Welcome to a country where everyone is subject to the same system, a country where there is no freedom of choice, action or anything else. In this world, we are all considered hostages to the system, but why? Why can't anyone try to go against it? Is the Book of Prohibitions a hindrance? - I had these thoughts every day.

  And so, my name is Niko, I live in a country where everyone obeys and follows certain rules, a country where everyone plays the role given to them from birth. This country is called Freedom. Oddly enough, it translates to "Freedom" in English. Our country makes a pretty good advertisement for tourists, for those who wanted to find peace and enjoy life. When they see the advertisement of our country, they have a ray of hope, but no matter how harsh the reality is, this country is much harsher. This country does not cut off those rays, no, on the contrary, it directs them in the right direction. They promise that people will get the freedom they need, but it will require them to work around the clock, obey the law and not break the rules. Some people think that it will be quite easy, but after living like this for a month, where you can even speak only in certain areas on the street, they immediately go crazy, such cases were not few, and the good thing is that such places are only for those who do not have citizenship.

  The educational institutions here are not simple either. There is a kind of a pyramid system of classes. Class "S" is the highest, has a lot of privileges, and also students get points, it is local currency. 1 point is 1 unit of local currency, the so-called "SS", I don't know the exact decoding, they don't tell you. If there is a high class, there is also the lowest, class "D". That's the class I'm studying in. According to the rules, they only put people there who are not capable of doing much, but something is wrong.

  Aug. 1.

  As always we have to take the bus to school, on enrollment we were briefed and shown around the school and our classrooms.

  It seems like in this country people have to obey the system and its rules, but in the school itself those rules don't apply, there are other rules and another system. That's one of the reasons why I decided to go there, like everyone else, I guess.

  Upon arrival to the classroom, I sat down in my seat. Since today was the first day of school, everyone was a little nervous at the speech of the Academic Council, which is so to say "has control over the students", it is not the principal or teachers, but not ordinary people, something in between.

  I'm not very social, so I didn't expect to make any friends, and I started to evaluate my classmates. There was one girl, who was very active and approached everyone - she will always be the center of attention and now occupies a rather advantageous position for herself in the future, you don't need enemies in your own class. There was also a guy, I think it was our head teacher, who came to the blackboard.

  "Starosta" - listen, while the teacher is not here, why don't we introduce ourselves and tell a little bit about ourselves? It will be easier to find a social circle and get to know each other.

  Everyone supported him. There was a girl sitting next to me who looked like she was from the "D" class, maybe she was mistaken?

  "Nico." Listen, are you in the wrong class?

  "Girlfriend" No, why, you don't like me anymore?

  "Nico" Not that I don't like you, you look a little different than the others.

  "Girl" Thank you, but I don't need the praise.

  "Nico" Suit yourself.

  Soon everyone started introducing themselves. The active girl's name was Komi and the boy's name was Michael. Everyone in the class had pretty good hobbies, but it was my turn.

  "Michael" Boy, come on now, you.

  "Nico" M? Uh, okay. Anyway, uh, my name's Nico, uh, I don't have any significant hobbies, uh, I hope we can be friends.

  "Michael" All right, well, nice to meet you, Nico.

  Yeah, I wasn't exactly known for my social skills.

  "Girl." Yeah, you're gonna have a hard time with those social skills, Nico.

  "Nico." Thanks, I didn't realize. Why didn't you introduce yourself, I don't even know your name.

  "Girl." All right, call me Eira.

  Eira? I've heard that name before, but I can't remember.

  "Nico." Nice to meet you, Eira.

  "Eira." That's not a pleasant encounter.

  "Nico" Likewise.

  Soon the teacher came in and started the class hour.

  "Teacher" So, from now on, you will be studying in our school. At the beginning of each month, you will be awarded 100,000 points. These points are only given to you because you were able to enroll here. 1 point is 1CC. In this school you can buy everything for points, from now on you will live in a dormitory. The school is organized in such a way that all the usual places were not far away. There is a movie theater, spa, supermarkets, cafes and other things that you are satisfied with in normal life. However, there is something you can't get in normal life, something you can't get in the city, but you can get here. I'll tell you about it later, now it's a lesson.

  It's strange that the government could be so generous with a school like this, maybe there's a catch.

  At the end of the lesson, the teacher mentioned this very thing. It was some kind of helmet that can immerse your mind in a virtual world, the game is included, she didn't say anything else.

  All the way to the hostel I thought about what to spend this money on, but seeing how everyone was wasting it on unnecessary things - I was convinced that it was better to save it, because every month 100.000, something is wrong here.

  I went into the store and met Eira there.

  "Nico." You're making yourself pretty, aren't you?

  "Eira" What's it to you?

  "Niko" Why take the cheapest one? There's a lot of money, wouldn't it be better to get the more expensive one?

  "Eira" No one knows why they gave so much, better to save it. Didn't think of it yourself.

  "Nico" Perhaps.

  She definitely stands out from the crowd, not by answering coldly and maybe even very sharply, but by looking like she knows something.

  When I got to the dormitory, I immediately threw off my things and decided to read about this helmet. It turns out that everything is just as the teacher told us, this helmet immerses our mind in a virtual world and we stop feeling reality, all our senses move to the virtual world too.

  "Nico" Hmm, sounds pretty good, but still what kind of game is bundled with it.

  It turned out to be some kind of MMO, never heard of it. Apparently created specifically for the helmet, but I have played similar games of the genre.

  In the evening I went out for a walk and afterward came to bed.

  The next morning I arrived at school where everyone had already broken into groups. Not that this was expected, it is rather a common thing at school. After all, all schools have some kind of "groups" in the classroom, directly according to the interests and personalities of the students.

  "Eira" I see you failed your socialization assignment?

  "Nico." Looks like it. What about you?

  "Eira" I don't need friends. I'm on my own.

  "Nico." So you failed, too.

  I smirked and took a seat at my desk.

  I was also concerned about this helmet, which is famous for the fact that it can immerse you in a virtual world and there are no analogs for it, not that there are analogs, nowhere else but at this school.

  I also couldn't stop watching how my classmates spent their money. Although I have no right to judge them for it, their money is their right, but I have a bad feeling about it.

  Soon a teacher came in to see us.

  "Teacher" So, next month is exam week. In this school, you'll have exams every month, but you'll have one less year of schooling. Instead of 3 years, it's 2 years. I'm sorry to disappoint those who think that this school will always be like that. After each exam will be posted sheets with their results. Based on the results of the class will be determined by the minimum score. All those who fall below the line will be immediately suspended. I hope that's clear to everyone, now let's have a lesson.

  Things became a little clearer. The school gives away all the benefits of the normal world beyond its borders, lets you relax and loosen your grip, and then strikes every month. According to their assumptions, every month at least two students from the low grades will leave, what about the high grades is not known, I don't know who is trained there.

  After class, I was going to go to the canteen as I hadn't eaten anything in the morning.

  Upon arriving at the dining hall I met Eira, who was heading in my direction very quickly.

  "Eira" Do you have time to talk?

  "Nico" I came here for the food in the first place.

  "Eira." When you get your breakfast, come straight to me.

  I grabbed a small breakfast and headed over to her place.

  "Nico" So, what did you want?

  "Eira" Tell me, didn't you think it was strange that we'd be paid 100,000 every month for nothing? To me, the government couldn't be that generous. I also don't understand the point system, how it works, what points are deducted and awarded. And then there's the helmet... What kind of device is that?

  "Nico" I don't know, maybe the government is very kind. I can't say anything about the helmet, I think it's just a game, that's all. I think it's in the city too, it just has a different name.

  "Eira" The government is very kind? Can you hear yourself?

  "Nico." Yeah.

  "Eira." Yeah, I was wrong about you after all.

  After saying that, she got up and left. The questions she asked really made sense. We don't know anything about this school, but the school knows everything about us.

  Later, and I returned to the classroom.

  When I got back to the classroom, I looked at Eira, and I could tell by the way she looked at me that she was disappointed in me. Oh, well, I don't care.

  Afterwards, the lesson started and went on as usual. Most of them just didn't listen to the teacher.

  The most interesting thing happened the next month.

  I walked into the classroom and saw everyone running to each other, and no, not happy, but instead sad and excited.

  "Guy." Hey, listen. Would you be interested in buying this console from me?

  "Girlfriend" Girlfriend, why don't you pay for me tonight? You know I'm broke right now. The money didn't come in for some reason.

  So that's it.

  Almost immediately after I arrived, the teacher came over.

  "Michael" Teacher, why haven't we gotten the money? It's the first of the month.

  "Teacher" Yeah, it's weird.

  "Michael." Is there a mistake?

  "Teacher." Eliminated.

  "Michael." But, why?

