cold eyes

by powershadow90

bruh

Classroom Of The Elite : The Cold Eyes
Eraquin

Published: 2021
Source: https/

Some Words Before You Start

I'm very busy this year as I have to keep up with my assignments so please don't expect too much from me. I'll try my best to live up to your expectations.

Any images used in the story including the cover don't belong to me. Credits to respective owners. The plot will have major changes. This is a non profit fic but copying this fic won't be tolerated. As it will be an insult to the efforts I have taken for this. Please enjoy.

Read below to know the current progress of the Fic.

Story Started - 17 October 2020

Volume 1 - Completed

Volume 2 - Completed

Volume 3 - Completed

Volume 4 - Completed

Volume 5 - Completed

Volume 6 - Completed

Volume 7 - Completed

Volume 8 - Not yet started

Edit 16/12/2020

I just want to inform that this book is currently on third volume and it isn't completely edited so you may find some mistakes grammatically. I usually don't do much as my English is quite good but still ignore the mistakes for now as I make some minor mistakes due to carelessness and autocorrect.

Edit 19/02/2021

We are on the fourth volume as of now. My writing has improved as you read. So do enjoy this Fic. And if you want to know what is the difference between my Fic's Kiyo and the original kiyo, It is just that my version of kiyo is much more honest and open to ideas like expulsions and changing classes.

Edit 27/02/21

Well, it seems we have entered the fifth volume now. The fourth volume was quite big, but fifth on the other hand is quite short. The fifth volume is not a part of the official canon. This is based on the internal strife in the class, so you would get to see some class struggles. This chapter is very short tho. Maybe 5 chapters including the epilogue.

Edit 04/04/21

Sixth Volume completed, this volume was like one of the longest volumes of the fic. The first three volumes are not that well written compared to the succeeding ones because I was basically new to the Fanfic Writing community, so please bear with me. And thank you for reading my Fic, love you all and stay safe.

Edit 25/04/21

Seventh Volume was completed few days back and I haven't updated for some time. Thing is I am very busy with studies and can't update more frequently than before. Stay safe everybody.

Prologue - Is Society Equal

Year 1 - Volume 1

"If they continue to be a liability for the class, Then I will be the one to expel them"

Many times I wonder if the society is truly equal. We may keep going on trying to believe we all are equal but the poison of inequality still dwells upon us. Whenever I read the words of Charles Darwin, 'Survival Of the fittest' I start thinking if we are truly supposed to be equals.

Or being unequal is what is best for our society. As we know unlike people are like poles of magnet. They unknowingly get attracted to each other which marks a feeling people refer as love. But are they truly happy knowing that their partner is inferior/Superior to them. As of what I have seen during my years in school, inferiority leads to jealousy. As till now I have never felt jealous, not even once. So I'm more than eager to see what surprises does this school hold. Advanced Nurturing high school Japan, one of the elite High Schools of Japan backed by government is a massive 600000 square meters of area of high quality infrastructure all for the purpose of nurturing students to become the elites of Japan.

I Ayanokouji Kiyotaka was making my way to the bus stop. Standing beside me was a well built blonde kid. He was wearing the same uniform as me. A unusual aura was being emitted by his somewhat creepy smile. But the way he was combing his hair looking in his mirror was certainly a sight to watch. He kept smiling. I wondered if people spend their time looking into the mirror, would they too lose the sense of surrounding. But it seemed as if he didn't care about the stares of people on the bus stand. I thought for a second to greet him but ultimately decided against it as I was bad at holding conversations.

Just when my inner conflicts ended, I heard the sound of the bus heading in the direction where I was standing. It was finally time. During my three years at this school, I wanted to discover the truth of society, that is whether it is better to stay unequal or to truly become equal. Who knows what this year's will mean for me in my future. But whatever challenges I was faced with, one thing was sure, I would try my best to enjoy the life of a High School student, till it lasts.

Chapter 1-Class D

I made my way to the back of the bus.There were some empty seats but when I saw them being quickly occupied I made my way to the seat nearest to me.A girl with purple hair was sitting there so I asked her with a little bit of fear.Well you can't blame a idiot like me picking up courage to talk to a girl.
"Umm, is this seat occupied?"
No reply
Seeing people starting to stare at us and that seat I decided to sit without her permission.
For the first time she threw a glance at me but quickly averted her gaze.
It tweaked my curiosity for some stupid reason.I wanted to check for how much time can one ignore the other person.
I started to initiate the conversation by asking
"Hey we seem to be headed towards the same school."It was a dumb question as I already knew from start by seeing her uniform.It was the main reason I had sat beside her as I wanted to make some friends and begin my peaceful life.
No reply.
I asked "Do you happen to be in class A".She stared at me in surprise and for the first time she talked,no rather asked me"How did you know?".
I just replied honestly "Nothing I just made a wild guess,but it seems that I have pretty much hit the mark."
She looked at me and said"You seem to be quite good at guessing."Of course I had guessed it wildly but I wished my answer to be wrong as that might have given some room to chat with her.Now she looked away,kind of disgusted look on her face.I thought that there was no use initiating conversation now as she didn't seem least interested.I decided to take a short nap only to be waken by a fight five minutes later.As I opened my eyes I tried to figure out the situation,it seemed that I had woken to see the 'second half' of fight.Then the girl who was supposedly fighting started asking"Everyone please listen, could anyone of you give up your seat for this old lady.I moved my eyes analysing the reaction's of people.Some showed guilt on not wanting to share the seat and the blond kid with whom the girl was supposedly arguing started laughing.Then all of a sudden I was caught of guard.
That girl came near my seat then for the first time I realised 2 things.First,that my seat was the nearest from the fight,and second that girl went to same school as me and she was very cute.
She asked me"Please could you give up your seat for this old lady, please?".Her puppy eyes and cuteness made me almost want to give my seat just then I heard a giggling from my partner.I started to look for ways to explain me occupying this seat.
Then I turned to the girl,"I do want to give the seat to that lady but currently my priority is the person sitting with me.".My neighbour looked at me surprisingly but she started to stare out of window and I noticed a very slight smile on her face.Then the girl who was asking me, surprisingly asked,"Aren't you quite fast,making moves on her on the very first day.You two seem to know each other."
"She used to go to same junior high as me and we were surprised to find each other.We found out today that she was in class A and I in class D.".
"I see,So you are trying to say you prioritise your meeting with this old aquintance of yours."
"Exactly"
"Ok then, continue your reunion and by the way,I'm Kushida Kikyo,I too happen to be in Class D."
"Ayanakoji kiyotaka,nice to meet you"

She went back asking the same question she asked to me.
It seemed that the next boy was not able to resist her cute puppy eyes and gave up his seat.

