Lelouch Lamperouge POV
After Koro-sensei left, I leaned back in my chair, contemplating the strange assortment of individuals gathered in Class E. This wasn't just a group of students; each one had something unique, something that set them apart. Starting with Rue Ryuzaki, the insomniac student who claimed to be an international detective. If what he said was true, I would need to be extra careful to keep my identity hidden. A detective, especially one with that kind of reputation, could pose a serious threat to my plans.
Then there were the siblings, Sora and Shiro. They claimed to have never lost against anyone, a bold statement that suggested either arrogance or an extraordinary level of skill. Their confidence was palpable, and it piqued my interest. I glanced over at Kiyotaka Ayanokoji. He seemed to be keeping a low profile, trying not to stand out. But in a class like this, trying too hard to blend in was what made someone stand out. It was almost as if he had something to hide.
Johan Liebert caught my attention next. The German student had a pleasant demeanor, almost too pleasant. People who seemed that nice often had much darker sides. I'd have to keep an eye on him, too. And then there was Light Yagami. Out of all of us, he seemed the most normal—just a typical honor student, nothing more. But that in itself was suspicious. In a room full of extraordinary individuals, the most ordinary one might just be hiding the sharpest blade.
All of them seem smart, possibly even smarter than me, I thought, a small smile playing at my lips. I'll have to be careful around them, but this could also be an opportunity. A chance to have some fun, to sharpen my own skills. Maybe I could even use some of them, or at the very least, it would be a good test of my own abilities. It's been a while since I've had a challenge like this. Hiding in the shadows can be tedious. Perhaps it's time to play in the light, to see how far I can push myself.
Sora was the first to break the silence. "Well, it looks like we'll be together for the next few years," he said with a grin, catching everyone's attention. "Why not try to get along? I mean, we're all stuck in this weird experiment together, right?"
Johan nodded in agreement, his smile gentle. "That sounds like a reasonable idea. It would be beneficial to work together, especially if we face challenges from other classes."
Ryuzaki, still crouched in his seat, glanced up. "If we're to go against the other classes, then cooperating would be a strategic advantage," he said, his voice calm and analytical.
Sora laughed. "Exactly! Considering our numbers, Class E has a huge disadvantage, so we need to make the most of what we've got."
Shiro, the white-haired girl, tugged on her brother's sleeve, looking up at him with wide eyes. "Niii... what do you mean by 'going against them'?" she asked softly.
Sora patted her head affectionately. "Good question, Shiro. Think about it—why create an experimental class if we were just going to sit here and learn from the professors? Considering this isn't a normal school, it'd be weird if there wasn't some kind of competition involved. We have to stand out somehow, right?"
He's right, I thought. There has to be more to this than just academics. But how will they determine who reaches Class A? What criteria will they use?
"How will we get to Class A?" I asked, leaning forward slightly. "Is it purely academic, or is there more to it?"
Shiro murmured softly, repeating Koro-sensei's earlier words. "Despite starting from the lowest point..."
"Exactly!" Sora said, his eyes lighting up. "Good catch, Shiro! So, if it's about points, then the question is: how do we earn them? If we only start with 100,000 points each, that gives us a total of 700,000 for Class E. But that's not a lot compared to what the other classes might have."
"True," Johan said thoughtfully. "We don't know the exact number of students in the other classes, but typically, a class would have significantly more students than we do."
"There must be a way to gain more points," I speculated. "Otherwise, starting at the lowest point wouldn't mean anything."
Light Yagami nodded, his expression serious. "I was thinking the same thing. Why would the school give us 100,000 points each? That's a lot of money—100,000 yen per person. It seems almost too generous."
"Because," Ryuzaki interjected, "Koro-sensei said they allotted us what they think we're worth. If reaching Class A is the goal, then Class A is likely the class where most points accumulate. But how do we earn more points? Merit, perhaps? It was mentioned during the orientation."
"Merit as the equivalent of points," I mused. "The more you excel, the more points you earn. So, if we think of merit as a currency, then our worth is measured by our achievements. The better we perform, the higher our value, and thus, the more points we accumulate."
Light added, "That makes sense. The school clearly values merit, but what do they mean by it? Academic achievements, social skills, physical prowess? Or something else entirely?"
Everyone began to share their thoughts, each providing their own interpretation of what merit might entail. Academic performance, participation in school activities, leadership, creativity—it was clear that merit could be measured in many ways.
"Considering Koro-sensei mentioned reaching Class A despite starting from the lowest point," I said, "it's safe to assume that we're meant to prove ourselves in various ways. Not just academically, but in every aspect of student life. This point system could be connected to how we're evaluated."
