28 Chapter 28 - Deception

---Important Notice—

This fanfic will probably be going on hiatus for awhile, I wanted to inform everyone of this.

Read the end notice and give me opinions if possible.

Any support means a lot, can hopefully get this story out there.

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"All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when we are able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near." ~Sun Tzu

***Day One of the Survival Exam***

"Horikita, once we get to the base, you must make it a rule that we won't talk about the terminal or cardholder at all, and no one will go with you to reset the timer on our camp. Ask Hirata to back you up if necessary. The class should just trust that you will handle the situation, alright?"

Horikita looked over at me, and given that this wasn't a place to question me with these other students around, she simply nodded her head.

With that settled, we return to camp in silence.

"I'll be having a private conversation with Ayanokoji if anyone needs me," I inform Horikita as I depart before she can respond.

Ayanokoji is currently by the river, accompanied by Ike, who seems to be admiring the clarity of the water.

"Do you have a moment?" I ask Ayanokoji.

"I suppose so," he responds, looking at me curiously as he strolls along the river.

"We'll be right back if anyone asks, Ike," I assure him to ensure no one will go looking for us before following Ayanokoji.

"What could you have possibly discovered that you feel the need to inform me of so soon?" Ayanokoji asks me, truly curious.

"The terminals, they're quite fascinating. Ayanokoji, are you familiar with technology?" I inquire.

He responds confidently, "I understand the basics, about as much as everyone else."

"I see, then you should understand. Listen to this: the terminals are probably from 3-5 years ago and use facial recognition to activate. This is how it ensures only the class leader can activate it. Only the class leader can even be in front of it. Essentially, the class leader swipes a card, the terminal associates that card with a particular student's biometrics or face and a class, and it scans what's in front of its camera to see if it matches the biometrics of the student associated with the keycard," I explain to him.

"Understood, but why bring this up?" Ayanokoji inquires.

I'm slightly taken aback. Given his intelligence and the fact that I've laid out my observations to him, he should have grasped why I explained everything. This would make sense if he lacked knowledge about technology, but he claimed to have a basic understanding of the subject. Some might consider what I'm about to say as specialized knowledge, but the flaws of facial recognition are well-known.

"Facial identification technology, at least commercially, is a modern innovation. These terminals are from 2010-2012; we're currently in 2015. While there is decent facial recognition technology out there now, it's still incredibly rare as the technology is still being developed, and companies tend to cut costs in doing so. I have an interest in technology, so I've experimented with many devices that use this software and have read studies on this issue. This software can commonly and easily be fooled by something like a photograph," I explain to him.

"I see; I understand what you're suggesting now. There were many types of cameras for sale in the booklet given to our class," Ayanokoji responds.

"Yes, those cameras are probably intended for spying or memory-keeping purposes, but we can repurpose them for something else. I believe the cheapest camera was a Polaroid instant camera. This works in our favor, even if it doesn't have a recording feature. If we can get Horikita to agree, we can obtain a physical image of her, and you could then, with this image, carry her keycard, acting as the leader of the class."

"I see, and that image can be used in front of the terminal's camera with the keycard to trick it. That way, espionage would be completely useless. It wouldn't matter if I'm caught by the terminal unless someone gets their hand directly on the keycard. Our class would be safe from the 50-point loss penalty for having our leader guessed," Ayanokoji concludes.

"Although, if the terminals have two-factor authentication active, this idea might not work," I say, my gaze fixed on Ayanokoji. Of course, in reality, two-factor authentication has absolutely nothing to do with facial recognition. But it's a term that sounds like it could, and it's something only those with some experience with technology outside of this school would be aware of. Given that our phones were essentially our only identification here, and even in this exam, the only identification available were keycards handed only to leaders.

"That's true, but it wouldn't hurt to make an attempt. As you stated, cameras are cheap," Ayanokoji responds, his tone as calm and composed as ever.

I pause for a moment, not responding to him. A thought crosses my mind: how could he not know about two-factor authentication? No, at least that's possible. There are those who distance themselves from technology. But why lie about your technological capabilities? Something is strange about him. People typically lie to hide things. So, Ayanokoji, what are you trying to hide?

"We will proceed with the plan anyways, although we should inform Horikita first," I respond after a brief pause.

***The Last Day***

The seventh day of August was upon us, signaling the end of our island stay.

"Make use of the restroom if you haven't already. We'll be departing the camp shortly," announced Chabashira, her voice echoing through the camp with an authoritative tone.

As the camp stirred into action, I approached Horikita. She held a clipboard, likely the one designated for our assumptions about the identities of class leaders.

Peering over her shoulder, I noticed a name already inscribed - Kakeru Ryuen.

