Checkmate: The Last Move

Finally, the last event of the day had arrived. Almost all the students were exhausted after their participation in various events, but that fatigue momentarily vanished when they learned that the final confrontation of the exam was about to begin. For Class A, the outcome already seemed decided; the score showed 4-2 in favor of Class B. Despite the general dissatisfaction, the members of Class A maintained their unwavering support for their leader, Sakayanagi. Confidence in her was at its peak, as they had always seen her play chess and knew she had been unbeatable until now.

The rules of the event were displayed on the screen:

International Chess

Required number of participants: 1 personTime limit: 1 hour (extra time counts as losses)Rules: Based on standard international chess rules, with no extensions of time after move 40.Role of the commander: Allowed to give instructions for a maximum of 15 minutes within the total game time of 1 hour.

As the rules appeared on the screen, Sakayanagi did not wait a second longer. She stood up from her seat in the briefing room and headed straight to the room where the confrontation would take place.

— Sakayanagi, where are you going? —asked Sakagami, surprised by her sudden departure.

Sakayanagi looked at him with her usual serene smile and replied calmly:

— I'm going to fulfill one of my dreams.

Sakagami raised his eyebrows, not entirely understanding the meaning of her words.

— Although I'm supposed to give instructions from here, if both sides agree to a direct confrontation, I don't think the school would reject it, right?

Professor Chabashira, after hearing the proposal, contacted the event organizers. After a few seconds of waiting, she received approval, as long as the established rules were respected.

With confirmation in hand, Sakayanagi left the room with a mix of excitement and determination. She headed towards the place where she would fulfill one of her long-awaited dreams: facing directly the person she considered a false genius. She had waited 2,272 days for this moment and was determined to enjoy it to the fullest.

Meanwhile, Ichinose had selected Ayanokouji for the chess event. Class A, confused, wondered how it was possible for him to participate for the third time. This situation generated a murmur of surprise and confusion among the students of Class A, who could not understand how Ayanokouji had managed to bypass the rules to be in this last event.

As Sakayanagi arrived at the confrontation location, she noticed that Ayanokouji was already seated at the chessboard, with the pieces perfectly arranged on the table. As she approached, Ayanokouji stood up courteously and helped Sakayanagi get settled in her chair.

Sakayanagi, with a playful smile, said:

— Wow, Ayanokouji-kun, I didn't know you were so chivalrous. Fufufu.

Ayanokouji, with a serene expression, replied:

— I suppose being at this school has taught me certain things.

Sakayanagi nodded, curious:

— I see. Apparently, you enjoy your stay here.

Ayanokouji responded with a reflective tone:

— Indeed, this school is very interesting.

Sakayanagi smiled with complicity:

— I couldn't agree more with you.

At that moment, one of the event officials approached to start the final game. In a formal tone, the official explained:

—Remember, at your request, this game will last only 15 minutes, as Sakayanagi has chosen to use her privilege as commander. Once this time has passed, if the game has not concluded, the winner will be decided by who has the most time remaining on their clock.

Sakayanagi and Ayanokouji responded in unison:

— Of course.

The official, with a decisive gesture, activated the timer and announced:

— Begin!

With the signal given, the chess game commenced, and the atmosphere was charged with tension as both players delved into the final challenge of the exam.

The atmosphere in the room was filled with tension as Ayanokouji and Sakayanagi took their seats in front of the chessboard. Everyone knew that this final confrontation would determine which class would win. The murmur of the students faded as both fixed their gaze on the pieces, as if the outside world ceased to exist and only the game mattered.

Sakayanagi made the first move, advancing a pawn towards the center with the confidence of someone who knows what they're doing. Ayanokouji, on the other hand, responded in a calculated manner, already thinking several moves ahead. For him, each piece was part of a larger plan.

During the first few minutes, silence reigned over the game. Both players moved their pieces with precision and calm, without rushing. Sakayanagi, famous for her strategic skill, tried to take control of the center of the board, using her deep knowledge to establish a solid defense.

Ayanokouji, however, did not seem interested in following the conventional rules of chess. His moves, although simple at first glance, hid a more complex strategy. Instead of fighting for control of the center, he began to build a position that, intentionally, appeared weak and passive. But in reality, it was a trap designed to make Sakayanagi underestimate his play.

