Chapter 5: A New Game Plan
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The morning after Instructor Bale's bombshell, the atmosphere in Class D was noticeably different. The usual chaotic chatter was subdued, replaced by anxious whispers and nervous glances. The reality of the early mid-semester test, had finally sunk in.
Mr. Calborne entered the classroom, his usual casual demeanor slightly more serious. He tapped his pointer on the board, drawing the class's attention. "Alright, listen up. I know yesterday's announcement was... a lot. But you need to understand how points work, especially now."
He began to explain, his voice clear and concise. "Individual points are earned through your personal performance and behavior. Good grades, participation, following rules—these increase your individual score. Bad behavior, failing tests, breaking rules—these decrease it. Simple."
He paused, letting that sink in. "But then there are Class Points. These are based on the cumulative behavior and performance of the entire class. If a student does badly, it doesn't just affect them; it also affects the class as a whole. Your individual points might drop, but so will the collective Class Points. This means fewer privileges, difficult to ascend to higher classes, worse amenities, and a harder path for everyone in Class D."
A groan went through the room. The concept of collective punishment was not new to Arios from the anime, but hearing it explained so bluntly, made it feel more oppressive.
"This Royal Elite Academy is relatively new," Calborne continued, his gaze sweeping over them. "It's only been in existence for one year, and it has been largely secluded from society during that time. You are the second enrollment. The first enrollment, Class D from last year, still remains Class D. They have not entered a better class. They are still at the bottom."
A cold wave of dread washed over some students. The idea that their predecessors were still stuck in the lowest tier, even after a full year, hammered home the difficulty of their situation. Arios, however, saw it as further proof of the academy's ruthless efficiency.
Just as Mr. Calborne finished, the door opened again, and Instructor Bale stepped in. His presence immediately silenced the room, a palpable tension filling the air. He didn't waste time with pleasantries.
"As Mr. Calborne has explained, your collective fate is tied. And as I explained yesterday, your individual future depends on the upcoming mid-semester test." Bale's voice was firm. "I know most of you are not familiar with swords or mana manipulation. That is why formal classes on combat and mana will begin next week, in preparation for the test."
A collective sigh of relief, though muted, went through the class. At least they wouldn't be completely in the dark.
"individuals can ascend through various Realms after mastering specific amounts of Sword Arts and techniques," Bale explained, his eyes fixed on the class. "Each Realm signifies a new level of power, understanding, and capability. It is a journey of continuous growth, pushing beyond your limits."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over each student. "Currently, every student in the first year, including all of you in Class D, is considered a Novice in terms of combat Realm. All, that is, except for a select few. These special individuals possess an innate talent or a unique background that places them beyond the Novice Realm from the outset. And yes," he added, his eyes briefly flicking towards a specific corner of the room, "there is one such individual even within Class D."
A ripple of murmurs spread through the class as students began to look around, trying to identify this hidden talent. Who among them was already special? Arios knew exactly who Bale was referring to. It was the original protagonist, Kyousuke, who, despite his outwardly unassuming nature, possessed extraordinary hidden abilities that would only be revealed later in the anime. This confirmed that Kyousuke was already a step ahead, He was the "genius" who transcended the normal rules.
The lecture continued for a while longer, focusing on the importance of discipline and the academy's high expectations, before Bale dismissed them. The class broke up, students immediately huddling together to discuss the implications of the new information.
Arios gaze fell on Rian Blake, who was now animatedly complaining to a few other boys about the unfairness of the test. Rian, the natural athlete, the hothead, the one who would struggle academically but could be a powerhouse in physical challenges. In the anime, Kyousuke had subtly guided Rian, helping him pass the test and turning him into a loyal, albeit easily manipulated, right-hand man. This was a critical asset for Kyousuke, providing him with a loyal follower.
Arios made a decision. He would make sure Rian Blake got expelled.
It was a cold, calculated move. Rian was easy to manipulate. If Arios could ensure Rian got the lowest possible score in the mid-semester test, he would be removed from the academy. This wouldn't just be about weakening Kyousuke; it would also be a clear statement, a demonstration of Arios's own ruthlessness and strategic prowess, even if done subtly. It would prevent Kyousuke from gaining a powerful, loyal pawn early on.
In the original anime, it was Greg Tunley who got expelled after getting the lowest score, deemed disposable by the protagonist. Arios felt a flicker of something close to protectiveness for Greg. He wouldn't let Kyousuke get what he wanted. He would save Greg, and in doing so, he would disrupt Kyousuke's established path to power. This wasn't just about winning; it was about rewriting the script.
But to execute this plan, Arios knew he had to level up. Not just mentally, by outmaneuvering Kyousuke, but physically and strategically. He needed to increase his own stats to be able to "gear up Grey" and to effectively counter any moves the protagonist might make. His own strength, intellectual and physical, would be paramount.
This brought him back to the Class Bonding System.
Arios's eyes scanned the classroom again, settling on Liza Garnet. She was still talking loudly, but now her voice held a hint of frustration about the test. She was a key target.
The system immediately popped up a translucent screen before him, confirming his focus.
[New Bond Candidate: Liza Garnet Identified.]
[Compatibility: 83%]
[Bond Level: 0]
[Requirements: 1 Sincere Compliment, 1 Shared Vulnerability, 1 Moment of Genuine Support]
"Sincere Compliment" was easy enough. "Shared Vulnerability" would require him to open up, which was a challenge for him. "Moment of Genuine Support" meant he would have to actively help her in some way. These weren't superficial tasks; they demanded genuine interaction and emotional investment.
He chose Liza as his first bond for several strategic reasons. Her social influence was undeniable; she was a hub of information, knowing intel on other girls and the general social currents of the class. This would be invaluable for gathering information and identifying other potential bond candidates.
More importantly, he knew from the anime that Liza harbored a secret crush on the Protagonist, Kyousuke. In the original story, Kyousuke had subtly used her affections to manipulate her, turning her into an unwitting asset. If Arios could win her over, he would not only gain a valuable ally but also remove a significant asset from Kyousuke's early game. It was a preemptive strike, disrupting the protagonist's established network.
The bell rang, signaling the end of the school day. Students began to pack their bags, their conversations still buzzing with anxiety about the upcoming test. Liza Garnet was gathering her books, her bright orange braids swaying as she sighed dramatically.
Arios took a deep breath. This was it. The first step in his new game plan. He walked towards her, his movements deliberate, his expression neutral.
"Hi," Arios said, his voice calm and even.
Liza looked up, her chewing gum momentarily still. Her eyes, usually so lively, held a flicker of surprise.