure of whether or not Karlos is attracted to me, but if he is, then all the more reason for him to distance himself from me.

However, I didn't need to further say anything as the three other criminals started to chant a song out loud. Firstly, Ryousuke Kawahara began.

"S is for seduction, you've been charmed by her corruptions~"

Saitou Rayazaki then continued as Karlos began to wonder what was happening. As for me, I didn't have a clue either, all I knew was that they were chanting a song out loud.

"And "I" is for impressing girls online with your investment~"

"Huh?! What the hell are you---"

Takeshi Kuzan didn't care for Karlos' retorts and continued the chanting.

"And the "M" is for the money that you've lost since this all started~"

Then, the three of them collectively began to chant the upcoming sentence in an extremely loud tone which even managed to bother me a bit.

"But that "P" is for the princess always gave her what she wanted~"

Unable to bear this mockery no longer, Karlos interrupted the three of them who were happily chanting that by shackling the chains from their ankles and wrists.

"Shut up! Shut up! SHUT UP!"

A vibration combinated by the shock of the chains rearing in their bodies made them stop the chanting as the pain they felt was quite staggering.

"Ouch!"

"Fuck, man, it was just a joke!"

"Motherfucker, stop doing that!"

Karlos then proceeded to instigate them further with shackle vibrations as he found it funny, but I stopped him.

"Cut it out! We need to go! If you're going to be like this, then stay here. Well?!"

I forced him to make a decision as I was tired of his attitude and he quicky complied with a bow as an apology.

"S-Sorry, Denko! Ok, where to?!"

I pointed in the north-west direction of the map in my hands right now as Ryousuke Kawahara had told me that was the direction Hiruyima Rokoro had gone to.

"Alright!"

Feeling proud and needed, Karlos dragged the three of them forcefully through their chains as they were forced to meet their pace, but this would cause me to walk way faster than necessary, so I stopped him transiently.

"Walk slower!"

"...Alright..."

The three of them then grinned for a while but the moment Karlos turned around to look in their direction, no such emotion was present in their faces.

"You laughed just now, didn't you?!"

On his left rigid hand, Karlos was pressing the compilation of chains, but with his right hand, he grabbed Ryousuke Kawahara's collar. A frontal confrontation was then formed.

"I didn't. Also, seriously, stop wasting time. The more we delay this, the more confused the rest will be."

"He's right, Karlos. Do you want people to walk into the vicinity with this much fire?"

"Oh, right!"

At last, Karlos refused to argue any longer and we then walked through the jungle for about thirty minutes.

Noticeably, at that time, I was feeling tired and since Karlos was switching back and forth because he had to keep an eye on the criminals, this didn't give me a chance to interact with Ryousuke Kawahara. Our eye glances would trade often and I could already tell that he wanted to talk with me too, but it would be too awkward.

"Can we eat something..."

"Please....."

Takeshi Kuzan and Saitou Rayazaki were constantly asking for food but the truth was, we had none with us at the moment...

It made me wonder how exactly Ryousuke Kawahara endured his life in the wild before we had came here.

Karlos would blurt out insults on how criminals don't deserve food and I would keep my silence.

Ultimately, as we passed a gigantic lake, Ryousuke Kawahara walked back a little bit and matched me, who was in the bottom line. Our eyes finally crossed for more than just a simple transcience.

"Can we drink some water? Water is more essential to us than food, if I'm honest..."

"...It's not me who has the power to decide here... Talk with him."

I was firmly convinced that Karlos would object that suggestion if Ryousuke Kawahara were to tell him that they needed to drink water, but Ryousuke Kawahara pointed something out that I was missing.

"No, you, talk to him and tell him that we are about to drop dead. He'll listen to you. Dude wants to get in your pants, for fuck's sake."

I kicked his left calf with my sharp right foot and then talked to Karlos as we were walking on this gigantic linear edge filled with a water of a density so calm and peaceful that the sound of the small waves was barely there at all.

"Hey, Karlos? Could you let them drink some water? They'll die at this rate and Ryousuke Kawahara is necessary for this."

"A-Are you sure?! What if they try and run?!"

To this, I facepalmed as I couldn't believe in the words I had just listened to.

"How would they run when you have them on the leash..."

"Oh!"

Why is Karlos so dumb?

Anyway, they were given the permission to drink water and they drank so much water that they were only done drinking water two minutes later. Furthermore, they washed their hairs a bit with the glacial water whose temperatures were surely beyond cold. However, this probably felt extremely refreshing for them.

Afterwards, we began our adventure once again as the sun was arguably falling out of sight and the rising moon would surely take the top spot in this starry sky soon.

Though we were in a hurry, everyone of us except for Karlos gazed upon the millions of stars in the sky as their luminosity reflected an abysmal radiance on the lake blessing us.

Despite the fact that I am an individual who is blessed with a more-than-average lifestyle, I've never been in an island before in my whole life and I am sure if I were to tell this to anyone, then I would be ridiculed. I wouldn't want that.

The moment we exited the lake area, I confirmed that we were almost in the south center of the island. As soon as we get there, we would have to go all the way to the northwest side. It went without saying that this trip invited several hours to come.

Something to also note is that the silence had became way too awkward as the environments that we switched from would be the only thing that would capture our attentions yet to Ryousuke Kawahara, this was nothing new. Karlos and I had way more surprised expressions than the others.

Of course, it wouldn't be for long until we found some students. In the midst of the forest with trees so tall that they would threaten the sky, we meet up with five other students.

They were block D students. Two boys and three girls. As they witnessed the current scenario, I placed myself in front of Karlos and went out to meet the rest of them with a smile.

"Hi! I take it you are in Rokoro's group? What's your name?"

I was talking to one of the girls who had an average bob cut which would actually intertwine well along with her black hair color. She was small but had a good build too. Naturally, she kept switching eyes back and forth with the three criminals on Karlos' side.

"My name is Akari, Denko-senpai! And what are---"

Before Akari could form any assumptions, I began to explain what had happened as the remaining students absorbed this information as well. As expected, they were shocked at first.

"No way... But why...?"

"I don't know, Akari... But we need to warn the others to not return there. Where is Rokoro?"

One of the boys spoke instead of Akari. He had a brown ponytail with small glasses to his face. But on one hand, his voice was that of a mature person.

"He is just up ahead! We are taking a small break to eat. After all, we brought some food with us."