Tapping lightly on Horikita's shoulder to gain her attention, I spoke, "May I borrow that clipboard? I intend to note down the name of Class A's cardholder. I'll ensure it reaches Chabashira."

She looked at me, her expression unreadable, before reluctantly handing over the clipboard. "I suppose so," she conceded. "Your motives remain unclear to me. I understand Ayanokoji's desire for a normal life, but your agreement to let me take credit for identifying both our rival leaders is puzzling. Rest assured, I will uncover whatever you're scheming."

I met her gaze, "Good luck, I suppose," was my simple reply.

With that, I turned away from Horikita. Taking the pen attached to the clipboard, I wrote down the name 'Yahiko Totsuka.' For Class B, I noted 'Chihiro Shiranami.' It was plausible that Kanzaki or Ichinose had figured out they could make her retreat to the cruise ship with a convincing excuse. However, the announcement of my knowledge about Class B was made with the knowledge that such a scenario wouldn't occur, especially now that Kanzaki, the other leader of the class, was aware of my intent to challenge Class A. I also mitigated some of the potential fallout by providing them with a cardholder's name. I also doubted that they, particularly Ichinose, would hold Class D accountable for my actions either way.

With all three names recorded on the paper, I approached Chabashira. "Here," I said, extending the clipboard towards her.

She looked at me, her voice barely above a whisper as she asked, "Are you sure?"

"Absolutely."

Chabashira, without a word, took my clipboard and turned away, her attention already on other matters.

Hirata approached me soon after, his friendly demeanor evident. "Eru, how are things? Have you managed to identify any of the other class leaders?" he asked, curiosity lighting up his eyes.

"Horikita seems to have a strong hunch about the leaders of Class A and C," I replied, my tone as calm and analytical as ever.

"I see. So, our class has identified two leaders. You both seem quite confident in your guesses?" he probed further.

"Horikita wouldn't gamble without being certain. And it's not just two leaders, Hirata. I've made an educated guess about Class B's leader as well," I clarified.

"Class B?!" His voice rose slightly in surprise, but he quickly lowered it, "Eru, they're supposed to be our allies. Why would you do that?"

"Allies? I harbor no ill will towards Class B, but this test is a competition, Hirata. Did you expect me to hold back, knowing that?" I countered.

Hirata sighed, a hint of frustration in his eyes, though it didn't seem directed at me. "That may be so, Eru, but Class B has been of help to us throughout our time at school. They even offered their assistance during this exam. It doesn't seem right even to try to harm them after all they've done for us."

"I disagree. I don't feel indebted to Class B, and I believe they offer little value to Class D," I stated plainly, making my disagreement clear.

"Sometimes, Eru, it's the thought that counts."

"Well, what's done is done," I responded, eager to end the conversation.

Hirata sighed again, "Yes, you're right. As long as Class B doesn't find out we voted for them, it should be okay. Let's keep this quiet, alright?" he whispered.

"That's unlikely. Class B already has a low opinion of me due to some commotion I stirred in their camp; they know I know their cardholder. And if everything goes according to plan, our point total will make it painfully obvious that we've identified all three class leaders," I responded.

Before Hirata could respond, Chabashira called out to us, "Everyone, let's get moving."

But that didn't completely halt Hirata. "Eru, what do you mean Class B knows? What happened?" he asked, his tone laced with concern.

I had a good understanding of Hirata's character from early on in the school year. He made it clear when he asked for my opinion on Class D's situation and a plan to address it. He's a passive leader, someone who seems to fear the very power that comes with leading. For what reason, I can only speculate, so I cannot be entirely sure.

What I am certain of is that Hirata is not a forceful person. He wouldn't impose on another. Even now, he's kindly asking me to explain myself without showing any anger. That makes him easy to deal with.

"You'll find out soon enough from Class B themselves. I don't feel like discussing the matter," I respond.

Hirata lightly grasps my arm lightly as we continue following Chabashira. "Eru, please," he pleads.

"I told you, I don't feel like discussing the matter. I hope you're not planning on forcing me to do so," I say, glancing back at his hand on my arm.

"Of course not. If those are your wishes, then I understand," Hirata concedes, releasing his hold on my arm.

If Hirata fears power, it's not simply because it comes with a negative connotation. No, he must have had an experience with it, a reason for him to fear or dislike it, perhaps trauma or guilt. Power is usually considered harmful when used in excess, like many other things. So that suggests Hirata likely has experience with abusing power, probably on the giving end. All this is to say, Hirata would never impose his will on another.

In a matter of minutes, we all arrived at the beach where we had initially been dropped off. We were instructed to line up in the same manner as when we first arrived on the island.

