Maho's point of view
The morning felt almost unreal. After everything that had happened in the arena, I expected another announcement. Another selection; Another test. Instead, sunlight filled the courtyard, warm and gentle, as if this place had never witnessed violence.
Sara looked at me, ''Maho, are you okay? You got yourself stabbed yesterday,'' she said. ''You should get some treatment!''
I bit my lip. I didn't feel anything yesterday or now I am. ''No, I'm good.''
We were called to assemble near the fountain in the central campus. The principal stood before us, elegant as ever, her smile soft and welcoming.
''Today,'' she began, her voice smooth as silk, "you will experience the true spirit of Hoshizora. You have survived the preliminary evaluations. Now, you will begin shaping your future."
Shaping? As if our futures were truly ours to shape.
''You are free to choose your academic specialization," she continued. "Science, Arts, Humanities, Technology, Law, Medicine, Psychology, Business—your path is your decision."
A murmur of surprise spread through the students. Freedom? The word felt strange in this place.
Kai stood beside her, hands behind his back, expression unreadable. His gaze briefly met mine before shifting away.
We were handed digital I pads to register our subjects. Sara leaned toward me. "What are you choosing?"
"I'm not sure," I admitted.
We were guided first through the academic buildings before finalizing our selections. The science laboratories were spotless and advanced, filled with modern equipment and quiet researchers already at work. The medical wing smelled faintly of antiseptic, cold and precise. The technology department had glass walls and glowing screens everywhere. Robotics arms moved smoothly in demonstration areas. Engineering prototypes were displayed like trophies. When we entered the humanities building, the atmosphere changed. Softer lighting. Wooden interiors. The air smelled like paper and ink. The library was breathtaking. Three floors tall, circular balconies overlooking rows of shelves, sunlight pouring through a glass ceiling. Study tables were neatly arranged, and students sat reading as if nothing in the world was wrong.
Tsuki smiled for the first time since the arena. "I'm choosing Martial Arts,"he said quietly. "Martial Arts and physical fitness."
Riko folded her arms, eyes still thoughtful. "Biomedical Science,"she said firmly. "If I'm staying here, I want access to that research lab."
Sara grinned. "Performing Arts. Music and Stage Performance. If we're trapped in a dramatic school, I might as well own it." I laughed softly.
When it was my turn to choose, I hesitated. There were so many options. Law. Business Administration. Computer Science. Medicine. Fine Arts.
My eyes stopped on one subject. ''Psychology.'' More specifically Criminal Psychology. The choice felt almost instinctive. If I was surrounded by secrets, I wanted to understand them. If I was surrounded by monsters, I wanted to know how their minds worked.
But I also loved Music and arts.
I selected both of them.
After confirming our academic paths, we were told we could also join clubs if we wished.
"This institution encourages holistic growth," the principal explained pleasantly. "Clubs are optional, but highly recommended.''
We were led to the activity wing.
Music Club rooms filled with instruments. A grand piano in the center; Soundproof practice booths. Dance studios with mirrored walls and polished floors. Drama halls with stage lighting and velvet curtains. Language Club rooms decorated with flags and cultural posters. Debate Society, Chess Club, Photography Club, Art Club, even a Martial Arts Club with padded floors and training equipment. Students began signing up eagerly.
Sara immediately rushed to register for Dance Club. I thought for the same.
Tsuki signed up for the Language Club.
Riko surprised us by choosing the Science Research Society.
I stood in front of the registration tablet for a moment longer before selecting Dance Club as well.
After we finalized everything, we were allowed to walk through the gardens and parks freely. Cherry blossom trees lined the pathways. A small lake reflected the bright sky. Students sat on benches, laughing, discussing majors, talking about dreams.
It looked like any other prestigious university. But when I looked up at the tall iron gates in the distance, I felt that same quiet unease.
Freedom to choose subjects, Freedom to join clubs, Freedom to dream. And yet— No freedom to leave.
As we walked back toward the dormitories, I noticed Kai standing under a tree near the main building. He was watching the students as they laughed and talked about their futures. When his gaze met mine, there was something unreadable in his eyes. Almost... curious. As if he was wondering what kind of person I would become based on the choices I made today.
That night, as I lay in bed, I stared at the ceiling and thought about the word the principal had used.
''Choice'' In this place, I was starting to understand something important. Sometimes the most dangerous cages are the ones that let you decorate the inside.