Shiro, still clutching her brother's sleeve, quietly murmured, "If... points are based on merit... we're at a disadvantage. Seven people... means 700,000 points." She paused, glancing up at Sora. "Not... enough."
Sora nodded, patting her head again. "You're right, Shiro. The other classes will have more students, which means more points to start with. But maybe that's the challenge—to see if we can overcome those odds."
Johan leaned back, his expression thoughtful. "And since the classes mentioned during orientation were only A through D, it's likely that the other classes don't know about Class E."
"That could be our advantage," I said, a small smile tugging at my lips. "If the other classes don't know about us, we can operate under the radar. At least for a while."
"True," Sora agreed, but then he shrugged. "But that's only temporary. Some of us are too noticeable, even if we don't try to stand out. People are bound to notice us eventually."
Shiro tilted her head, calculating. "The likelihood of our existence being noticed... probably within the first week. The probability is high, around 75% chance by the end of the first week, considering normal social interactions and curiosity."
Ryuzaki nodded, his eyes half-closed. "Without enough information, we're only second-guessing. But we can gather more intel as we go. For now, we focus on what we can control."
Light stretched, a small smile on his face. "In the meantime, we should probably get ready for the opening ceremony. It wouldn't look good for us if we, the so-called generational talents, skipped such an important event."
Johan chuckled. "Agreed. We wouldn't want to damage our reputations on the first day."
As the others began to gather their things, I glanced over at Ayanokoji, who had remained silent throughout the entire conversation. His expression was calm, almost indifferent, as if none of this concerned him.
Interesting, I thought. He's listening, but he's not participating. Keeping a low profile. He's playing a different game, one that doesn't involve standing out. I'll have to keep an eye on him.
I stood up, smoothing out my uniform. The opening ceremony awaited, and with it, the first step in this new, intriguing game. Each move would have to be calculated, every word carefully chosen. In a class full of sharp minds, it was essential to stay one step ahead.
The game has begun, I thought as I walked out of the classroom with the others.
After the opening ceremony, I decided to take a break in the cafeteria. The ceremony had been a spectacle, as expected, with promises of a bright future and reminders of the school's prestigious status. Yet, it was the undercurrents, the unspoken tension between classes, that interested me most. I needed to understand this environment, to know the players and the stakes. A little observation could go a long way in gathering useful information.
I made my way to a table in the corner, the perfect vantage point from which to watch the flow of students and listen to their conversations. The cafeteria buzzed with chatter, a blend of excitement and nerves that came with the start of a new school year. I ordered a coffee, needing the bitter warmth to clear my thoughts. As I sipped, I took note of the groups forming, the alliances being made. Students from Class A clustered together, their confidence palpable. Class B and C students were more scattered, still finding their footing. And then there were those from Class D, who seemed less enthusiastic, their expressions guarded.
As I sat, a girl approached my table, her smile bright and inviting. I recognized her immediately—the girl from the bus with the short beige hair and gradient crimson eyes. She was as attractive as I remembered, her presence drawing the eyes of several boys nearby.
"Hi there!" she said cheerfully. "Mind if I join you? I'm Kikyō Kushida from Class 1-D."
I gestured to the empty seat across from me. "Of course. I'm Lelouch Lamperouge," I replied, keeping my tone casual.
"Lelouch Lamperouge," she repeated, trying out the name. "Nice to meet you, Lamperouge-kun. May I call you that?"
I shook my head, offering a slight smile. "Just Lelouch is fine. Being called by my last name feels a bit too formal."
"Okay, Lelouch-kun," she agreed, her smile widening as she took the seat. "You know, I aim to befriend everyone I meet. It's kind of my thing. I think school life is much more enjoyable when everyone gets along, don't you?"
I nodded, watching her carefully. Her cheerful demeanor was infectious, yet there was something almost too perfect about it. A well-rehearsed act, perhaps? It wasn't uncommon for people to wear masks, especially in a competitive environment like this.
"I suppose so," I said noncommittally. "Getting along with others can certainly make things smoother."
Kushida-san leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "So, Lelouch-kun, what class are you from?"
I paused, considering how to answer. Giving away my class might lead to unnecessary complications. "I'm still getting used to everything," I said, deflecting. "It's all a bit overwhelming, isn't it? So many new faces."
Before she could press further, a commotion outside caught our attention. Raised voices, the unmistakable tone of a confrontation.
"Maybe. You are in Class 1-D, aren't you?" I heard an upperclassman's voice, rough and mocking.