As soon as he heard this, Takeshi Kuzan couldn't help but speak out.

"Give it to me! I am dying here!!"

"Shut up!"

Karlos once again vibrated the chains thus causing frequent pain to them, which was good because the five of them didn't get scared. However, Ryousuke Kawara ignored the pain and launched an offer.

"Let me see him. Rokoro needs to know what has happened as soon as possible."

Almost out of instinct, Karlos would vibrate the shackles every time despite what Ryousuke Kawahara had just said didn't invite any danger. As a matter of fact, it invited the opposite.

Either way, we kept moving forward in this area with wooden trees and fallen leaves on its ground. A chilly wind would pass through us every now and then. Karlos was taking the charge as he was in the front line leading the criminals onwards; binded by their own chains. Meanwhile, the other five students were on my side as they saught better answers for what had happened.

To Akari, but more to all of them, I spoke.

"I was in the middle of preparing the dinner for the guards and butlers..."

"I remember that! I helped out too but once the locations were leaked out I had to go!"

Saraka, a girl with average middle length black hair confirmed that she was there at that moment too and just like every single other person, she had to walk away.

"Yes---and the moment I was serving the dinner, a fire in the vicinity had started from Percy's jet... I don't know why it happened but I didn't want to let people die so I brought them along with me... I asked Karlos to keep them chained up so they wouldn't harm anyone but---I am, I am not sure.... What if they---"

Karlos, overhearing this conversation, felt the need to have his own line as he reverted his neck slightly just to get on our sights. With a pump on his massive chest, he didn't hesitate to state his emotional approach...

"I will protect you, Denko!"

".......Yeah, thanks..."

Extremely dispirited and disgusted, if I'm honest, I replied back and with that, the three criminals started to chant yet again, collectively.

"Until you had an empty wallet, you're a simp plain and simple~ Little simp getting swindled~"

If anything, the way their symphony is so coordinated is impressive, but just like everyone present, we had no idea what they were singing, but it would soon end as Karlos, out of rage would shake them completely with their chains.

"Enough with the singing!"

Eventually, we arrived at a water fountain area that contained a brutal number of students. Of course, the parameter was rocky and the water fountain was actually a waterfall above the river course on the north side which would then descend into a small bay. Plenty of lively bonfires were implanted in order to keep the lights on.

They were all shocked as we entered the parameter and began to distance themselves from Ryousuke Kawahara in specific. Some of them even fall under the water.

"Ryousuke Kawahara?! What's he doing here!?"

A bold and explosive male individual began to draw his knife with a fear so obvious that the knife itself fell from his hand. Screams could also be heard through the entirety of students, but Karlos dispelled some of their fear though not completely.

"Don't be afraid! They are under my control!"

"That still doesn't answer the damn question! Why are they here?! We are all gonna die! Run for it!"

As everything was falling apart, the only thing that united all students was Hiruyima Rokoro, who shouted, though his voice was weak but it helped more than what Karlos had said.

"Hold on! Let's hear what Denko-dono has to say first! And I am seeing a cloud of smoke from afar!"

He approached me as I began to approach him. Noticeably, I am a little bit more taller than Rokoro, but he demanded an explanation and the students were staying in order to hear me out so I quickly told them the gist of it.

"My God... Are you okay?!"

"Denko-senpai, are you hurt anywhere?!"

Like the kind human beings that they all are, they started to care about me.

"I am fine, I am fine... Thank you for asking... So, please, don't be stressed. We have the situation under control."

Karlos once again shackled them and the moment they demonstrated physical suffering, the reactions of everyone present surely calmed down. Yet, despite being in front of three criminals, Hiruyima Rokoro hastily went past me and meet up with Ryousuke Kawahara.

Oddly enough, he was undoubtedly eccentric about having this conversation which shocked everyone, myself included.

"Kawahara-dono! You made it out alive!"

"So it seems, my little junior. Taking a break?"

"Why, yes. We are having dinner with the food that was for sale back at the vicinity, but now it appears that the vicinity is gone... I must communicate this with Damian-dono!"

Although I had absolutely no idea how that was possible, Rokoro pulled out a walkie-talkie from his back pocket and relayed a message to Damian. If I recall correctly, Damian's component were two walkie-talkies, so that explains how he's currently communicating with him.

"Damian-dono?! It is I! Yes, everything alright here, but Denko-dono just informed us that the vicinity has been burned down and there is in fact an enormous cloud of smoke in south direction! Really? You'll confirm it for us?! Thank you so much!"

Ending the call, Rokoro communicated the good news to everyone present.

"Everyone! Damian-dono is currently is charge of checking what truly had happened, for those who doubted this event! Rest assured as the truth will be unveiled!"

This managed to calm everyone down and I felt the need to say something to Rokoro.

"Rokoro, why do you have his walkie-talkie?"

Not Rokoro, but Kawahara on my right, answered that.

"For communication purposes, of course. It was a good call because the power source was most likely destroyed and thus, the objects that are associated to it will not work. Am I wrong here, kiddo?"

"Not at all, Kawahara-dono! I've been trying to light the lantern up for the longest time but it stopped working a few hours ago! I was unsure of what had happened but if there is a power source device that was destroyed, then this makes perfect sense!"

Out of curiosity, Akari asked something, which didn't make a lot of sense for everyone present.

"Then, how come the walkie-talkie is working just fine...?"

"Er..."

Rokoro looked in doubt even though he most likely had an answer, but not even I had an answer to that, so Ryousuke Kawahara gave that answer instead.

"The walkie-talkie is not associated with the device, that's why. Power source manufacturers rely on signals to make devices who rely on it to work. I am saying, the case doesn't apply here."

"And why should we believe you...?"

Rokoro proceeded to dismiss Akari's doubt fairly quickly, as Rokoro was someone that Akari had a fondness for, since she was quite nerdy as well.

"You misunderstand, Akari-dono! Kawahara-dono is absolutely right because we could never get any signals outside of the vicinity which meant that the power plant was sustaining a power only there! If that power plant truly doesn't exist anymore, then it is possible that this object belongs to an entire different power!"

"That would explain why we haven't been successful in utilizing the devices that we bought from Percy-senpai..."

"Yes! Yes! Akari-dono, you understand!"

Another individual in the midst of the compilation of students gathered in this area spoke something that would bring the attention of many.

