The Cruise Ship

Light Pov:

Gazing out at the sea, it felt as though time had gone by in the blink of an eye. The conclusion of our first semester arrived with minimal concern. Beyond the minor incident with Sudo and our class, a fleeting annoyance resolved with a peaceful ending, there was little to concern me with the whole ordeal. Still, I made a mental note: such lapses would never happen again once I took full control of Class C. Perhaps I should have intervened in it, but doing so would have benefited Ryuen more than myself, and that wasn't a gamble I was willing to take for now.

The finals had come and gone without much trouble. They demanded little more than cursory attention to the study guides I had made, leaving me ample time to enjoy the fleeting moments of leisure. Everyone else seemed to share this sentiment, revelling in the break. Even so, a faint unease did cross my mind. The school's generosity, a cruise and an island excursion as a reward for completing tests, seemed oddly excessive. It felt a little too good to be true, though perhaps it was simply intended to motivate the students. I decided not to dwell on it for now, as there wasn't much to go off.

A few hours into the trip, the ship buzzed with excitement. The carefree atmosphere was contagious, though I found myself in company with a classmate. Saki Yamashita, a classmate who had sent me a text invitation, was by my side. She was an interesting one, introverted by nature yet determined to perform well academically. Her efforts elevated her in my class ranking, placing her far above others who showed no such initiative.

As we wandered the ship together, our conversation was pleasant but uneventful. That changed when we encountered Hirata and Kei from Class D.

"Oh, it's Yagami from Class C. Good to see you," Hirata greeted warmly, extending a hand. I accepted it with equal politeness.

Hirata was undoubtedly the most popular boy in Class D, his easy charm fostering a wide social circle. Our paths had crossed often, given his ties to the girls I occasionally spent time with.

"Likewise," I replied, sparing a glance for the blonde girl at his side. "And good to see you again as well."

Kei's presence didn't surprise me, but something about her demeanour did. As we exchanged pleasantries, I noticed a strange tension lingering between the girls. It wasn't overt, but the subtle undercurrent was impossible to ignore.

Since the incident where I had saved Kei from being kicked out the school, we'd been in touch, her texts a curious mix of gratitude and attachment. Over time, she'd grown uncharacteristically clingy as I made sure to feed her words she would want to hear, though we only did this when no one else was watching. Now, however, she didn't even spare me a proper glance. Her interactions and the grip around Hirata's arm seemed forced. I filed the observation away for later as I had already had assumed from the way kei talked they weren't actually dating.

"Say, Hirata," I began casually, "if you're up for it, why don't we continue exploring the ship together?"

Hirata appeared agreeable, but before he could respond, Kei cut in. "We'd love to, but we have to get going," she said, her tone full with urgency.

Her abruptness was telling. Whatever she was hiding, she didn't want me or Saki, for that matter to find out. Hirata hesitated, clearly caught off guard, but Kei seized his arm even tighter and led him away before he could argue.

I watched them leave, then turned to Saki. Her expression was hard to read, though there was a hint of familiarity in her gaze. Whatever history she shared with Kei, I decided not to pry, for now. If this was something worth noting, I'm sure id find out soon enough.

Later, after lunch and a series of leisurely activities, the day began to wind down. As an announcement went through the ship, we started back towards our rooms to change. The island was visible from the deck now, and most didn't want to miss the view.

It was then, in a dimly lit corridor, that we encountered a familiar figure. A man with black hair stood leaning casually against a wall, his posture unorthodox yet deliberate. His gaze was fixed on the staircase ahead, as though he were deep in thought.

"Ryuzaki," I said evenly, addressing the man before us.

He didn't reply immediately, his sharp eyes still focused on the stairs. Whatever had drawn his attention, it was clear he wasn't here by coincidence.

"May I ask, Ryuzaki, what you're doing?" I inquired, my curiosity slightly piqued by his fixation on the staircase ahead.

For a brief moment, he turned his gaze to us before stepping closer, his eyes shifting to Saki. "I see. I didn't know you had a girlfriend, Light," he remarked. Saki's cheeks flushed a faint pink, and I silently shook my head. It would be better to spare her from this conversation.