Then my neighbour turned to me,"Aren't you quite bold?"
I looked at her and said,"Well I thought you were enjoying".
She started giggling and said"I was interested,but you certainly exceeded my expectations."Then she shrugged and directed her gaze towards the window.

Then the bus came to halt,I made my way outside and was feeling a bit excited to make friends.Kushida had already went ahead.Then my Unfriendly neighbour called out to me"Hey ayanakoji-kun,it seems that other students believe we really are acquaintances.But please keep in mind,I have no interest in a person like you.You sure are handsome,but your sense of keen observing gives me creeps."
"Fine then,but can't I even know the name of the person sitting beside me."

"Masumi kamuro"and she went her path.

I made my way to my class 1-D,and made way to my seat,which happened to be just next to a window in last row.
Then a girl with black hair came and sat in the seat next to me.She showed disinterest in me,rather she showed disinterest in the whole Class,and sat there quietly She gave me kamuro vibes.I wondered if all the people I would meet are like kamuro,then my thoughts were cut short by a green haired man,"Everyone if we are going to share the same class,we should introduce ourselves."I was sure that he would be the class representative and with his looks, a girl magnet , probably.

I became a little afraid as my introduction would determine my position in the social hierarchy of this class.
I began wondering ways to introduce myself but couldn't come with one.Then I decided to focus on the introductions of others.
The boy continued,"Hello,I'm hirata Yousuke,I am interested in sports and I wish to join the football club in the school.I hope to spend time with all of you."His introduction was followed by kushida.Then a girl named Karuizawa kei gave her introduction.Just then I heard a sigh from my partner.
"Aren't you interested in introductions,this may help you make some friends."I asked her

"I don't intend to make friends,and please don't mind me,mind yourself".

Such sharp words were enough to convey to me that she wasn't interested in making friends with me.
She got up and went out of the class.

I shifted my attention towards the introductions going on.
"Who cares about this introductions,I ain't here to make friends,mind your own business."
Hirata calmly responded,"Guess I can't force you to give Introductions."
This delinquent like guy may cause problems in future

"I'm Koenji Rokusuke,I hope to get along with you ladies."the blond kid said.Many girls eyed him with disgust.But he sat there showing no interest to care with his smile

Hirata replied to him,"Nice to meet you koenji-kun"

Then after few introductions,It was my turn.As hirata turned towards me

I couldn't help but be surprised.It was the second time in the day I had been caught of guard.

Then just when I was going to give my introduction, Kushida called to me,"Oh Ayanakoji-Kun,I forgot that you were in the class,Nice to meet you."
She may not have meant me any harm,but suddenly I felt kind of insulted.Her words basically suggested that I didn't have any presence.Then I was met by jealous stares of boys,who thought that I had made a move with Kushida, definitely one of the cutest girls in the class.They definitely had a crush on her.

Hirata asked me to continue my introduction but just then, someone entered the classroom.Everyone went back to their seats.
"I'm chabashira sae,Your Homeroom teacher.You will be handed manuals by school after the graduation ceremony.Now everyone make your way to the gymnasium for the entrance ceremony."
I couldn't help but think the teacher was rather young,but seemed to be very strict.
This class appeared somewhat weird.

Highly unequal distribution of students was there and was the perfect scenario for me to learn about equality.
I can't help but wonder,is this whole school a hierarchy,It was again a wild guess but I may want this guess to be right.

Chapter 2-The beginning

The entrance ceremony was held in a large hall.I was standing behind a person named Yamauchi.All of the hall was busy talking about the school but I sensed some hostility of the other classes towards my class.
Then we saw the student council president,his intimidating aura filled the room.
I then saw kamuro and thought of waving to her but ultimately Decided against it.Then I glanced at my neighbour who looked a little scared looking at the student council president.I guessed that maybe they were aquintances and concentrated on the ceremony.We returned to class and our homeroom teacher Chabashira adressed the class.
"I Welcome you to this school,so let me get it to you.Switching between classes is not possible.This school follows a system called S-System.You have been handed over 100000 private points.Each point equals 1 yen."On hearing this whole class was shocked.Basically it meant that they were given 100000 yen for them to use.

"Contact with outside world is forbidden in these three years.Dont worry this school has all the facilities you require,I hope you enjoy your high school life."

"Each month you will be handed private points reflecting on your worth.Getting admitted in this school itself reflects your worth.Do keep in mind that you have been selected from thousands of others as the best in this elite school."

All students started talking to each other excitedly.I mean almost all.I regretted that I was still considered in the loners group, especially after kushida's comment.

I glanced over my partner who was taking some notes so I decided not to bother her.
The day ended without any unwanted happenings and I made my way towards the dorms.

After taking key from the dorm manager I made way to room 306.The room was spacious enough for me to accomodate.i put my things and decided to eat in the cafeteria for the first day.
Before that I made my way to the convenience store where I saw kamuro speaking with a girl who was disabled and was using cane.Kamuro's face showed hints of annoyance so I waited until the short girl completed her conversation.As she left I made my way towards kamuro.
"Hey"
Kamuro looked towards me and it was clear that she was angry.I wondered what could the girl who left earlier do to her to make her so angry.
I continued to talk when she was about to leave,"kamuro I need a favour,please."She looked at me and asked,"What the hell do you want from me". I asked,"Can you join me for dinner in cafeteria,there I will tell you about my favour."She was shocked and why shouldn't she be.Any girl in her position would have been shocked when asked by a random boy for dinner.She started to giggle,"Fine then,but you know very well that you need to pay the favour to take it."I was somewhat feeling good that I had made her lose her anger but then I understood after looking in her eyes.She intended to ask me something very big from me on stance of repaying the favour.

Kamuro POV

I accepted it without thinking much and I couldn't help but smile on his innocence.That sakayanagi had asked me to look for potential pawns in other classes and here he was asking me to make him my pawn.Maybe he didn't know about sakayanagi and her order to me.From that I remembered how she threatened me into working for her and rage filled me but I kept my face as it was.We reached to the cafe.We found a table and we sat on it .