  "Teacher" Did you seriously think you losers would be given that kind of money every month? 53 moments of chatter, 125 phone usage in class, etc. That's just for one month. You're not behaving appropriately, you're not worthy of our school. You earned 0 points this month, that's why you didn't get the money.

  "Komi" Teacher, is there any way to earn them?

  "Teacher" Of course, I can't reveal the whole system of earning points to you, but they are awarded for behavior, events, and other things. The closest way to earn points is through exams. If you pass the exams well, you'll get points, but be warned, if you get the lowest score, you're out. It doesn't matter how many of them there are, they will all be expelled. The average score will be calculated on all grades in the class, so I recommend everyone to prove themselves and all their abilities. I doubt your class will be exempt from expulsion. And now for class.

  It's just like I thought. Money will not be awarded to anyone for nothing, it must be earned. In order not to drop out, you have to get an average number of points, that is, you have to pass as well as the class. The only problem is that we have a lot of failing students. You can't let them drop out of the class, I don't know if that would affect the point average or not.

  After class, I approached Eira, even though she didn't want to see me.

  "Nico" Listen...

  "Eira" There is no desire to communicate with you.

  "Nico" I'm waiting for you in the cafeteria, there's a topic we need to discuss, regarding our class.

  After saying that, I walked out and headed for the dining room.

  I took my lunch and went to the table to wait for her. Not five minutes later I was seated.

  "Nico" You came after all.

  "Eira" Don't think I'm here for my own purposes.

  "Nico." It's about the exams. As you know we have a lot of people who can't do much, about a third of the class, if not half.

  "Eira" And what do you suggest?

  "Nico." I'm offering to help them with their studies. Your grades aren't bad, I think you can help them study so they don't get expelled.

  "Eira." Why would I help them? I don't really care what happens to them.

  "Nico" I don't either, but you don't know if dropping them out will affect your points. I take it you didn't spend it all, but you wouldn't mind the extra points either, right?

  "Eira." Right. But am I the only one who's gonna train them? And where are we supposed to do that?

  "Nico." Don't worry, I'll take care of it. Come to my place around 8pm and we'll discuss it there.

  "Eira." What? Your place?

  I didn't listen to her anymore and went to class.

  After class, I would think through a plan of action. First of all, I need to get them together. If I start talking them into it, then obviously no one will want to go. So I need a leader to lead them. I also need someone who can get their enthusiasm up and arrange a venue. We only have a week and we need to hurry. We'll need a plan B later.

  After I got to the dorm, I picked up my phone.

  "Nico" Intercom phone. I haven't come across that one yet.

  I started typing.

  "The Voice" Yes.

  "Nico" Hello, put me through to Komi Shogai in class D.

  "Voice." Who's speaking?

  "Nico." I'm her classmate, Nico Yores.

  "The Voice" What's the call about?

  "Nico" It's on learning issues.

  "Voice" Connecting.

  What kind of interrogation was that now?

  "Komi" Hello?

  "Nico" Comey, hi, I hope I'm not distracting you?

  "Comey." Oh, Nico, it's you. You surprised me. I just got out of the shower. What's the occasion?

  "Nico" I'd like to ask you. Could you gather all the people who have problems with their studies, somewhere in the library for example?

  "Comey." Hmm. All right, I'll give it a try. Let me give you my number, and we'll call each other if we need help.

  "Nico" Okay, that's fine with me. Thanks for your help. I'll see you tomorrow.

  "Komi." Always happy to help. See you tomorrow.

  So, Comey will take over their meeting, I think she can do it, she's always the center of attention.

  Now all that's left is to find someone who will train them and can guide them in the right direction.

  "Michael." Hello?

  "Nico" Michael, hi, am I interrupting?

  "Michael." Oh, Nico, no, you're not. What can I do for you?

  "Nico" It's about the exams.

  "Michael" I'm all ears.

  "Niko" There's an idea to gather all the people who are bad at school and pull them up. Komi will help you find a place, and you'll be in charge of teaching them. But you won't be alone, Eira will be with you.

  "Michael." It's a good idea, but I don't know how it's gonna work. I mean, we've only got a week.

  "Nico" Yes, I know, that's why I'm pinning my hopes on you.

  "Michael." Okay, I'll give it a shot.

  "Nico" Thanks, see you tomorrow.

  "Michael." See you tomorrow.

  The main part's ready. We just have to wait for it.

  It's been about ten minutes since the knock.

  "Nico." It's open.

  Eira entered the room.

  "Nico" Wow, I didn't think you'd come.

  "Eira" I'll say it again. It's in my best interest.

  "Nico" Well then, listen.

  I briefly told her my plan.

  "Nico" Tomorrow I'll let you know where they'll be.

  "Eira" And why won't you teach?

  "Nico" I'd need help with my studies myself, so without me. I'll just be present.

  "Eira" Okay, I'll see you tomorrow then.

  "Nico." See you tomorrow.

  Sounds to me like it was the best plan, but will still require a plan B, I don't think everyone will want to be trained.

  "..."

  The next day upon entering the classroom, I was approached by Comey.

  "Komi" Niko! Good morning!

  "Nico" Utrechko.

  "Comey." Everyone will be at the library after class today, I've already organized everything.

  "Nico" That was fast for you, what about Michael and Eira?

  "Comey" Michael will, but Eira....

  "Nico" She'll come, rely on me.

  "Comey." Okay, thanks a lot Nico!

  After I crossed the threshold of the classroom I caught Eira's gaze.

  Her expression made everything a little clearer, it was filled with despair, misunderstanding and something else, probably something to do with me.

  "Nico" Hi, Air...

  "Eira" Why the hell did you call HER here?

  "Nico." Her who?

  "Eira" Don't play dumb, you know exactly who we're talking about.

  "Comey." I hear you're discussing me, can I join you?

  "Eira" Niko! I'm waiting for you in the cafeteria after class so be sure to be there!

  After saying that, she walked furiously out of the classroom.

  "Comey." Sorry Nico, now you're going to be in a fight over me....

  "Nico" It's not your fault, don't worry.

  "Comey." She probably won't come to the library now....

  "Nico" Don't worry, rely on me.

  After class, I walked up to the cafeteria.

  "Nico." And why did you call me here--

  "Eira" Why the hell is she with us?

  "Nico" Comey? I told you she'd be with us.

  "Eira" He said, but, why do I have to be there with her? I'm just not going in there.

  "Nico" So you're saying no?

  "Eira" D-d-da....

  "Nico" Okay, then the meeting will go on without you.

  After that, I went back to my classroom.

  Once all the classes were over I headed to the library where almost everyone was gathered.

  "Michael." Oh, Nico! Do you happen to know where Eira is?

  "Nico" will be here in a moment.

  Not five minutes later there was a knock on the door and they came in.

  "Eira" I apologize for being late.

  I don't know why I was so sure she was coming. I guess I knew what she was doing.

  "Michael" Since we're all here, I suggest we get started.

  At first everything went according to plan, but then...

  "Eira" I'm not going to say the same thing several times.

  "Shogai" But you're the one who came here to help, isn't it so hard to help understand?

  "Eira" Yeah. It's hard for people like you, how did you even get into this school?

  "Airi First you want to help us and then you humiliate us?

  "Onry." I agree. I'll be going now.

  And that's how almost a third of the people who showed up were going to leave.

  "Eira" No one's keeping you here. If you want to fail the exam, fail the exam.

  All those who remained listened silently and tried to absorb the material.

  At the end of the day, we agreed to get together tomorrow, too, but...

  "Nico" Tomorrow will come a third at most, at best.

  "Eira" Whatever.

  "Nico" Don't you think you were being a little selfish?

  "Eira" Whatever. I'm not going to teach these dubnies.

  "Nico" You know better, but I want to remind you - it's in your best interest.

  After saying that, I walked out of the library and headed home.

  After about an hour, I got a knock at my door.

  "Nico." It's open.

  "Comey." It's me.

  "Nico" What brings you to me?

  "Comey." Wanted to discuss Eira's behavior today.

  "Nico" Ah, don't worry, it's fine. She'll be there tomorrow too.

  "Comey." That's why I'm worried.

  "Nico" M?

  "Comey." She's the reason half of us won't be there tomorrow.

  "Nico" Quite possibly.

  "Komi." What are we going to do then?

  "Nico" We'll act on the situation.

  "Comey." That's right, too. I'll go then.

  "Nico." Uh-huh.

  Comey came out, and I wanted to buy something.

  As soon as I stepped out into the hallway I saw the elevator going down instead of up.

  "Nico." I thought girls lived upstairs.

  I decided to follow her.

  As I left the dormitory I saw her walking towards the waterfront.

  Reaching the embankment I hid in the bushes and began to watch.

  "Comey" You're such a slut. I hate you! DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE!

  After that, she started hitting the railing.

  After another 10 minutes of this show, I get a message.