"Saki, could you excuse us for the time being?" I requested. She hesitated, a flicker of reluctance crossing her face, but eventually, she nodded and disappeared around the corner. Alone now, Ryuzaki began walking, and I followed. From what I knew of him and the fact he announced himself as L, it meant he was never anywhere without reason.

"What do you think is happening?" he asked abruptly, his eyes looking at me as we strolled through the corridor.

"What exactly do you mean?" I countered, masking my interest as I attempted to draw out his thoughts.

"You know," he murmured, his voice low and deliberate. "Surely you've realised this school is unlike any other. There's likely a purpose to us being on this ship, heading to the island."

"I suppose it is odd, considering the school's standards," I replied, feigning casualness. "But it could just be a reward for our efforts you know." Even as I said it, I knew that most likely wasn't the case.

Ryuzaki's gaze lingered on me, searching for something beneath my words. Before I could probe further, we stumbled upon a scene of tension.

In the distance, Albert was walking away while Ibuki stood against a railing, visibly shaken. Nearby, two students who seemed to be Ayanokoji and Horikita observed the aftermath of whatever confrontation had recently just occurred.

I expected Ryuzaki to approach them, but instead, he veered in another direction, seemingly uninterested. My curiosity tugged at me to investigate, but I chose to continue following him.

"What are your thoughts on the ABC blocks from a while ago?" he asked suddenly, his voice barely above a whisper.

"The blocks, huh?" I mused, recalling the little puzzle. "If I'm honest, I found them insulting. They reeked of arrogance, like some self-appointed genius trying to prove their superiority. But that's just my impression."

Ryuzaki nodded, acknowledging my response. "From what I've gathered, each class received one. And curiously, the numbers differed for every class. They ranged from thirty-four to forty-five, increasing incrementally."

He handed me a sheet of paper.

3D - 45 blocks

2D - 44 blocks

1D - 43 blocks

1C - 42 blocks

2C - 41 blocks

3C - 40 blocks

3B - 39 blocks

2B - 38 blocks

1B - 37 blocks

1A - 36 blocks

2A - 35 blocks

3A - 34 blocks

"That's how many blocks each class received," Ryuzaki explained.

I studied the pattern, noting the precise order. "Interesting. I wonder why they started at thirty-four and stopped at forty-five. Was it intentional or merely coincidental?"

Ryuzaki shrugged lightly. "If there's meaning behind it, I haven't deciphered it yet."

We resumed walking, and Ryuzaki shifted the conversation. "Tell me, Light, who do you think poses the greatest threat to Class C?"

"The strongest opponent?" I repeated, considering the question. "Class A is the obvious answer, they're at the top for a reason. But Class B could be formidable too, especially under Ichinose and Lelouch's leadership. They're both sharp and resourceful."

"And Class D?" he pressed, his thumb resting thoughtfully against his lips.

I couldn't help but let out a quiet chuckle. "Class D? No, there's nothing to fear from them. They're Class D for a reason, a group of misfits and underachievers who will be stuck at the bottom."

"I see," Ryuzaki said, his expression unreadable. After a pause, he added, "Speaking of Class B, I've noticed you share certain similarities with their vice leader, Lelouch Lamperouge."

"Do I?" I asked, narrowing my eyes ever so slightly.

"At your core, yes," he remarked. "Though there are stark differences, there's something about the two of you that aligns, an underlying similarity I can't quite pinpoint yet."

"Interesting observation," I said, though I stored his comment away for later consideration.

As the conversation deepened, I decided to take my own turn at questioning. "You've been watching me closely, Ryuzaki. But there's something that I've. Rem wondering, why are you so convinced that I'm Kira?"

He paused, a flicker of hesitation crossing his face before he answered, "It's nothing too impressive. Kira has a strong sense of justice and hails from the Kanto region, criteria that fit you perfectly. Not to mention he was a student, plus I've been watching you and something doesn't quite add up."

"I see," I replied, my tone calm and composed as the memory of the 64 cameras placed in my room. "Well, as I've already told you, you're mistaken. I'm not Kira."