Classes A and B had already assembled, likely due to their camps being closer to the beach than ours.

Class B was visibly upset with me, but the students of Class D hadn't noticed yet. We were supposed to stay in our assigned areas and keep our voices down.

Indeed, one area of the beach between Class D and Class B was conspicuously empty, the spot designated for Class C. But soon after making that observation, I noticed Ryuen emerging from the forest with his teacher, Sakagami. Both of them wore confident smirks on their faces.

Upon his arrival, whispers began to circulate among the students. "Ryuen? What's he doing here?"

"Didn't he and his class drop out?"

"Is this some sort of mistake?"

"What was he doing by himself?"

Ryuen seemed to be scrutinizing Class D, and Class D reciprocated, noticing the dirt on him. By now, they could probably tell he hadn't just been relaxing on the island.

Hirata initiated a conversation with Ryuen. "Ryuen, I thought you had retired."

"Hahaha, Class D really is full of the biggest idiots in this school. It's sad. I was expecting to have some fun with your class," Ryuen retorted.

"What the hell did you say?!" Sudo responded, already angered.

"Sudo, calm down. He's trying to provoke you," Hirata advised Sudo in an attempt to calm him down.

"That's right, learn your place, dog-" Before Ryuen could finish, he was interrupted by the squeak of a microphone.

Hearing that sound, all the students turned their heads forward.

It was Mashima, the teacher of Class A. "I'm pleased to announce that you will all soon be able to relax. The survival test has come to an end, so act freely," he declared.

But the students remained still, awaiting his words.

"Without further ado, I will now announce the exam scores, starting with 4th place. Please note that we will not entertain any questions regarding the test results. Analyze them yourselves to strategize for your next exam," Mashima declared, his tone authoritative.

I pondered his words, wondering if they hinted at a class exam around the corner or if the results would be generally useful in the future.

"Listen to Mashima. Accept your defeat with grace, Class D," Ryuen chimed in, a smirk playing on his lips as members of Class D began to argue amongst themselves.

"We still had 205 leftover private points, while your class has none," Hirata retorted, his voice filled with pride.

"Oh wow," Ryuen responded, clapping sarcastically, "What an achievement. But it seems you're forgetting about the additional components of this exam. Your class, Class B, and even Class A, all are going to lose 50 class points. Well, actually, Class D will lose 100 since Class A was also interested in Class D's leader."

"What the hell did you do, Ryuen!" Sudo exploded, his temper flaring as most of Class D, who were previously excited about their accomplishment, looked anxious.

"Eru, Kushida, and I suppose you too, Horikita, in the end, none of you posed a real challenge," Ryuen stated, his confidence unwavering, his lack of anxiety making it seem as if his victory was destined.

Soon, Mashima picked up a paper and spoke up, "Now, the results. Starting with fourth place is Class C with 0 points."

As soon as Mashima's voice echoed, Class D visibly relaxed. "Hahaha, what a loser, zero points, just like everyone predicted," Sudo mocked, his voice dripping with mockery.

"Zero points?" Ryuen, on the other hand, was utterly taken aback. He scanned the other classes, his eyes eventually settling on Class D, but confusion still etched on his face. He was clueless about what had transpired.

Mashima announced, "Third place is Class A with 70 points, and second place is Class B with 140 points."

A wave of confusion swept through the class. The only class that wasn't perplexed was Class B. I assume since I scammed them, Ichinose has kept the amount of points available to her class under wraps. But either way, I'm sure Ichinose and Kanzaki were somewhat surprised to learn their cardholder was figured out by someone other than me.

The uproar in Class A was deafening. They hadn't even broken into double-digit points after all.

"And first place, well, that's obviously Class D with 355 points," Mashima declared.

At this announcement, all the classes were shocked, including Class D itself.

"355 points!" members of Class D exclaimed joyfully, but at the same time, there were many confused members of the class.

"Wait, isn't it a bit strange? We had about 200 class points left when I asked Hirata," Karuizawa pondered aloud, "Doesn't this mean that we accurately guessed all of the other three class leaders?"

"I can't believe it; I really lost to a bunch of fools," Ryuen muttered under his breath as members of Class B walked past him to talk to Class D now that the announcements were over.

"Horikita, Kushida, Hirata, why did you allow Eru to vote for Class B's leader? I thought we were allies," Kanzaki questioned, leading a few students from Class B. Kanzaki probably stepped up, knowing Ichinose was too kind-hearted to play this role.

As soon as these words left his mouth, a wave of understanding swept across the students of Class D, accompanied by a few upset expressions.