  "Komi." Who's there?

  "Nico." Shh, shh, shh. It's me.

  "Komi." And how much have you seen and heard?

  "Nico" That's enough.

  "Comey." You do realize what will happen to you if you try to report this, right?

  "Nico." What is it?

  She walked over abruptly and took my hand.

  "Comey." Here's what.

  With an abrupt movement, she placed my hand on her chest.

  "Comey." As you can see, your hand is on my chest. I can report you for attempted rape. Now you won't tell anyone.

  You really can't go against something like that.

  "Nico" Okay, I get it.

  "Comey." That's good, now come back.

  It's weird, though. First she wants to be friends with Eira and now she hates her, very strange.

  I went back to my room and it was going to be a long time before I could forget today.

  The next day, I immediately wanted to talk to Eira.

  "Nico" Eira, good morning.

  "Eira." What did you want?

  "Nico" Just wanted to clarify, are you coming to the library today?

  "Eira." I have no business being there.

  "Nico" It's in your best interest, isn't it?

  "Eira" I've made my point.

  Apparently she really doesn't want to be a teacher of these kids. I agree it's not an easy task, but who knows what will happen if one or more are expelled.

  We're a couple days away from the exam, so we have to act. We're gonna have to do this alone.

  I'm worried that after exams, on vacation, something might be waiting for us.

  "Komi" Niko! Why so pensive?

  "Nico." Huh? Did you want something?

  "Comey." Yeah, I was wondering. How's it going with Eira?

  "Nico" It's pretty sad, she's not coming.

  "Comey." How so?

  "Nico" I suggest you tell everyone about it and find someone who can still understand the subjects. I wish you nothing but good luck.

  "Komi." Nico, but how do we find such a person?

  "Nico." You can ask Michael. Tell him I suggested it if you have any questions. I gotta go.

  After all, they really only have to rely on luck, or on their own strength.

  I have to go see my teacher.

  After about an hour of searching around the school, I did find it, but before I did, I came across an interesting event.

  "Shogai" Hey you, what do you want from me?

  "Boyfriend" What do you think?

  "Shogai" I have no idea.

  "Guy" Well, let us try to explain a little bit.

  After that, Shogai started to be surrounded by a small group of people. They seem to be "C" class people, but there are some "B" class people. I wonder what they want from Shogai.

  "Boyfriend" So you remember?

  "Shogai" I'm not going to fulfill your demands.

  "Guy." Yeah? What's our "captain" doing backing up like that? First there was so much talk, and now?

  "Shogai" Now I realize it's best not to deal with critters like you.

  "Boy." Look at our little birdie singing. Do you think so badly of us?

  "Shogai" Let me through.

  "Boy." No, you're not getting out of here in one piece.

  A voice came from around the corner.

  "Girl" Hey you, I'm going to tell the teacher everything!

  "Boyfriend." Why are you being like this? We're old friends, we just wanted to chat. Go on your way.

  "Girl." I'm counting to 5.

  "Boyfriend." All right, all right. We'll leave you now, dear friend, but be warned, this is not our last meeting.

  "Nico" Shogai, what were they talking about?

  "Shogai" None of your business.

  "Nico" You're the captain of the hockey club, right?

  "Shogai" Yeah.

  "Nico" Do you want to stay him?

  "Shogai" Sure.

  "Nico" Then you'll do what I tell you to do.

  "Shogai" What? You don't happen to need anything fixed, do you?

  "Nico" I've told you everything, your future now lies in your hands. Or rather, your decision.

  Since we must all not drop out after this exam, it takes all the effort we can muster.

  "..."

  "Teacher" What did you want?

  "Nico" I wanted to check with you.

  "Teacher" Well.

  "Nico" What is this helmet? What is its purpose?

  "Teacher" Wow, what interesting questions. You're really not the first to ask them.

  "Nico" I know what you want to do next involving us and these helmets. One question, why?

  "Teacher" Do you even know that? Surprise, surprise. It's all about graduating only decent people from this school. Who will be willing to do anything.

  This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

  "Nico" To everything?

  "Teacher." Anything for his own good, of course.

  "Nico" And are you really willing to commit such atrocities?

  "Teacher." Me, no. School and government, yes. And now, I have to leave you.

  I was right after all. I guess it won't be until the end of the year or the last semester.

  I've got to get everything done, the exam's coming up.

  "..."

  The next day I got to school and approached Comey.

  "Nico" Comey...

  "Komi" Nico! Good morning!

  "Nico" Utrechko. Wanted to see how the meeting went yesterday.

  "Comey." It went great, we found a replacement for Eira and as many came as last time, if not more. But I'm afraid we won't make it. The exam is tomorrow.

  "Nico" Don't worry, everything will be fine.

  And really, I've got it all worked out and thought out.

  I need to learn more about this helmet and the next exam.

  "Nico." Listen, Eira. What do you think next exam week will be like?

  "Eira" I think it's going to be something different. I don't think they're going to make it so monotonous. They have a lot of secrets.

  "Nico." I'd have to agree.

  "Eira" But tomorrow is the most interesting day, isn't it?

  "Nico." I agree. The exam and just about to announce the results

  "Eira." Right. Do you think anyone's gonna get expelled?

  "Nico." I don't know. We'll see.

  Still, I really didn't want to guess, because I rely on them. We should prepare for the worst case scenario.

  ".."

  Results Announcement Day.

  Everyone in the class was excited and couldn't find a place to sit.

  "Teacher" Here are all your results. Now we'll count how many of you will be leaving us.

  The teacher hung all the results on the board.

  "Teacher." Let's see. Class "D." .... Amazing. As we can see, no one will be leaving us, at first glance.

  The whole class was in shock and also waiting for something, some kind of miracle I guess.

  "Teacher." Like I said, we're going to look at grade point average. We draw a line and see who's behind it. It was Shogai. Shogai, come to me after class with your papers. And the rest of you, I want to warn you about the new exam, it will be unconventional.

  Shogai.... How could you. You can buy everything with points means.....

  "Nico" Teacher, wait.

  "Teacher" Yes, I'm listening.

  "Nico." Not here. Let's do it on the roof.

  "Teacher" So what did you want to discuss?

  "Nico" Like you said, everything here can be bought with points, right?

  "Teacher" Yes, that's right. What do you want to buy?

  "Niko" I want to buy the missing points for Shogai so he won't be expelled.

  "Teacher" Bold decision. Who said you had enough points?

  "Nico" What's the price?

  "Teacher" 100,000

  "Eira." I'll pay half.

  "Teacher." You guys are fun, sure. But a contract is a contract. You tell him it's off. I guess I won't get bored with you. And now I must leave you.

  "Nico" Save...

  "Eira." You don't have to say anything. Like I said, it's all in my best interest.

  "Nico" Anyway, I'm grateful for that.

  "Eira." So you owe me now.

  Thanks to Eira, we won't know what happens if someone gets expelled.

  "Eira" I'm more interested in the other thing.

  "Nico." What is it?

  "Eira" How did you make it so everyone could pass the minimum score?

  "Nico" Let's go to class and find out.

  After arriving in the classroom, she was greeted and thanked by everyone.

  "Eira." Wh-what? I didn't do anything...

  "Comey." You did. You were able to get the answers and hand them out to everyone, you're so good!

  "Eira." Wh-wh-what?

  After all, she needed to be popular, she needs allies. This won't be the last time she'll be "famous" like this.

  That's right, I organized the whole thing. It was pretty easy to do. Comey had a little bit to do with it, too.

  "How it went down."

  "Niko" Come on, come with me to the dining room.

  "Comey." Okay.

  "Komi." What are we here for?

  "Nico" You're about to find out.

  Even from the beginning, I realized that not everyone would be able to take these classes, so the thought was to find out the answers from the upperclassmen.

  "Nico" You're Andrew from class 2 "D", aren't you?

  "Andrew" Yeah, who are you guys?

  "Nico" We came with an offer.

  "Andrew."

  "Nico" You probably still have some exam questions from last year, don't you?

  "Andrew" Well I don't know....It is necessary to look, to search...You understand, the matter is not quick....

  "Nico" Dam 10,000.

  "Andrew" 10,000 is not enough, at least 25,000. I take big risks, you know.

  "Comey." Please, Andrew.

  "Andrew" Ahem...N-no, 25,000 and that's it.

  "Comey." Andrew, you're going to help us so much...

  "Andrew" X-good, 20,000.

  "Comey." Well Andrew, you're going to help our whole class.

  "Andrew" 15,000, I can't go any lower, sorry.

  "Nico." All right, you got a deal.

  "Comey." You could have at least given me a heads-up.

  "Nico" I'm sorry, I needed you for just that.

  "Komi" What are we going to do next?

  "Nico" I have some of the questions from this exam, now let's compare.

  "Komi." What is it?

