Physical Advancement Class
The afternoon light passed through the open windows, casting a soft orange glow that warmed the room but somehow felt cold against my skin. I rested my face on my palm, pretending to stay awake, though really, I just wanted to sleep until the class was over.
The room was quiet. Teacher Ishikawa stood at the front, a folder in her hands, calmly reading as she lectured. Her expression remained steady, composed and focused. Most of the class seemed to be paying attention, but, as expected, a few were distracted, scrolling on their phones or leaning back with their feet on the desks.
I could tell Ishikawa noticed, but she said nothing. No scolding, not even a glance. It felt like she was tolerating it, like she had her own reasons.
"Physical Advancement isn't just about running fast or lifting heavy weights," Ishikawa said, her voice calm but firm. "It's about how well you can control your body under pressure. Can you stay focused when you're tired? Can you recover quickly after a setback? That's what matters."
She scanned the room. "In this class, you'll train endurance, strength, and flexibility. But more than that, you'll learn discipline on how to push yourself beyond what you think is possible."
"Your Advancement Score includes your progress here. If you ignore this subject, it will affect your overall rank."
She closed her folder. "That's it for today."
Everyone started packing up, including me and Shirogane, but Ishikawa remained at the front, her eyes narrowing as she scanned the room.
"Before you all go," she said, and everyone paused, their attention shifting back to her. "There's one more system you need to understand. Since the school has issued each of you a phone, that device will serve a unique function. It's called the Credit System."
She opened her folder again, flipping through a few pages.
"The Credit System is the official method of payment within this school. The use of yen is strictly prohibited. If you're caught using real currency... you'll be expelled. Immediately."
She paused, as if letting that word sink in. A few inaudible murmurs echoed through the room, though most of the class remained calm. Shirogane glanced at me – we were probably thinking the same thing.
"As for how you earn Credits," she continued, "they're given based on your contributions and effort. That includes getting high scores on tests, winning class competitions, giving the right answers during discussions, or coming out on top in debates."
She looked up from her folder.
"But there are more practical ways too. You can help out in the canteen, start your own business, maybe a hotdog stand or team up with someone who already runs one. You can also apply to work in one of the school-operated stores and businesses, like the school café. But keep in mind, those jobs are first-come, first-hired."
She closed her folder and gave us one final glance.
"Your first credit distribution will happen this evening, probably around six-thirty. Check your phone and balance now and then. If the transfer doesn't come through today, the school will still provide meals for tonight. Also, one Credit is equal to one Yen."
She paused for a moment. "Any questions?"
Credit System, huh? Interesting... I don't plan to go all out, but if it means having freedom and access to luxury, then i might consider it. It's kind of tempting.
Suddenly, amidst the lingering murmurs, a boy seated in the middle, catching everyone's attention. He sat with his arms crossed, his messy yellow hair falling slightly over his blue-gray shaded eyes.
"That's kind of pitiful, Miss Ishikawa..." he said, his voice confident and unfiltered. "What's the point of this rule? I've got way too much money just sitting around, and now I can't even use it because of some ridiculous system?"
He leaned back in his seat, smirking as he closed his eyes.
"Don't you think it's absurd? Our parents gave us enough money to last three years, and now it's just going to waste thanks to another stupid regulation."
His name is Reiji Kurosawa. From that one comment alone, I could already tell – he's the kind of guy who says whatever he wants. And right now, he's definitely showing it.
Ishikawa's gaze sharpened as it landed on him, though she didn't look irritated – just cold.
"It's not a stupid rule, Kurosawa. Let me explain the purpose behind it." Her tone was calm but edged with something firm. "Most of you came here to start over. That's the entire point – to begin with nothing and learn how to invest, how to earn, how to build something from the ground up. Whether you use your skills or your energy, it depends on you. But nothing comes free."
She paused, turning toward us and narrowing her eyes slowly – almost heavily, then closed her eyes.
"This school doesn't care about your background. It only cares about who can contribute and put in effort... and it doesn't care for those who are disposable. Society doesn't need people who live off their parents' money. That kind of support means nothing here. Perhaps now you understand, Kurosawa?"
Kurosawa let out a low chuckle. "You've got it wrong, Miss. I earned my money. I run investments and handle business with my family. Perhaps that's what you should know before judging a young man like me... And I'm also an academic achiever... Just by being honest, I could perfect your exams."
His smile faded as he opened his eyes, locking onto hers with a cold, unwavering stare – almost a glare.
"It's disappointing how society glorifies weakness just because it's powerless, while ignoring the effort it takes to reach the top. People romanticize fragility and call it virtue. It's pathetic."
A moment of silence lingered between them. They stared at each other for several seconds before Ishikawa took a deep, almost calming breath.
"What can I say, Kurosawa? That's your opinion," she said, then turned her gaze back to the rest of us. "If there are no more questions, that's all for today." With that, she walked out of the room.
Everyone started packing up again, though this time, the atmosphere was different. Whispers and low gossip floated around, mostly about the exchange that had just taken place.
"He's cool..."
"He has a point... society is messed up..."
"Who is this guy...?"
"Woah... he spoke against Miss Ishikawa..."
Kurosawa closed his eyes with a calm smile, as if he'd just won a battle with his big pride and ego.
That guy, Kurosawa Reiji... he's got a point about how disappointing society has become. But still, a lot of the powerful use their influence the wrong way. They step on the powerless just to make their names louder.
He's interesting... I'm looking forward to the day we face off in Philosophical Ethics.