Chapter 8

The days that followed were filled with a tense yet calculated atmosphere. The Hierarchy System was beginning to show its effects, with alliances forming and dissolving as students vied for rank and resources. It was clear that no one could stand alone for long—at least, not without a plan.

For me, it was an opportunity. While others sought strength in numbers, I sought leverage. The Academy had set the stage for a brutal social experiment, and I intended to manipulate it to my advantage.

The cafeteria buzzed with muted conversations as I entered, tray in hand. The points system had made its impact felt; even something as basic as a full meal cost precious resources. I had opted for a modest serving to conserve my balance, aware that others were struggling more visibly.

Daichi waved me over from a corner table, his expression a mix of relief and curiosity. Seated beside him was a girl I recognized but had yet to speak with. Her name was Hana, and she was ranked in the mid-thirties—average, but not without potential.

"Ryuto, sit," Daichi said, motioning to the empty spot across from him. "We were just talking about the latest announcement."

I set my tray down, taking in Hana's guarded expression. "What announcement?" I asked, feigning disinterest.

Hana leaned forward, lowering her voice. "The Academy posted a notice about a preliminary trial next week. It's a team-based event."

"Team-based?" I echoed, my mind already spinning.

Daichi nodded. "Groups of five, apparently. They haven't given any details, but rumors are flying. Some think it'll be a combat simulation. Others say it's a test of survival skills."

"Either way," Hana added, her tone serious, "the results will likely affect our ranks. Maybe even our points."

I considered their words carefully. A team event meant I'd need to work with others—a challenge for someone who preferred autonomy. But it also presented a chance to begin assembling a group on my terms.

"Have you decided on your team?" I asked, glancing between the two.

Daichi shrugged. "Not yet. I figured we could team up, but we'd still need a couple more people."

Hana hesitated before responding. "I haven't made any commitments either. But I'm not joining a team just to be a pawn." Her gaze flicked to me, sharp and probing. "What about you?"

I allowed a faint smile. "I'm considering my options. Teams are tricky—choose the wrong members, and you're dragging dead weight. Choose the right ones, and you're a target."

"So, what's your plan?" Hana pressed.

"To win," I said simply.

Later that evening, I began my quiet recruitment. I started with Daichi, whose loyalty was both his strength and his weakness. He wanted someone to rely on, someone to lead—and I was more than willing to play that role.

"If we're teaming up," I told him, "we need to focus on balance. Strength, strategy, and adaptability. We'll need people who can contribute in different ways."

He nodded, eager to agree. "Makes sense. Do you have anyone in mind?"

"A few," I replied. "Leave the negotiations to me. Just be ready when the time comes."

Next, I approached Hana. She was less trusting, but her pragmatic nature made her predictable. She wanted a team where her skills would be valued, not overshadowed.

"I'm putting together a group for the trial," I said, catching her after class. "You'd have a central role—your analytical approach is exactly what we need."

She narrowed her eyes. "And what's your role?"

"Coordination," I answered smoothly. "Making sure everyone's strengths are utilized. If we work together, we can secure top-tier results."

She considered this for a moment before nodding. "Fine. But if this goes sideways, I'm out."

"Understood," I said, offering a brief, reassuring smile.

By the end of the week, I had assembled a provisional team. In addition to Daichi and Hana, I brought in two others: Taro, a physically imposing but quiet student ranked in the sixties, and Aiko, a resourceful girl with a knack for improvisation. Neither was exceptional on their own, but together, they added depth to the group.

As we gathered in the training hall for our first meeting, I took stock of their expressions. Daichi was enthusiastic, Hana skeptical, Taro indifferent, and Aiko curious. It was a fragile alliance, but one with potential.

"This trial is a chance to prove ourselves," I began, addressing the group. "But more importantly, it's a chance to set the tone for the rest of our time here. Success isn't just about rank—it's about control. If we play this right, we'll have both."

"And if we fail?" Hana asked pointedly.

I met her gaze steadily. "Failure isn't an option."

As we left the hall that night, the weight of the upcoming trial hung heavy in the air. Each of us had our own reasons for wanting to succeed, our own fears of falling behind. But for me, this was more than a trial. It was the first step in a larger game—one I intended to win.