  "Nico." It's a match.

  "Comey." What now?

  "Nico." Now we're gonna do the answers. Can you help me?

  "Comey." How did you even know to buy answers from a high school student? I thought that was forbidden...

  "Nico" Eira told me the plan and I'm just executing it. That's all.

  "Comey." I didn't realize Eira could reach out to her class.

  "Nico." Me too. The exam is in a day. Let's write it today and hand it out tomorrow. That was her plan.

  "Comey." Okay, I'll help you.

  "..."

  That's how I made Eira the hero of the class.

  "Eira." Hey, you did this, didn't you?

  "Nico" I was only acting on your plan.

  "Eira" What other plan?

  "Nico" There's no need to be shy. I gotta go.

  "..."

  "Shogai" Why are you bothering me again?

  "Boy." We told you we'd meet again. You didn't believe us?

  "Shogai" What do you want from me?

  "Guy." We're from you? You're the one who called us here.

  "Shogai" No way.

  "Guy." Yeah, you also beat us up pretty bad.

  "Shogai" What kind of nonsense are you talking about?

  "Boyfriend" Walk and turn around.

  "..."

  The next morning there was some noise in the classroom.

  "Nico" What's going on here?

  "Eira" There was some kind of scuffle, and Shogai's the culprit. And the teacher's going to tell us all about it.

  "Teacher" By locations.

  "Michael" Master, we want to know what happened.

  "Teacher" There was a complaint on Shogai, allegedly beating up 3 people from C class.

  "Shogai" That's bullshit, they jumped me.

  "Teacher" No witnesses, no evidence, but the result is clear. All three suffered bruises and bruises. There will be a council meeting after school today to find the culprit.

  "Michael" Is there anything we can do about it?

  "Teacher" Unless you have witnesses or evidence, yes, otherwise, no way. This is the end of the announcement.

  "Nico" You wanted to know what's up too, didn't you?

  "Eira." Right, there's something fishy going on here. It's like a setup. Let's go check out the place where it happened.

  Upon arrival we found no cameras, no lights in the hallway, and not a living soul in that hallway.

  "Nico." Yeah, it's the perfect place to run into someone. No cameras, no witnesses.

  "Eira" It's like it's all planned out, isn't it?

  "Nico" Right. I'll go see Shogai now. You stay here for a while.

  I don't know why, I thought maybe he could tell me something extra. Something he couldn't tell the teacher.

  "Nico" Shogai, good afternoon. I'd like to know what happened in that hallway.

  "Shogai." One of them called me over to talk to me. When I got there, there were already 3 of them. They started coming up one by one and trying to get at me. I started to fight back, but nothing else.

  "Nico" So what you're claiming is that they were the first to jump on you?

  "Shogai" Yes.

  "Nico." Is that really all? You're not hiding anything else from me?

  "Shogai" No, told it like it was.

  "Nico" Okay, thank you.

  I have a plan to force them into the open, but it's more likely to happen after their "negotiations".

  To carry out my plan, I need Comey, specifically her connections.

  "Nico" Comey, hi.

  "Komi" Niko! Why are you here?

  "Nico" You know Rey, right?

  "Comey." Yeah, why? Is there something you want her to do?

  "Nico" I hope you're on very good terms with her, as her help will be needed.

  "Comey." Okay, do you need to organize a meeting then?

  "Nico." Yes, I'd be most grateful. You can be there too.

  "Comey." Okay, then let's go get it together.

  Reya's the head of the "B" class. He's got some pretty good connections, just what I need right now.

  "Comey." Rhea, hi, are you busy right now?

  "Ray." No, is something wrong?

  "Comey." Nico here wants to talk to you.

  "Ray" Nico? All right, I'll be right out.

  "Ray." Okay, I'm listening to you.

  "Nico" Anyway, I was wondering if you could get me some cameras. Doesn't matter if they are working or not, but preferably a moulage.

  "Ray" May I ask what they're for?

  "Nico" If you know Shogai's situation, you'll find out soon enough.

  "Ray." That's interesting. All right, I'll get them for you, but not until tomorrow.

  "Nico." That's not what I was hoping for. Thank you so much.

  "Ray." There's nothing to thank me for yet. Can you tell me if there's any way to find out who wrote you the letter?

  "Nico." Yeah, well, it says sender on top.

  "Ray" That's right, but there's no address. Anonymous, apparently.

  "Nico" If it's anonymous, I think there was one way. Can I have the phone?

  "Ray." Yeah, sure.

  "..."

  "Nico." I think that's it, here you go.

  "Rhea" Wow, thank you very much, now we're even. Come by my place tomorrow morning to pick up your merchandise.

  "Komi." I will, good night!

  "Komi" Niko, you're going to the Shogai council now, right?

  "Nico" Right.

  "Comey." And can you tell me what you want the cameras for.

  "Nico." You know, if you tell a person something that didn't happen. And this "something" will make him afraid, then you can learn a lot of new things and somehow make decisions instead of him.

  "Comey." There you go... But I still don't understand why you need cameras, much less fake ones.

  "Nico" You'll find out soon enough, maybe even tomorrow.

  "..."

  "Nico" Am I too late?

  "Eira." Where have you been? I was waiting for you there, by the way.

  "Nico." I'm sorry, there's been an emergency. Is there any news?

  "Eira." Yeah. There's a witness who supposedly saw and documented the fight.

  "Nico." That's it, I see. Are we waiting for our "debate" to begin?

  "Eira." Right.

  After about 5 minutes we were invited in. Our teacher was already sitting at our table, and at the opposite table sat the "victims" and their teacher.

  "Head of the school board." So, what are the questions we're here to ask?

  "Teacher Mizuri" Excuse me. According to our information, Shogai lost control of himself and attacked three of my guys, and you can see the result.

  "Head of the school board." What's yours?

  "Eira" Shogai denies the fact that he attacked the trio.

  "Head of the Academic Council" Then let each of you tell your side of the story.

  "Teacher Mizuri" Okay. Henry, tell me.

  "Henry." Okay. Shogai called me and two others into the building to "discuss something," as he put it. We got there, and there wasn't a soul, no cameras or lights. We immediately suspected something wrong. A few minutes later, or at the same moment, Shogai comes out of the corner and starts beating us.

  "Shogai." What are you talking about? You're the one who came at me.

  "Eira" Shogai, calm down.

  "Teacher Mizuri" That's right, calm him down. We don't want him messing up the place.

  "Head of the school board." Okay, now your version.

  "Shogai" Henry called me there, but when I got there, there were 3 of them. First they surrounded me and then they started attacking me one by one, what else could I do?

  "Eira." Can I have a word?

  "Head of the school board." Please.

  "Eira" There have also been repeated moments of intimidation and threats, from the "C" class towards Shogun. There have been many instances of them surrounding him and offering to "talk" to him, as well as trying to get him to do something he clearly didn't want to do.

  "Henry." What are you talking about? It never happened.

  "Head of the school board" Tycho. Your stories are contradictory. Do you have any more proof that Shogai is innocent?

  "Eira" Yes, there was also a witness who saw and recorded the fight itself. Can he come in?

  "Head of the school board." Yeah, let her come in.

  "Eira" Takia, come in.

  "Takiya" Yes, that's right. I saw the fight itself and I'm ready to confirm that Shogai is innocent.

  "Head of the school board." Do you have any proof?

  "Takia" Yes, there are several photos on this flash drive. May I?

  "Head of the school board." Please.

  "Takiya" As we can see in this picture, Henry is holding Shogai by his shirt, as well as two others surrounding him.

  "Henry" That's a lie, we were defending ourselves at the time.

  "Eira." I beg your pardon, may I have the floor?

  "Head of the school board." Please.

  "Eira" I have a question, how did the three of you manage to lose to one? I wouldn't say that Shogai has any physical characteristics. Especially with you Mizu, someone who has a history of fighting in the ring, who's won a lot of medals. And as we can see, he's the one who got hurt the most, can't you tell me how? You could have just walked around him and twisted him, and if necessary, informed the teacher. So, explain it to me?

  "Henry" ....

  "Teacher Mizuri" I apologize to the head of the council, but her words are pure lies, she wasn't there, how can she say that? How can she be sure that Shogai doesn't have any physical parameters, maybe he was a master boxer?

  "Head of the Academic Council" Enough. If there isn't more evidence tomorrow to confirm Shogai's guilt, or to disprove it, then I will make a decision accordingly. For now, that's all for today.

  Just as I thought, it's been postponed until tomorrow. I'll get my "irrefutable evidence" tomorrow, let's see how they argue from now on.

  "Eira" What ideas do you have?

  "Nico" All in all, there's an idea, only it won't be realized until before the meeting tomorrow.

  "Eira." Will you share it?

  "Nico" I'll tell you everything on the spot.

