It would've been a real hassle if I hadn't chosen to scold them.
Fortunately, Class D still had one responsible babysitter.
"Everyone, please return to your seats."
Hirata Yosuke walked up to the podium and clapped his hands, trying to take control of the situation.
"Everyone has their own secrets and deserves their own privacy. If Su Wei wants to share, he'll tell us himself. There's no need to pry."
He glanced at the clock on the wall and reminded them in a clear voice:
"Besides, class is about to start. Don't forget that our performance in class is directly tied to our class points."
"We might not be expelled or sent to the exam hall just for being late once, but higher scores are essential—whether we use them to buy information or as capital to keep ourselves alive, aren't they?"
Hirata's words were always so persuasive.
The noisy atmosphere quickly settled, and the students who had gathered around dispersed without protest.
Su Wei gave Hirata a grateful look. "Thanks for that. You really helped."
"It was nothing."
Hirata Yosuke shook his head. "If anything, you're the one who has to keep sinking into those cruel Black Sphere Exams as a Qualified One. You carry a heavier burden than the rest of us. No matter how you look at it, we shouldn't add to your troubles."
"Pressure, huh..."
Su Wei's brows lowered slightly as he let out a soft sigh.
"Can't be helped. You make the best of things."
"Accept reality, even when it's imperfect, and lower your expectations. That's how you keep going with a peaceful mind. After all... we have to find a way to stay alive, don't we?"
"You've got a good attitude."
Hirata Yosuke paused in surprise, then chuckled.
"If everyone in class were like you,