"Yeah," came the gruff reply, followed by a grunt. "What the hell does it matter to you guys?!"
I turned my head to see a tall, muscular student with dyed red hair. His posture was aggressive, and it was clear he wasn't in the mood to be talked down to.
Another upperclassman sneered. "Hey, now that's no way to talk to your elders. You better learn some respect and fast."
The red-haired student's eyes blazed with anger. "Shut up!"
Beside me, Kushida gasped softly. "That's Ken Sudō! He's in my class," she whispered, concern etched on her face.
"So, he's from Class D," I said, more a statement than a question.
One of the upperclassmen sneered, his voice dripping with disdain. "What class are you in? D, right? That explains a lot."
Sudō's fists clenched, his knuckles white. "I don't care if you're my elders! You want to fight or not?! I'll take all three of you on at once!"
The upperclassmen exchanged glances, then laughed. "Huh, we'll let it slide this time!" the first one said.
"Plus, he's already got it bad. If we knocked you down a peg, you'd fall right off," another added with a smirk.
Sudō's face twisted in fury as they turned to leave. "Don't you run away from me!" he shouted, his voice echoing in the courtyard.
One of the upperclassmen glanced back, his tone mocking. "Scream your head off if you want. You people are already in for a world of pain. A class of defectives like you should know your place."
I sipped my coffee, my mind racing. A world of pain? A class of defectives? This was more than just a simple scuffle. It hinted at a deeper animosity, a social hierarchy within the school. And Class D, it seemed, was at the bottom.
Sudō stormed off, his frustration evident. Kushida-san quickly excused herself, rushing after him to offer comfort. I watched her go, thoughtful. There was more to this school than met the eye. The existence of a hierarchy, the way the upperclassmen had spoken, suggested that being in Class D carried a stigma. Perhaps there was a similar stigma attached to Class E.
Discrimination, perhaps? Or a predetermined social order? I mused. If Class D is seen as defective, what does that make us in Class E? And how does one rise above such a label?
I took another sip of my coffee, considering my next move. There were many ways to play a game, but in this one, understanding the rules was essential. The pieces were in motion, and if I was to navigate this world, I needed to know where each one stood. Today had been enlightening, a glimpse into the intricate web of relationships and power that governed this school.
As I left the cafeteria, I decided to take a different route, one less crowded, where I could gather my thoughts. The day had been enlightening—full of surprises and undercurrents that hinted at something much deeper than the school's glossy exterior suggested. The confrontation I had witnessed, the strange dynamics of my new class, all pointed to the existence of a hidden hierarchy. Understanding these dynamics would be crucial if I was to navigate this place successfully.
My feet led me down a quiet alley, away from the bustling students. As I turned a corner, I spotted a familiar figure—Koro-sensei, my cheerful and eccentric homeroom teacher. He was walking alone, his stride bouncy and light, but there was something about his direction that caught my attention. He was heading toward an even narrower alley, a place with no people, where shadows clung to the walls like dark secrets.
What's he doing here? I wondered, slowing my steps to watch him. It wasn't like I suspected him of anything—well, maybe a little. There was just something about the way he moved, so carefree and yet so deliberate, that made my instincts prickle. My heart beat faster, a strange excitement bubbling up within me. This could be interesting.
Just as I was considering whether to follow, Koro-sensei's phone rang, a cheery tune breaking the quiet. Without thinking, I ducked behind a stack of crates, my heart pounding. Why am I hiding? I scolded myself. There was no need for this. Koro-sensei was just a teacher. But when I peeked around the corner, I saw him do something that made my breath catch. He glanced around, his eyes sharp and alert, before answering the call. It wasn't the behavior of someone with nothing to hide.
He moved quickly, slipping into a hidden side alley. I crept closer, curiosity burning. As I edged near the corner, I could hear his voice, light and almost sing-song, yet the words sent a chill down my spine.
"Yes, yes, I'm in the perfect spot to lay low," he was saying, his tone playful, almost as if he were gossiping. "This school is a wonderful hideout. So many places to disappear, so many interesting students with their own secrets and pasts. It's the perfect camouflage. No one would suspect a thing."
He chuckled, the sound incongruous in the empty alley. "And Clovis? That was child's play. The fool never saw it coming. Last night, right under their noses. They think it's all about peace treaties and diplomacy, but we know better, don't we? It's all a game, and now I have the perfect cover. No one would suspect a humble teacher in a prestigious school, after all."
My blood ran cold. I had heard the news that morning—Clovis la Britannia, my half-brother, found dead, killed in his room. I had thought little of it then; Clovis was a fool, a vain and naive ruler who cared little for those beneath him. His death, while unexpected, didn't seem significant. But now, knowing that my own homeroom teacher was the one who did it, made it all too real.