Ayanakoji POV

She asked me,"and what business you might have with me."
"You sure are a mood killer."I replied with my poker face still on.
"Huh?"She asked not sure how to reply me

"When a boy and a girl spend time together,you know very well how people percieve it.They might think we are on a da.."
She cut me of with a devilish grin on her face and stared me which was enough for a person to scare to death.

I quickly shifted my gears and asked her,"Can you tell about A class."
She seemed taken aback at my sudden question.

Well it was obvious that this was spying but maybe I was too direct.
She looked at me,surprised,then asked me

"And why would I tell you."

"Just a favour"I replied

"And what exactly do you want to know"she asked

I then told her that I wanted to know the standards of class A basing my questions on behaviour of my senpai's towards d class.

"Oh,I see,Class A has many people who excel in both sports and academics.But they are all normal.Nothing is special about them.Thats all I can tell you."

That's the smallest piece of information but to me it was important.

"I see, thanks for the information and cash in your favour any time as long as I find it reasonable"

"Fine"

"Well since we are in the cafe why not have our food"

She didn't refuse me and after having some local delicacy,we parted ways and went home.I surfed net for some time then went to sleep.

My first week in highschool was quite uneventful.I had failed in making friends.But one thing was there,My life was quite a peaceful one.

I was aquinted with few people.My so called list of aquintances included kamuro,Kushida.
Then I wondered,I had talked with only 2 girls in the school.I had indeed talked with boys during our PE classes but that conversation were short lived.

I decided that night that I was going to make some friends next day.

Chapter 3-The Truth

I made my way to the classroom, keeping my usual poker face.When I arrived the class was more tense than usual.

The Reason was simple,None of us has received private points of this month.
I made my way to the last seat and saw the girl next to me with a slightly annoyed look in her eyes.
I sat on my desk gazing outside the window with a bored expression.

"You seem to be too calm even after not receiving any points, aren't you a bit concerned."

I looked to my side.My partner was talking to me.Wait,she was talking to me.
"Well, its no use worrying about it."
I replied in a bored fashion.
She seemed annoyed and averted her gaze.
Damn it,I had lost my chance to make a friend.
Then chabashira sensei entered and all my classmates started asking her about the points.

"Sensei we haven't received points for this month."

"Has there been any problem?"

Sensei stood there quietly with a smile on her face and believe me,that smile was truly frightning.
Class became quiet after seeing her terrified grin.

"You all seem to be in quite a fix.What's the matter?Oh I see you folk haven't received your private points,have you now?"

Class went silent after her statement.Almost everyone was worried.Well almost.Koenji sat with a wide smile on his face.

"Let me get this fact straight to you idiots!,The school hasn't made any mistakes in awarding points and has awarded you points based on your worth."

Some students of the class were shocked to hear it while some had no idea what she was saying.

Sensei continued,
"Now now,how many points have you received this month?"

Ike stood up,"Sensei there has been clearly a mistake,we haven't received any point at all."

"So what"

Those two words of sensei stung the class.

"It reflects on your worth,so technically your worth is zero."

The class was shocked.
Hirata spoke up,"But sensei on what basis are you implying that?"
It seems they haven't come in terms with the truth

Sensei replied,"98 absenses and 193 tardies ,are you saying that with such behaviour you would get 100000 points.Stop dreaming,you are nothing but garbage."

These were very harsh words.I truly felt sorry for the class.

Hirata asked another question,"Sensei we weren't informed of this beforehand.If we knew than we would have been able to avoid it."

To this sensei replied in a second,"Weren't you taught in elementary school to behave in class.Or are you saying you were taught otherwise.You think brats like you would be given such privileges.Well let me tell you something.The 100% employment guarantee the school gives only applies for elites of the school.So to reap the benefits you have to be in A class or else you will be tossed away like trash."

This was enough for class to lose their cool.No one expected this.Everyone started talking with anger visible on some of the faces

"Stop joking,sensei"

"Sensei are you messing with us"

Everyone was yelling.This is what happens when a human gets cornered.He loses the presence of mind.Proffesional Interrogators in the army follow the same procedures.

Corner them

Frighten them

And finally ,

Break them

Once broke it is near to impossible to join the pieces of mind back again.

But our class didn't break down,why you ask?
Because of the next question hirata asked.

"Everyone calm down, Sensei if it is like that then how can we adveance to the higher classes."

Perfect hirata.He deserved to be the class leader.Even when nearly all of the class was panicking he kept his cool and analysed the situation perfectly.That was really admirable.

Chabashira sensei's face showed a faint smile but it was a genuine one.
"Yes it is possible for you to advance to next classes but how to do it,you have to figure it out yourself.Thats all."

Sensei exited the class a lot earlier.Maybe she wanted to give us some time to accept the truth.Maybe she actually cared about her class.
But I was wrong.How delusional of me.Why you ask.

Ayanakoji kiyotaka make your way to the staff area

Everyone turned their attention to me.Here goes my peaceful highschool life.I had attracted a lot of unnecessary attention,well no use crying over it.I started to make my way to the staff area.

When I entered the staff area I made my way to Chabashira Sensei's Workroom.But I found it locked.I began thinking of why was I called on sudden notice.Have I caused trouble,or has he reached here.Just when I was about to dive in sea of my thoughts, a woman approached me.Judging by her looks,she looked like she was of chabashira sensei's age.

"And who might this handsome gentleman be"

"Huh" No she can't be of sensei's age.Which adult in right mind flirts with a highschooler.

"Who are you waiting for"She asked me

"Chabashira Sensei called me"I replied.

"Oh Sae Chan called you.You know you are very quick.Making moves with my colleague.Well looking at your face I can't blame her."

She pouted and unexpectedly got close to me.
A little too close

I was startled but it didn't waver my response.

"Aren't you very calm.Not that I complain.Your calmness has a charm of its own."

"Uhh,okay"

"You must have already found a girlfriend,haven't you."

Huh.She didn't know that I had talked with only 3 girls since entering this school.
Kamuro who was irritated just by seeing my face.
Kushida who destroyed my 3 years of highschool life by blowing my introduction.Well it destroyed my confidence.
And my partner with whom I had talked for less than half a minute today.

