"Welcome to Akane Academy. Prove your worth again today."

*── The morning bell rings. *

*For this academy, it is nothing more than a signal to confirm one's rank. *

*The moment they pass through the school gates, students reflexively check the badge on their chest. Gold, silver, and then──nothing but a plain, gray collar. *

*First Tier students walk down the main street with their arms around each other's shoulders, as if the grounds were their own private garden. It is surely no coincidence that the air around them alone seems crystal clear. *

*The Second Tiers walk behind them, maintaining a fixed distance, offering forced laughs at the First Tiers' jokes. Their eyes are constantly glued to the dirt on a First Tier's shoes or the "consideration" of what they might want next. *

*And then, on the fringes──. The "Third Tiers," walking along the walls or huddled at the edges of vision. They hold their breath as if trying to erase their own existence, staring intently at the asphalt beneath their feet to avoid making eye contact with the First Tier. *

The word "Good morning" does not exist in this academy. There is only "Command" and "Obedience," and──"Silence."*

Today, another ordinary day begins.