"Um... What are we going to do now that Percy-senpai is...?!"

"........"

A terrified silence came forth and not even Rokoro could say anything to dispel the tension in this atmosphere. But, Ryousuke Kawahara saw no trouble and spoke up to the group entirely.

"I am not saying this actually happened, but would it be strange if the other criminals had worked their way into burning down the vicinity on their own? We couldn't do any of that because we were locked up, so it's meaningless to suspect us. Henceforth---I suggest that we focus our numbers on the current goal at the moment. After all, I was the one who gave you the locations, so take me as your hostage for that matter."

"You are jumping to conclusions too fast, Ryousuke Kawahara."

I interrupted him like that as I couldn't allow him to lead the conversation here. Nobody believes in him and everyone believes in me, so this is the correct path.

I walked up and brought the distance that was between me and the students to a close end.

"First of all, we have to let the others know that this has happened. Instead of caring for something as selfish as the hunt, we should secure everyone. I am sure that you all have friends in other groups and you want to see if they are doing alright or not."

"That's true..."

"I wonder how Maya is doing..."

This was the first step to do here as they are all human beings with traditional worries. I can't just dismiss their emotions like that.

But then, Ryousuke Kawahara made another suggestion.

"Hey, kiddo? I got another offer. I think this one might interest you more than the rest though."

"Oh, what is it, Kawahara-dono?!"

It was baffling to everyone how Hiruyima Rokoro could easily trust Ryousuke Kawahara yet for some reason, I couldn't sense the previous malice that Ryousuke Kawahara possessed when he left Percy's jet when he talks with Rokoro.

He feels like one of us.

"Since the goal is on halt, we could secure the location first and then, focus on meeting up with the rest. When Damian calls you back, tell him to come here; this way we have more people on our side."

"But what's the point in hunting them down anymore if Percy Phoenix is truly gone...?"

"There isn't. You are stuck in this island permanently."

"What?!"

Multiple people shouted that as Ryousuke Kawahara told them what he thought was the truth, but he then explained an alternative.

"Or not."

"Huh?"

"It's simple, really. Us criminals as a whole are here on an exam and when we complete it, we will get out of this island. Naturally, all of you will be able to leave too. But, if you don't want to leave this island, then it's your choice. Primal death is respectable!"

They began to feel terrified as they lost in what to believe in, but I then said something that would calm them down.

"Although Percy is no longer with us, we will find a way out! So, please, don't lose hope. I ask of you..."

I kneled down and asked them to remain calm, which was humiliating yet necessary at the moment.

After five to six seconds, Akari touched the top of my head and said some humble words.

"...We believe you, Denko-senpai..."

"Yes, Denko-dono! You neend't worry! However, everyone I am going to----"

At that moment, Rokoro got a call from his walkie-talkie and put it in full volume so we could hear it too. A concentration near Rokoro was therefore formed.

"Rokoro, you were right! Everything around here is burnt down! Even the jets are absolutely destroyed! Percy was killed along with several other girls!"

Naturally, this brought the shock of many and even screams emerged on the surface of this newly born night.

"The criminals escaped as well! They must've---"

"No, Damian-dono! Denko took them in with her and Karlos-dono! She didn't want to let them die and mercifully spared them!"

"What?! Is she out of her mind?!"

I demanded Rokoro to give me the walkie-talkie as I could initiate a conversation with Damian.

"Hello, Damian? Well, I'm sorry for having mercy in my heart."

"That is not the case! Where are you?! You're all in mortal danger with them around!"

"I wouldn't be so sure. They are entirely chained up and are starved out. Furthermore, they are now my prisoners."

This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author's consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

Everyone else was a little bit surprised as they heard that so I clued them in once I gave the walkie-talkie back to Rokoro. In addition to that, I brought them forward as I took the chains from Karlos' hands.

"These petty criminals are nothing more than my pawns! I control them and their lives are dancing on the palm of my hand. If you are afraid of them, then just try and hit them. You'll not harmed whatsoever."

"Are you out of your mind, woman?! What did we ever do to you?!"

"I don't mind getting hit if I can eat..."

"Don't go along with her bullshit, Kuzan! Have some dignity!"

Saitou Rayazaki was being extremely defiant, but to make an example out of him, I slapped him across the face, not once, but twice.

His eyes full of rage were the only thing threatening as I vibrated the shackles to halt his upcoming movements.

"Argh! Fuck, what is wrong with you?! I haven't even hurt you!"

Ignoring his complaints, I returned back and demonstrated how useless they actually are.

"As you've heard, Damian, these three are utterly pathetic and serve nothing more than information capsules for us to work around the other criminals. They will not eat whatsoever. However, come to us as soon as possible as we are in the northwest side of the island. Preferably along with your entire group."

Upon seeing how effective I was, the students began to show less fear and came closer to Saitou Rayazaki, but this one still had the strength to fake a howling sound which made the student back away.

"Eeeek! He's gonna eat me!"

The student fell and I went to him as I said the instructions.

"Kick him on the knee, you'll be surprised by how fast he falls."

"........."

Eventually, the student gained the courage and kicked Rayazaki on his right knee and Rayazaki, who has no physical strength whatsoever, fell on the ground.

"...Wait, they are..."

"...Weak...?"

Many of the assumed scenarios created in their minds were shattered as they witnessed the powerless Rayazaki on the ground. Some of them even began to draw closer, but I put a stop to that without a second thought.

"Make no mistake; they are my pawns. What Ryousuke Kawahara said is true as well. Their purpose is to get us out of this island and we will need to make them pass the exam as well."

"Damian-dono, are you still dubious?"

All eyes were on Rokoro's walkie-talkie this time around as everyone waited for Damian's response.

"I'll see it for myself once I get there! Please wait for me!"

Ending the call, we would see Damian thirty minutes later with a group of forty or so people.

The time was that of an hour prior to midnight and the criminals had their chains on me at all times. They didn't put up a resistance because Ryousuke Kawahara, was actually the one who suggested that I would be the one who took them into custody. They are mine to deal with and as such, in the central bonfire, midst the rocky ground, a multitude of students began to form a wide circle by seating down in the parimeter.

Simular to how in kindergarten kids would have to seat on the floor in a gigantic circle to listen to their teachers, around seventy or so students sat on the right side of the blazing bonfire meanwhile, Karlos and I took a seat in the opposite direction.

