Classroom of the Elite: Monster Academy

Vol. 1 Chapter 7.1 - The First Exam

May 30th, 8 AM.

"Hoh, it seems that there are no absences today."

Just like usual, Chabashira-sensei entered the classroom in concert with the ringing of the bell. Setting down what appeared to be the test questionnaires on the podium, she allowed her gaze to sweep across the room, her eyes scrutinizing each student in turn before making that remark.

"This is the first hurdle for you, defective trash. Are there any questions?" She asked with a bold smile.

Several of my classmates flinched when they heard her insult, regardless of how much they have prepared for this examination, the mental hurdle or rather the psychological aspect of the label still weighed heavily on their shoulders. Chabashira-sensei, always keen on emphasizing our flaws, did an effective job in ensuring we were acutely aware of our status as Class D.

But I couldn't help but feel a growing sense of concern. Chabashira-sensei's words were more than just insults; they were psychological weapons meant to weaken our resolve. If this demoralization continued unchecked, it could have a profound impact on our ability to excel in the following exams. Something needed to be done, but I wasn't sure how I could possibly counteract the damage already inflicted.

Clack!

A sound of a rattling chair broke the somber silence as a certain student stood up. With a brave and confident smile, this student stepped forward. It was Hirata.

"Sensei," Hirata began, his voice calm and steady, "we appreciate your challenges. They've pushed us to our limits, and for that, we thank you."

The classroom held its collective breath, hanging on Hirata's every word.

"But," he continued, "we are not 'defective trash.' We're not here to be defined by past mistakes or labels. We're here to prove ourselves, to show that we can rise above any obstacle."

His eyes scanned the faces of our classmates, and I could see a spark of hope kindling in their expressions. Hirata's confidence was infectious, and it was beginning to spread.

"We've trained hard, we've studied hard for this day, and we're ready. We know it won't be easy, but we're not backing down. We'll face this challenge head-on, together, as a team."

Hirata's words were simple but profound, resonating with each of them on a personal level. He spoke of unity, determination, and the strength they found in each other.

"And, sensei, when we pass this exam, we won't do it to prove you wrong. We'll do it to prove ourselves right. That we have the potential, the drive, and the heart to succeed."

The room erupted into applause, a thunderous ovation that echoed their renewed sense of purpose. Hirata's words had rekindled the flickering flames of hope within them all.

"Together, we shall conquer this challenge and emerge victorious, proving that we are more than capable. Let our actions speak louder than any words and let our unity shine brighter than any doubt. Let this mark the beginning of our rise as Class 1-D!"

The room resounded with cheers, their spirits reinvigorated, and their determination stronger than ever before. I even noticed Chabashira-sensei lips curved up to a smile, but only briefly, seemingly touched by the hopeful atmosphere in the classroom.

With the cheers subsided, Hirata returned to his seat. Sensei then distributed the test papers. As I received mine, I couldn't help but scan the contents first, eager to confirm if these questions indeed matched those from the past exams, as we had theorized.

Looks the same to me.

Upon inspection, it became clear that we had struck gold. The questions were indeed identical to those from the previous batch. A quick glance around the classroom revealed that everyone appeared confident and unfazed, thanks to Kushida's meticulous preparations. Noticing a gaze, I met with Kushida's eyes, her lips forming a proud smirk before returning her focus to her own paper.