So I replied with a little low tone
"No I am not much popular."

"Oh I see,don't cry."
What, when the hell did I cry?She was patting my head as if I am a pitiable creature.Well It is true I wanted a girlfriend as every normal highschooler would want one.Aint I right?

"Oh I forgot to introduce myself,I'm Chie Hoshinomiya, homeroom teacher of class B.And what might be your name."

Wait now I realised that we haven't even introduced ourselves.

"Ayanakoji kiyotaka,Class D."

"Oh kiyotaka,why might have sae called you."
Hell.From when were we on a first name basis.But I decided to ignore it.Well basically I can't do anything against my sensei and we'll truth to be told I really didn't care what I was called until it was understandable and reasonable.

"Uh, Actually I was also wondering the same."

"Oh come on,don't lie to me."She got too much close.Close enough that I could smell alcohol in her breath.It was very faint scent.

I was feeling very uncomfortable.If someone saw us who knows what will happen.Student and teacher in a relationship.My eyes ACCIDENTALLY went over her cleavage.Accidentally.I repeat it was a accident on my part but the worst part was that she saw this.My highschool life is over.

"My My,can't even control your eyes."

"Uh,I,Well."

I literally started to worry.But she started giggling

"Calm down,I let you see it on purpose."

Thank god I was saved.Wait.What?Let me see on purpose.This sensei was scary.

"Or is it you wanted to see more?"
A smile found its way on her face.I gulped.

Then my sensei came to my rescue.Way to go Chabashira sensei.

She smacked Chie sensei with her billboard on her butt.

"What are you doing with my student chie."

"Oh sae chan,it hurt"

"What are you doing with my student."

"Oh we were just having a chat."

"Is she telling the truth ayanakoji ".

"Yes it is true isn't it kiyotaka"

"I guess so"I replied.

"Well then follow me"

I started to follow chabashira Sensei.Hoshinomiya sensei also starts following us.

"Don't you have anything to do chie."

"Come on sae,let me hear what you want to talk with my kiyotaka."

Wait,does she own me now.

That's when a Student entered.Her pink hair reminded me of cherry.Wait what am I thinking.

She called Hoshinomiya sensei for some business.

I made my way to Chabashira sensei's desk but she asked me to wait in the backroom.

Just when I was wondering why was I called here, someone entered.I wasn't able to see their face as I was in the back room .I began to hear their conversation.

"Horikita, what business you might have with me."

So it was a girl.Wait horikita.The student council president is a girl?

"I had already asked you yesterday and I want to repeat my question.Please answer this time or I'm planning to ask the school next time."

Huh,what was she talking about.

"Why was I placed in class D?"

Oh so this was the reason.So she was probably someone else as I knew that the student council president was in class A.But I think I had heard her voice somewhere.But it didn't matter.Someone had a rather high opinion of themselves.

"Horikita your assignment to class D is entirely correct.And after listening to your question I'm more than sure you don't deserve to be in class A."

Damn sensei you are too much straightforward.

That girl named Horikita was silent.Sensei continued,"You have a rather high evaluation of self.Have a look here."

She was showing her something.

"This are the results of the entrance exam.You were the 4th highest scorer in the entire grade.Your interview was also brilliant."

"Then why was I placed in class D"

"Who told you that people were accepted into this school through only academics.You consider yourself superior than others just because you scored high in academics."

A valid point.Our society has changed a lot.A man once said,No person is born above other.But that isn't the complete quote.Differences occur after birth.The hierarchy of society is hard to change.And those people who change this hierarchy and find their way to the top are called the true Elite.Yes this is the goal of this school.

It is giving all the students a chance.People in Class A are defending their position in society.
People in Class B,C and D are trying to find their way to the top in the society.This is the true example of 'Survival Of the fittest.'

We have the right to hunt our way into this hierarchy and find our way to the top.

Yes this is the truth of this school.To create a class of students who will dominate this society.

Yes the truth of this school is to create a Classroom of the elite.

Chapter 4-Class A

Horikita POV

I didn't want to agree with chabashira Sensei but she was stating simple facts and I couldn't find words to disagree with her.And what did she mean by class of defectives.Was she telling the truth.And even if it was the truth,why is the school using such method.Well I do have to agree that academics don't make a person but I was above average in sports as well.Still,why was I put in class of defectives.What defect might I have.Well there was one, isolation from people.But is it really a defect.It didn't affect anything.Wait does the school know that I was kind of alone for last 8 years.If yes then,how do they know.No it can't be.I can't accept this.If I'm put in class D then I would never be able to catch up to my brother.

"But still I think my assignment to class D is wrong and I'm going to ask the school office."I said to her.

"As you are now horikita,you really don't stand a chance against class A."she started laughing

I was shocked.She was seriously underestimating me.

"Excuse me"

"Fine as your teacher I'll give you an advice for you to reach to class A.Who knows key to reaching Class A lies in your class itself."

What was she talking about.

"You know horikita there are some people who are happy staying in Class D."

What.Then what was the meaning of staying in this school.

"If you play your cards right you might make them help you reach Class A."

Huh.Enough of this as I was about to leave she called me.

"I would like you to see one such key in reaching Class A."

Seriously what was she talking about.I can't think of a person who has such capabilities, atleast in our class.Well there may be some people.But sensei seems to know someone.But why bother me.Just who is this key she is talking about.Is it that self acclaimed class Leader.What was his name again,Hirata.Or was it Kushida.Then suddenly one name came in mind.Koenji ?

But the name who came from sensei's mouth was a new one.

"Ayanakoji come out of there,if you don't want to be expelled."

Who is this guy.

Then from the backdoor a familiar face came out with his emotionless face.What?this person was supposed to be the key.

Ayanakoji POV

I had no choice but to enter.When I entered I realised that the said person was actually my neighbour.I made my way and faced my sensei.

"You know ayanakoji,you are quite interesting."

"What does that mean sensei."

"There was a Student who scored 50 in all subjects.You scored 50 in this quiz too.Was it intentional?"

"Coincidences can be freaky"

"I see then how do you explain your maths exam.There was one question which only 2 students were able to solve.One was from class A and the other was you wasn't it."

A smile appeared on her face.

"I might have gotten lucky,who knows."

Meanwhile horikita was listening,half shocked and half thoughtful expression on her face.She entered the conversation

"Was it really a coincidence?"