Sakayanagi noticed this supposed weakness and decided to seize the opportunity. With a bold move, she brought one of her rooks to a position that pressured Ayanokouji, believing she had him cornered. But he barely reacted, responding with a move that neutralized her attack so subtly that most people didn't even notice.

At that moment, Sakayanagi, always curious, decided to break the silence:

— Ayanokouji-kun, I wonder... how is it possible that you're participating in three events? According to the rules, you shouldn't be here.

Ayanokouji looked up from the board, speaking with his usual impassive face.

— Sakayanagi, do you want to know now? —he asked calmly.

Sakayanagi also smiled, but her eyes remained fixed on the board, analyzing her next move.

— No, tell me after the game. I want to enjoy this confrontation to the fullest. It has been my dream since I was a child —she replied with a sincerity that only he understood.

Ayanokouji nodded, accepting her request without issue.

— Very well, then let's enjoy it.

The game continued, but this time with a different intensity. Sakayanagi was determined to prove herself against Ayanokouji at her best. She began moving her knights, trying to open a breach in Ayanokouji's defense. Her strategy was precise, seeking to force him to make a mistake, a small slip that would give her the advantage.

But Ayanokouji remained unperturbed. Whenever Sakayanagi attempted an attack, he countered with a perfectly synchronized defense. It seemed as though he anticipated every one of her moves, blocking any attempt by Sakayanagi to gain the upper hand.

As time passed, the pressure on Sakayanagi increased. The clock mercilessly ticked toward the 15-minute limit, but she remained undaunted. She kept her focus, moving her pieces with the precision of an expert. She knew she had only a few minutes left, but she believed that those minutes would be enough to determine the winner.

Ayanokouji watched calmly as Sakayanagi moved her queen, attempting to provoke him into defending and thus opening a path for a decisive attack. But instead of retreating, Ayanokouji made a move that puzzled her. Instead of protecting a vulnerable piece, he sacrificed it, leaving it at Sakayanagi's mercy.

She accepted the sacrifice, advancing confidently. But in the blink of an eye, Ayanokouji moved a rook in a play that completely changed the board. What seemed like a sacrifice turned out to be a well-thought-out trap, and now Sakayanagi was in a complicated position.

Sakayanagi looked at the board, her mind searching for an escape. But Ayanokouji had closed all the doors. Every move she made brought her closer to checkmate.

Finally, at 14:34, Ayanokouji moved his queen and put Sakayanagi in check. The room fell into total silence, everyone holding their breath as they awaited Sakayanagi's reaction.

To many's surprise, Sakayanagi smiled. It wasn't a bitter smile but one of satisfaction and respect.

— Ayanokouji-kun, I have lost —she said, accepting her defeat with grace.

Ayanokouji nodded, without a trace of arrogance in his victory. With this result, Class B won the exam, and a burst of joy swept through the hall as their classmates celebrated the triumph

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As soon as Ayanokouji's victory was announced, Class B erupted in cheers and applause. The excitement was contagious; the students celebrated their triumph with overflowing euphoria.

Shibata couldn't contain his enthusiasm: "I can't believe it! You're a genius, Ayanokouji! Thanks to you, we've won the exam! You're definitely the MVP of the day."

Amikura, with a look of pure joy, exclaimed: "This is amazing! You have to come to the party we're organizing right now! We couldn't celebrate without you!"

Minamikata approached with a wide and excited smile: "Yes, come and celebrate with us! The party won't be the same without the hero of the day!"

Kobashi, with eyes shining with excitement, added: "Definitely! You've made all this possible!"

Ayanokouji, seeing the energy and appreciation of his peers, responded with a calm expression: "I greatly appreciate all the praise. However, before joining the party, I need to take care of a couple of things."

Hamaguchi, with a mix of curiosity and anxiety, said: "That's fine, don't worry. Just make sure you don't take too long. We're all looking forward to celebrating with you!"

Keiko Amatore, with a look of sincere gratitude, added: "Yes! We'll wait for you! The party will be the best thanks to you!"

Ichinose, with a beautiful smile, said: "Don't be too long; I still haven't been able to thank you properly."

Ayanokouji nodded appreciatively and, with one last look at the room full of celebrations, headed towards where he needed to go. As Class B continued with their preparations, the euphoria of victory filled the air, and the anticipation for the party was palpable. Ayanokouji's victory had become the talk of the evening, and the celebration promised to be one of the most memorable.

