The class leaders. edited

Chapter four.

The class leaders.

At this moment, Jian Hé maintained his gloomy tone and continued, "As you progress, I will reveal many things, but remember that talent and behavior take priority for qualification." He paused, attempting to exude an air of dignity, and lazily pointed, "To qualify means to have enough influence over the life and decisions of this great nation. If you're unqualified, you won't hold any entitlement within this nation." Whatever advice he believed he was imparting, he likely considered himself an important figure.

However, Jian He's statement provoked deep contemplation among many. How does the school reward talent and penalize failure? Disappointed with the whole situation, I deemed it unnecessary to ponder further. They were all pretentious; given a day, their true nature would be revealed. Who were the people ruling this nation, after all? The bugger didn't even explain such a basic thing. Why did he expect us to become important in a place where we had no knowledge of the actual situation?

Lost in thought, I considered, 'Perhaps, I'm the only one who lacks understanding. Who's to say others are ignorant?' I gazed intently ahead, as if I could see through the whiteboard, and added, 'After all, everyone came from extraordinary places, and people displayed unique behavior. Mine was a threat to all living beings.'

In Thunder Nation, there were no government buildings or decision-makers. It was a country controlled by ghosts. Just as I pondered this, Jian Hé's gruff voice continued, "Well, for now, don't dwell on your thoughts; I will assign tasks, and it's important that you manage them well." Then, he focused his gaze on me, with an added hint of significance, and said, "Furthermore, I will evaluate your overall qualifications, not just your intelligence."

After conveying this message, Jian Hé urged the class to choose their class representative wisely.

Jian Hé left the platform, his gaze fixed on Li Min before shifting to me, and then he departed. As he left, I let out a sigh of relief. 'What an irritating and wicked man.'

{Second day in Suzhou high school.}

Today marked my second day at school, and my dismay had only deepened after the injustice I experienced yesterday—Jian Hé predicted my demise. With these thoughts in mind, I made my way towards the classroom, contemplating Suzhou High School.

Suzhou Senior High School spanned tens of thousands of square meters. More precisely, it resembled a small town, complete with facilities that catered to the everyday needs of its residents. The school boasted shopping malls, cafeterias, grocery stores, complex shops, expansive swimming pools, game arcades, and more.

What else could a fool desire? Everything was at hand. This school operated as a boarding school, just like Chonqing and Nanjing Senior Schools. These three high schools were a source of pride for Thunder Nation. In fact, if these schools didn't offer boarding facilities, my parents would have built a residence directly within the school I chose to attend, solely for their peace of mind. Living with them had caused them more anguish than they could recall. Indeed, my parents had always viewed me as the irony among all students, as no one could enlighten a skiver like me. 'What exceptional parents I have.' I sighed, a tinge of irony in my voice.

As I quietly entered the classroom, all eyes turned towards me. Despite my attempts to be discreet, it felt inappropriate in this situation. Was I committing a crime under the sun? Since there was no other option, I proceeded directly to my seat, disregarding the judgment of others. After all, I had every right to sit down. And even if the world fell apart, why should I care about any of them?

I placed my backpack beside me and prepared to doze off, as I usually did. I was determined not to change my habits just because it bothered them. Since I didn't get enough sleep last night, I intended to make up for it today. However, my plans were abruptly interrupted.

"Today, I volunteer as the class representative," a voice declared.

The voice sounded husky, yet undeniably charming and persuasive. This announcement immediately grabbed everyone's attention, and discussions erupted throughout the classroom. Many people seemed familiar with the person who had captivated everyone's interest. However, this young man had already annoyed me with his deceptive behavior. Couldn't he have been patient before starting a power struggle? What was the point of assuming a leadership role with such cunning tactics? Deceptive schemers, all of them.

One of the students spoke in a jealous tone, "He's Fu Wei, the son of a top company owner in Suzhou."

Another student exclaimed excitedly, "Aww, he's cute!"

A skeptical voice chimed in, "Really? Is he the one?"

The previous speaker replied confidently, "Of course! Why would I lie?" He patted his chest and added, "I know his father's company. They specialize in fashion clothing and make-up."

A student from the back of the class trembled with excitement and stuttered, "Wow, they're so wealthy."

Another student, adopting a calm tone, remarked, "Yes, they are indeed wealthy."

The class buzzed with discussion, resembling an overflowing dam.

Observing their gossipy enthusiasm, I realized there was a young master among them who possessed an overpowering self-assurance. He stood out from the other students, appearing well-groomed and nurtured, like a natural leader. People like him always assumed that everyone would bow down to their authority. However, not everyone followed their prescribed rules.

Sighing, I rested my head on the desk and thought, 'Whatever happens in this class has absolutely nothing to do with me. Why would anyone seek the opinion of a loser or envy their downfall?' Don't they already have fulfilling lives? I was merely an observer, and nothing that occurred here truly mattered. At least they were following the instructions of their homeroom teacher, and as for that lost child, he probably wanted to test his leadership skills, as the gossipers had speculated. Why should I concern myself with any of this? As long as nobody bothered me, everything was fine.