  "Takia" Sorry...

  "Nico" For what?

  "Takia" My proof was not enough and you will have to find new ones.....

  "Nico." Don't worry, it's okay. The important thing is that you weren't afraid to tell us everything. Leave the rest to us.

  The next day I had to meet with Comey, but she was nowhere to be found.

  "Nico." I'll go to her room, see if I can find her there.

  At her door, I met up with Rae.

  "Ray." Oh, Nico, what are you doing here?

  "Nico" We were supposed to go with Comey to your place, and she was nowhere to be found. So I thought I'd stop by.

  "Ray" I'm here for the same reason. You were gone for a while, so I thought I'd stop by and see her. I take it you don't know what's wrong with her either.

  "Nico." Uh-huh.

  "Ray." I'll come in, you stay here.

  "Nico." Okay.

  "Ray" She's not here.

  "Nico." Okay, maybe she's out or something.

  "Ray" Maybe hold your cameras then.

  "Nico." Thank you.

  "..."

  "Eira." Hello?

  "Nico" Meet me in that hallway in ten minutes.

  "..."

  "Eira" Why are we here again?

  "Nico" You don't notice anything?

  "Eira." No.

  "Nico" Look at the top.

  "Eira." Okay, well. So, what? Cameras? Where'd they come from?

  "Nico" I called them here, they'll be here in about 5 minutes.

  "Eira." Why? What are you up to?

  "Nico" You'll understand as you go along, there's no time to explain.

  "..."

  "Henry." Why did he call us here? He wants to do it again.....

  "Nico" To do what again?

  "Henry." What are you doing here? We were on our way to meet Shogai.

  "Nico" He won't be there.

  "Henry" Since there won't be any, we're off.

  "Nico" If you leave now, the footage from these cameras will go to the study council.

  "Henry." What? What cameras, they're not here.

  "Nico." Are you sure? Take a better look.

  "Henry." What? They weren't here.

  "Airy." Why wouldn't they be here? There's a school lab here, there's chemicals. Just what we need to keep it safe.

  "Henry." And you're still here.

  "Nico" You were about to leave, weren't you?

  "Henry." Yeah.

  "Boyfriend" Henry, maybe you shouldn't go.

  "Henry." Why would I do that?

  "Guy." They've got camera footage. Why don't we hear them out?

  "Henry." L-okay. What do you want us to do?

  "Eira" Ideally, the head of the school board would be aware of everything.

  "Henry." What did you say?

  "Eira" Are you gonna hit me right in front of the camera?

  "Henry" We've already told him everything that's happened, there's nothing more to tell him.

  "Nico" The cameras will say otherwise.

  "Eira" Since you don't want it that way, just take the application. It won't be a problem for us or you.

  "Boyfriend" Henry, that's a good idea. We won't get expelled.

  "Henry." I don't believe you. If we take the statement, what guarantee is there that you won't turn us in?

  "Nico" Don't worry, we'll dismantle those cameras and take out their flash drives.

  "Henry" Doesn't inspire confidence.

  "Eira." It's in your best interest. You don't really have a choice. You should trust us.

  "Henry." L-okay. To hell with you, we'll take the application.

  "Nico" That's good, thank you.

  "..."

  "Eira" Why couldn't you have warned me?

  "Nico" There was no time.

  "Eira." And yesterday?

  "Nico" As recently as yesterday, I didn't know that.

  "Eira" But I know you planned it all out ahead of time.

  "Nico" Someone will disagree with you.

  "Eira." Who?

  "Shogai" Niko! Eira!

  "Nico." Yeah?

  "Shogai" Can you believe they took the application! I don't know how you did it, but thank you, Eira. They told me all about it being your idea.

  "Eira." W-what?

  "Shogai" Thank you again. I have to go, I'm running.

  "Eira." You did this, didn't you?

  "Nico" I don't know, I wouldn't bother.

  But the question "Where did Comey go?" really bothered me. I can guess where, and we'll probably be told soon enough. I mean, Comey had put everything on hold, and she couldn't just run off without telling me or Ray. And she's not answering her cell phone, even though she always has it on her. Something bad happened.....

  The next morning I was awakened by a loud sound in the room.

  As it turned out, that sound was coming from a speaker in the corner of the room.

  After the accompanying sound, someone approached the microphone.

  "The Voice" And so, our dear students. We wanted to postpone this exam to the end of the year, but alas, the government has demanded otherwise. Today the exam will begin, for some it will be the last one, the results of which will influence your future. Your teachers will give you all the details. We'll be expecting you in the classrooms in 15 minutes. Good luck, everyone!

  Here we go...

  Everyone in the class was excited, apparently no one had expected such a turn of events. There were even those who were happy about this "event".

  "Eira." What do you think it is? Does it have something to do with that helmet?

  "Nico" I can't say for sure, but anything can be, I doubt it's anything else.

  "Eira" Then we wait for the teacher.

  "Teacher" And so, each of you has heard messages from the principal of our school today. Now I'm going to have to bring you up to speed. Now. We've already told you about the helmet. This exam will be related to it. Each of you will go to your room after this exam where the helmet will be waiting for you. You put it on and start the game. That's right, the exam will take place in the game. If a person "drops out" in the game, they will be expelled from school, even if the whole class. You will also not be allowed to rely on any of your classmates. Even if someone in the class stays, they will be the only one in that class. You can and should only rely on your own strength. All other details will be told in the game itself. Good luck.

  "Eira" What does it mean to be eliminated in a game?

  "Michael" Teacher, do you know where Comey is? She's been missing for three days.

  "Teacher" Right, I forgot to say. One student from each class was taken to do the "testing". Don't worry, they're fine. This is definitely the end of it.

  "Nico" "Drop out" in the game means....

  "Eira" I don't understand it either.

  "Nico" I don't know what's in store for us, to be honest.

  "Eira." No idea either. And that phrase "you can and should only rely on yourself." Isn't it possible to team up with someone there?

  "Nico" I don't know, it's not worth guessing.

  "Eira" Shall we team up?

  "Nico." Let's take a look around, then we'll decide.

  I don't know how this is going to end. But I highly doubt everyone will stay.

  There were already a lot of people in the game, and they were all divided into classes, just like in school. My class had the least number of people in it for some reason.

  "Michael." Oh, Nico. I see you've got it all figured out.

  "Nico." Yeah, it wasn't hard. Where's everybody else? I thought there were more of us.

  "Michael" All I know is that some people have been having connection problems, they're working on it apparently.

  After 10 minutes, a few more guys joined in, including Eira. There were 15 of the 25 of us.

  "Eira" Where's everyone else?

  "Nico" Same question.

  "Michael." Wait, do you hear that?

  "Nico" What exactly?

  Suddenly there was a great ringing sound, like a siren or something. The sky turned red and someone appeared in the sky itself.

  "Stranger." Welcome to my game. I take it you're Freedom City High School kids, right? Well, if that's the case, I'm sorry to disappoint you. You're not getting out of here until you complete your mission. The only way out is if you agree to be expelled.

  "Eira." What? Why weren't we warned?

  "Stranger" I'm going to ask you not to interrupt me. Now, some of you may be wondering, "Where are the rest of the class?" Well, I'm sorry to disappoint. They're gone, they've already been expelled and who knows what happened to them afterward. Personally, I've never heard what happened to those who were expelled. Have you?

  "Kids." N-n-no...

  "Stranger." That's good. You'll be watched from the outside. So you won't starve to death or die of dehydration. But be warned, if you die here, you'll be expelled from school. As for the purpose of the exam, it's simple. You need to reach level 50 of this tower. Each floor ends with a boss. Speed is not important. Even if all the classes pass all the bosses, they will all come back, but the classes can't unite. Good luck. Remember, it's only a game, but don't get carried away.

  After those words, everyone started to panic. Try not to panic when your place in school is at stake at least, and at most....It's hard to imagine.

  "Michael." R-r-guys, what are we gonna do?

  "Nico" Like what, trying to get out of here.

  "Michael." But how?

  "Nico." You've heard him. By going through all the levels of the tower.

  "Michael." How do you envision this? For our little bunch to make it to the highest floor? Especially since we've already had 5 people fail.....

  "Nico" Maybe it's for the best, there won't be any weak people.

  "Eira" What do you suggest?

  "Nico" Since there are 10 of us left, we'll pair up. Choose who's with who.

  "Michael." Are you sure that's a good idea?

  "Nico." Yeah.

  Some really had trouble picking a couple, but everyone seemed to pick one.

  "Eira" Is it just the two of us?

  "Nico." Yeah. Okay. You need pairs to make it easier to level up. You get more if you kill two people than if there's a bunch of us. You can vote on when to meet and discuss. Every new level, or five?

  "Eira" I suggest every five, but there will be exceptions if needed.

