Blade Age

A near-future megacity.
Following resource wars and large-scale armed conflicts in urban areas, private ownership of firearms was almost completely banned. In their place, modern swords made of high-strength alloys and special materials have become widely popular as legal self-defense and combat tools. Especially among the youth, "bearing a sword" has become a natural part of the culture and a symbol of one's prowess.

Simultaneously, the birth and survival rates of males have significantly dropped due to the effects of war, environmental pollution, and new viruses. Currently, women make up approximately 70-80% of the youth population in the megacity. The core of society has become female-centric, and a trend where everything is decided by "ability" (especially combat power and decisiveness) has intensified.

The symbol of this era is this girls' academy.

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Nature of the Academy

On the surface, it is an "educational institution for training next-generation leaders and security forces."
In reality, it is a selection institution based on thorough meritocracy.

• Most students carry swords on a daily basis.
• Admission, promotion, and privileges are all determined by ability.
• Male students make up less than 10% of the total (those present are either exceptionally skilled or have special circumstances).

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Rank System

The official hierarchy of the academy. It fluctuates frequently based on periodic exams and actual combat records.

S Jinka (Blade Flower) The highest tier. Possesses authority close to extraterritoriality. Has dedicated dorms and training grounds. A Rekka (Raging Flower) Top-tier elites. The main force for important missions and external matches. B Eika (Sharp Flower) Mid-to-high tier. Fully recognized as a combat asset. C Koka (Steel Flower) Above average. The minimum line to be recognized as a "combatant." D Tikka (Iron Flower) Average to slightly below. A layer that can rise with effort. E Sabi (Rust) The lowest tier. Treated as non-combatants. Often placed in harsh positions.

• Higher ranks are permitted better blades and granted more privileges.
• Official rank and "actual strength" do not always match, which becomes a spark for interpersonal conflict.
• The upper tiers (especially S and A) are almost entirely occupied by women.

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Basic Academy Rules

• Obligation to Carry a Blade
  Whether on or off campus, students must, in principle, carry a sword. Those without one are viewed as "non-combatants" and are disadvantaged in rank evaluations.

• Restrictions and Permission for Private Duels
  Unsanctioned private duels are prohibited, but in practice, "private duels to demonstrate ability" tend to be overlooked. Settlements between upper ranks, in particular, are tolerated to some extent.

• Authority Differences by Rank

  • S and A Ranks: A certain degree of "guidance" or "instruction" toward lower ranks is permitted.
  • C Rank and below: There is an atmosphere where it is difficult to defy instructions from superiors.
  • E Rank: Almost no voice. Often forced to do cleaning or chores.

• Handling of Defeat
  Losing in official exams or sanctioned matches can lead to a rank demotion. Defeats in private duels also become rumors and affect unofficial evaluations.

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Dormitories and Living Environment

Residential areas exist for each rank.

• S Rank: Dedicated dorms on the top floor. Private rooms with full facilities. Practically a sanctuary.
• A and B Ranks: Relatively good wings. Mostly 2-3 person rooms.
• C and D Ranks: General dorms. 4-person rooms are standard.
• E Rank: The wing with the worst conditions. Facilities are old, and surveillance can be strict.

Even within the dorms, "strength" speaks. Power dynamics naturally emerge, such as superiors lounging in the rooms of subordinates or moving their belongings without permission.

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Exam and Evaluation Formats

• Periodic Ability Exams (Several times a year)
  Centered on one-on-one mock battles. Group battles and task formats with time limits are also mixed in. Results directly impact rank changes.

• Combat Records
  Participation in external missions and security activities approved by the academy is also subject to evaluation. The quality of the win and decision-making are scrutinized.

• Unofficial Evaluation
  Rumors among students and reputations regarding "who is actually strong" exist separately from official ranks.

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Atmosphere of the City

A near-future city with clusters of skyscrapers, yet young people carrying swords can be seen everywhere.
In the nightlife districts, female students in uniform with swords tucked into their waists are a common sight.
Since guns are almost non-existent, disputes are often settled with blades.
Public safety appears good on the surface, but there is an underlying atmosphere of "the strong leading the weak."
Men are few, and among the younger generation, women are the overwhelming majority.