"Can you prove it wasn't a coincidence"I replied with no change in expression.

"_"She didn't reply.

"Well ayanakoji,can you please explain why horikita was sorted into your class.Stop pretending if you don't want me revealing any more than this.."

What the hell.Did she know about him. No that isn't possible but if she knows something else that won't be good for me.Its better if such things remain hidden from class.Well it won't hurt telling this girl about her selection in class D.

"Fine"I sighed

"Wait you know it?"Horikita interrupted

"It's just my theory."

"Then why didn't you report it to the class."

"Again it was just a theory,and to whom I could've explained my theory.Did you saw me talking to anyone during this month?"

"You could've told me"

"Sorry but we didn't even know each other and when I opened conversation last time your arrogance came in between.And your arrogance would have reached its height if you have listened to my theory."

Was I little harsh.No it doesn't matter,I have to be hard.To break the shell of arrogance of her.

"What are you saying"Horikita replied clearly frustrated

"From the first day I knew something wasn't right.When I saw the higher years behaviour towards Class D I became sure that something was seriously wrong.Then I decided to find out the criteria of our assignment.Was there some kind of motive for putting us in different classes.When I saw the results of the recent quiz,our class had students scoring very high scores.From that I concluded the criteria for our assignment was not based on academics."

Horikita looked kinda surprised but I didn't care so I continued,

"I came to know that people of class A were indeed high scorers but I came across a very interesting point.The people in class D have one thing in common."

"And what might it be ?"Chabashira sensei asked with grim on her face

I sighed and replied,"All people in Class D are the defective products of this school.Sudou has a defect of his obsession with sports and his irrational behaviour.Koenji has his ego problem.And you horikita,Have a defect of evaluating yourself above others."

There was a silence which was broken by chabashira Sensei.She started clapping,"Splendid ayanakoji,you truly are something aren't you."

"Sorry sensei but I don't understand what are you trying to speak."

"Now ayanakoji stop hiding it,we both know you were the one who started the rumour that class D isn't getting sufficient information from their homeroom teacher.Werent you?"

Flashback
1 Week ago

I was on my way to dormitory when I saw kamuro.Well it won't hurt saying hello to her.
"Hey kamuro, where are you headed to?"

"You again.Dont you have anything to do"

"Well I don't.Can you employ me."I tried to tease her

"Yes you are always welcome to become my personal servant.Interested?"I messed with the wrong woman

"Sorry but I'm happy the way I am"

"I see,that's quite unfortunate."

"So how is it going on in your class."

"You know last time at that dinner your spying was rather straightforward just like now.Why do you think I'm going to tell you."

"Well is there something worth spying in your class?"

"Huh what are you talking about."

"In our class there is nothing worth spying.No interesting strategies or any of that things.We Havent even got a leader.Well Our sensei gave us a lot of information about the s-system and I think this system is much complicated than we think."

"Well I agree with you,we need to keep our behaviour in check or there might be implications on the points."

Bullseye.Getting information from her is the easiest.She thinks I'm the last person who will do something for my class and I don't know why but there is some reason she is not very careful while speaking to me.Well I think she trusts me and I think this is a good thing.Maybe she considers me as a friend.Well never mind that.She just said that behaviour has implications on points.Looking at her I could tell that she was honest. So that was how it is.Our sensei is hiding something from us.Well I should not try to take more information as she might become suspicious.But why was sensei hiding information.Guess I would need to find out.

"Hey,why are you spacing out."kamuro called to me breaking me from my thoughts.

"No just wondering if you are acting to be mean.Now that I'm talking to you,you are actually very comfortable and charming to speak to."

"Wh..what?what are you saying."She said with a slight blush on her cheeks.She really looked cute when she was flustered.

We parted ways and I made my way to the school to meet my sensei.

In School office
I knocked on the door.Sensei called me in and asked me.It seemed that she was little happy on seeing me but I brushed the thoughts away.

"Hello Sensei.I actually had a question from you?"

"Yes go ahead"

"How can one reach Class A."

Sensei looked a little disappointed but honestly I didn't care how she felt about me.

"Why are you asking such stupid questions.I told you all yesterday didn't I.Earn points and reach class A."

"Sensei it seems you have not heard my question.I asked how 'one' can reach Class A.I never mentioned reaching Class A with the whole class."

"And why do you think there is another way?"

"You said it yourself that day didn't you, Points can buy you anything in this school."

Sensei started laughing."You are very interesting ayanakoji.Yes there is a way,but stop thinking about that way, because till date no one has actually executed that shortcut way.Why you ask? Because the cost to advance to class A is 20 million which is nearly impossible even for a class A student."

Hmm.So that is how it is.But I don't understand why she was saying me to stop thinking about that way.Was there a motive?Did she think I would use that way to reach Class A.But the next sentence showed a total contradiction as she mentioned that no one has managed to use that way.Does she think I can collect those points.If she thought that,then there is a possibility that she knows something about me.Is she doubting me.No I haven't done anything peculiar since I entered this school.Well I scored 50 in all subjects as it was the only way to attract attention of the invilligators so I could get admitted into this academy.But It seems that way worked but also backfired a bit.It seems to have tweaked too much of curiosity or so it seems.It is quite possible my theory is incorrect but from what I have seen of Chabashira sensei,her way of addressing the class,her way of handling announcement's she seems to be cunning.I will have to keep eye on her.

"Hmmm,I see.Well then sensei I have gotten what I wanted so I shall take my leave now."I stated and started to leave

"Ayanakoji I didn't ask you to leave yet."

Huh

I just turned towards her and stood there quietly.

She started speaking,
"Ayanakoji I want you to work towards reaching Class A."

"Well I am working just like every other student."I replied in my usual monotonous voice.

"If you don't work than I will use everything in my power to make you work."

"_" I stared at her blankly and began to leave but before I could leave.

"Ayanakoji I still haven't given you the permission to leave."

I stopped again.

"Sensei can I please leave"

"Yes you can leave,after handing over that voice recording on your phone."

"_"

"Well In case you are thinking of blackmailing me I should warn you that I know a lot about your past than anyone else in the Class.I won't hesitate to contact him you know."