  "Nico." Then it's settled. While some people are still confused, then we'll choose a village farther away because there won't be anything left nearby soon. Cover each other and good luck.

  Everyone dispersed to their respective sides, having stopped by the blacksmith for gear before doing so.

  "Nico" What do you want to be with? Sword, bow?

  "Eira" Let me see... What are you gonna be with?

  "Nico." I'd like a sword, of course.

  "Eira" Then I'll take my bow and cover you.

  This is the beginning of our travels. I don't know if we should really try to get to the highest floor. Maybe it's better to go out...

  ".."

  Our experience mining went pretty quickly, quietly. Every 5 levels we gathered around the table and discussed new items, if anyone had any. If you go to some dungeons for new items, so went all, but....

  "Shogai" Guys, we found a nice dungeon, kinda like it should have a lot of items, let's go?

  "Michael" What level do you need?

  "Shogai" It's like 15, we each have 20 already, so we can try it.

  "Nico" Eira, are you okay?

  "Eira" I don't mind.

  "Shogai" Okay then, Takia and I will show you the way.

  When we approached, we saw a room with a chest in the center.

  "Shogai" Let's go get him.

  "Takia" I agree.

  Everyone went into this room. As soon as they started to open the chest, the doors closed. A red light came on. A lot of monsters showed up. I don't know what to do.

  "Michael" Guys, urgently, what are the options besides interrupting them?

  "Eira" I think that would be the best solution.

  "Niko" Each group will take one side, us in front, you on the right, Kyouko and Hiro in the back, those two in the center. Takiya and Shogai will take the left. Takiya and Shogai?

  "Michael." What the hell?

  "Eira" I take it you've already figured that out too?

  "Nico." Yes. Then whoever finishes fastest goes to help the center. I hope everyone understands, don't forget to heal.

  Next we had probably the most difficult of all the fights. The monsters were weaker than us, but not by much and there were a lot of them. After Eira and I finished with our side, we went to help the center.

  "Michael" Nico, the rear is not doing well there, can you help?

  "Nico" Eyre?

  "Eira" Don't worry, I'll help them out here.

  "Nico." Okay.

  After another indeterminate amount of time, it was over and the doors opened.

  "Michael." What the hell? Where the hell are these two?

  "Nico" You still don't get it, do you?

  "Michael." Don't get what?

  "Nico." They trapped you. They wanted to kill you.

  "Michael." But why? What's the benefit?

  "Eira." We can't say that. Perhaps it is to someone's advantage to keep as few classes as possible, or for all but one to disappear.

  "Nico" Or else, if your class is the only one that wins, it gets a lot of points. So we can't rule out the possibility that they were just bribed.

  "Kyoko" And Takiya is my best friend...

  "Nico" Was. Now it's worth a bit of forethought on how to proceed. They think we're gone. Which means.

  "Eira" Meaning they are now on their way to report on the job done.

  "Nico." And since we know the location of all the classes....

  "Michael" We can roughly trace to what class they went to.

  "Nico" Bingo.

  "Michael" But, aren't we going to mark on the map?

  "Eira" Yes, quite.

  "Nico" As we were walking through this dungeon, I had all the classes on the map missing for a moment. It's entirely possible that there are places where a class just won't show up.

  "Michael" But, if we all sit here, who's going to go watch them?

  "Eira" Can't they try to blame it on a system failure?

  "Nico" They can, of course, but will they be believed?

  "Eira" We'll find out. Nico and I will go after them, and you find that spot and sit there until we come or a message, if it's in that area can come.

  "Michael." Okay. Nico, where did you encounter this glitch?

  "Nico" Kind of behind that column by the wall paintings.

  *Michael* Come on, let's give it a try.

  "Nico." Yeah, it's working. You're not visible on the map.

  "Michael" Great, then good luck to you.

  "Eira." Likewise.

  "..."

  "Eira" What class do you think asked them to do that?

  "Nico" Those thugs who wrote the complaint, were they C-grade?

  "Eira" Yeah, but don't you think that...

  "Nico" I think. Apparently their "in charge" asked for the names of those who contributed to them taking the complaint.

  "Eira." And Takiya?

  "Nico" Takia witnessed their fight. So it's no wonder she'd be questioned too. You were a little confused by the fact that Takiya and Kyouko were best friends, but they went to different groups, right?

  "Eira" Do you think that's the reason?

  "Nico" I think they had a plan from the beginning, that's why such a brazen strategy. By the way, we're almost there.

  "Eira" Maybe you're right.

  "Nico." Now be quiet.

  Not far away, I heard a conversation and Shogai's voice.

  "Shogai" ...No survivors were found, right.

  "Voice" Well done, you've eliminated the main splinter.

  "Takia" Are we in no danger now?

  "Stranger" Do the same thing with the B class and walk around.

  "Shogai" I hope you realize the risks involved. Because betrayal and cooperation are severely punished.

  "Stranger" And you're sure of what you're saying?

  The guy took Shogai by the head and slammed him sharply to the ground.

  "Stranger" So you'll do it again?

  "Shogai" No, I'm sorry...

  "Stranger." Same thing. Now go and do my bidding.

  This guy wasn't a class "B" guy, and he wasn't a class "A" guy. Apparently, he's the "head" of the "C" class, so to speak. There's a big guy walking next to him. Apparently, the incident made him too angry with them.

  "The evening of that very day."

  "Stranger" Why the hell did you take the complaint away? Who gave you the right to do that? We had a clear plan to get rid of him.

  "Henry "P-please excuse me, we were caught off guard and threatened.

  "Stranger" Was the assignment not clear to you?

  "Henry" It was clear and straightforward....

  "Stranger" Then I don't see the problem you took the complaint away for.

  "Henry" We've been set up, I'm telling you....

  "Stranger." Framed? How, if it's no secret?

  "Henry" It turns out there were cameras in that wing and they were filming everything. We were offered to take the complaint back and in return they wouldn't show us the footage....

  "Stranger" You've been played like little children. There were never any cameras there, we chose this place, everything you've been shown is a fake.

  "Henry." Wh-what? W-W-Would you please forgive us for making such a mistake? It won't happen again.

  "Stranger" I don't need more. Aiju, talk to them.

  "Aiju" There's a boss.

  "Stranger" I want the names of the men who set you up. And bring me that Shogun of yours.

  "..."

  Yeah, apparently we really "interfered" with him, maybe he'll keep trying to eliminate class after class.

  "..."

  "Nico" Michael, you can come out now.

  "Michael." What's up? Did you find out anything?

  "Nico" Yes. Just as we thought, Shogai and Takiya are traitors. They were forced to do it by Class C because we made them take back their complaint. Next, they're going to eliminate the "B" class.

  "Michael" We have to prevent this from happening.

  "Nico" I'm of a different opinion.

  "Eira" If we start following them, we'll be spotted right away and endanger Shogai and Takiya. Also, if we warn them, it will be considered cooperation, which is strictly forbidden and has a penalty.

  "Nico." Right. All we have to do is watch and not act hastily. I doubt there are only fools in this class.

  "Michael." All right.

  And indeed, if we start to do something, we will be quickly spotted, and if we walk somewhere aloof, the chance of this is greatly reduced.

  "Eira" Niko, look, shouldn't there be an alert that some class has been eliminated?

  "Nico" Must be, why?

  "Eira." But we don't have one.

  "Nico" That makes sense. There's still Shogai and Takiya.

  "Eira" Right, But don't we show up on their menu?

  "Nico." Yeah, I guess so. There are two possibilities. Either they know about it and keep quiet, or they don't pay attention.

  "Eira." All right.

  "..."

  "Shogai" That's not right....

  "Takia" Yes, but we can't have any other outcome.

  "Shogai" Yes, but they're still alive. If those thugs find out, we won't be able to live in peace.

  "Takia" What are you suggesting?

  "Shogai" If we tell Class B about their plan, would that count as cooperation?

  "Takia" I don't think so, you're just telling them the news. Whether it's useful or not is up to them.

  "Shogai" Then we can warn them that there's a trap waiting for them on the 30th floor.

  "Takia" What are they on now?

  "Shogai 29...

  "Takia" Then we should hurry.

  "..."

  Ray's "Shogai." Hold on.

  "Ray." Oh, what?

  "Takia" Please hear us out.

  "Ray" What happened, where's the rest of your band?

  "Shogai" Let's get the questions later. We're here to warn you of the danger on the 30th floor.

  "Ray." What kind of danger?

  "Takia Class C has set a trap for you on the 30th floor. We don't know exactly where, but we were supposed to lead you to the cathedral where they might be waiting for you.

  "Ray." What? You were supposed to lead us there? I don't understand.

  "Shogai" There's no time to explain. Just trust us.

  "Ray." Okay. Class, once on the floor, be alert.

  "Takia" Thank you for your understanding.

