Chapter 3 - Introduction to 1-C

---Notice---

Give me opinions if possible specifically on characters you want to see light interact with and what scenes you want to see in the future!!!

Any support means a lot, and can hopefully get this story out there if you like it.

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"It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership." ~Nelson Mandela

However, one person didn't fold under the pressure Ryuen was applying. Albert Yamada, a well-built Afro-Japanese male, simply raised his hand. "I can't condone your methods of using violence against the class," he stated firmly.

"Good, I'll keep that in mind. I hope the rest of you remain obedient. Now, onto other matters," Ryuen said, his gaze falling on Ishizaki's fallen form. "You there, with the red hair, take him to the nurse's office." The boy quickly stood up and did as instructed without uttering a word.

"And what about you? Do you have anything to say?" Ryuen asked, turning his attention to me. Some of the class looked at me with a glimmer of hope in their eyes.

Ryuk simply laughed. "All that tennis and gym training, but you don't know a thing about fighting, hehe. He'd definitely kill you if you two fought."

I had to admit Ryuk was right. I couldn't openly oppose Ryuen. "I don't oppose your rule, but I also don't agree with your use of violence and oppression to take control of our class; despite that, I won't stoop to your level, Ryuen. However, I will say this: if you resort to meaningless violence against my fellow classmates, I will do everything in my power to help them," I declared, my hand on my chest. 

"I don't care what consequences that may bring my way. There are some things I simply cannot stand for, no matter how you threaten me, Ryuen." I say, shaking my head.

Of course, I didn't mean a word of what I said. If Ryuen threatened me with violence, I would do all I could to avoid him until I could deal with him. But I couldn't say that. After all, Light Yagami is a model student, the best in Japan. How could he let his classmates suffer?

My response drew a few curious glances. My demeanor didn't exactly scream 'heroism,' but at least my response made me seem more human. However, some of the looks I received were undoubtedly skeptical of me.

"Is that so? Then step up here and prove it," Ryuen challenged, leaning casually on the teacher's podium while eyeing me. Many other students followed his gaze, likely curious about my response.

"Hehehe, he's got you cornered, Light. What's your move?" Ryuk chimed in, his eyes darting between us.

I hadn't anticipated a threat from Ryuen following my speech, but the likelihood of him actually causing me harm was low. Showing weakness wasn't an option.

With that in mind, I rose from my seat. The sound of my movement echoed throughout the room. I made my way to the front of the class, but instead of approaching him directly, I walked parallel to the whiteboard and met him behind the teacher's podium.

While I may lack fighting skills, my reflexes and athletic abilities are top-notch. After all, I am a two-time junior tennis champion in Japan. Even if Ryuen were to attack me, I'm confident I could at least dodge his attack until I'm within the range of the camera's protection. He probably just looked at me and assumed I was incapable of doing so.

"I'll say it once more, Ryuen. I have no issue with your rule, but if you insist on resorting to senseless violence against our classmates, I won't stand for it," I declared firmly now to his face.

Ryuen, with a smirk on his face, scans the classroom and says, "Interesting, I had you assumed you were more spineless. But don't worry, I'm not one for pointless violence. We all understand that a hierarchy means rewards, but it also means punishments. We all want rewards, right? So, as long as you all follow my lead, I'll make sure we get rewarded then we'll get along just fine."

As Ryuen spoke, I couldn't help but consider his words. A hierarchy did imply advantages and disadvantages, but I was still trying to determine what those could be beyond the obvious gain and loss of points.

Deciding to shift the atmosphere, I interject, "Well, I think it's time to lighten the mood. Yabu san, you suggested we introduce ourselves, right? That's a splendid idea. Let's all share our names and a hobby. Why don't you start, Ryuen-kun?"

Ryuen sighs, then responds, "Seems like a waste of time." He glances at the clock, "But it seems like we have time to waste. I've already introduced myself, and I don't care for repetition. As for a hobby, fighting." His response was unsurprising to most.

A few classmates nodded at his introduction. I turned my attention to the girl whose seat was next to Ryuen's. She responded after a moment, "Mio Ibuki. I enjoy watching movies," she said, her glare towards Ryuen evident.

The next girl spoke up soon after Ibuki, "I'm Hiyori Shiina. I look forward to getting to know all of you over the next three years. My hobby is reading. I'm currently really into 'The Woman in White' by Wilkie Collins."

A couple of students from Class C muttered, "Boring."

In response to her, I say, "That's quite the coincidence, Shiina san. I am also a fan of mystery novels, like some of Wilkie Collins's."

Her eyes light up as she responds, "Really? Mystery is my favorite genre. We should get together and read sometime." I simply nod in agreement.

Next was Yamada, the one who had confronted Ryuen earlier, "I'm Albert Yamada. I prefer being referred to by my first name, so just call me Albert. I'm also looking forward to getting to know all of you. My hobby is bodybuilding." His hobby was quite fitting, given his build.

"Looks like it's your turn, Light," Ryuk chimed in, his voice echoing in my ear.

"As some of you may have heard, my name is Light Yagami. I'm looking forward to getting to know each of you and hopefully becoming friends. As for my hobbies, as you've heard, I enjoy reading. I'm also a fan of tennis and have a knack for tutoring. I have a younger sister whom I used to tutor quite often. So, if you're ever struggling with anything, academic or otherwise, don't hesitate to let me know. I'll do my best to assist you," I addressed the class, my words echoing in the silent room. Shortly thereafter, the introductions came to a close.