I tread silently through the corridors of Structure Twenty-four, my designated dormitory. My mind remains attuned to the peculiar clicking noises and subtle signals of the unseen inhabitants of this place.
My awareness tingles as I sense the presence trailing behind me. Her identity, marked by distinctive hair, does not escape me. Yet, I proceed without confrontation, ascending the seemingly endless stairs to my dormitory on the forty-fifth floor.
The silence of my surroundings heightens my sensitivity. Human attempts at masking sounds fall short, allowing me to focus on the peculiar auditory cues that elude others.
The persistent follower reveals herself in the hallway outside my dormitory, breaking the silence with an annoying chuckle. A stern request to cease stalking yields only more silence, prompting me to turn and face her.
Unexpectedly, she's already too close, her eyes fixed on me with unwavering intensity. My attempt to initiate dialogue is met with a sudden, obnoxious shout in my face.
"Hello there!"
I take two steps back away from her as she shouts in my face.
"Is personal space a foreign concept to you?"
"Eh? Everyone loves to be near me. I am the incarnation of perfection!"
Are humans usually this delusional?
I can not help but wonder as I observe her bizarre behaviour. Her confident demeanour and strange statement make me question if she is indeed human. Perhaps she belongs to a different species altogether, one that possesses a distorted sense of reality.
She seems unfazed by my behaviour and continues to pervert my personal space.
I can feel my irritation escalating as she shows no indications of backing off. Argumentation with her will be a fruitless endeavour.
"You are more of an abundance of irritation."
She gasps in shock. I can already feel her frustration as she prepares to lash out at me.
"How dare you! Irritation? Me? Ha! What a joke."
"Why are you even following me?"
Her presence is becoming intolerable, and her complete lack of self-awareness is infuriating.
"I have no desire to engage with you or entertain your delusions of grandeur. Therefore, I suggest you find someone else to annoy."
I know that my stern words will not make her realise the boundaries she is overstepping, but it is worth a try.
"Well, you look strong. So I wanna fight you to prove my strength to be the best and—"
"I am sorry, but that is not going to happen."
I interrupt her before she can finish her sentence.
"I have no interest in engaging in any kind of physical altercation with you."
She looks taken aback, her face twisting with a mix of surprise and frustration.
"You think you're better than me, don't you?"
"It is not about being better. It is about respecting personal space and accepting that not everyone wants to be a part of your idiocies."
"Hah?! Have you forgotten? I am the incarnation of perfection, the queen of this school! I can easily defeat you without trying."
"Am I supposed to care?"
Her mouth opens in pure shock. She struggles to find a response, her eyes narrowing in disbelief.
"You're nothing but a coward hiding behind words."
"I have no interest in your title or your ego. It means nothing to me. I value my own strength and integrity, and I won't stoop to your level of petty competition. So go ahead and live in your delusions of grandeur. I will be over here, living authentically and true to myself."
If she does not back off after those words, I will resort to violence; it is the quickest option, after all.
She seems severely perturbed, and her ego must be wounded.
"Well then… Let's see if your actions match your words. Actions speak louder than empty boasts, after all—"
She gasps sharply as my fingers flick in her direction, stopping her words in their tracks. She is knocked out cold as silent shockwaves tear through her entire body.
I tower over her, my gaze fixed on her unconscious figure.
"Actions truly do speak louder than words, and sometimes resorting to violence becomes the only way to make someone understand the consequences of their actions."
I sigh as I kneel towards the redhead's body.
I have just created more unnecessary work for myself. There should be a wormhole to the infirmary structure I have heard about somewhere around here.
There do not seem to be any cameras around here either, so I am safe in that regard.
I haul the unconscious redhead down the winding passageways until I reach a wormhole. It appears to be the sole wormhole here, although it does not say where it goes. It is a risk I am willing to accept.
I enter the wormhole and come out into what seems like a white hospital institution.
I am convinced these wormholes take you to where you want to go, regardless of which one you enter.
It is most likely the infirmary structure.
I cautiously look around, making sure there are no immediate threats or surprises.
As I move further into the facility, I notice rows of empty beds and medical equipment neatly organised on tables. My focus shifts back to the unconscious redhead lying in my arms. I place her on one of the empty beds.
Somebody will find her eventually.
I turn around and head back through the wormhole to enter structure twenty-four. I somehow managed to leave my door open. How ludicrous of me.
I step into my dorm and lock the door.
A moment passes, and I fall flat on my bed, not even bothering to position myself correctly.
I let out a deep sigh and shut my eyes. Sleep is not a requirement for me, though it aids in killing time.
***
Morning comes, at least in terms of time. I refer to this area where The Twilight Institute is situated as the Twilight Zone since the sky remains twilight and any means of using the sunlight to tell the time is ineffectual.
I sit up from bed and stretch my body; apparently, it is something a human would do after resting.
As I stand up, I glance out the window and observe the hues of the twilight sky. It is as if visual time stands still in this peculiar place, trapped between night and day.
I turn away from the window and change into my uniform, a pristine white blouse, and a pleated black skirt. I carefully tie my black tie and slide on my black shoes, making sure every detail is perfect. The Twilight Institute's strict dress code demands nothing less.
I exit my dormitory and lock the door behind me before leaving structure twenty-four through the conveniently placed wormhole. As I pass through the wormhole, I feel a subtle shift in time and space, whisking me away to the grounds of the institute.
The air feels different here, a mix of mystery and anticipation, almost as if the very atmosphere is charged with the knowledge and secrets that the institute holds.
As I walk through the campus grounds, I witness hundreds of students heading towards a large structure.
It must be the structure allocated for training. I can see the excitement and determination in their eyes as they eagerly make their way towards the training facility. The structure stands tall and imposing, like every other building here.