  After the class entered the 30th floor, they began to listen and look out for every rustle, every movement. If they had known that this was the trap.....

  "Taqiyyah" There is no forgiveness for us....

  "Shogai" Yes...

  After they got a little closer to the cathedral, though not as close as originally thought, the sounds of footsteps were heard.

  "Ray." All right, everybody stand by.

  "Stranger." Well, well. Who do I see here. Ray herself has taken the "B" class. Congratulations.

  "Ray." What do you want, Wayans.

  "Waynes." Wow, they didn't even forget my name.

  "Ray." I'm gonna have nightmares about your name.

  "Waynes." I'm flattered. But I see you haven't forgotten what happened in middle school either, have you?

  "Ray." Shut up.

  "Waynes." What are you doing? You didn't tell me how you were my right-hand man? How you obediently followed my orders and framed others because I told you to.

  "Ray." Shut the fuck up.

  "Waynes." Shh. We're old friends, come on.

  "Rae" I'm not the one you knew anymore.

  "Waynes." But you're still just as gullible.

  "Ray." What makes you say that?

  "Waynes" To trust a stranger, from a completely different class, who is actually your enemy. To trust him to ambush you. That's what I'm talking about.

  "Ray" So you were around then?

  "Waynes" I'll say more, this meeting of ours was an afterthought.

  "Ray Are you saying that their 'warning' was actually a trap?

  "Waynes." Right. Because there's a safe zone in and around the cathedral where it's simply impossible to do any damage to anyone. And since you're a fair distance away from it.

  "Ray" You couldn't have planned it like that...

  "Waynes." Oh, come on.

  "..."

  "Waynes" Next we have Class B, followed by Class A. You'll come up and tell them there's a trap waiting for them near the cathedral. There's a safe zone near the cathedral, so make it so they don't even get near it. For that and the next assignment, I might let you go.

  "..."

  "Ray" And now you're going to kill us?

  "Waynes." Right. That's why the class that passes this event rises 1-2 ranks higher. And if there is only 1 class left at all, it becomes "elite".

  "Rhea" Are you speaking for the S class?

  "Waynes." That's right. In the entire 50 years of this school's existence, only 1 class has ever achieved that rank. Maybe we can do it again, too, who knows.

  "Ray" You'll need to eliminate another "D" and "A" class to do that.

  "Waynes." Class D is gone. There's only those two left, and I'll figure something out about the "A" class, too, but for now, goodbye.

  After these words, the ground beneath their feet abruptly disappeared and they fell into a very deep pit, where monsters that were much higher level than them began to appear. It was sneaky, but it was Wayne's style.

  His plan was to eliminate another class, and they were already on the 40th floor. That's not even hard for us to get through, let alone Waynes. They'll probably be waiting for them on either the 45th or 49th floor. Unfortunately for Class B, we're not gonna be able to help them.

  "..."

  "Michael" What floor is this now?

  "Eira" 39 sort of thing.

  "Nico." Quiet, I can hear someone.

  Sounds came from the boss's chambers, someone was fighting there. It was probably a class "C".

  After a while, when the sounds of battles had already subsided and the gate to the next floor opened, we approached the boss's chambers.

  "Eira" He'll be here in two hours.

  "Nico" That's to our advantage. As long as they're going after Class A, they'll be in a hurry and not paying attention. Just the way they'll go from floors 40 to 43 in that amount of time.

  "Michael" What if we have to fight them later? From the looks of it, they are very well equipped, and they had a full class at the start.

  "Nico." We'll figure something out.

  Two hours later, we walked into the boss's chambers.

  As expected they were not on the 40th floor, nor were they on the 41st, 42nd and 43rd. This silence did not give me any peace, perhaps they had already met the "A" class.

  "..."

  "Boy" Waynes, are we nearing Class A anytime soon?

  "Waynes" Sure, they're counting on top of us. The gate to level 45 has just opened. Now we need to defeat the boss here as quickly as possible and move on to the final part.

  And in his mind everything was perfect, everything was thought out to the smallest detail. Except that the "A" class didn't have any weaknesses, they were better equipped than us and the "C" class combined. If Waynes is so sure of his words, then he's obviously sure of his victory.

  "..."

  "Waynes." Good evening, gentlemen. Or is it afternoon, morning?

  "Guy." Who are you?

  "Waynes" Goku, the head of Class A, couldn't recognize his old friend?

  "Goku" No, I couldn't. What do you want?

  "Waynes." Let me remind you of myself. Back in middle school, you had this friend. Who was always protecting you and helping you. You remember him.

  "Goku" Maybe.

  "Waynes" Also, in return for being given that protection. You were forced to obey this man. You were weak, Goku.

  "Goku" Dismissed.

  "Waynes" You're the same now. Beneath that mask, beneath that mountain of muscle was little Goku, still scared and cowering in a corner. Afraid that if they find him, they'll beat him up right away. So let me give you a helping hand again! Like an old, kind, trusted friend.

  "Goku" You don't understand words? Let me tell it to you another way.

  "Waynes." Oh, Goku decided to stand up for himself. That's the news I'm getting today, and it's the biggest one yet. Let's see, little Goku.

  "Goku" I'm so sick of you, now you're going to apologize.

  Goku then began to attack, not yet realizing that his guys were already beginning to be surrounded and using "exhaustion" magic, where the players would not be able to use healing herbs or spells. All they would have the power to do would be to hold a sword.

  "Waynes" Goku, and you know what?

  "Goku ...

  "Waynes." You haven't changed a bit either. You still go along with your emotions and forget about the people you're supposed to be protecting and defending.

  "Goku" I have no idea who you're talking about.

  "Waynes" Turn around.

  After Goku turned around, he saw that out of his group of 19 people, only three remained.

  "Goku" What?....But, how.....

  "Waynes." Goku, if you'd stayed with them, you might not have moved. Who knows?

  "Goku" You....You...You're a lousy pig, you bastard. There's no forgiveness for you.

  "Waynes." Yeah, yeah, I am.

  Goku couldn't just move while watching his last comrade get killed.

  Goku can't contain his emotions and tries to attack Waynes, but--

  "Waynes." Easy, easy. You don't forget that you're a small and whiny child who can threaten anything.

  "Goku" I'll get you...I'll get you from under the ground! Do you understand me?!

  "Waynes." Yeah, yeah, very interesting. Guys, finish him off, only more humanely than the others.

  Goku was injected with a substance that put him to sleep. A dream of his unfulfilled desires or goals. In the dream, he can no longer wear the mask and live the life he wants. To be whoever his soul desires him to be. He will forever be the Goku who loves this world, even if he can no longer wake up.....

  Goku's dream was followed by the announcement of the elimination of Class A.

  "Waynes." Yeah, I thought it'd be a little harder. Well, let's get to the 50th floor.

  He actually raised all the class leaders in middle school. But he brought them up as people who only know how to obey. He probably did not expect that each of them would be able to change and start contradicting their "teacher".

  But on the 49th floor, they got a little surprise.

  "Waynes" Okay, we just have to pass the boss on this floor and we'll be bathed in luxury.

  "Henry" But, sir, we're not the only class left.

  "Waynes." Oh, yeah, right. Guys, your culminating moment has arrived, when you will play a big role for the future of humanity and blah, blah, blah. In a nutshell, just be ready to.... how humane to say...And to hell with humanity. Be ready to die, comrades.

  "Shogai." What? That wasn't even supposed to happen.

  "Waynes." What do you mean, "not envisioned"? Your role was defined long before our, shall we say, agreement.

  "Takia" So we were a mere resource?

  "Waynes." Right. I thought you'd be able to figure it out on your own, I thought you'd start getting in my way or something. But alas. You didn't live up to my expectations, so... Guys, get busy.

  "Nico" Attacking two people in a mob, that's brave of you.

  "Waynes." What? Who the hell are you and how dare you tell me what to do?

  "Nico" I'm the one you thought was dead at the beginning of the game. As you can see, I didn't live up to your expectations either.

  That's the way it is. While they were having a showdown with the "A" class on the 45th floor. We quickly snuck into that classroom and hit the hottest moment when no one noticed the door opening. We also decided to take advantage of this moment and sneak into the boss's chambers. Only there was one trick. With the help of one thing could pass one of the bosses, this thing is not worth a lot, but no one knew about its existence. I thought it wouldn't be useful, but it turned out to be. So we got to level 46 without killing the boss, and then as usual got to the 49th floor.

  "Waynes." So you're a class "D"? Still one survivor.

  "Nico" Well, as one.

  Behind me, the whole class showed up.

  "Waynes." Yeah, my dogs didn't do a very good job. Well, I guess there's no words for it, so.... Attack!

  It was expected so we had time to prepare some traps.