Ryuzaki exhaled softly, his piercing gaze lingering. "If you say so. Your father also believes in your innocence."

"He's an amazing man," I said, brushing aside the remark as with possible cameras around, I didn't want a possible mistake to occur so I shifted the conversation. "But let's change the subject. You never did answer my question, If you had to pick, who would you support as Class A's leader, Sakayanagi or Katsuragi?"

"Sakayanagi," Ryuzaki answered without hesitation. "She's the superior one when it comes to intellect."

I nodded. "Agreed. If I were in your position, I'd back her as well."

Silence stretched between us before Ryuzaki broke it with an unsettling observation. "You know, Light, it always seems like you're lying."

I blinked, caught off guard. "What do you mean?"

"The way you speak, the way you act, it's all too perfect," he said, his tone cutting through my composure.

"This is just who I am," I replied, deflecting his suspicion.

His scrutiny didn't waver, but he seemed satisfied, for now. We reached the student rooms, and Ryuzaki stopped.

"Well, this is where I take my leave," he said before a hint of challenge came into his voice. "I've enjoyed our talk. But, Light, know this: I will expose the real you. I'll uncover your fake persona and, in the end, I'll win, not just in this school, but in catching Kira."

With that, he turned and disappeared down the corridor, leaving me alone.

"Is that so, Ryuzaki?" I murmured under my breath, clicking my tongue in irritation. "Before you can try, I'll deal with you. Not just here, but after we leave this place."

An announcement echoed through the ship, interrupting my thoughts. Deciding rest would have to wait.

"We will disembark in thirty minutes. Please assemble on the deck. All students should have changed into their jerseys. Make sure to check your designated bag and your luggage, and do not forget your cell phone. Please keep all other personal items in your room. There is a possibility that you will not be able to visit the bathroom for some time, so please do so now."

As the announcement ended, I retreated to the room I was given, troubled by the peculiar nature of the announcement. The insistence on leaving personal belongings behind, the mandatory school uniform, and the repetitive circling of the island only heightened my suspicions. I'm sure Ryuzaki he noticed it as well, as his gaze kept alternating between me and the island that we were circling.

After a swift change, I joined the assembly on deck, falling into line amidst a sea of uniformed students, as I could see students awaiting our journey to the island that many expected to be a paradise vacation.

"We will disembark now, starting with Class A. Cell phones are strictly forbidden on the island. Please surrender them to your homeroom teacher as you exit," commanded the voice over the intercom, setting off a procession of obedient compliance.

As Class B had followed shortly after, an interesting sight caught my eye: a helicopter ominously stationed on the stern, definitely Isnt something you'd expect to see.

Finally, class C had been called, and we did a quick roll call on the island. Next was class D, then when everyone seemed to be in place. A voice called out to us

"First, I would like to say that I'm happy you've arrived safely. However, it's unfortunate that one of you was unable to participate due to illness."

As I scanned the beach, I couldn't help but remember everyone I've deemed important, besides one girl. So it was Arisu who didn't come. I wonder if it's because she's crippled or if there is something else at play.

While Mashima-sensei surveyed the students in silence, I could see that adults in uniform had started setting up some kind of special tent nearby. I also saw a computer and other equipment on a long table. This increasingly business-like setup didn't match the natural island around us at all, and many of the students looked somewhat perplexed.

Mashima-sensei uttered a few cruel words, as if waiting for the atmosphere to change. "Well then. We shall commence the current academic year's first special test."

"Huh? Special test? What do you mean?" Many different students said it in unison.

"The test commences now and lasts for one week, concluding on August 7th at the year's end. This test will determine if you can live on a deserted island together as a group. In addition, I should warn you that this special test is both practical and realistic, designed based on real-world corporate training."

"Living on a deserted island. Does that mean we're not staying on the boat, but on the island?"

Some students from Class B and my class C, voiced their obvious concerns.

"You are correct. During the test, you will not be allowed to board the ship without a suitably justifiable reason. It will be necessary for you to fend for yourselves on this island while you are here, from creating a place to sleep to preparing food to eat. Once the test starts, each class will receive two tents and two flashlights. You will be provided with one box of matches. There is no limit to the amount of sunscreen you can have. Each student will be provided with one toothbrush. As a special case, girls will be allowed to have as many feminine sanitary products as they'd like, without any restrictions. Please ask your respective homeroom teachers for those. That is all."