"I'm truly sorry, Kanzaki," Hirata apologized, giving him a slight bow, which surprised some students from Class B. "Of course, I consider Class B an ally. Class D would never want to harm you. No one in Class D knew about Eru's plans to vote for Class B until he announced it to me."

"Then, if I may ask, how did he get his hands on the voting paper?" Kanzaki continued to probe.

This time, Horikita spoke up. "I was the one who had the voting paper. I voted for Class C's leader, but I didn't know how to spell the name of Class A's leader. At that moment, Eru happened to be nearby and offered to write the name for me and hand in the clipboard. That must've been when he voted for your class's leader," Horikita explained, looking down then back at Kanzaki. "I, too, owe you an apology. I consider Class B as allies as well."

Shibata, a student from Class B, then spoke up. "You really are terrible. Not only did you trick our class, but you also went behind your own class," he said, and most of Class B agreed with him.

"Eru tricked Class B?" Kushida asked, confused by the situation.

"So you don't know either?" Kanzaki said before continuing, "Yes, Ichinose and Eru had entered a previously confidential contract, and, long story short, Eru used a loophole in this contract to scam 300k private points monthly from Class B. So this was a simple competition for him. He seemed to be gunning to harm our class."

At this comment, the student who seemed not to have cared much that I had voted for Class B's cardholder because this was a competition also became somewhat upset to hear how I had scammed Class B.

"I plan to give those points to Kushida for our stockpile, of course," I respond, but of course, it was our class's stockpile, not that they knew that.

"Clearly, that's not the issue here, Eru," Hirata responds.

Kanzaki sighed and glanced back at Class B, who were focused on me. "Class B doesn't blame Class D for Eru's actions, but we thought it was important to inform you that there's such a chaotic individual in your class. Also, Class B will be avoiding any alliances or collaborations with Eru for the foreseeable future," Kanzaki says, taking a deep breath.

"I hope you understand. It's difficult to work with someone whose intentions are unclear and who seems to lack concern for others. We believe this is the best course of action to ensure that our class members aren't deceived or harmed by him in the future." With Kanzaki's words coming to an end, most of Class B nod in agreement.

They don't seem upset with Class D, just disappointed with the situation and my actions. It couldn't have gone more perfectly.

"I… I understand," Hirata says, his voice wavering slightly. "I understand that you can't work with someone unreliable, but I still hope you won't completely isolate Eru because of his actions. I don't want him to miss out on a normal school life because of this situation." Hirata's words sound almost like a plea.

Kanzaki smiles at this. "Of course, we as a class agree that such a situation would be quite sad. What we're doing is simply a measure to protect our class, but individual members of Class B are free to do what they want. If they wish to make friends and converse with Eru, there's no problem with that."

"I see; well then, thank you," Hirata says with a faint smile, but he doesn't truly seem happy. He probably doubts that many members of Class B would want to associate with me after this incident.

And he's probably right. Not that it matters. My goal right now is to ally myself with Class C.

Promptly, Class B walks away, leaving me with just Class D.

"Explain yourself," Shinohara demands after Class B's departure.

"Well, you were someone who said I was useless during this exam, weren't you? So I decided to help in the end," I reply. The moment I do, Shinohara looks like she's about to explode, but Hirata diffuses the situation.

"Calm down, this isn't the time to be arguing like this," Hirata tells everyone.

"Well, I'm not interested in this situation. I've never seen a group of individuals be so ungrateful," I replied while walking away.

If all goes well, it should not be long before I grow distant from the majority of Class D.

"Where are you going, Eru? Class D's return ship is this one," Hirata calls out as I walk away.

"I'll be returning with Class C, if you don't mind," I say, looking at Ryuen, who was the only one from his class left on this island.

He smiles, already getting over his loss. "I guess, I will have a lot of extra space after all."

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IMPORTANT NOTICE

While this is on hiatus (unless I change my mind) I also MAY start something new and fresh I would appreciate opinions on what that should be if you haven't given it to me already.

A new original novel - Pretty self-explanatory.

Another Cote fanfic - I know a lot of you wanted Light Yagami in Cote; I'm not opposed to the idea. I think it would be cool to put him in classes c and maybe b specifically with his more 2 faced side (not perfect light before the death note more of the narcassist/actor/fake light). I would appreciate opinions on this. Also if you choose this do you think ryuk should be included in the story (as a shinigami he wouldn't be visible to others)? no death note, obviously lol, but I think it would be cool for him to exist and light to make use of him throughout the story. 

Continue my Naruto fanfic - Honestly, I haven't dropped it. I've just been thinking about certain things in regard to it and don't feel ready to write, but I would be willing to try again.

A different idea? - drop your unique ideas here!

If you are interested in any of these ideas please give a opinion!!!