Third Person POV

Ayanakoji stopped dead in his tracks.He turned to face Chabashira sensei.When chabashira looked at him a shiver ran through her,but maintained her face as it was her only chance to take grasp of the existence named 'Ayanakoji kiyotaka'.

Ayanakoj's golden eyes stared at her.It looked as if those eyes were seeing right through her.She only saw darkness in those eyes.No emotion.Those eyes were very cold pushing the person right into a endless Abyss of darkness.

Chabashira sensei was starting to feel uncomfortable.Before she could lose her calm demeanor ayanakoji handed over the phone and she regained some confidence.She deleted the voice recording.She searched the videos and found her suspicion was correct.He was recording video and audio both but she saw through it as this has happened to her once.

She gave the phone back to him.

And without saying a word he started to leave but when he reached the door he stopped and looked back at his sensei and his cold eyes returned and he told her

"Sensei you may regret trying to manipulate me."and left without another word.

But Chabashira sensei didn't care as her life was already full of regrets.But she again started thinking, what if he came to know the truth.Before that happens she has to find out his past as fast as possible.She has to find out who exactly he is.Or it might be too late.

Ayanakoji POV

I continued on my way to the dorms when I saw a girl worriedly walking in front of the dorms.Her face seemed anxious.Then I remembered her as the girl who stood beside the Student Council President in the entrance ceremony.She might be someone important.Well it didn't matter.As I was about to leave someone called me.When I turned back.It was the same girl.

"Umm hello."

"Uh hi."

"Are you a first year?"

"Um yes Senpai." I replied

"Which class?" She asked.

"D" I replied.

She sighed in relief and asked,"Do you know a student named 'Ayanakoji kiyotaka'?"

What?Tell me if this isn't awkward.

"Well it seems you have found him.I am ayanakoji kiyotaka.Did you have some business with me?"

Tachibana POV

"Oh sorry"

What an awkward encounter.Nevermind.

"I went to the dorms but I didn't find you so I came to ask for you.The student council president is asking your presence."

He looked at me with visible confusion on his face.Well cant blame him.

Earlier at the student council office

"Tachibana."the student council president called me.

"Yes horikita San"

"I want you to call a student to meet me."

"Um who is he?"I asked.

"Ayanakoji kiyotaka,1st year Class D."

"Huh did he do something"I asked him as I knew that president never called anyone personally.It was quite rare.

"No but he has caught my interest."

Now that's something.A first year managed to catch his interest well I do feel a little jealous but it can't be helped I think.

"Tell him to meet me at 11pm at the 1st years Dorm courtyard.And don't bother him if he refuses.I will myself go to meet him."

What.I have never seen Horikita San so interested about meeting someone.Just what have horikita San found.

Return to Tachibana and ayanakoji's conversation

This student looked ordinary but I don't think he is.Because I believe to that horikita San would never make a mistake but still I felt him to be totally ordinary.

"So are you going to go?"

Ayanakoji POV

Well there was no reason to refuse so I agreed and she gave me name and location to meet him.

I went back to the dorm and started fiddling with my phone.Well I never expected it to have any message.I only had kamuro's contact which she had given me once when I called her to cafe.Well she gave me without hesitation stating she could cash in the favour.Well I remembered I had to do any favour she asks for me calling her to cafe.So it seems I earned her contact information at a cost.

At 10:53 PM

Well I left my room to head over to the dormroom courtyard.When I reached there I saw a person wearing glasses standing there with arms crossed and his straight and intimidating demeanor on.

"Hello Senpai,you needed to see me."

"Well I just wanted to meet you."

"Oh,I don't want to be rude but why did you call me specifically."

"I wonder." He replied

"_" I kept quiet unsure how to react.

He broke the silence,"Ayanakoji,I need to ask you and I hope you answer honestly."

"I'll try my best to answer"

"You intentionally scored 50 in all subjects, didn't you?"

When I looked at him I saw his confidence.Those eyes told me that he will not take no for answer.Well he had a unique aura and was enough to make any other person nervous.So I decided not to try to fool him as he won't believe him.

"Well yes I scored them intentionally."

"Such a clever strategy to drag attention to yourself. Just how much did you know about the school education policy. But I think you figured it on your own."

"No I didn't think this ahead. You are reading too much into this. I just want to live an ordinary life and stay away from trouble." I said honestly.

"I see" He replied.

He adjusted his glasses and just stared at me with complete hostility.

"Ayanokouji, do you practice something, Your muscles are quite developed for an Highschooler who avoids trouble. Also your marks are a different story. It seems you are quite extraordinary than the entire first year." He said in a stern tone.

Maybe he was evaluating me? But he had no reason to unless,

"Yes, I used to practice piano and calligraphy. My arm strength might have something to do with it. Moreover my father was in Army so genes might have to do something with it." I said and looked at him. But he wasn't even a bit fooled.

"I see, I expect great things from you ayanakouji"

I stared at him with bored expression and said, "You are overestimating me Senpai."

He just grinned at my response

Then a idea stuck in my mind and I remembered my conversation with chabashira Sensei.Why not have a little fun with her.

"Senpai if you don't mind can you do me a favor."

"As long as it is acceptable." I was surprised when he accepted it.

"You control the student council handle on the school forum, right.I want you to put a announcement."

"Do you know what you are asking. The school administration will look into this if I post something unreasonable on the forums."

"That's what I want Senpai. And don't worry this isn't unreasonable at all."

I told him what I wanted him to post. He grinned at me.

"Ayanakoji it seems you are ready to take on even the teachers. But I don't mind your request."

I knew the administration won't look in the matter as it concerned school staff but it will send a message to my dear sensei. And that's why I asked him to send. If I had not met him today I would have done it through Kushida as she is the most popular throughout the year. But it seems I have hit jackpot.

Sensei you better understand.

_

End of flashback (Back to conversation between Ayanakouji, Horikita and Chabashira Sensei)

Ayanakouji POV

"Sensei I really don't know what you are talking about."

"Well I don't have any evidence to prove it otherwise. Whoever the student was had contacts with the student council."

Horikita was listening the conversation but she didn't understand what was the connection between that forum announcement and me. Well I didn't care and was not going to tell anyone that story.

"So Sensei can I leave" I asked her.

"Fine be on your way both of you." Chabashira sensei replied and went back to her work loosing her interest in us.

Horikita who couldn't understand anything started to leave and I not wanting to answer any questions hurried.