I pierced at the island ahead of us as many different emotions rushed to me, but there was someone I couldn't help but look at. Ryuen, I think it's time that I slowly assend to the absolute leader of this class. There's no need to rush, but when I am, I'll make sure to make you one of my lackeys. You'll be a useful pawn, but this is where the downfall of your reign of power begins. Before I could think anymore about this, I heard Mashima speak up once more.

"You may say this is unbelievable, but that's because you've lived a short, superficial life. There is an actual, prominent company that holds training sessions on uninhabited islands."

"Huh? B-but this... This isn't special at all. Is it? Isn't it too much to ask for us to start living on a deserted island with no warning? No way! This is unreal!"

"Keeping on like that would be shameful, Ike, so stop talking. What Mashima-sensei just said is only part of it. There are many companies in the world with many different training activities. There are workplaces where there aren't any chairs in the office and companies that decide salaries with dice rolls. The world is wider and deeper than you even know."

As he finished, I heard Chabashira speak up, "In other words, you are ill-equipped to distinguish between what is reality and what isn't."

Many of the students appeared unconvinced and wore dissatisfied looks.

"I assume you're all thinking something like, 'What does this test mean?' Or perhaps some of you doubt the existence of such training programs. However, students who remain at such a base level of thought are unlikely to become anyone promising in the future. What is your basis for determining this to be 'unbelievable' or 'ridiculous'? You're just students. In my opinion, you're all equally worthless. What kind of insignificant person determines that they can criticise a leading company? That's bizarre. Were you the president in charge of one such notable business, then you might have some right to deny our claims. However, there shouldn't be any grounds for someone of your station to be able to do that."

Some more words were exchanged, nothing to important until they began talking about how they plan on distributing points and stuff alike.

"As a major part of this special test, we've decided to distribute 300 points to each class. By using your points well, you might be able to enjoy this week's special test just as you would a normal trip. We've also prepared a manual just for that purpose."

Mashima-sensei received a booklet that looked to be a few dozen pages thick from another teacher.

"This manual lists all of the ways you can obtain points. It also explains where to get drinking water and food, as well as essential necessities. If you want to have a barbecue, it explains how to prepare the equipment and ingredients. We also have numerous tools for you to be able to enjoy playing in the ocean to the fullest."

Gradually, the students' grim expressions grew calmer.

"So, we can do whatever we want with the 300 points?"

"That's right. It's possible to arrange for anything using your points. Of course, it's necessary for you to use them in a systematic way, but with a solid plan, you can spend your week without any difficulties."

So, from my understanding, if we can get through the points correctly that we've been given. Then it would end up being a vacation more than it would be a test. However that did depend on the price of certain items.

"B-but, teacher. You said this was a test, right? So shouldn't there be some kind of difficulty to it?"

"No, there's nothing difficult. It won't even have any adverse effects on your second semester. I guarantee it."

"So it's really okay for us to just have fun for one week?"

"That's right. You're all free to do what you want. Of course, there are some bare minimum rules that you need to abide by as a group, but there shouldn't be anything difficult about that."

If that were true, then did that mean there really was no risk? In that case, we should ask if he could explain the purpose of this test. Was it linked to some kind of exchange between grade levels? I couldn't fully understand the school's true intentions, but Mashima-sensei's next statement clarified the very thing that was on my mind.

"When this special test period is over, each class' remaining points will be added to their total class points. Your point totals will reflect this change once summer vacation is over."

So that's the bit that caught my eye; it seemed this was putting teamwork and trust to the test as a class. This was also the best chance to finally start catching up on class A, as 300 class points could mean a lot in the long run.

"So if we can endure this for one week, then starting next month we could see a huge increase in our allowance?!" Someone from class D asked.

That's right, This wasn't a competition to test our scholarly abilities, but our endurance. If we managed to curb our basic desires, we might get closer to being in the top class.

