⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10
❤️❤️ 2.5/3
Man, even the break volumes in this series are incredible (except for the first one). #spoilers 

The uninhabited island exam is finally over and the students can finally enjoy summer vacation on the luxurious cruise ship! Yet while we do get some enjoyable downtime with the characters, we also see the effects caused by the exam. One of the best parts is seeing some of the lower ranked students in Kiyotaka’s class determined to change themselves for the better and how Kiyotaka advices them to make that change. 

Another of my favorite parts is the consequence of Kiyotaka knocking out Nagumo during the exam, leading to the expulsion of multiple third years, and Kiyotaka making a dangerous new enemy in Nagumo, who has decided to come after him full force and turn the third years against him, putting him into the spotlight which he absolutely hates. 

With enemies on every side and Kiyotaka no longer able to fully hide his abilities, we also get a huge reveal that there’s a second White Room student, Yagami, who even the remarkable Arasawa (the first White Room student) is afraid of and who wants to take down Kiyotaka personally. 

Luckily, at least one thing seems to go right for Kiyotaka as the acting director Tsukishiro—who targeted him for expulsion all this time—is finally defeated and relieved of his position, even asking for a handshake that represents that Kiyotaka’s skills and ability to survive have earned his respect. 

The volume closes on Kiyotaka and Kei taking their relationship to the next level as they prepare to go public at the start of the second semester. However, even as Kiyotaka enjoys the affections and Kei’s company, he thinks of a future where Kei’s greatest growth may come from the future termination of their relationship.

Damn it, Kiyotaka! Why do you have to be so cold?! Just when I think he’s progressing emotionally, the White Room side rears its ugly head. Yet, despite his coldness, I can’t help but enjoy how he’s found a purpose in helping the people around him—friend and foe alike—reach their own potential if they show the drive. 

The next volume starts the next exam, which sounds like it may be the most difficult exam yet that Kiyotaka and the others will face and something designed to tear the classes apart.
#spoilers