As I approach the building, I notice a myriad of students rushing to the front, which tells me the red-haired girl will try to proclaim her perfection again.
If the redhead has woken up by now, it will be interesting to see her. And that blonde boy from earlier.
The gates abruptly open, and the inside of the structure, which I labelled as structure twenty-five, is revealed.
A colossal indoor arena unfolds, and, of course, everyone is in awe, not realising the rule board ahead of them.
"Whoa! This looks amazing!"
One awe-filled student announces to everyone.
However, their amazement is short-lived, as the stern, authoritative voice of our instructor cuts through the murmurs.
"Alright, listen up!" The instructor's voice booms through a microphone, the sharpness in her tone slicing through any lingering chatter.
"This is the training area. Before anything else, you will be sorted into groups based on your pathetic levels of strength. From the weakest to the so-called strong. Pay attention!"
The instructor's eyes scan the rows of students, her clipboard held with a firm grip. There is no room for laxity in her gaze; she is here to ensure discipline.
"Welcome to the D.A.A. Also known as the Dynamic Affinity Assessment. You will take turns attacking these indestructible targets—at least, according to the Twilight Institute's observations so far. We'll record your names, numbers, and power strengths. And let me make this clear: the group you're thrown into today might not be your cushy spot a month from now. Strength fluctuates, some of you will get stronger, and others…" She smirks, a hint of a savage edge in her expression, "will get weaker."
Her gaze narrows as she points towards the targets with a no-nonsense tone.
"Each target has a number from zero to 274,877,906,944—or 2^38. Zero is for the weaklings, and 2^38 is for the ones with a backbone. When you hit the damn thing, it vibrates. The harder you hit, the more it shakes. Your physical strength score will be measured in vibrations. You land a punch, and we'll see just how pathetic or impressive it is. Got it?"
The class nods, and I can already hear the whispers of anticipation and excitement.
"Good, now follow me."
The instructor leads us to a large open space filled with rows upon rows of targets. Each target stands tall and proud, waiting to be tested.
The instructor positions us in front of the targets, making sure we all have a clear view.
"Each one of you will be taking turns in this evaluation, and make no mistake—I am selecting participants at random. There is no room for negotiation or preference. Yuka Nanami, you go first."
A silver-coloured girl, who was announced as Yuka Nanami, steps back. I observe, noticing the confidence in her stance and the determination in her eyes.
Yuka Nanami takes a deep breath, focusing her energy. As she launches her strike towards the target, her hand connects with precision. A powerful shockwave ripples through the target, causing it to vibrate intensely. The sheer force and controlled impact leave everyone except me in awe.
The instructor raises an eyebrow, intrigued by the unexpected display. The vibrations subside, leaving the indestructible target unharmed but resonating with the powerful energy Yuka Nanami unleashed.
"Well, that's an interesting twist."
The instructor remarks.
"The reading is 352 strength points. Impressive, I suppose; it's enough to pulverise multiple houses—quite common in the Twilight Institute."
Her words carry a biting disdain for anything less than perfection, leaving no room for mediocrity.
Yuka Nanami, oblivious to the undercurrent of critique, smiles like a pristine angel—an image that the instructor and I seem to find abhorrent, though the instructor's disdain is more noticeable than mine.
Yuka Nanami bows gracefully, her silver hair cascading around her like a shimmering halo.
"Thank you, Instructor Shinoda. I'm honoured to be part of the evaluation."
The instructor's eyes narrow ever so slightly at Yuka Nanami's innocence.
"Honoured, hm? Let's see if that holds up as the evaluations continue."
I doubt the order of her performance matters; she seems indifferent to it all. Nevertheless, she is a prime target for manipulation. Her serene demeanour and blissful unawareness are like flashing neon signs of vulnerability. It is almost too easy. Besides, there is a conspicuous absence of any ulterior motives from her end.
As the evaluations progress, I watch each participant showcase their abilities, some more impressive than others. The instructor maintains a critical eye, and her standards are uncompromising.
So far, there have been students displaying notable strengths, from manipulating elements to enhancing physical capabilities. Some of the participants have shown great potential.
Yet, despite their impressive showings, the instructor remains unwavering in her judgement.
Suddenly, the doors slam open, revealing the redhead from earlier.
Her eyes scan the room as if she owns it. The instructor eyes her with a mix of annoyance and curiosity.
"Apologies for my tardiness, Sensei. I couldn't resist adding a touch of drama to my entrance."
The redhead's excuse for her tardiness, citing a dramatic entrance, is a blatant fabrication.
There is a noticeable gap between her words and the actual situation, a discrepancy not lost on the perceptive instructor. With an understanding that transcends surface appearances, I, too, recognise the falsehood.
Despite her seemingly nonchalant demeanour, the true reason behind her tardiness is apparent to me.
I mean, I am the one who caused it.
"It is Instructor Shinoda for you! Besides, you're late, though I suggest I'll make an exception."
"I'm sure my entrance made it worth the wait. Now, where's my turn in this little spectacle?"
The instructor gestures towards the remaining targets, unimpressed but allowing the redhead to participate.
"It is, in fact, your turn now."
The redhead smirks, her eyes gleaming with arrogance, as she steps forward, ready to make her mark in the evaluation.
The redhead raises her hand, and a black and red orb forms on her palm. Its origin essence feels very distinct from Dissonance Affinity. Of course, no one but me would realise that. It is a skill that I was born with.
The orb glows until it is the size of her palm.
The redhead locks eyes with the target, her smirk widening into a confident grin. With a flick of her wrist, she hurls the orb towards the target, releasing a surge of dark energy that engulfs it entirely.
After a few seconds, the dark energy dissipates, and the target was nowhere to be seen. It was as if the attack completely pulverised it.