"Each class will receive one copy of the manual. If the manual is lost, you may have another copy. However, it will consume points, so please be very careful. Also, the student who was marked absent from this trip was from Class A. According to the rules of this special test, should any student have to leave due to illness, there will be a thirty-point penalty for the class as a whole. Therefore, Class A will be starting with 270 points."

Even though it didn't affect our class, the penalty was still quite the harsh handicap. The students from Class A were visibly trembling and also seemed somewhat annoyed. The other classes also appeared shocked. As soon as Mashima-sensei had finished speaking, he told us to disperse. Another teacher's voice came over the loudspeaker, telling us that each class would receive supplementary instructions from our respective homeroom teachers. We then gathered around our homeroom teacher. The four classes had congregated in order to keep some distance from each other.

"I will now hand out wristwatches to every one of you. You are not to take them off until the end of the test. If you remove your wristwatch without permission, you will be punished. This watch doesn't just tell time. Its sensors also check your body temperature, your pulse, and even your movements. It's equipped with a GPS. Also, in the off chance something bad does happen, this watch comes equipped with the means to notify the school. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to push that button."

The vendor who supplied the watches had stacked them next to Sakagami. The time had come for Class D to collect our supplies. We were instructed to take the watches out of their boxes and put them on.

"When you say an emergency, do you mean, like, if one of us falls sick?"

"The test has already begun. I cannot answer any questions that might possibly influence your results."

We talked more about understanding basic information like how we'd use the toilet and so on before something more interesting caught my ears.

"Soon you will be permitted to roam about freely, but there are several designated spots on the island. In these spots, there is what's referred to as the right of exclusive possession, and only the class that occupies that spot may exercise those rights. The class that obtains those rights is entirely free to determine how they wish to exercise them. However, rights of exclusive possession are only valid for a period of eight hours after being invoked, after which they are automatically revoked. That means that another class can acquire those rights at that time. Also, you gain one bonus point if you occupy a spot once. However, that point is provisional and cannot be used during the testing period. Therefore, bonus points are calculated and added to your total after the test has ended. Because the school is constantly monitoring you, there is no room for fraud. Please be aware of that fact."

After a quick read-through of the manual, it's clear it went into great detail on the bonus point. Apparently, there was some kind of apparatus installed near each spot, one of which showed rights to exclusive possession. It was unclear how many spots were on the island, but they were clearly important.

"I can understand your impatience, but be aware of the risks. After you take those risks into account, you have to consider what to do. Everything that is needed is written in the manual."

A specialised key card is required to occupy a spot.

So you can earn one point by occupying a spot each time you scan the card in it. Occupied spots can be used freely. You will also receive a fifty-point penalty if you use a spot occupied by another class without permission.

Only a designated leader can use the key card.

It is impossible to change the leader without suitable justification.

On the seventh day, the last day of the test, you had the right to guess the identity of the other class's leader during roll call. If you managed to get it right, then you could obtain fifty points for each correct guess. Conversely, the other class would have to pay fifty points as compensation. If you moved to acquire a spot without caution and your leader was discovered, then you could lose a great number of points. So, high risk, high reward.

However, the guesses couldn't be hazarded without risk. If you happened to be mistaken, you would suffer a fifty-point penalty for being incorrect. In addition, a class whose leader had been found out would lose all of the bonus points they'd saved up until then. This rule made it so that if you didn't have much confidence, you would be hesitant to join the battle to occupy spots.

"One person must be chosen as the leader; there are no exceptions. However, you are free not to participate. Please tell me once you've selected someone. At that time, I will provide you with a key card stamped with the leader's name. You have until roll call today. In the event that you do not decide by then, we will decide for you. That is all."

With that, Sakagami basically left us to decide what our strategy would be. One thing that did strike me as odd, was the whole premise but mainly the idea of how they would handle violence. Though before I could have a chance to think it over, Ryuen started snapping his fingers to call over the students from class-1C

***

This is the end of this chapter. It was hard to narrow down the rules for the island exam without making it too long, so I did change it up a little.

For the island exam, which class would you be interested in the most? All classes will have their own time, but which should be the main focus?