So, Koro-sensei killed Clovis last night and is using the school as a hiding spot, I thought, a mix of shock and a strange sense of satisfaction flooding through me. Clovis's death could be a blessing in disguise. He was never fit to rule, and his removal from the picture could simplify many things. Still, the idea that Koro-sensei was involved brought a new level of danger—and opportunity.
As I considered my next move, I shifted slightly, intending to slip away. But then it happened—a familiar, annoying creak from my own body. My spine, thin and lacking muscle from years of avoiding physical activity, let out a low, creaking noise that seemed to echo in the alley.
Damn it, I cursed internally. It was normal for me to hear these sounds; my body often creaked like an old door hinge. But why now, of all times? This was the first time I ever cursed my physique, wishing for once that I had done something—anything—to build some strength.
Koro-sensei's head snapped up, his eyes sharp. "Hmm? Who's there?" he called out, still in that silly, upbeat voice. "Come out, come out, wherever you are! I promise I won't bite! Unless you taste like a good story!"
For a moment, panic gripped me. But then I forced myself to relax, schooling my features into a mask of innocence and surprise. I stepped out from behind the crates, putting on my best disoriented look. "Oh, Koro-sensei!" I exclaimed, feigning joy. "I'm so glad to see you! I think I got lost while wandering around. These alleys are so confusing."
Koro-sensei's eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of doubt crossing his face. But then he smiled, his usual cheerfulness returning. "Lelouch-kun! What a pleasant surprise! These alleys can be tricky, can't they? It's easy to get lost if you're not careful!"
I nodded, doing my best to look sheepish. "Yes, I was just trying to explore a bit and lost my way. Thank goodness I found you."
Koro-sensei laughed, waving a hand as if to dismiss any concerns. "No problem at all! Just head back that way, and you'll find your way back to the main courtyard in no time." He pointed in the direction I had come from, his smile never wavering.
"Thank you, Koro-sensei. I'll be more careful next time," I said, giving him a polite bow before turning to leave.
As I walked away, I could feel his eyes on me, a sense of unease prickling at the back of my neck. He had bought my story—for now. But I knew I couldn't underestimate him. If he was capable of killing Clovis and hiding so effortlessly, he was far more dangerous than he appeared.
Interesting, I thought, a small smile playing at my lips as I navigated back to the main courtyard. So, Koro-sensei isn't just a silly teacher. He's a player in this game, just like me. And if he has secrets, that means I'm not alone. This school is full of mysteries, shadows lurking beneath the surface.
The thrill of discovery sent a shiver down my spine. This wasn't just about survival or blending in; this was a game of wits, of strategy. I had to know the players, understand their motives, and anticipate their moves. Koro-sensei was dangerous, yes, but he could also be useful. Information was power, and I now had a piece of the puzzle that could be crucial.
Whatever Koro-sensei is planning, whatever secrets my classmates are hiding, I'll uncover them all, I vowed. And I'll use every piece of information to my advantage.
The day's events replayed in my mind as I made my way back to the rest of Class E. We had been told to gather at the entrance of our designated dormitory building. The sun was dipping below the horizon, casting long shadows across the campus, making the school look even more mysterious. We arrived at the building, a tall structure that loomed over us, its windows reflecting the last rays of sunlight.
A dormitory staff member, a middle-aged woman with a kind smile and sharp eyes, stood waiting for us. She held a stack of keycards and handbooks, each labeled with our names.
"Welcome, Class E," she said warmly, her voice carrying over the chatter of students milling about. "I am Ms. Harada, the dormitory manager. I will be overseeing your stay here and ensuring you have everything you need. Each of you will receive a keycard and a handbook detailing the dormitory rules."
She began handing out the keycards one by one, each student stepping forward as their name was called. "Please remember that these keycards are your lifeline within the dormitory. They provide access to your rooms, and you'll need them to enter and exit the building. Keep them safe."
I took my keycard when she called my name, feeling the weight of it in my hand. It was a simple, green card, but it represented so much more—security, isolation, and control. This dormitory wasn't just a place to sleep; it was a part of the school's intricate system of managing its students.
"Now, let's go over some of the rules," Ms. Harada continued, distributing the handbooks. "Curfew is at 10 PM sharp. Boys are not allowed on the girls' floors after 8 PM, and vice versa. There are security cameras in the common areas for your safety, and the internal telephone line system can be used to contact other residents or dormitory staff at any time. Remember, these rules are in place for your safety and well-being."
