Even so, random assignments could create some truly miserable situations. For example, the third assignment might send you somewhere far away, only for the fourth to make you run all the way back. Or the fourth assignment might send you somewhere distant; even if you gave up checking in for that round, the next day's assignment would use that new location as its center, so you would still have to head there in advance.
"If you have already reached the assigned area by the time the school announces it, each student will immediately receive one point and complete the instruction. However, you will not receive the reward for arrival order. The same area will not be assigned consecutively, but it may be assigned again after an interval. For example, D2 first, then D3, and finally D2 again."
Under the assignment rules, there were only twelve possible grids for three of the assignments. If impassable sea areas existed nearby, there could be even fewer options. Without restrictions, everyone would choose to move ahead of time and gamble on the location, turning it into a game of pure luck.
In short, this was an exam that consumed a great deal of stamina, and a chance for athletic students to put their abilities to use.
"Before I explain the other way to score points, I hope everyone will first understand this."
Chabashira Sae handed over an electronic watch from the side, and Hoshinomiya Chie held it high.
"From tomorrow, when the exam begins, until it ends, every student must wear this watch at all times. The school will also distribute tablets linked to the watches."
An enlarged image of the watch and its detailed functions appeared on the large screen behind her.
"This watch does more than tell the time. It is also