The next morning, the atmosphere was cheerful at the start of the new school day, but I never lost focus. My goal remained clear. As we walked toward the gymnasium, students whispered all kinds of speculations about the challenge announced by Madame Samaeki. Alliances were already forming. Some desperately sought to join the strongest groups to ensure their survival.
I stayed silent.
To me, any one of them could become a useful pawn for my revenge.
While lost in my thoughts, a familiar voice interrupted me:
— "Is there a problem, Jessy?"
I turned my shoulder and saw Isabella.
— "Oh, no, nothing. I was just wondering what the sports events today would be."
She smiled gently.
— "Don't worry, it probably won't be too complicated."
I nodded.
— "Yeah, you're probably right."
We arrived at Onkawa Institute's main gymnasium. It was my first physical education class here. The school was renowned for training top athletes, some even awarded at the Beijing Olympics or the World Swimming Championships. The facilities were state-of-the-art, with professional-level equipment.
Both girls and boys were sent to their respective locker rooms to change. When I entered the locker room, several guys were already there. One of them approached—tall, athletic build, long messy dark brown hair tied back, with a red bandana resting on his shoulder.
Nikolas approached him.
— "Yo, what's up Jason?"
Jason shook his hand.
— "Good, you guys have a sports challenge today too?"
Jin, nearby, answered:
— "Yeah, with Madame Samaeki."
Jason smiled.
— "I hope we'll be on the same team. Otherwise, I wouldn't want to crush you."
Nikolas grinned challengingly.
— "Hmph. You're the one who'll lose."
Once we were changed, we gathered on the court. Madame Samaeki wore a black polo and tight leggings that highlighted her athletic figure. She addressed us:
— "Alright. Today, you'll be evaluated alongside Madame Lussiareka Habe's class."
Lussiareka Habe stepped forward—a woman in her thirties, well-toned, medium height, harmonious face, straight black hair tied into a ponytail, dark brown eyes. She waved to catch our attention.
— "Here's how things will go. First, a game of dodgeball. Then, we'll move on to basketball matches."
A student raised her hand. Lussiareka gave her the floor.
— "Hello, I'm Fiona. Nice to meet you, Madame Lussiareka. I just wanted to ask—how will everyone participate given the number of students?"
Lussiareka was about to respond, but Samaeki interrupted.
— "By elimination. There are currently 50 of you. During dodgeball, the first 26 eliminated will be disqualified. Only the remaining 24 will advance to the second challenge. They'll then be divided into eight groups of three for basketball."
The gym buzzed with murmurs. I could already see groups forming. Everyone was trying to align themselves with the strongest players. It was a dance of strategy, intimidation, and fake friendliness.
Zoe appeared at my right.
— "Look at them. They're wasting no time," she said.
I glanced at her.
— "You criticizing them?"
She smiled.
— "No. It's just human nature—to favor what's convenient."
I straightened slightly, thoughtful.Interesting... Very interesting.
The challenge began. The polished wooden floor echoed with every movement. The empty bleachers made the gym feel immense. The rules were clearly posted on the scoreboard.
I almost smiled. Lussiareka was watching us closely. She was testing our reactions.
A whistle blew.
The game started.
Balls flew everywhere. Some played by instinct, others with a clear strategy. I dodged with agility, observing. Those who rushed blindly were the first to fall.
Isabella managed to eliminate two opponents at once. Mia moved gracefully, dodging expertly. Nikolas was in great shape, and Saya's aim was deadly. Jason was like a fortress, catching balls with ease.
But I couldn't get distracted.Stay in the game.Avoid elimination.
I grabbed a ball and calmly aimed at an opponent too busy talking to his teammate.Hit.
Slowly, the numbers thinned. Cries, encouragement, falls... until finally, another whistle blew. The round was over.
I was among the survivors. Along with 23 other students.
I exchanged a knowing look with Isabella. She winked at me.
The second challenge was about to begin.And in this game, every point mattered—not just for the win, but to see who would truly shine… and who would be left behind.