Karlos was in charge of holding the criminals down with his brutal strength as they would no way to escape should they even try such a dumb move. This distance was created for the single purpose of keeping a safe distance.

From our left side, emerging from within the tall trees, Damian and his group came forth. He immediately rushed down to Kawahara as he thought he had done something bad to the students nearby.

"Fiend! Devil, what have you done?! I swear on my mother's life, if you lay a single finger on anyone here, I will burn you alive!"

It would be the second time in a day that Ryousuke Kawahara's collar would be tightly held, but the very fact that Damian had to push his body around to him without any sort of resistance to be shown, proved how withered Ryousuke Kawahara was at the moment.

Fearing him wasn't in anyone's mind at the moment as he began to look at feeble as a lingering bird.

Nonetheless, Ryousuke Kawahara didn't answer in a mean manner.

"So much for being labelled as a criminal when you straight up suggest something that a criminal would do."

"From day one, I knew that you would be---"

I got up from the rigid surface and spoke to Damian, who was being unnecessarily dramatic.

"Now's not the time, please. What more evidence do you need for you to realize that they are powerless? Do you need to plummel Ryousuke Kawahara into oblivion to gain enough evidence?"

"....No way. I won't fall down to their levels. Everyone, are you alright?!"

Damian is a bright individual with a strong sense of justice who overworries all the time. After all, I know him because he is my classmate.

"We are fine!"

"Are you alright, Damian-senpai?!"

Positively, he gave an honest answer back to the rest.

"Yeah! Do not worry, for as long as I am here, they won't do anything to you!"

As Damian's group began to take a seat in the west side of the bonfire, from my position's perspective, Ryousuke Kawahara felt the need to remark something back to Damian, who was no longer holding him by his collar.

"It's impressive how more than a hundred individuals are afraid of three starved individuals. I might as well be the subject of your religion if you're gonna held me this high."

"Nobody's holding you high, monster. In fact, we are holding you down."

"Um, Damian-dono? May I start the discussion, if it's not too much to ask? Kawahara-dono is an interesting individual but if you continue to view him by his status, you and him will be arguing all the time..."

"...Sorry about that. Go for it."

At long last, everyone was on the ground and Rokoro began the discussion, with all attention on him, in this chilly night.

"Given that Percy-dono is no longer with us and our only way out of this island is to aid Kawahara-dono, we should come into terms with the fact that losing any more time pointlessly arguing around with Ryousuke Kawahara-dono is fruitless! I understand that you all view him as some sort of heartless devil and I too, to a degree do that, but I ask of you to put higher priorities onto the table right now!"

In response to this, Ryousuke Kawahara grinned as he couldn't help but agree with everything that Rokoro had stated.

"You couldn't be more right kid. Ah, listen for a fucking second, all of you pieces of shit and listen well..."

The dreadness in his hollow voice gained the transient fear of even Damian and Karlos present as I found Ryousuke Kawahara particularly interesting in situations such as these.

"The fact that I am so reliant on all of you makes me want to puke so badly that my stomach would fall off from my mouth... But this doesn't mean that I have something against you people. I never had, in the first place. Percy Phoenix put all of you unfairly in this island just like me. Surely you've heard how your school principal has allowed criminals to be within the school? Yeah, what a fucking ridiculous idea! It just goes to show how fucked up Japan's security system truly is---but what I'm saying is... I am as reliant on you as you are on me. So, stop fucking treating me like a monster and rely on me already."

I couldn't let this end on such a bad note, so I gave an alternative to everyone else instead.

"Basically, what he's trying to say is that our goals more or less align. Initially, we began this to hunt the criminals down and now with the rewards gone, it seems pointless. But what's not pointless is our return. Ryousuke Kawahara was put in this island along with nine others. Just as there is a way in, there is a way out. This garbage here, otherwise known as Ryousuke Kawahara has come to terms with this. So, do us all a favor and don't be afraid, as there is no reason to be afraid."

It feels extremely tiresome having to repeat the same thing over and over, but this is simply the natural outcome. Human beings will place their emotions over logic any time. There won't be a single time when the opposite is done. It is impossible for human beings to be objective, that's why they have to have their emotions comforted before they can act logically.

"...I don't think I am afraid anymore... If I may speak for myself and not for others, uh... I believe that if Ryousuke Kawahara is helping us out in the end, then... He shouldn't be doubted. I also think that---it can't be helped if we don't trust him all the time, because of his status. Trusting a criminal is pretty dangerous..."

Akari is right in the end. How would they react if they knew that I in fact sided with Ryousuke Kawahara?

In a sense, I may not be actually different from him and I will have to live all my life with this sin. It stings a bit, deep down, but I believe I made the superior choice and instead allowed all of these people to not pursue the path of killing.

"Everyone, on my behalf, let's try and trust Kawahara-dono!"

But there still weren't many positive answers to this, until Ryousuke Kawahara spoke.

"Let's get down to business. It's about time I explain why I'm here. The short version is that ten boys from my class, the remaining ones de facto, were put in this island with the task of completing an exam until the end of April. The premise seems about simple as each of us has one word."

"One word...?"

"Yeah, and that one word is used to match a certain location in this island, as there are ten hidden locations in this island. The solution here is simple: We find the rest of our classmates, see the words and attempt to match them in the locations."

"But how would you match that word...?"

Not Kawahara, but I, explained to the confused student in the midst.

"There are computer entries in each location as they serve the purpose of absorbing the correct password."

"What Shiori just said. It all sounds simple until you realize that we are all criminals and working together is practically impossible and so began the ego game. I call it ego game because we are essentially not cooperating with one another. If we did, this exam would've been over a long time ago. As a matter of fact, it's so fucking stupid the fact that this exam has dragged on for this long..."

"How long have you been here exactly?"

I asked, as Kawahara turned back to look in my direction.

"I think it started around April 10th or some shit, I don't recall it exactly as good as I thought I would. Approximately almost two weeks, basically."

Ryousuke Kawahara continued as he laid down the crucial information that we would all be unaware of.

"Inside those locations, believe it or not, lies another location within. But this is something you'll only believe once you gaze at it with your own two eyes. HOWEVER, something you cannot deny is that the other criminals are hiding a bit too well---Almost as if they are absolutely out of normal sight."

Multiple students began to agree with this factor as it was factual.