Till she caught my hand

"You there, wait." She called out me,

"What business you might have with me Horikita San" I asked her in a little irritated tone.

"Why are you intentionally doing this. If you are so smart then why are you hiding it." She asked me.

"I seriously don't know what you are talking about." I just brushed off her question with a bored expression. I still had my phone in the hand.

"Don't act smart ayanakouji Kun" She said sternly while taking a step towards me.

"_"I was getting annoyed so I stayed silent.

"See I don't care what you think but I want you to assist me in reaching class A."

At least ask politely. The hell. She seems to be demanding.

"I am already helping." I said calmly.

"I want you to work as my aide. Just follow my orders so we can move up the ladder." She said in a commanding tone.

Wait. Did I hear correct?

"Sorry, did I hear it right. Are you thinking of me as a pawn?"

"Yes" She replied in a matter of a fact tone.

I looked ahead and continued walking and she kept following me till she grabbed my hand again.

"I didn't hear your answer."

"I refuse to work under someone. And isn't that a little pathetic considering you just said some time ago that you deserve to be in Class A."

"I see. You know it very well that if you don't agree with me than I will have no choice but to reveal the conversation I had with Chabashira Sensei and tell everyone that it was you who scored 50 in all subjects. I wonder what will happen to your peaceful life."

"They won't believe you at all. Tell me one person who talks to you." I simply said in bored fashion. And

I looked back at her and showed her the phone. The call was on.

When she saw the name she was shocked.

Horikita manabu
In call 4:53 minutes

I put it on speaker and asked him "Did you hear that Horikita Senpai."

"Yes I did hear that." Reply came from the other side.

Horikita was shocked when she heard her brother's voice. She started sweating bullets. She had never expected. I had an idea of there relationship when I saw her looking at him with nervousness on the day of assembly. But I didn't She must be thinking that her brother thinks her as incompetent for depending on help for me. Such relationships are very complicated. People chasing your shadow continuously can frustrate any person.

He didn't say anything more as I hanged up the call. What horikita was doing was nothing wrong. She was trying to utilize her resources of class to reach class A. But the way she was doing was unacceptable. She was considering herself above all the class. I need to break her overconfidence and make her realize her own incompetence. She needs to grow. And I will help her grow.
I knew that she was little uncomfortable with her brother but I can't risk my identity so I had to exploit their unhealthy relationship. Well I will certainly help them in mending their relationship but that will be in future when she becomes more confident. I don't know when that time will come but I knew Horikita could do it and I will help her to do it.

Well I was planning to play some role in reaching upper classes But that was only to help this class grow. I had no interest in reaching Class A.I will do only one job, at least for now. To grow this class and make it competent. In future my role may change. It might be the central role, behind the scenes roles or no role at all. Who knows? But Horikita, you will be the one to lead this class, not me.

Third Person POV

Chabashira sensei is looking at a message with a serious look on her face. She had just received a warning from the school two days ago. She sighed when she saw the message once again

School Forum

Sender: Anonymous

Afflitiation: Student Council, ANHS

Posted 6 days ago
Class D homeroom teacher is intentionally hiding information from her students.

"Ayanokouji, whatever you do. I will do everything in my power to reach Class A"

( A.N. Well this was a very long chapter. I decided to write the whole flashback in one chapter as tachibana has more conversations with ayanokouji in my version . Do tell me how you thought about this chapter in the comments)

Chapter 5-A New Acquaintance

I headed to the dorms for sleep as I was quite tired after the day.I was too tired to even cook so I decided to head over to eat food.It has been almost a month since I last went to eat out.Well the fact still remains I am in Class D and I haven't received any points this month.So no use wasting the remaining points.
I checked my phone to see balance of 82,348 points.

As I was on my way I spotted Kushida and she was with someone.Well she noticed me ran towards me with her other friend to greet me.

"Hello Ayanakoji-kun,where are you headed so late."

"I was heading to have some food outside as im too tired to cook."

"Ayanakoji kun you cook your own food.Im quite impressed.You are the perfect husband material you know."

Wow.I just got complimented by a girl.Maybe my highschool life is going way better than I was imagining.

The girl beside her was eyeing me curiously.It was as if she was lost in her own thoughts.She was analysing me.So I decided to have a little fun with her.

Snap

"Hello there,is there something on my face."

A blush appeared on her cheek but she kept her calm demeanor and told,"No I was just admiring your hair"

A clever escape.

Wait is this a chance for me to make a friend.what should I do.Should I state my name.No that would seem like I'm forcing her to state her name.Then should I try for a joke.No I have lost my confidence in jokes after talking to kamuro.What shall I do.

Snap

This time it was her who snapped me out of my thoughts.

"Is there something on my face."she stated giggling.

Well I decided to tease her a little.

I let out a sigh,"No I was just thinking that you are quite cute."

Crap.What did I just say.

Well nevermind she wouldn't care.

But

She hid her face from me and I saw her cheeks reddening a little.

Kushida who was watching us seemed to be enjoying the scene being Played.

She mumbled quietly 'Playboy kun'

Time to escape

"Hello I'm Ayanakoji kiyotaka,nice to meet you."

"Chihiro Shironami,Nice too meet you."

She turned to me and her face was little anxious though she was trying to hide it.

By the looks of it she had came here to ask some advice from Kushida.

I asked them if I was disturbing their private space but Kushida just shut me up.

We(Kushida) decided to eat together and headed to a nearby place.

We ordered food and started eating.Kushida was the one who was initiating conversation.I was only answering her questions and commenting in between.Chihiro was silent during the whole conversation.

But gradually she jumped in and we both started talking.Well in my case I was listening patiently.After we ate our food,we headed back to our dorms.

Kushida left us as her dorm room was on a different wing.Me and Chihiro entered the elevators.

We were on halfway and the most stupid thing happened.There was a power outage.

Chihiro started freaking out.I put a hand on her shoulder and helped her calm down.

Well isn't this a bit cliche.I had read some manga's from where I came to learn of some famous cliche scenarios.This looked like one of those.

But honestly speaking I was not well versed with romantic feelings.I don't know how it feels to be in love.I wish to discover it during my time in the school.

I said to her calming her down,"Hey don't worry I'll call my friend to inform the authorities."

But she was not calming down.So I placed my hand on her shoulder and made her look towards me.