The energy unleashed by the redhead seems to resonate with a malevolent force, creating an ominous atmosphere in the evaluation space.
The instructor narrows her eyes, gauging the aftermath of the redhead's display.
"What on earth… The target is completely destroyed!"
The shock in her voice reverberates through the evaluation space, fraternising with an undercurrent of perplexity and marvel.
The redhead smirks triumphantly, seizing the moment. "Impressed, Sensei? I do have a flair for the dramatic."
The instructor, attempting to regain composure, stammers.
"But… that's not how the evaluation is supposed to go. The targets are indestructible—"
"Indestructible? How quaint. I bring a touch of reality to this little charade. Perhaps you should update your definition of 'indestructible.'"
"This is unprecedented. We've never encountered an ability like this before. What's your power?"
"Darling, I bring perfect destruction wherever I go. Call it my personal touch. As for the specifics, well, that's a secret I'll keep for now."
"Your mindset is exasperating, Reiko Yami… However, I must begrudgingly admit, that in eighty-five years since the inception and testing of these targets, you stand as the sole individual to effortlessly annihilate one. No one, in all that time, could lay claim to such a feat. Undeniably, you now hold the title of the strongest."
The instructor claps with genuine respect. I feel like I will not be seeing that for another two years.
The other students in the evaluation space murmur in awe and disbelief.
Reiko Yami, now holding the title of the strongest and basking in acknowledgement, is truly, at most, an interesting individual. It feels as though she is not even human.
However, she will never reach my level, and that is a fact.
As the evaluations continue, I patiently await my turn, ignoring the lingering gaze of Reiko Yami.
The instructor, now composed, continues overseeing the evaluations, her critical eye assessing each participant's display of power.
Reiko Yami's demonstration has set a new standard, challenging the very concept of indestructibility.
Finally, it is my turn. I step forward, facing the indestructible target with a calm demeanour. My power, unlike the flashy displays before me, is subtle yet potent. I extend my hand, and a faint glow envelops it.
I precisely aim a regulated blast of chaotic energy at the target. As the energy strikes, there is a faint hum in the air. The target quivers; its vibrations are observed; it is not destroyed.
"112? Are you truly so incompetent, or are my expectations too high? You have been surpassed by Yuka Nanami, and she's hardly a shining example of talent. How you managed to pull together such a pitiful score is almost amazing. But frankly, from someone so completely uninteresting, why am I to expect more? Maybe your unique gift is mediocrity. It is quality, not ineptitude, that our institute necessitates. It would be beneficial for you to redefine what it means to be here. To be honest, you don't live up to the expectations, and your performance is woefully inadequate. Instead of being a spectator to your own mediocrity, you are here to succeed."
But I am not here to attract attention with ostentatious demonstrations of power or to be carried away by the capricious standards established by this institution. No, my goal goes beyond the petty praise of a simple assessment.
My main strength is the art of subtlety; I am a silent observer, a strategist in the background.
Therefore, even if she belittles my apparent shortcomings, I understand the need for self-control.
Excellence, in my world, is not measured solely by the vibrations of a target but by the intricacies of influence, manipulation, and strategic moves on the chessboard of power.
She may demand perfection, but what she means is limited to what she can comprehend. She is unaware that behind the surface of what she perceives to be ineptitude, there is a latent force that knows the actual nature of power and how to use it subtly.
I may not excel in the way she envisions, but I excel in ways she cannot fathom.
The evaluations continue, with each student exhibiting their unique abilities in an attempt to meet the uncompromising criteria established by the Twilight Institute.
As the last participant finishes, the instructor steps forward.
"It appears that we have a spectrum of abilities here, from highly exceptional to utterly insignificant. Keep in mind that this is merely the beginning. Later today, after your C.A.A., your group assignments will be revealed. Train diligently and refrain from letting anyone down."
She then departs the arena, leaving the pupils on their own.
The students enthusiastically review how they have performed while offering support and praise to one another. They are devoted to proving to the instructor that they are capable of performing beyond her ideals in their designated groups.
Two hours have passed since the D.A.A.; I navigate through the crowd, and I notice Yuka Nanami surrounded by students, revelling in her innocence and most likely attempting to get her to do shady stuff for them.
Should I intervene? I will probably be able to get information about her if I do.
Approaching close, I hear one of the students declare something crude and predatory to her. Her reaction was predictable: a tilt of the head with a confused expression.
I step forward, my presence cutting through the crowd like a blade.
The students notice me, and their expression shifts from arrogance to uncertainty. Yuka Nanami looks at me, her confusion deepening.
"Is there a problem here?"
I ask, my voice eerily calm but carrying great darkness.
The student stammers, trying to come up with an excuse, but I do not give him the chance.
"I suggest you leave. And I am not giving you a second chance."
I release a subtle murderous aura; the crowd, sensing a shift in dynamics, begins to disperse.
I turn around to see Yuka Nanami, who is also terrified, shivering. Her eyes are wide with fear as she clutches onto her trembling hands, desperately seeking comfort.
I cease my aura, which calms her down for a moment.
"Why did you do that? Why did you scare them off?"
"I simply rescued you from a terrible situation."
"Terrible… situation?"
Yuka Nanami's eyes widen in realisation, and she stammers.
"I… I didn't realise it was a terrible situation and that they were bad people. I thought they were just joking around."
"Joking or not, it is essential to establish boundaries. People will exploit your innocence if you do not set limits."
I take a moment, observing her reaction.
"You know, Yuka Nanami, this world is not as forgiving as you might think. It is a jungle, and if you do not learn to protect yourself, you will become prey."
She looks at me with a mixture of confusion and curiosity in her eyes. Perfect.
"Yuka Nanami, you need someone to guide you in this place. Someone who understands the complexities of power is someone like me. I can teach you how to navigate through the shadows and use your strengths strategically. In return, all I ask is for your loyalty."