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The sunset had arrived, painting the sky with warm and golden hues, while a gentle, cool breeze caressed the atmosphere. Ayanokouji walked towards a small bench in the park, where Sakayanagi, her white hair glowing in the setting sun, awaited him with a curious expression.

Sakayanagi: "For a moment, I thought you would leave me hanging to go to the party," she said with a touch of sarcasm in her voice.

Ayanokouji: "I wouldn't do that. Besides, you want to know how I did it, right? And I know that if I don't tell you, you'd find a way to figure it out yourself."

Sakayanagi: "Exactly. I appreciate that you accepted and avoided the trouble."

Ayanokouji sat down next to her on the bench and said:

Ayanokouji: "From what point would you like me to start?"

Sakayanagi: "From the beginning. Don't leave out any details."

Ayanokouji: "Alright, but it's a bit long."

Sakayanagi: "I'm all ears," she said with an anticipatory smile.

Ayanokouji: "It all started on the day when they explained the exam rules. I quickly realized that since students design their own events and rules, there could be legal loopholes that would allow outstanding students to participate more than once."

Sakayanagi: "Of course, that would be the most efficient."

Ayanokouji: "Exactly. But the rule limiting a student to participate a second time only after all their classmates have participated is quite restrictive. It greatly limits what can be done with the more outstanding students."

Sakayanagi: "Right. I suppose it's a balance to measure a class's ability to efficiently utilize their peers."

Ayanokouji: "Then I thought about something I heard on the first day of classes when they explained about points."

Sakayanagi: "And what was that?"

Ayanokouji: "There's nothing in this school that can't be bought with points. Just like you bought information about the exam scheme before it was announced, I did something similar."

Sakayanagi pondered what Ayanokouji had bought, trying to figure out what it could be. After a moment, her face showed a spark of understanding.

Sakayanagi: "Don't tell me..."

Ayanokouji: "Yes, I bought the events."

Sakayanagi: "Wow, I didn't think 'nothing is impossible to buy with points' was so literal. I thought there would be some restrictions regarding exams."

Ayanokouji: "Well, there might be restrictions if the school designed the events, but since students are the ones preparing them, the rules are more flexible."

Ayanokouji: "With that idea in mind, I went to the interim director's office a day before the school chose the events."

Sakayanagi: "The interim director Tsukishiro, the person who's trying to expel you? Did you really explain this to him?"

Ayanokouji: "Yes. Even though his primary goal at this school is to expel me, it doesn't mean he doesn't have duties as a director. If he doesn't fulfill his role, he might be replaced."

Sakayanagi: "I suppose that could be the case. Please continue."

Ayanokouji: "Well, the conversation went something like this."

Flashback:

In a stark office, Tsukishiro, with his usual calculating smile, faced Ayanokouji.

Tsukishiro: "I didn't expect you to come see me personally," he commented with his characteristic smile.

Ayanokouji: "Now that you're the interim director, I have some questions about the special exam that only the director would know."

Tsukishiro: "I see. Can't you ask your teachers? They have the rules."

Ayanokouji: "Certainly, but that information probably wouldn't differ much from what the students already know."

Tsukishiro: "Impressive sharpness, just like your father."

Ayanokouji: "Let's get to the point. How many points would it cost to buy the events for tomorrow?"

Tsukishiro: "Wow, you're going straight to the price. Why didn't you ask first if it was possible?"

Ayanokouji: "According to the rules, there's nothing that can't be bought with points, right?"

Tsukishiro: "Certainly, but there are some exceptions to what you can buy, you know?"

Ayanokouji: "I know, but this isn't one of them, right?"

Tsukishiro: "You're right. Hmm, let me answer your first question. It would be one million private points for each event."

Ayanokouji: "More expensive than I imagined."

Tsukishiro: "I think it's a fair price. After all, depending on the events you select, you could secure an absolute victory."

Ayanokouji: "I see. Well, I want to buy all six events anyway."

Tsukishiro: "I assume you have plenty of private points now, don't you?"

Ayanokouji: "Perhaps."

Tsukishiro: "But don't get too excited. There's an additional rule you need to consider if you want to buy the events."

Ayanokouji: "What would that be?"

Tsukishiro: "It's simple. You have to select three events that belong to the rival class. We can't allow students to think that the school is showing favoritism toward any class."

Ayanokouji: "In other words, you want to divert attention from the fact that events and some rules can be manipulated in some way."

Tsukishiro: "You've hit the nail on the head."