"He's right! If there are truly other locations in this island, then they could hide from us!"

"That's right! I'm finally getting through, so I'll continue. They are not hiding because of you, but because--- I actually don't know... However, I believe that the reason as to why they are hiding is because they have gained advanced knowledge on how the exam works and see their distance as an advantage."

"Kawahara-dono, by that logic, don't we simply have to go through each location and find them in such section?!"

This was the most common approach, but an approach that Ryousuke Kawahara apparently disagreed with.

"That's what they want, so instead of going straight at them, we are going to try something out first, if you don't mind."

Doubt rose to the surface as Ryousuke Kawahara was too much in charge, so I stepped in.

"Let's first hear him out, alright? No one will have to agree if they disagree."

Damian aided my argument slightly then.

"Denko is right! If what he suggests is absolutely nonsensical, then we by no means should agree with him."

With doubt out of the way, Ryousuke Kawahara's mood changed into a serious one.

"Since there are ten locations, instead of every single one of you going one by one, here is what you should do: The group leaders and their group should go through the location firstly and secure the password."

"There are already groups formed with the purpose of securing their locations, but I believe we should form ten groups. I have ten group leaders in mind, may I say it?"

Damian gave the heads-up with a nod, so I went forward with my take.

"Ten individuals got ten components, which Percy Phoenix for some reason gave all of them to us ten. I believe that those ten individuals should be in charge of upholding a group and along with that group, they would discover the location and decipher the password. This way, we won't have to waste so much time."

This looked solved, but Ryousuke Kawahara corrected me a bit.

"Before that, the ten individuals should show up here. We already have five present here. Denko, Karlos, Damian, Rokoro and Youjo. Get the other five here so we can start this..."

"If I recall correctly, Kawahara-dono, the other ones are Yasuda-dono, Rena-dono, Musi-dono, Yoh-dono, and Zwette-dono! However, we have gone different ways and we have no way to communicate with each other!"

Stressed, not even Damian could shake that feeling off his back.

"You're right, we are all separated and..."

"There's no need to worry, is there?"

I spoke, very calmly and all eyes were on me.

"I propose we dedicate three groups into uncovering the locations of the computers hidden within this island and other two groups into finding the rest and telling them what has happened. This way, we will utilize our resources more effectively. Well, everyone? What do you say? Are we in an agreement?"

Damian was the first one to agree with me as he proposed something in addition.

"Ryousuke Kawahara will tell us the locations of those hidden spots and we will dedicate our resources into seeing whether or not he can be trusted. For those who are under the suspicion that he cannot be trusted, use this opportunity."

"Damian's right! We don't have to be afraid if Ryousuke Kawahara is genuinely helping us out... Maybe there's some good in him?"

Akari rose from her seat and a multitude of started to do the same as they saw this as an opportunity to confirm their doubts.

"If he's trying to help us, then he didn't lie! But if he lies one time, then he's conspiring against us."

Kawahara and I traded eyeglances very transiently as the multitude of students eventually came to agreement with this task.

Rokoro then further motivated the students by declaring the order of events.

"Youjo will be the leader of one group while Damian-dono will be the leader of another group who will be in charge of uncovering the locations of the other students! While I, Denko-dono, and Karlos-dono will form groups with those that want to uncover the hidden locations of the spots that Kawahara-dono will tell us!"

To this, Kawahara begged to differ a little bit.

"I already told you the locations, though only seven of them. Somewhere around the directions of those locations will be hidden spots and it's up to you to find them. Dedicate three other groups as you search for the rest. We need everyone here as fast as possible."

"It is as he says. By dawn, everyone should be here. I suggest that each leader will choose who is up for each task to their own accord."

What I'm essentially suggesting is the following: If there are individuals who want to secure the location of the hidden spots, then they should stay away from the groups that are in charge of searching for the rest of the students in this island.

Of course, there is a particular essence here that Damian realized and thus, he spoke effiently towards the rest.

"For those of you who want to search for your friends, either join me or Youjo. There is no need to be picky as we will essentially do the same, except our directions will change!"

Youjo, right next to Damian, now up, spoke loudly to the students as well. Plenty of emotion could be traced in her...

"I will go towards the center but mostly towards the south parts of the island, so if you wanna go there and you have friends who went there, follow me!"

Slowly but surely, around thirty to fourth students started to circle Youjo, who was already on the west edge of the forest on the look for the missing pieces.

Damian, on the direction that would go northway, already had a few students with him, but the moment he would gain more would be when he declared his intent.

"I will investigate northside, so follow me if you are on the look for your friends too!"

In total, on Damian's side, there were about fifty students who were willing to go and look for them. Damian is the correct choice here as he has the walkie-talkie that for some reason is able to etent itself beyond uncountable kilometers. With that in mind, I suggested something to Rokoro.

"Rokoro, give your walkie-talkie to Youjo, so Youjo and Damian can communicate better together."

He jammed his closed fist horizontally onto his right palm once he understood the idea behind the action.

"I understand! This way, they'll be able to communicate far better and tell each other the locations!"

Kawahara then felt the need to say something.

"Don't limit yourself with just that. If you find any place that has a computer with a password entry DO NOT put any password in it and report back as soon as possible. Remember, finding a place with a computer entry along the way means you have uncovered the hidden location."

"It is as Kawahara-dono says everyone, but remember that the top priority is to secure everyone here! Preferably before dawn arrives so we can get out of this island as soon as possible! We don't have much time!"

Feeling spirited suddenly, Damian and Youjo led the students in their directions while they were given the walkie talkies respectively.

A large portion of students faded as Damian and Youjo had taken what seemed to be around 85 students with them. No doubt, but with such a powerful force to their sides, they will be successful.

For some reason, despite being told that he was a group leader, Karlos went along with Youjo...

Which left us here, at midnight o'clock, with the full moon rising once again. Around ten students remained, if we count out Rokoro, myself, and the criminals.

Seeing an opportunity to speak, I asked Rokoro something.

"What do you intend on doing exactly? I have to keep an eye on these, so..."

"I think Denko-dono should take Kawahara-dono and the rest to secure the password! Take this with you, however!"

Rokoro approached me and gave me his scanner and since I was confused on what it was, Kawahara explained it.

"That's the magic device. Scan the entry and you get the password. Rokoro should hold us here with the remaining students as Denko will search within the area for a hidden spot. This way, there will be people to keep an eye on us and you won't have to worry about us doing anything."