"Loyalty?"
"Yes, loyalty. You follow my lead, and I ensure your safety and success in this institution."
Her innocent gaze meets mine, and I can see the wheels turning in her head.
"Okay, I'll trust you."
I guide her away from the crowd, offering protection in exchange for loyalty.
"I appreciate your intervention back there. I didn't realise they were being serious about doing all those things to me."
"People in this place can be deceptive. It is crucial to discern their intentions early on."
"Right…"
"The second evaluation is happening soon. Focusing on that might be the best course of action."
"There's a second one?!"
She is, in a sense, oblivious to everything. How does she even function properly?
Her naivety is bordering on delusion. Though it could be useful.
The C.A.A. evaluation is specifically for people who only have cognitive Affinities.
"What will happen in the test?"
Yuka seems intrigued, her innocent eyes brimming with excitement.
"We will be tested based on our cognitive Affinities. The C.A.A. differs from the regular one."
I explain, noticing her expression shift to confusion.
"Regular one?"
I sigh; her ignorance is tiring.
"Yesterday. D.A.A., where we displayed our Affinities."
Yuka Nanami's eyes widen in realisation.
"Oooh! I remember now. I was so excited I completely forgot."
I let out an audible sigh, internally judging her lack of awareness.
"The C.A.A. will be easy for you, right? You are already so strong!"
Her commendation carries a subtle undertone, a hint of condescension that seems to suggest an unspoken belief in my incapacity to experience defeat.
It is almost as if my 'impressive' ranking of twenty-fifth place on the Dynamic Affinity Assessment is inconsequential, overshadowed by her implicit assumption of my infallibility.
In her eyes, my apparent lack of perfection is merely a fleeting detail in the grand tapestry of my unparalleled prowess.
How amusing, considering I wasn't aware that reaching the twenty-fifth spot was a commendable feat worthy of such praise.
It's as if she sees me as some sort of untouchable prodigy, incapable of experiencing failure or setbacks.
"I am not sure if I would call myself stro—"
"You are! I think…"
"Just meet me at the arena; I am one hundred percent certain that is where the C.A.A. will be held."
I responded, interrupting her before she could finish her sentence. It was clear that she had built up an image of me in her mind that was far from reality.
"Oh, okay."
I watch as she runs off towards the arena; her excitement is evident in every step.
Maybe I should just use her for higher self-esteem instead.
As I approach structure twenty-five, thoughts of eliminating Dissonance Affinity occupy my mind. I have defeated it in other places, but it appears that here is the last place where this curse lives.
The arena awaits, and within its bounds lie the enigmas of the C.A.A.
Upon reaching the arena, I find Yuka Nanami already present. Her innocence radiates like a beacon. It radiates so much I have to look away to simply think.
"Are you ready for the second evaluation?"
"Absolutely! I can't wait to show them what I can do with my Cognitive Affinity!"
I observe Yuka Nanami with a neutral expression, contemplating the strategic advantage of having her as an ally.
Her innocence, while initially irritating, could serve as a useful tool in navigating the intricate dynamics of the Twilight Institute. Not to mention, she looks ravishing.
As we wait for the second evaluation to commence, I decide to exploit this opportunity for information and influence.
The instructor arrives, her stern demeanour unchanged from the earlier assessment. "Alright! I am expecting plentiful results from you all."
The instructor looks at the class, especially me.
"Welcome to the C.A.A., or, as some of you might struggle to remember, the Cognitive Affinity Assessment. Get those ears open, because I will not repeat myself. There are two sides here: destructive and non-destructive. Destructive is for those who can turn brains into a chaotic mess. Figure out what non-destructive is before I lose my patience. Also, time is ticking, so quicken yourselves and locate your spot. The point system is as straightforward as it gets: vibrations, just like in the D.A.A. But let me spell it out for you: I do not give a damn about your flashy stunts. What I care about is control, finesse, and understanding your power."
The distinction between destructive and non-destructive affinities captures my attention. The dynamics of manipulating minds in a controlled manner versus plunging them into chaos present a fascinating contrast.
As the students scatter to find their designated spots, I guide Yuka Nanami to a strategic vantage point.
Her innocence remains both a tool and a hindrance, but for now, I'll exploit its charm to my advantage.
"Are you nervous?"
I inquire, not out of genuine concern but to gauge her emotional response.
"A bit, but I'm more excited than anything. This is so different from the D.A.A., and I can't wait to see what everyone can do."
I nod, acknowledging her simplistic view of the evaluation.
Her lack of foresight might prove beneficial in the grand scheme of things.
"I will head over to the non-destructive side, what about you?"
"Oh, I think I'll go to the destructive side! It sounds thrilling, and I want to see if I can make an impact."
I can tell she does not realise the weight of her choice or the potential consequences hidden beneath the excitement she radiates. But for now, I will let her revel in her anticipation.
I observe the arena, assessing the students scattered across the two designated sides. On one end, those with destructive cognitive affinities prepare to showcase their prowess in manipulating minds, creating chaos with a mere thought. On the other hand, individuals with non-destructive abilities focus on control, understanding the intricacies of their mental powers, etcetra.
Yuka Nanami positions herself among those eager to unleash destructive forces.
I divert my attention from her and immerse myself in my contemplations. I lack a cognitive affinity, and in truth, any affinity at all.
Despite this, I should be able to participate if I navigate this situation strategically. Not that I have to.
"Alright! The Cognitive Affinity Assessment concludes now! Your scores will stay hidden unless you've got the guts to let me spill them. But let's cut the nonsense; we've amassed a spectrum of points, from an adequate thousand to a stupendous eighteen thousand. And, of course, the exceptional anomaly who decimated their robot: Reiko Yami."