As I flipped through the handbook, the rest of Class E reacted in their own ways. Sora was already poking Shiro in the side, trying to get her to react to some joke he had made about curfews being for kids. Shiro, as usual, remained impassive, though her eyes flickered with a hint of amusement.
Ryuzaki, on the other hand, was reading the handbook intently, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the cover. I could almost see the gears turning in his head as he processed each rule, each piece of information. He's thorough, I'll give him that, I thought, making a mental note to keep an eye on him.
Ayanokoji stood quietly beside him, flipping through the handbook with a calm expression. He didn't seem particularly concerned with the rules, more interested in the layout of the dormitory and the keycard itself.
Light, standing a few feet away, nodded politely as Ms. Harada spoke, his face showing a mix of interest and mild indifference. He seemed like the type who would follow the rules without question, yet there was something in his eyes that suggested he was constantly evaluating his surroundings, calculating his options.
Johan, as usual, was all smiles. "These rules seem quite reasonable," he said cheerfully, tucking his keycard into his pocket. "It's nice to see that the school takes our safety so seriously."
Ms. Harada smiled back, clearly pleased with his response. "Thank you, Johan-kun. We do our best to provide a safe and comfortable environment for all our students."
I tucked my handbook under my arm, my thoughts drifting back to Koro-sensei. What exactly was he? A teacher, yes, but also an assassin, capable of killing Clovis without leaving a trace. And now he was here, teaching us, watching us. What does he want? I wondered. Why is he really here?
As we made our way to the elevator, I couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to Koro-sensei than met the eye. He was too cheerful, too silly, as if it was all a front. But a front for what? And why was he so interested in us, in Class E? These were questions I needed answers to, but for now, I would have to bide my time.
The elevator doors opened, and we stepped inside, the seven of us filling the small space. We rode up in silence, each of us lost in our own thoughts. When the doors opened, we stepped out onto our floor, a long hallway lined with doors. Our names were already printed on small plaques beside each door, marking our new homes.
"So, we're all on the same floor," Light said, glancing around. "Makes things easier, I suppose."
"Or more controlled," Ryuzaki muttered, his eyes flicking to the security cameras positioned in the corners. "It's clear the school wants to keep a close eye on us."
"Let's find our rooms," Sora suggested, leading the way down the hall. We followed, each stopping at our respective doors.
Light stopped at room 708, his keycard ready. "Looks like I'm alone," he said, a hint of a smile on his lips. "Convenient, though a bit lonely."
"Better than sharing a room with someone you don't know," I said, stopping in front of room 705. "At least you have your privacy."
"I guess that's true," Light agreed, sliding his keycard through the reader. The door clicked open, and he disappeared inside.
Sora and Shiro stopped at room 707, Shiro clutching her keycard tightly. "Normally, boys and girls wouldn't share a floor," Sora commented, unlocking their door. "But I guess they made an exception for us. I mean, Shiro's still a kid, so it makes sense."
Johan and I exchanged a glance as we entered room 705. The space was small but functional, just as I had expected. The beds were neatly made, a desk sat against one wall, and a small closet provided just enough space for two people.
I dropped my bag onto one of the beds, glancing around. "Not much, but it'll do," I said, more to myself than to Johan.
Johan nodded, his smile never fading. "It's cozy," he said. "I've stayed in worse places. And at least we're close to the rest of our class."
As we began to unpack, I couldn't help but think about how perfect the school's system was. Everything was controlled, monitored, and regulated. It was the ideal place to disappear, to stay hidden from the prying eyes of the outside world. But it was also a cage, a place where every move was watched.
I opened one of my books, intending to study, when Johan spoke up. "You're studying already? I thought you said you weren't interested in academics."
I glanced at him, my expression calm. "I'm not. But in a prestigious school like this, in a class full of geniuses, I don't have much of a choice. I need to keep up."
Johan chuckled softly, shaking his head. "You're an interesting one, Lelouch. Most people would just take it easy, enjoy the freedom. But you're different. You see the world in a unique way."
I shrugged, turning my attention back to the book. "It's a matter of survival, not preference."
As we settled into our new room, the lingering thoughts of Koro-sensei continued to haunt me. What kind of person hides behind a cheerful facade, teaching students by day and killing by night? His presence added a layer of intrigue to this already complicated environment. Whatever his motives, one thing was clear: Koro-sensei was dangerous, and I needed to understand him if I was going to navigate this school successfully.
This is only the beginning, I reminded myself as I read the first page of my book. The real game has yet to start. And when it does, I'll be ready.