Akari, who was still here; as a matter of fact, the previous five students we initially found were still there, said something.

"But is it really the right move to leave you three here without Denko-senpai to watch over you?"

"Girl, why not tie us down to a tree or something? It's not impossible."

"Hold on! I want to talk with Kawahara-dono! I believe the eleven of us can rely on our strength should something happen."

Since there was a debate going on, I suggested the simple solution instead.

"Akari, there will be a change of plans. I would like the ten of you to explore this area and spot a hidden spot that has a computer entry. Take this with you and scan to see the password. However, do not type anything, please."

"Shiori here is right; don't type it. I suspect that unless you are a subject of my exam that it will react anyways."

"How many times do I have to tell you to call me Denko? This is getting annoying. Either way, I'll be counting on you ten."

Akari more or less understood what I was trying to say but didn't understand one thing.

As such, she scratched her cheek slightly and talked shly.

"Um.... Maybe we should really give food to them.... Won't Kawahara's brain not work well with this many little nutrients in his body...? What if what he says is not truthful not because he wanted to lie but because his brain wasn't working well...?"

An objective way of caring for someone.

Kawahara could not be more flattered and walked up to Akari as he held her hands tightly in an emotional way.

"Are you sin---"

She was fairly flustered as she did not know how to react, but I quickly pushed Kawahara back with an impulse through the chains.

"I'll consider it, Akari. Thank you for your suggestion."

"Ok! Ok! Let's go, everyone!"

Rather excitedly, they exited the current scene and began to look around to see whether or not they could find a hidden spot as Ryousuke Kawahara had said.

I leashed the three of my prisoners as I sat in front of the bonfire, paralleled to Rokoro, who was once again seating.

Ryousuke Kawahara, unlike the other two, moved forward a little bit to my right side, for some reason.

"What are you doing? I'll have you know I can do better than Karlos."

In case Kawahara had something vulgar going on in his mind, I would not hesitate to vibrate the shackles in a way that would for surely hurt them and his companions.

"Relaaaaaax! I just want to talk to the kid up close!"

"Kawahara-dono!"

"...I see..."

Silently, I started to watch their interactions.

"Kawahara-dono, this is marvellous! I thought that we would never reach this level of organization, but with you, it's possible! I know that no one will thank you for it, but I will greatly thank you on their behalf! Thank you!"

With his hands united, as if he was praying, Rokoro kneeled down in front of the bonfire and thanked Kawahara.

I will agree with Rokoro. Percy could have never reached this level of organization, but as Kawahara would say afterward, our organization's potential was still immature.

"There's still more to do, kiddo. The key essence of my exams is that ten words will symbolize something. However, did you know this? When walking into the section inside the hidden spot, you are to find two components. The normal one and the hidden one!"

"Wha--- That's so cool! This feels like I'm playing a game! I am super-duper thrilled!"

"But kid, one thing..."

In a far more aggravting serious tone, Kawahara said something that not even I knew.

"None of this shit makes any sense, so far. I was only able to access two of those sections... So, it's a mystery how Percy got a hold on those components in the first place."

I intervined as this wasn't making any sense.

"Hold on, what? You said that to obtain those components that one would have to go through each of the ten sections. But if you didn't do it, then that would leave Percy... But he had no idea about the hidden spots either, so what the hell is going on..."

"It appears you've caught up as well. I would like you two to not tell this to anyone, but... There's a very big chance that we are being baited into doing something we shouldn't do... For example, walking right into those sections... It's evident that we were given the components, yet why? Isn't this strange?"

"You're right, Kawahara-dono! If this is indeed staged, then we should not enter the sections at all!"

Kawahara then grinned and said something more interesting.

"Instead of walking into the sections, we should try and insert the ten passwords correctly. Here is why: A person would want to walk into the specific section in order to obtain both components which would then form the object, ultimately. HOWEVER..."

"We already have that so there's no reason for us to walk right into it. Is that what you are saying?"

My eyes were on Kawahara and his on me at last. We had reached a mutual understanding of what was going to happen, but Rokoro took it a step further.

"Then all we have to do is insert the right passwords, Kawahara-dono! Won't the exam be cleared then?"

Smiling, Kawahara couldn't help but agree.

"Yeah, but the subjects of our exam should be the ones and not the other way around. Remember, your existences were never before linked to this exam previously. A hidden system could erupt from nothing and I wouldn't want that."

"So we don't have to hunt anyone down as we just have to get all the passwords correctly put and your exam is cleared, which means that help will come?"

Unlike previously, confidence could not be seen from Kawahara as he assumed the worst...

"...If the exam is cleared, yeah..."

"...? What's wrong, Kawahara-dono...?"

Rokoro couldn't ignore how Kawahara was suddenly skeptical of something, but Kawahara quickly dismissed it.

"Nothing. I have something to inform you two, though. I planned on saying this to the others once they get here, but... Do not approach an Aztecan temple on a distant shore near a gigantic cliff. I am unaware if it's one of the sections or not, but the atmosphere in it is toxic."

Saitou Rayazaki and Takeshi Kuzan then spoke from behind in order.

"Didn't you say that it was actually the same as being on Mars?"

"It's the mystic mine! Don't call it by that horrible name!"

Two extremely different opinions came forth, but only one of them interested Rokoro.

"On Mars?! Kawahara-dono, you must explain yourself to me!"

No longer on the other side of the bonfire, without any sort of fear, Rokoro sat on Kawahara's right side and just like that, Kawahara was in the middle of us.

Naturally, I was interested as well because Kawahara was very enthusiastic about what he had wanted to say.

"We three walked into it and as we walked even further into the dark linear hall, suddenly, out of nowhere, we lost ability to breathe and the temperatures drastically dropped."

"W-What?!"

"Furthermore... There seemed to be fast winds however we were not affected which is a characteristic of Mars, actually. In addition to that, we started to feel a little lighter."

"That's the result of the lack of gravity in Mars in comparison to Earth! Kawahara-dono, this island is beginning to be fascinating! I must know more about it!"

Although they are really excited, I brought them back to reality with a fact.

"Would you two idiots get real? How is being on something that has the atmosphere of Mars something to get excited about? You'd just die if you stand there..."

"Shiori, there is an essence present within this exam."