The instructor bore her gaze down on everyone, especially Reiko Yami, for obvious reasons. As expected, the redhead revels in the attention, her arrogance only heightened by the instructor's commendation.
The students disperse; I approach Yuka Nanami, my voice calm yet carrying a weight of authority.
"Your choice of the destructive side was intriguing. Did you consider the potential consequences of such a decision?"
Her innocent eyes meet mine, confusion mingling with curiosity.
"Consequences? I just wanted to try something exciting. I didn't think it would be that serious."
"This institution operates on a different level. Actions have repercussions, and the choices you make here can shape your path."
"I'll be more careful next time. Thanks for looking out for me."
She nods, seemingly absorbing the information.
"Are you okay after the assessment? I noticed you didn't participate," she observes, her gaze filled with genuine concern.
"I lack a cognitive affinity, but that doesn't hinder my ability to navigate this complex world."
I reply cryptically, offering no further explanation.
As we walk, I find myself contemplating the dynamics of power within the Twilight Institute.
The air around us resonates with the aftermath of the evaluation. Students discuss their scores, achievements, and aspirations.
The buzz of conversations continues, and my thoughts remain focused on the upcoming revelation of group assignments. I can tell that The Twilight Institute thrives on alliances and affiliations, and understanding where one stands is crucial.
Soon, an announcement echoes through the air, cutting through the chatter.
"Group assignments will be posted momentarily. Gather at your designated group locations the moment they are revealed."
It was Instructor Shinoda's voice.
Does she have telepathy? Or can everyone hear this? She is not anywhere to be seen. Earth is strange.
The crowd converges, each student eager to discover their assigned group.
And after a few minutes, I feel a vibration in my uniform pocket. I take out the small portable device I was given at the end of class yesterday; I believe it is called a smartphone.
I turn it on, and a pop-up displays a list. I glance at it, finding my name under Dynamic Affinity, Group Six, and its location.
***
Students scramble to find their assigned groups while I move through the dispersing crowd, weaving between students as they eagerly seek out their designated group locations. The urgency in their movements contrasts with my composed demeanour.
Students scramble to find their assigned groups while I move through the dispersing crowd, weaving between students as they eagerly seek out their designated group locations. The urgency in their movements contrasts with my composed demeanour.
Yuka Nanami walks beside me, her innocent eyes scanning the surroundings excitedly. "This is so thrilling. I wonder who'll be in our group!"
"Our group?"
"You're in Cognitive-Dynamic Affinity, Group Three, right?"
"I am in Dynamic Affinity, Group Six."
"Oooohh… Right."
Yuka's disappointment is palpable, though she attempts to mask it with a forced cheerfulness.
"I heard Reiko got to choose whatever group she wanted to be in."
Of course, Reiko Yami, the exceptional anomaly, would have such privileges. It is not surprising; the rules seem to bend for those at the top. Possibly to motivate people to try aiming for first place.
As we approach the designated location for Dynamic Affinity, Group Six, Yuka Nanami's genuine curiosity spills out.
"Who is in your group? Do you know them?"
"I don't concern myself with unnecessary details. We will interact with them during evaluations."
"Oh okay. I'm going to head to my group now. I'll see you soon!"
"Wait a second."
I say, halting Yuka Nanami before she can skip off to her assigned group.
"Oh, is there something else?"
"I need you to do something for me."
Yuka's willingness to assist is evident, her innocence shining through.
"For you? Sure, what is it?"
"Keep an eye on your group members. Observe their actions and note their reactions. Report back to me with any notable information."
Yuka nods, her eyes reflecting understanding.
"Alright, I'll do my best. But, um, why do you want to know about them?"
"I suppose I am just eager to know them better? Having more friends around could make the journey here a bit more interesting."
"Absolutely! Friends are, like, wonderful! Don't you worry; I'll keep you informed on all their actions and reactions. It'll be so much fun!"
"Oh! Wait! What do I call you?"
I look Yuka Nanami in the eye.
"Call me Kage."
"Alright! Kage. See you soon!"
Yuka walks away, her excitement undiminished despite the slight letdown of not being in my group.
It is interesting how her disappointment is quickly overshadowed by her eagerness to help. A useful trait.
I continue towards Group Six, taking a glance around the area as I approach. The groups are arranged according to a numerical system, meaning each group contains five students. The groups are also assigned to an area in a classroom based on a number.
I find and open the door to Class Six. Inside the classroom, four students sit around a small table, looking up as I enter.
Three girls and two boys gaze at me as I enter. The three girls sit across from the two boys, who are seated next to each other. The girls look to be in a similar age range, perhaps a year or two younger than myself. They have their hair cut short, with bangs swept to the side, and are wearing identical uniforms to mine.
I go sit with the three girls, and they all introduce themselves.
The girl sitting closest to me on the left introduces herself as Koyama Hoshizaki. She has a slender, athletic build, and her dark hair is cut in a bob.
The girl sitting furthest away on the left is named Aoi Takahashi. She has long, curly, blonde hair that flows down her back and is slightly taller than Koyama Hoshizaki; her facial features are more delicate and pronounced.
And the small girl closest to me on the right introduces herself confidently as Chigusa Tanaka. She has platinum blonde hair that ends at her chest, with a fringe covering the left side of her face, which is half hidden behind her shoulder.
The two boys sitting in front of us seem irrelevant, so analysing them will not be necessary. They also seem to be staring at my body with lustful eyes. I can only assume they are not used to seeing women in their class and have never had a proper interaction with one.
Breaking the tranquil silence that envelops us, Aoi Takahashi is the first to speak.
"Hey, do you think our group instructor will arrive soon? I'm kinda itching to get things rolling."
"Who knows, but we're not supposed to start yet anyway, so I guess it's fine."