Fu Wei surveyed the room, his penetrating gaze capturing not a single objections and displeasure of everyone present. Not receiving any immediate response, he confidently strode towards the platform at the front of the class and continued speaking. There was a certain air of sophistication about him, although it was in stark contrast to Lin Min, who radiated warmth and brilliance like the sun. Fu Wei, on the other hand, was more like a flickering candlelight—a notable difference indeed. However, the key factor was still that "light" within him, even though it was hardly worth mentioning. It existed on a different plane compared to most of the class members, providing him with at least some semblance of brightness.

"My name is Fu Wei," he announced, his tone earnest. "My personal background is irrelevant because my sincere desire is to serve and elevate our class to its fullest potential." Pausing for a moment, he added with humility, "That's why I volunteered to become the class representative. I promise to give my utmost effort." Fu Wei concluded his speech with a humble bow.

As I silently observed him, I couldn't help but think, 'Who was he kidding? His identity definitely mattered.'

The class erupted in cheers and applause, celebrating Fu Wei's outspokenness and commending his bravery. How ridiculous! Was there anything truly courageous about his actions? Any fool could be bold. Who knew what hidden motives lay behind his proclamation of service? There was always an underlying agenda when people acted in such a manner. Nevertheless, no one challenged him, and the young upstart wasted no time in plunging everyone into his charade. Somehow, the students seemed to have chosen him, their discernment clouded by their apathetic minds. It wasn't my place to label others as fools, though.

"Who would like to assist me?" Fu Wei bravely posed the question, breaking the brief silence that followed the cheers. Why shouldn't he show courage when given the opportunity? Who would willingly take on a burdensome responsibility? Unless, of course, they shared the same mindset—a group of reluctant individuals.

As everyone avoided the task, Fu Wei shifted his gaze towards the middle row of the class, where a lively girl sat with a radiant expression. He had a hunch that she would be the ideal candidate to help him. Perhaps he had caught a glimpse of the future. Who could say?

The girl noticed his eyes and reaction, prompting her to stand up and dispel any suspicion before she overestimated herself.

This girl exuded thoughtfulness and appeared easygoing on the surface. Though no one could definitely judge her inner behavior, her short skirt revealed her fair and smooth skin, adding a touch of allure. The girl was perplexed as to why the presumed class representative had singled her out.

Yet, her confusion paled in comparison to mine—a million times greater. 'What a flirtatious philanderer,' I thought. Was he truly interested in serving the public or merely attracted to her physical appearance?

Despite her long white stockings, one could still understand why he had chosen her. There was no need for complaint, as I was more than willing to help restore order and discipline to such irresponsible individuals. Had he forgotten that we were teenagers? The consequences of her nymph-like appearance were now upon her. Whom could she blame but herself?

As the young girl rose, the young man gracefully nodded to assert his choice. Indeed, it was the coquettish girl he desired. His instincts must have assured him that they would make the perfect high school couple, supporting each other in times of trouble. It would have been fine if he hadn't forgotten himself. After all, we were all here for academic pursuits. Well, perhaps I was different. I didn't care, nor did I feel any reverence for something as superficial as that.

"I can assist you, but I have one condition," Xiu Ying pouted coyly.

I was about to take a nap when I noticed Xiu Ying licking her lips. In that moment, a sense of foreboding washed over me. It was clear that trouble awaited us; Xiu Ying was not to be trusted. I wondered if that man knew the true nature hidden behind her smile. I felt an urge to shout at his obliviousness, but I knew it would only breed prejudice among the ignorant bystanders. I wanted to protect my rights and live a peaceful life.

"What's the condition?" Fu Wei asked, feeling doubtful and concerned, yet seeing it as an opportunity he couldn't let slip away. He had to take a chance and awaken his invisible life once more.

"I'd prefer to whisper it."

Only deceitful individuals whisper something good and beneficial. They aim to deceive and manipulate, turning the naive into former good-hearted people. Though, I couldn't say for certain if he was ever good to begin with. I should have known that they were all opportunists, ready to exploit and drain their unsuspecting victims.

Xiu Ying gracefully rose from her seat, wearing a suggestive smile. Even the most skeptical person would acknowledge that all ostriches must confront reality—destruction was natural. I have always been an ostrich; I knew that nothing good came from making a deal with a devil. This question of hers was endlessly annoying; what did she truly want? Even the most clueless person could become infinitely curious as well.

In a matter of seconds, Xiu Ying reached the platform where Fu Wei stood. Being slightly shorter than him, she coyly tipped her toes to match his height while whispering something. Only the devil heard her words. She was undoubtedly charming, but I reminded myself to steer clear of her—she was more dangerous than a skulking, slithery serpent. Although I couldn't pinpoint why, I forcefully believed it. Just as Xiu Ying walked away from the platform, her ponytail swayed from side to side, and her teasing eyes pierced the male students who lecherously gazed at her. They were hedonistic anyway—there was no attraction in their demise.

Fu Wei was even more perplexed and bewildered. He stood there motionless, seemingly deep in thought. Many of the students now wished to tear his head off and eavesdrop on the conversation between him and the ardent Xiu Ying—they were all infatuated. However, it was futile since Fu Wei would most likely take the secret to his grave, as prying into his mind was akin to sending him to his maker. Then, we would become murderers.

"I accept your challenge!" Fu Wei finally sounded eager and daring after much deliberation. Evidently, he had made up his mind after careful thought. In any case, he should be prepared to bear the consequences alone without implicating the entire class. I don't even care if his ghost exists or not.

Following that, the intermission bell rang, and everyone exited the classroom for a meal break.