The fire cracked a little bit as Kawahara would say the next following words.

"Acquire the password and put the correct one and you'll be able to move on. Next, acquire both components and move on to the next stage. However, what happens if you skip one of these steps? Here is what happens---in other sections you'll be faced with dilemmas blocking you from advancing even further. Essentially, unless you obey the essence completely, you are somewhat screwed."

"I see, so if that temple is, for example, a section that was under that atmosphere because something was not previously done, then if everything is complete, it shouldn't be like that anymore, right?"

"That's basically it, Shiori. In other words, what I am also trying to get at is that if the temple does not have a computer lying there, which, it doesn't because we've already investigated in the past; I daresay that once we get every password correctly that the temple could actually be connected to our way out."

This got me thinking for a bit.

If, according to Ryousuke Kawahara, this is all true then all that needs to be done is incredibly simple. The ten computer entries will have their correct password inserted since Rokoro's component allows anyone who scans the entry to acquire the password. If that's done on all the ten entries, then something should happen because we have all the components.

But...

"What about the other ones who are with you? Won't they naturally come to a point where they must come to you?"

"............."

Something was eating Kawahara again and I couldn't get an answer out of him because Akari and the rest had returned rather quickly. It was almost 1 am and the night looked everlasting, but the great news would arrive quickly as soon Akari would reveal the screen on top of the scanner; highlighting a particular word.

"We found it! It's true, Kawahara wasn't lying! It took us a while to notice, but one of the trees in this gigantic forest did in fact have a door, we just never had looked at it because we thought all the trees were the same!"

Rokoro, excited beyond his margin demanded something immediately.

"This is revolutionary!!!!! What is this island made of!? Kawahara-dono! Denko-dono! We must investigate this, please, everyone, let's hurry!"

Without waiting for us, Rokoro ran with Akari, who went the west direction into the forest with abysmal wooden trees again, along with the rest of the students present.

Which left us, but Kawahara said something as he watched them run with all the energy that they had.

"Take us there, Denko."

"Only now do you feel like calling me by my second name? Inconsistent pest. You don't have to tell me, I will go and of course, you three as well."

"That's my girl---Aw, fuck, fuck, stop!"

I vibrated the chains rapidly as soon as he uttered those stupid words and began to walk in Rokoro's direction.

After about twenty minutes, we were all in front of a tree that, now that I look at the top of it; undoubtedly threatens the sky far more than the rest, so I suppose that's a clue that we missed out on.

Akari then subtly touched the surface of the tree, which didn't show a door, for the record, but by further going into the depth of the wood of the tree, she started to make a phenomenon occur that would shock Rokoro quite deeply.

"W-What?! What?! Whaaaaaaaat?! Illusion? Magic? I don't know but the bottom of the tree faded away as if it was an hologram! But the rest of the tree remains and there is an open door! Kawahara-dono, who made this island?! I must meet such a person!"

"Unfortunately kiddo, you and I are both clueless here. However, we got what we came for. That's good, let's dig deeper and see whether or not it matches the description."

We already knew it did because Akari had the password scanned by Rokoro's component, so we were just verifying the truth.

All of us, as we walked in, witnessed the lights above this mid-high ceiling flash on us which greatly enhanced our vision but made us vulnerable to that shock. A descending white staircase with twenty degrees with obtuse dimension, horizontal-wise, could be glaced upon with our own eyes.

Nothing but a bottomless white circle in the middle and an upcoming locked door filled this place with extreme luminosity. In addition, the more we walked into the area, the bigger the distance between the floor and the ceiling became, to the point that as soon as we reached the circle, we arrived a one conclusion.

"This is the body of the tree; that's why the top is gigantic in terms of overall height. Akari, could I see the password one more time, just to make sure?"

Right now, we are in front of a computer. Rokoro is still having a hard time processing the inner magnificence of this place, so this leave the rest of us here. Kawahara wants to insert the password and the past Akari, a few hours ago, would not be able to trust Kawahara, but right now, I would say that she trusts him a bit.

Simply because everyone was confident about Kawahara not lying this whole time since they indeed found this hidden spot which matched Kawahara's previous words back at the bonfire.

"Here you go. It's "path"."

"I see... I hadn't obtained that one previously, out of the seven I knew."

"Wait, you know the passwords?"

As I was under the total impression that Kawahara didn't know most passwords, I blurted that out.

He titled his neck while typing the password to answer me.

"Only seven of them; though my knowledge is very relative because if I type the wrong password, what good is my knowledge for?"

The moment Ryousuke Kawahara typed the correct password, which was "path", Akari and the rest really were glad that he wasn't lying as the door on the forward direction began to automatically open.

"You really weren't lying like I thought..."

Feeling guilty, Akari felt the need to apologize to Ryousuke Kawahara.

"I am... I am sorry... It's not in me to doubt people, it's just..."

Kawahara then, even though he was chained up, softly patted her head, which made her meet his glistering eyes alongside his charismatic smile.

"Its not your fault, is it now? Why wouldn't you doubt me? A criminal shouldn't be trusted by any normal means, so it's really not your fault. Plus, I'm used to not being trusted at this point, you know?"

"No, but... It's not right... I would like to help you out as a way to apologize for our wrongdoings. Doubting someone who is helping us out is not the right thing!"

Further feeling at fault, Akari's companions joined in as they stopped distancing themselves from Kawahara that much.

"It wasn't right and I wouldn't like to be doubted by that many people when I'm telling the truth. I'm sorry as well."

"It was our mistake..."

Instead of taking the glory here, Kawahara collected their wishes to help him out and further suggested something.

"I want to get all of you out of this island. I will admit that I am a criminal and that I've wronged in the past. However, I, just like any other human being, am capable of regretting my actions. Henceforth why I must redeem myself to some extent. Would all of you help me out with this?"

Unlike the other times, I was the one who spoke now.

"Ryousuke, it's not like you to be so humble, they will suspect you, by the way."

"Oh, will you shut up?! I am trying over here, Shiori!"

Giggling, I closed my eyes as the rest of them said positive answers.

"We will! We will! When we are back in our school, we could even be friends, Kawahara-dono!"

"You got something wrong here, kiddo... You're already my friend. I owe everything to what I could possible imagine if I have others who believe in me."

"Kawahara-dono..."

Emotional to this, Rokoro began to cry a little bit as his eyes began to be more visible through his gigantic glasses.