Koyama Hoshizaki chimes in with a nonchalant yet practical response.
Aoi and Koyama continue their idle chatter as the small girl, Chigusa, leans in towards me.
"Those boys look cute but seem so dull. They're also looking at our boobs. You think they've never seen boobs before?"
"That is unlikely. If I had to guess, it would probably be their first time seeing girls who are their age."
Chigusa shrugs with a mischievous smile.
I am intrigued by her straightforward nature and her sudden openness about her thoughts on the boys in the class.
Chigusa, still leaning into me, begins whispering.
"It seems like we are going to be together for a long time, so we should get to know each other better. What are your interests?"
Her bluntness is endearing in its simplicity, yet also somewhat amusing. She could be useful.
"I enjoy learning and researching. I suppose if I had a hobby, it would be that. It is something that I take a great deal of joy in. It helps me expand my mind."
"I have an interest in you. But what about the boys? Do you have an interest in them?"
She is straightforward with her desires; she does not appear to hold back or censor herself.
"They are okay."
"That's it?"
"I am not interested in them."
Chigusa gives an exaggerated wink at the two boys across the room. She continues in a low tone.
"Reeeaaaally?"
"This conversation is irrelevant. You do not want to know what I think; you want to know what I like."
"Ahaha, yeah. But you still didn't answer truthfully."
I am beginning to suspect this may be a test. To see what information she can extract from me. She must have a goal.
I take a moment to consider before I speak again.
"I am not interested in romantic relationships. And that is all."
She raises an eyebrow but says nothing, turning back to the group.
The four of them continue to talk, but I keep silent. The others seem to notice that I am not talking, and Aoi Takahashi looks back at me.
"Is there a problem?"
Aoi looks genuinely concerned, and Chigusa looks confused. Koyama Hoshizaki stares at me with a slight smile on her face, but there is no amusement in her expression.
"Are we just supposed to sit here and get along, or is there something we have to do?"
Chigusa shrugs and smiles at me.
"I don't know. Don't you?"
"I was the last to come in, and I do not know anything."
"Then you should introduce yourself."
Aoi nods enthusiastically, agreeing with Chigusa, as Koyama smiles.
"That's right."
She is very persuasive. I think she can make friends with anyone if she wants. She could probably get someone to help her, but I have a feeling she is more the type to manipulate. Someone like her is very useful.
I sit there, looking around at the others, and after a couple of minutes, someone finally approaches us. A man in his mid-20s enters the room, his hair cropped close to his head.
He introduces himself as the group instructor and asks each of us to introduce ourselves and what power we possess.
Chigusa Tanaka, being the first one in our group to be introduced, confidently walks up and tells us what power she has.
"I can transform myself into anything I want to be. Regardless of whether it is real or not."
Koyama Hoshizaki goes next, introducing herself and her power.
"I can set strength values to things, moulding them to my desires. Not just limited to inanimate objects, you see. I can manipulate the force within me and control how potent it becomes. And, if I fancy, I can extend that control to others."
She has a powerful ability. She could increase her strength to an unimaginable degree, but her body would probably break down, and she could die. That would be a difficult choice to make.
"I can inject an object with any power I want, making it whatever I want. I can also combine multiple objects and give them different powers."
Aoi Takahashi has an interesting power. She could combine an object with any power she wanted, and that would allow her to manipulate the world around her. Can she give herself power, however?
The instructor nods, looking pleased with all the introductions. He looks over at the two boys, motioning for them to come up and introduce themselves.
The boys stand up and approach us, standing side by side as they tell us what power they possess.
Both are too irrelevant to describe.
The instructor tells us that we will be training together for the foreseeable future and that we should get to know each other better.
I should learn more about them and get them to trust me.
Chigusa Tanaka skips over to the boys and asks them what their names are. To determine each boy's type, she makes flirtatious moves towards them both. Her voice, a velvet purr, delves into their preferences with a knowing grin.
"What qualities do you find irresistible in a woman?"
She asks, already foreseeing their clichéd responses. As expected, they fumble out the expected answers: big breasts and juicy asses.
"I happen to possess both in abundance. Maybe I'll give you a closer look later."
With a deliberate, tantalising motion, she slowly reveals a glimpse of her cleavage and provocatively lifts her skirt, leaving just enough to the imagination.
The boys, caught in the throes of her calculated tease, blush and stammer, uncertain how to respond to the allure she exudes.
Chigusa's eyes twinkle with satisfaction. Their confusion and hesitation are precisely the reactions she aimed to provoke.
She needs to be controlled.
The boys blush and stammer, unsure how to respond. That is precisely what she wants.
Koyama Hoshizaki keeps her distance, watching Chigusa Tanaka and the two boys interact. She seems amused and revolted by their interactions.
I turn my gaze away from the instructor, who seems to be charmed by Chigusa as well.
Are humans really that vulnerable?
"Hey, you, what's your name?"
Aoi Takahashi's voice pierced the ambient chatter, a persistent tug on my arm accompanying her words.
"Hey! I'm talking to you."
"Kiyorakana Kage. Keep it concise; Kiyorakana will suffice."
"Oh. Okay, Kiyorakana!"
Aoi Takahashi, the enthusiastic one, lacks subtlety. Her directness could be advantageous if harnessed correctly.
She seeks acknowledgement, evident in her insistence on my attention. This desire for recognition could be exploited for mutual benefit.
Her expressive nature indicates a willingness to form connections. Utilising this, I could subtly influence her decisions to align with my objectives.
Aoi Takahashi's openness might offer valuable insights into the group dynamics, helping me navigate potential conflicts or alliances.
Offering occasional encouragement and acknowledgement could create a sense of loyalty. Understanding her motivations will be crucial—whether it is recognition, achievement, or simply fitting in.
