The Superior Elite (Ongoing)

Chapter 3:Unmasking the Enemy

The rain tapered off, leaving a cold mist hanging in the forest as Ayanokoji stood over Ibuki's unconscious form. He pocketed the Leader identity card, his mind already calculating his next move when he heard the rustling of leaves. He looked up to see Ryuuen Kakeru from Class C and Katsuragi Kouhei from Class A emerging from the shadows.

Ryuuen's eyes glinted with amusement as he took in the scene. "Well, well. Looks like Ibuki failed. Didn't think you had it in you, Ayanokoji."

Katsuragi's expression was more calculating, though a hint of disdain curled his lips. "What's your game, Ayanokoji? You're not supposed to be a threat. Yet here you are, with the card."

Ayanokoji's eyes were cold and unyielding as he met their gazes. "Ibuki's failure is your problem now. If you want the card, you'll have to take it from me."

Ryuuen chuckled, stepping closer, his stance casual but predatory. "You think you can handle both of us? You've got guts, I'll give you that. But this is where your little rebellion ends."

Without warning, Ryuuen lunged at Ayanokoji, his movements swift and aggressive. Ayanokoji sidestepped, grabbing Ryuuen's arm and twisting it behind his back, forcing him to his knees with a brutal efficiency that left Ryuuen gasping in pain.

Katsuragi moved to attack from the side, but Ayanokoji released Ryuuen and pivoted, blocking Katsuragi's punch with a fluid motion. He countered with a sharp strike to Katsuragi's ribs, sending him staggering back, clutching his side.

Ryuuen struggled to his feet, his eyes now filled with anger and a hint of fear. "You're a real piece of work, Ayanokoji. But you're just one guy. You can't take us both."

Ayanokoji's voice was ice-cold as he replied, "You've underestimated me, Ryuuen. I don't play by your rules."

With a swift, decisive movement, Ayanokoji swept Ryuuen's legs out from under him and delivered a precise kick to Katsuragi's midsection, doubling him over. Both rivals lay on the ground, gasping and defeated, their underestimation of Ayanokoji shattered by his relentless efficiency.

Ayanokoji stood over them, his expression unreadable. "This is a warning. Stay out of my way, or next time, you won't walk away." With that, he turned and disappeared into the forest, leaving Ryuuen and Katsuragi to grapple with their defeat and fear.

Back at the camp, Ayanokoji moved with purpose. The card he had taken from Ibuki was a critical asset, and he needed to leverage it to ensure Class D's victory. He found Kei Karuizawa waiting, her expression a mix of anxiety and determination.

"Kei," he said quietly, handing her the card. "You're going to be our Leader."

Kei's eyes widened in surprise, but she nodded resolutely. "What do I need to do?"

"Just follow the plan. Trust me," Ayanokoji replied, his voice steady. He briefed her on the specifics, ensuring she understood her role in the deception. Kei's confidence grew as she listened, her loyalty to Ayanokoji strengthening her resolve.

With the card now in Kei's possession, Ayanokoji knew Class D was set up for a surprise victory. The other classes were still in disarray, their leaders misled and weakened. As Kei took on the role of Leader, the stage was set for Ayanokoji's strategy to unfold perfectly.

The day of reckoning arrived swiftly. The camp was tense as the results of the special exam were announced. Class A and Class C stood in disbelief as the losses were revealed-both had suffered significant setbacks, their strategies crumbling under the weight of unforeseen complications and sabotage.

In contrast, Class D emerged victorious, their success a shock to everyone except those who had orchestrated it. The announcement was met with stunned silence, then murmurs of confusion and admiration.