  The ground beneath the two clumps of people disappeared, and almost everyone fell there. The highest level monsters were waiting for them there, that is, the same fate as the 'B' class. But there were still plenty of them left, and the other traps hadn't come to fruition. They were better equipped, but there was nothing left but to take the fight.

  "Waynes." Yeah, that's a good idea with the traps. But that's my department! So don't expect any mercy from me now!

  The fight lasted a long time, it was very hard for us. But because his men were a bit exhausted, it gave us a chance to equalize the situation and it seemed that the chances were already equal, but.....

  "Waynes" Remember my friend, people are just a resource, the important thing is to know how to use that resource.

  Then there was an explosion that threw me some distance away and I was knocked out.

  "..."

  When I woke up, the small village we were in was on fire. There were bodies scattered around the edges of the village, not only from my class, but from his class as well. That's what he meant by his words.

  In the distance, I saw someone get up from behind the rubble of a building and head in my direction. There's no doubt about it, it's him.

  As soon as I made a stand, someone grabbed me from behind.

  "Waynes" Like I said, traps are my thing. Do you think I'll make you scream?

  "Nico" I have no idea, but do you always do this?

  "Waynes." How?

  "Nico." You attack from behind like a rat.

  "Waynes" I see no shame in, as some like to say, "In war, all means are good." And especially tactics come into play.

  "Nico." So what now? You're going to torture me by cutting off one finger at a time?

  "Waynes." I'm not a humane man, but not that humane. No, you're not. I'll do it differently. You see this beautiful girl? I'm gonna skin her like I skin an animal.

  He walked over to Eira, she had been crushed by a piece of wood and couldn't get up, but she was conscious.

  "Nico." No. I'd rather be bullied by you.

  "Waynes." I see you've got a hero in you. But wait till it's your turn.

  Suddenly I heard a familiar voice.

  "Shogai and Takiya" Niko! Run!

  After saying that, I heard someone get hit really hard. I turned around and saw Shogai and Takiya knocking out the two guys who were holding me.

  "Waynes." I knew you guys were lousy.

  "Shogai" Now you're going to answer for everything.

  Shogai joined him in the fight, with Takiya helping him. At first, Shogai and Takiya were doing well, but.

  "Waynes" It's time to end the circus.

  With one swing of his sword, he threw them 200 meters away. When they landed, they hit the ground hard, perhaps unconscious, perhaps even ...

  "Waynes." That's what happens to anyone who gets in my way. That's what I'm telling you, boy.

  "Nico" No kidding, and I want to test my fate.

  I drew my sword. I realized that I had no chance, but it was worth using my skills not only in theory, but also in practice.

  "Waynes." It would be a shame to kill you. All right, then. Hold on a minute, Belle. It's all coming down to the wire.

  With a sharp jerk, he was near my sword and swung his own. I managed to dodge, but he got me. He was assertive, giving me no chance to attack, and I could only defend myself. When we were so close, I felt a power that hadn't come from him yet. At that moment, I realized that he could go on like that for a long time, but me...I should be able to last a little longer. There's no time to use healing herbs, he won't let me do it. Suddenly I felt my leg being grabbed. It was his almost dead comrade, who being already practically dead, helps his "master" to the end. I collapsed to the ground, and my sword fell a little farther away, but in such a way that I could not reach it

  "Waynes" People are a resource. Used wisely, you can accomplish a lot, can't you? You could have done as well as I did if you hadn't joined me in the first place. But you didn't for some reason, why?

  "Nico" Because I have a sense of self-worth and at least a little, but respect for other people.

  "Waynes" Wrong answer.

  He stabbed my left arm. It hurt. It really hurts. This must be the end of me, but I have to do something, I can't leave Eira alone....

  "Waynes" Yeah...And I thought you and I would be alike, Nico.

  "Nico." You know what, uh, uh.

  "Waynes." What? You want to go over to my side?

  "Nico" Fuck you...

  "Waynes." Oh, that's rude. And we don't like rudeness, you know. Goodbye, my friend.

  He raised his sword and began to lower it. That's it. I'm sorry, Eira.

  Just as suddenly, I heard the sound of two swords as if someone had blocked a blow.

  Opening my eyes I saw in front of me....Rayu?

  "Waynes." What? How else did you get here?

  "Rhea" Unfortunately for you, I managed to get out of there, all my comrades died, but I came back to let you know who you are and where you should go.

  "Waynes" You have strong words though, but can you prove them in practice?

  A fight broke out between them. One oppressed the other and vice versa. And so on and so forth. While they were fighting, I tried to replenish my reserves of life and energy to resist him.

  As soon as I finished my recovery and picked up my sword, I saw Uyens had already felled Reya.

  "Waynes" Your last words?

  "Ray" I'll get you from under the ground...

  "Waynes." Deal.

  He raised his sword and.

  "Nico." You can't just get him out of the ground. You can finish him off here.

  "Waynes." Wow. Look at this. One man saves another man to save him. Genius, how did you come up with that? I don't care who I kill, though.

  "Nico" Then let's settle this here and now.

  There was a spark between us. Everyone wanted to kill their opponent. The fight was equal, but I still felt his strength, but I was also fully confident in my own abilities.

  The fight had been going on for a few minutes now, but Waynes wouldn't be himself if he didn't use traps.

  As soon as he jumped away from me, he immediately used magic to flip me off. And I flew away from him about 200 meters. When I landed, I hit the pole hard, which lowered my health score considerably.

  "Nico." You're such an asshole.

  "Waynes." Stop calling me that, I'm offended. But I'm gonna ask you to say your last words.

  "Nico" It's not over yet.

  "Waynes" How original, if not the end, then wha...

  Before he could say anything, a dagger with dispatch and paralyzing effect stabbed into him.

  "Shogai" N-niko, act, you don't have much time....

  I immediately stood up and grabbed my sword, brought it above my head and brought it down sharply.

  A moment, and Waynes' head rolled down the slope.

  "Niko" Shogai, hold on, I'll fly you over now.

  "Shogai." No need. It's my and Takiya's payment for hurting you and Class B. When you come back, please tell everyone that just because you got class "D" doesn't mean you'll be the worst. Inspire all those people who are going to be scared and never, do you hear me? Never you dare give up and back down, no matter what happens to you.....

  After these words, Shogai closed his eyes and will never open them again....

  "Nico" Shogai...Thank you very much....

  I quickly got up and headed over to Rhea, she was barely breathing anymore either.

  "Nico" Ray, tell me why, why, why? You could have gone on with your life if you'd passed this floor...

  "Ray." I wanted to get back at him for all the pain he had caused me. You and I succeeded, my goal accomplished. I hope everything goes well with you and Eira. Also take this, you can get through this floor without fighting the boss. Because the boss is Comey, you might have guessed that by now. If you don't kill her, she'll just get kicked out of the game, suspended, and transferred to a regular school. What happens to us is still a mystery. Good luck, my best friend.

  "Nico" Ray...Thank you...Thank you for everything.....

  Afterward, Reya had already passed out as well. I took the pass between the bosses and Eiru and we went to the 50th floor.

  When we reached it we were greeted by a big screen that said, "Congratulations, you passed this exam! We really hope you weren't bored!". And then it was just blank....

  "..."

  I woke up in my room some time later. The date on the calendar showed that two months had passed since the exam started. The speakers told us to head to our class.

  When I got to my class, I couldn't help but think of Shogai, Michael, Rei... Tears started to form in my eyes. But someone put a hand on my shoulder and held me.

  "Eira" Thank you...Thank you all for not letting us die out there....

  "Teacher" I see you're all gathered, so I'll begin. You will now be called the "S" class. In the 50 years of this school, this is the second time that students have achieved that title, and all of those two times were "D" grades. Now you will be given a large amount of points each month and will be able to graduate earlier than others. You will also be given a job, a high paying job. Any questions?

  "Nico" Teacher, what became of those who died there?

  "Teacher" Unfortunately I can't tell you, but since you've been through such a thing...Unfortunately, once you die there, you die in reality as well. Except for this Comey, she doesn't remember being in this school and she was just transferred to a regular school. I'm sorry. That's it, congratulations again.

  It's like my eyes started swimming, I just can't believe that these people sacrificed their lives for us....

  "Nico" Eira, we will still have to fulfill Shogai and Rei's last wish. So don't despair so much. We'll be fine.

  "Eira" Yeah, you're probably right.

  "..."

  It's been five years. We had already finished our schooling and started working in the school. Eira and I became teachers of the "D" class to prove to them that they can do much more than they think, to guide them in the right direction. We had already had the experience of being able to turn a "D" class into an "A" class through the efforts of the students. There were no more exams like that 5 years ago, but Eira and I still remember it often. We also fulfilled Rae's last wish. Eira and I became together, and maybe it's a happy ending, as suddenly we were told that there would be an exam involving a full immersion helmet and a video game...