"Kiyorakana."
Koyama Hoshizaki's voice takes on a more commanding tone, laced with subtle allure.
"Aoi's enthusiasm is charming, isn't it? But let's cut to the chase. I'm Koyama. You can call me Koyo if you prefer."
She leans back on the chair, eyeing me with a playful glint.
"I'm into sports, you know—anything that gets the blood pumping. If you ever fancy a little one-on-one action, count me in. I promise it's a workout you won't forget."
"I will pass; thank you for the offer, however."
"Okay, Group Six! We've wasted too much time speaking!"
The instructor's abrupt announcement jolts our attention, dispersing the casual chatter that had filled the room.
"Now that introductions are done, let's delve into your schedule for this year. Remember, the more you understand each other, the stronger your group becomes."
Group Six listens attentively as the instructor begins explaining their daily schedules.
"Each odd day of the week, you will have a group evaluation. These evaluations will test your teamwork, coordination, and individual skills. The group evaluations will also show your instructors and teachers your progress. Your performance will affect your grades."
"You will also have regular lessons. Every other day of the week, you will have Dynamic Affinity Theory and Cognitive-Dynamic Affinity lectures."
The rest of the explanation was unnecessary; it was just a description of what we would be accomplishing in our groups. Dynamic Affinity tests. That is it.
"Today, Group Six will have a Dynamic Affinity test. As your first test, this day will violate the consistency of the training days. Follow me."
The instructor motions for Group Six to follow him, leading them out of the classroom and down a hallway.
As we walk, Aoi Takahashi and Koyama Hoshizaki engage Chigusa Tanaka and the irrelevant boys in friendly banter.
[YUKA NANAMI'S POV]
I walk away from Kage, watching her stare deeply into my eyes. It's kind of chilling and scary, but I think it's fine.
Cognitive-Dynamic Affinity Group Three… I wonder who'll be in my group.
As I walk towards and enter Cognitive-Dynamic Group Three's classroom, I see a girl with long, pale orange hair and brown eyes, wearing our school uniform, turn her head towards me.
Upon seeing me, she appears to perk up, as if energised by my presence.
"Hey! Hi there! You must be Yuka Nanami, right? Nice to meetcha!"
The girl greets me with unbridled enthusiasm, extending her hand towards me for a handshake.
I smile at her and accept her offer of a handshake. Her hand feels quite soft, yet her handshake grip is firm.
"Nice to meet you too! What's your name?"
I ask her, trying to match her energy.
"The name's Kirei Basara! But you can just call me Kirei; that's fine too!"
A bit more people are starting to gather around Cognitive-Dynamic Affinity Group Three. I don't recognise anyone, which is a bit disappointing since I was hoping to find someone I already knew.
"Kirei, huh? That's a lovely name!"
"Thanks, Yuka! I was hoping to get a cheerful group, and it looks like I got my wish!"
More people join our group, and I can't help but feel excited. Everyone seems nice, and I hope we all become good friends.
A boy with black hair and sharp teeth introduces himself as Ryuji Kojima. He looks nice, I think.
A few moments later, our group instructor arrives—a friendly woman with long, flowing hair.
She introduces herself as 'Sora Hoshino.'
"Hey, everyone! Welcome to Cognitive-Dynamic Affinity Group Three!"
Hoshino's voice is cheerful. The group members look at each other, excited to begin their journey together.
She tells us about evaluations and the importance of working together.
I nod along, eager to be part of this cheerful group.
"Okay, let's start by introducing ourselves! Say your name and something interesting about you."
Introductions begin, and I listen attentively, curious to learn more about my fellow group members.
The first person to speak is a girl who looks as tall as me, Mia Igarashi.
She introduces herself with a bright smile, her voice confident yet friendly.
"Hey everyone, I'm Mia Igarashi, sixteen years old. Something about me is that I want to have a bright and peaceful future, and I wish the same for everyone else. My Dynamic Affinity is supposedly named 'Nothingness Manipulation' or something like that. My Cognitive Affinity is called 'Neurocognitive Deficit."
"And what do they do?"
The instructor asks, intrigued by Mia's unique abilities.
"My Dynamic Affinity goes by the name of, as you already know, 'Nothingness Manipulation.' This ability lets me create, shape, and control the concept of nothingness itself. I can manipulate the absence of things, making them disappear and preventing energy from ever coming into existence. It grants me the power to alter, reverse, or negate energy, ultimately having the potential to 'destroy matter and energy' by bringing them out of existence. As for 'Neurocognitive Deficit,' I can launch a mental attack on a target, causing their upper brain functions to shut down temporarily or even permanently. The effects can range from inducing pain and incapacitation to rendering the target unconscious or, in extreme cases, resulting in outright brain death. I know, they're pretty destructive, aren't they?"
Hoshino's eyes widen in amazement as she realises the extraordinary potential Mia possesses.
"Why did you not receive a higher rating on your assessments? Don't you think you could destroy the targets as well as that Reiko girl did?
"I preferred not to have people all around me. And to your other question, indeed, that is probably the case. I just didn't feel comfortable showing off my skills like she did."
Ryuji spoke up with a hint of suspicion in his voice as he listened to Mia's words closely.
"But if that was the case, why would you tell us?"
"It's because I know you would do well not to tell a soul. Right? Ryuji?"
Mia's voice and expression grow bitterly cold, as if she were drilling into our souls with her words and threatening us not to divulge anything she reveals to us.
Ryuji gulps nervously, viciously nodding in agreement.
I don't really understand why Mia has such powerful Affinities. I don't think I'd want powers like that. It sounds a bit scary.
Ryuji looks scared, and Mia is really intense. I hope everything is okay. Maybe she just likes her privacy. I don't want to pry.