Ayanokouji: "Alright, I accept."

Tsukishiro: "Perfect. Select the events you want and deposit the points."

Ayanokouji: "Sure, but before that, can you answer another question?"

Tsukishiro: "Of course, ask whatever you need."

Ayanokouji: "What would happen if, in the seven events, all 39 students were required to participate, and, for example, one of them got injured? With no other students available to substitute, how would you proceed?"

Tsukishiro: "Nothing escapes you. Well, you're a masterpiece for a reason. In that case, another rule would apply: If a student withdraws demonstrably, any student who has already participated or is about to participate may substitute."

Ayanokouji: "A rule that can be easily exploited."

Tsukishiro: "Certainly, but for this to happen, no student should be available, something that, in theory, shouldn't occur, although you never know."

Ayanokouji: "Understood." Ayanokouji then proceeded to select the events and deposit the points.

Ayanokouji: "Everything is set, Interim Director Tsukishiro."

Tsukishiro: "Perfect. If that's all, you may leave."

As Ayanokouji was about to leave, he stopped at the door and turned back to Tsukishiro.

Ayanokouji: "Can I ask you a question that isn't related to the exam?"

Tsukishiro: "Sure, the masterpiece always has my attention. What do you wish to know?"

Ayanokouji: "Are you really trying to expel me?"

Tsukishiro: "What made you ask that?"

Ayanokouji: — You know, as the director, it would be easy to deny that events can be bought, right?

Tsukishiro: — There are cameras even here, you know?

Ayanokouji: — As the director, I don't think it would be a problem to eliminate evidence.

Tsukishiro: — Certainly. Well, let's say the plans have changed.

Ayanokouji: — What has changed?

Tsukishiro: — After we met and reviewed your history, I notified your father about what you've done, and his perspective changed a bit.

Ayanokouji: — Don't tell me that man is going to let me go?

Tsukishiro: — Of course not. Instead, he proposed a game for you.

Ayanokouji: — A game? What kind of game?

Tsukishiro: — Very simple. It's a survival game.

Ayanokouji: — Survival?

Tsukishiro: — Yes. Next year, new students will enter, including some from the White Room. Your task is to find them. If you manage to locate all of them within the first three months, your father will let you go until graduation.

Ayanokouji: — Free until graduation? Just for finding them?

Tsukishiro: — Exactly. But it won't be easy. They are here with the exclusive mission of expelling you, so you'll need to find them while they try to eliminate you.

Ayanokouji: — And what if I don't find them before the deadline?

Tsukishiro: — Nothing. If you don't find them before the deadline, you'll simply have to survive them. If you want to expel them, you'll have to face them one by one.

Ayanokouji: — I understand. That's all. I'll take my leave.

Tsukishiro: — Very well. Enjoy your vacation, because things will get interesting soon. — he said with a disturbing smile.

End of Flashback

Sakayanagi: — Well, I wouldn't expect anything less from a masterpiece. And regarding those White Room students, you can count on me if you need help in the future, Ayanokouji-kun — Sakayanagi said with seriousness.

Ayanokouji: — Sure, if I need anything, I'll let you know.

Sakayanagi: — Thank you very much, Ayanokouji-kun, for fulfilling my wishes and whims.

Ayanokouji: — You're welcome. It's been a pleasure. But I think I should be leaving soon.

Sakayanagi: — Right, you have a party to attend. Sorry for taking up your time.

Ayanokouji: — No problem. Let me walk you to the dormitories.

Sakayanagi: — You don't have to do that, you know. Even though my legs aren't the best, I can go alone. Besides, you have people waiting for you.

Ayanokouji: — I insist, don't worry. Once we arrive, I'll head to the party.

Sakayanagi: — Alright then, let's chat on the way.

Ayanokouji: — Of course.

And so, under the golden twilight, Ayanokouji and Sakayanagi continued their walk, enjoying the moment and preparing for what the future would hold.

Note: Some might wonder why Kiyotaka chose to reveal his entire strategy to Arisu. The reason is simple: with the challenges that lie ahead in the second year, Kiyotaka knows he might need a strong ally. By sharing his plan, he not only aims to broaden Arisu's perspective but also to encourage her growth and turn her into a valuable asset for the difficult times to come.

Class A: 1131 ▼ (-150)

Class B: 550 ▲ (+250)

Class C: 508 ▲ (+220)

Class D:347 ▼ (-120)