[https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/466312922864549890/871346204800319508/Comic22.75.png]

This person is a bit interesting. There are times when you can feel that he's genuinely manipulating you and others where you feel nothing of that sort and you know that deep down he wants to help you out. I think he's a hard person to understand because he has two sides that he doesn't exactly have a good control over them.

And, he's not the type of person who can just openly tell his own issues to others because everyone will think that he is not telling the truth due to his criminal status.

At this time, when Akari and her companions are becoming more and more closer to Ryousuke Kawahara, when Hiruyima Rokoro is amounting the possibilities of how deep his bond with him can develop in terms of an overall friendship, I started to wonder where would I be in all of this.

"What are you spacing out for, ma'am?"

"!"

Unaware that I was spacing out, I already had all eyes on me and began to feel slightly flustered for a second but quickly corrected my emotional state as I administered orders.

"Erm---As we had discussed previously, Rokoro, there is no necessity to walk into the section, so we will not take the door and will return. We will do this to every computer around the island."

"Indeed, that is the correct choice, Denko-dono! However... I thought this would be fun! We are in a place where we never thought we would be! Let yourself out and have fun, Denko-dono!"

"Kid's got a point, Shiori. We are getting closer to the end, so if you wanna make some memories, now's the time. We might never have this chance again."

!!!!!

My eyes opened wide at that thought, for some reason...

"Denko-senpai?"

Akari, worried at my emotional reaction, drew closer as I softly began to speak with my head down.

"...Memories, huh?"

All of them then started to walk past me as I was left to ponder whether or not I wanted to create memories that would last forever in this island. But, as the question emerged, I wondered what sort of memories I would want to create and I couldn't find an answer to that.

"Rokoro, could you hold the chains of these two?"

I asked that as Rokoro was starting to ascend the horizontally large stairway. Noticeably, I am asking if he can hold the chains of Saitou Rayazaki and Takeshi Kuzan, not Ryousuke Kawahara.

"But of course! Everyone, help me out here!"

"Got it, Rokoro!"

Rokoro's friends happily complied as they took ahold of their chains.

Naturally, Rayazaki and Kuzan let out their usual complaints as I stood behind walking a bit slower with Ryousuke Kawahara.

"Man, I'm feeling so useless here. I never felt like I existed this less before."

"Please feed me... I've said this so many times...."

Now that I look at Takeshi Kuzan, his skull's is showing way more than Saitou Rayazaki's, which indicates a state of starvation far greater.

However, midst this, Kawahara did not look at me as he respectfully awaited my words.

"Ryousuke, I am troubled. I initially came here to relax as I thought this was a private resorted island yet it's essentially a deserted island with random technology around some areas. With that said, I am unaware of how I should feel right now?"

"...What?"

His confusion confused me even further as I thought he was aware of what I was going through.

"Don't you understand what I've just said?"

"No, I do. I just don't understand why you are unaware of how you should feel. If you put any thought to "feelings" then the whole essence is gone. If you want to feel, then think less, it's simple."

"....Think less...? But how? Do I just blurt out whatever comes to mind?"

"Why not, Shiori?"

I then stopped as soon as I met the first degree of the stairway. Everyone else was walking towards the long top and therefore, they weren't paying any attention to this. With that in mind, I followed his suggestion.

"I don't like a lot of people and they bother me for no reason and I would like them to just vanish into thin air... Huh? Why would I want that?"

"There are some things that you can really know about yourself once you stop trying to be what you are not. Go on."

"...I am unsure why but I feel attracted to you. Do you feel the same? Sorry if this is really sudden."

I didn't blush or have a nervous reaction, surprisingly. It just came out of my mind and Kawahara replied extremely fast.

"I don't feel the same because I love someone else. Are you going to cry?"

I thought for a second whether or not I would indeed cry.

"No, I don't think I will. I see. Why do you think I am attracted to you though? I don't know, that's why I'm asking."

"I think... it's a common thing human beings experience. Human beings will often claim to love someone or be attracted to someone, but ultimately, they are not attracted to the person itself but to the ideas or one particular idea that the human being stands for or represents the most. Likewise, you are most likely attracted to me because of my mindset. You probably find me compelling to a level unlike any other human being out there and that's why you feel the way you feel. In other words, my mentality strongly attracts you, but not the person that I am, yeah?"

Once again, I thought about the words he had just said and came to a conclusion.

"Are you rejecting me in an indirect way? You are a coward."

"I already rejected you, don't get it twisted."

"Ok, great. Sure. But, I think you are wrong because, if it's your mentality I am ultimately attracted to, then I am also attracted to you because you represent your own mentality in your actions, thoughts, words, and accomplishments. Just thought you should know that."

"You're wrong though."

"How am I wrong here?"

Genuinely curious as to why I was wrong, I persistenly asked him, but he wouldn't give me a straight answer and started to walk into the stairway.

"Mentality and a person are two worlds apart."

One step at the time, we climbed.

"I already explained how both are different. As long as you continue to represent your mentality through your actions, thoughts, words, and accomplishments, I am in fact attracted to you. Why can you not accept that? I am not asking to be loved in return, just acknowledge that you are wrong."

This isn't some sort of emotional retort or a hopeless endeavor in getting some love returned back to me.

"You explained yourself, Shiori. You just don't know which part you are wrong about."

"What? Then tell me."

"...Well... Not now. Back in school? Once we are done, we'll meet again in a random day and I'll stop thinking and blurt out why that is the case. How about that?"

Given that the situation would grow denser and awkward if we were to level this in an open ending, I agreed with him.

"Alright, that's fine. But, I'm a block A student. According to my social status back there, I will treat you like a peasant."

"The fuck?"

"There's nothing I can do about that. Though, considering you are basically my prisoner, it won't feel much different."

"Oh, so there's a small compensation on one hand? Yeah, great."

I giggled as I heard Rokoro from the top calling us out for being purposely slow at walking.

"Kawahara-dono! Denko-dono! What has gotten into you two? We must hurry and go back to our bonfire camp because if we miss the others when they arrive, they might think something strange has happened!"

"Oh, sorry."

"No worries, kiddo! We got a lot to do but we will soon be out of here!"

As we made way to the exit, I started to wonder if I was actually going to like my upcoming school life, once this is all over.

Regarding that, I could not think negatively about that as I for once, had high hopes.