Hoshino clears her throat, trying to lighten the mood.
"Well, Mia, your powers are indeed unique. Let's focus on getting to know each other and working together. Now, who's next for introductions?"
The tension eases a bit, and I feel relieved. I'm not sure why Mia is like this, but I guess everyone has their reasons. I hope she opens up more.
A few more people introduce themselves, and their powers are interesting too. It's like a whole new world with so many abilities. I hope we can learn from each other.
The next person to introduce themselves is a guy named Tatsuya Kobayashi. He has messy brown hair and glasses, giving off a nerdy vibe.
"Hey, everyone. I'm Tatsuya Kobayashi. So, um, my Cognitive Affinity is, well, 'Jinx Manipulation.' I can mess with probabilities, making things go… not so great. It's not exactly the coolest power, but, you know, it has its uses. I guess."
He's talking about his 'Jinx Manipulation' thing, saying it's not as cool as others, but who knows, maybe it'll be useful someday. I just nod and smile, not really understanding what he means.
"My Dynamic Affinity is 'Coincidence Nullification.' It's, um, kind of like cancelling out planned happenings. You know, when things seem too set up or when luck swings too far, I can sort of, well, put a stop to it. It's not all that exciting, but it's, I guess, a way to keep things from going too… you know, dramatic or weird. Just trying to keep it all normal, I guess."
Mia's eyeing him like she's figuring something out.
Hoshino, our group instructor, is encouraging us to embrace our powers and work together. I think that sounds cool, even if I'm not exactly sure what "embracing powers" really means.
More people introduce themselves with their strange powers. Sakura Fujimoto can mess with memories with this thing called 'Memory Control', which sounds creepy. She's even able to turn her internal struggles into fragments that do damage. It's apparently called 'Painforge.'
Hikari Ishikawa can control spectral things with something called 'Spectral Manipulation,' whatever that means. She apparently also has voices in her head.
And then there's Akira Hayashi, who can mess with cause and effect. He calls it 'Casualty Distortion.' For some reason, he keeps his Dynamic Affinity a secret.
I just smile a lot, trying to fit in with the group. Everyone's powers are so different and interesting
Hoshino wraps up the introductions and suggests we spend some time getting to know each other.
"You never know when your fellow group members might save the day!"
The idea of us saving the day makes me feel like we're in a comic book. It's so exciting!
The group starts mingling, and Kirei Basara turns to me, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"Yuka, what's your Dynamic and Cognitive Affinity?"
Kirei's question catches me off guard, and I blink at her with genuine confusion.
"Huh? My what?"
She giggles, seemingly amused by my unawareness.
"Your Dynamic and Cognitive Affinity, silly! You know, your powers!"
"Oh, right! Yeah, that makes sense! Uhm…"
I stare at Kirei, my mind struggling to remember the names of my powers. Why can't they just have simpler names? It's all so confusing.
"Oh, yeah! Vibrokinesis! That's it. And, um, my Cognitive Affinity is…"
I pause, realising I genuinely can't recall. Kirei giggles, finding my forgetfulness amusing.
"It's okay, Yuka! You'll figure it out eventually."
I nod, appreciating her positivity. I hope I don't sound too silly. Mia and Ryuji seem to be talking in hushed tones, and I'm curious about what they're saying, but it's probably none of my business.
The instructor, Hoshino, interrupts our little discussion.
"Alright, everyone! Let's engage in some team-building activities. Get to know each other, work together, and let those bonds strengthen!"
Ryuji interjects with a confused tone.
"Isn't this school's purpose to make us stro—"
"Ryuji Kojima, please do us a favour and be quiet."
Hoshino smiles creepily at him, instantly shutting him up. I don't get why he's questioning things; we're here to make friends and learn, right? Hoshino's smile, though, gives me the shivers. I wonder if she's always like that.
The group disperses, and Kirei grabs my arm, pulling me towards a small cluster of people engaging in a conversation. She's so full of energy, it's infectious.
The group shares more about their Affinities, and it's like they're speaking another language. Hikari Ishikawa talks about her 'Spectral Manipulation,' controlling things I can't see. I wonder if she can control my cat, Mochi, in my dorm.
I should probably tell Kage about them, like she asked. Actions and reactions, she said. But I'm not good at remembering things. I'll try my best, though.
The instructor, Hoshino, claps her hands to get our attention.
"Alright, everyone! Let's start with a simple icebreaker. Share something interesting or unusual about yourself that others might not know."
I ponder for a moment, trying to think of something interesting about myself.
"I once tried to teach my cat, Mochi, to do tricks. But he just stared at me and then fell asleep. It was pretty cute!"
The group laughs, and Kirei nudges me playfully. It's nice to see everyone smiling.
Mia raises her hand, and Hoshino nods at her.
"Alright, Mia, what's your interesting fact?"
Mia smirks, her eyes narrowing a bit.
"I once infiltrated a high-security facility just to see if I could do it. It was a piece of cake."
The group falls silent for a moment, and then everyone starts laughing nervously. Mia's fact is definitely more interesting than mine, but I'm not sure if it's something you're supposed to admit to.
Ryuji goes next, scratching his head.
"Um, I guess one time I accidentally set my kitchen on fire while trying to make instant noodles. Yeah, that was embarrassing."
The group laughs again, and I can't help but giggle. Ryuji seems nice, even if he has a bit of a tough exterior.
A loud sound suddenly plays; it sounds like a bell. I think group time is over. But it felt so quick.
We all exchange glances, realising that our time together has come to an end. We gather our belongings and prepare to leave the room.
The bond we had formed in such a short period was unexpectedly strong, and I find myself yearning for more moments like these. Reluctantly, I stand up and join the others as we file out of the room, the laughter and companionship still lingering in the air.