"Hey it's ok,no need to panic."

I didn't know why she was panicking so much.

She seemed to calm down a little.I adviced her to take deep breaths,and she accepted my advice.This helped her calm down.

"I'm sorry ayanakoji kun.Its just that this happened to me once before and it was a very scary experience."

So that was the reason.But I think there was more to it than just staying whole night.But how can I expect her to tell me her personal things when we have just met today.Well its not my business so I have no right to pry in her life so I left her and called kamuro.

"Hello,you awake"

"Yes and why might have you called me."

"I need your help.Please it's urgent."

"Whoa,what's the matter ayanakoji kun"

"I was on my way to my room and the elevator broke down.Can you please inform the authorities.You know my wing right?"

"As unlucky as ever ayanakoji kun."

Hmm,I wonder how she will react when I tell her I'm stuck with a girl.Getting stuck in elevator with a girl is considered cliche by people but still it is part of every teen fantasy.

I bet kamuro will start laughing at me and teasing.But the reply I got from her surprised me.

"Hey can you hurry,well it is that I'm not alone.A girl is with me."

"What" She practically yelled at me.

"Hey stop yelling at me,why are you so tensed up."

"Ayanakoji do you know the meaning of this.You and a girl alone in the elevator."

Huh????

She started laughing,"Good luck ayanakoji kun,I will gladly help you"

Good luck???

"Uh thanks"

She hanged up.I turned my attention back to Chihiro.She was calmer than before.

Silence

How shall I talk to her.Well let's try.

"So,um,you are in Class B right?"

She nodded

"So how are you feeling after a month in this school."

She suddenly tensed up.

I don't know the reason so I decided to put my hand on her shoulder.When a human feels tense,he wishes support.For a person like Chihiro,who according to me is emotional sort of person,requires support in the form of 'warmth'.Warmth is mostly in the form of hugs but me and Chihiro are just acquaintances.She might not feel comfortable and my attempt may backfire.So it is in best interest to pat on her shoulders.

But I don't know why she was about to cry.A tear escaped her eye.Now this situation is beyond me.I seriously don't know what to do.I can't imagine what people will think when the lift opens and they see her crying.School life destroyed in one elevator ride.

So I decided to gamble.
I embraced her.She didn't oppose and she began crying on my chest.

"Cool down Chihiro San.No need to panic."

She was not opposing my embrace at all.Some time later she calmed down and sat down on the elevator.I sat down beside her.

"Ne ayanakoji kun,Can I ask you something?"

"I'll try my best to answer."

"When I was 5 years old I got stuck in a elevator just like this day.And that too at night.It was a power outage.Truth be told I was very scared of darkness back then.So when all the lights went out I naturally panicked.There was some kind of issue and I started to scream.People in the building might have heard my screams.But it was very unlikely as hardly any sound escaped the elevator as it was kind of soundproofed.In panic I didn't know what to do.it was nearly 11pm.I began to hear noises outside.They were faint but they seemed to have understood that I was stuck."

Naturally when a person falls in panic,he loses his conscience.He doesn't know what is right or wrong at the moment.One may think panic attacks are nothing,but panic attacks are quite dangerous.They are referred as Sudden episodes of intense fear or anxiety and physical symptoms, based on a perceived threat rather than imminent danger.

"They managed to remove me out from there after two hours.There manual controls of the elevator weren't working.From then I started to become tense frequently.I get panic striken more doctor said that there was nothing wrong but it was just the result of my fear."

Fear.

I can't blame Chihiro in this case, because facing your fears head first is no easy task.While being scared of dark,she managed to stay there for 2 hours.If she had suffered a panic attack than she might not be ever able to recover from it.

Then that means she never suffered a panic attack.It was simply that her fear took over her.Fear leads to Panic but it doesn't last much time.It is easy to overcome it.

But panic attacks happen without our knowledge,they just come and Chihiro doesn't know that.

"Chihiro San.It might not be my place to ask.But what is the real reason you are upset."

Yes she was already tense from the beginning.Something was bugging her.When something bad happens in a tense situation it naturally leads to a a state of panic.

She asked me,"Say ayanakoji kun,if I know there is no chance in going into relationship with someone but still it keeps bugging me.Im scared what will happen if I confess.What should I do?"

Hmmm.So this is the real issue.Well why is she telling me this.We just met.Well I have no idea what to say to her as romance isn't my suit at all so I just said,

"Confessing and getting rejected is much easier to get over than never trying in first place.If you never try it will continue to haunt you till you decide to move on.Even if you move on the feeling of regret will not leave your heart.So I think you should think about your decision after considering this"

A smile made its way on her face.

She turned to me and said,"Thank you , Ayanakoji kun."

We continued to chat after that,well you know how I chat,just listen to the one telling.The doors of elevator opened and I saw kamuro with a worker and we exited.

"So ayanakoji kun how was your E-L-E-V-A-T-O-R R-I-D-E"kamuro asked me playfully after Chihiro left.

I replied as calm as ever,"Some interesting things happened."

"Interesting things?"

Kamuro's face grew red.

She asked"wh,what do you mean by interesting things"stuttering

"I'll leave that to your imagination."

"Huh what."

I said goodbye and went back to my dorm.

Lying on my bed I was wondering about my days here.I have made more friends than what I had planned.Not that I have any problems.They totally changed me.If it was the earlier me then maybe I could have never made friends here.

I wonder what they might be doing now.

Well forgetting about that,my contact list is expanding.

Masumi kamuro

Kushida Kikyo

Ike kanji

Hirata Yousuke

Horikita manabu

Chihiro Shironami

I wonder how many more friends I will make.

Oh I forgot to ask Chihiro who she was supposed to confess to.I wonder.

(A.N. You must have already guessed who enters the story in next chapter)

Chapter 6-The Midterms

I was on my way to school.I stepped in the elevator where I saw Kushida with 2 other girls.The girl with pink hair was familiar.I had seen her when I went to meet Chabashira sensei.

When they noticed me Kushida greeted me and I waved at her in acknowledgement.

"Hey ayanakoji-kun,why do you keep this hairstyle."

Umm,why indeed.

"Well I kind of prefer it like this."

Then the pink haired girl spoke to Kushida,"Kushida-san,is he in your class."

Were they talking about me?

"Oh yes,his name is kiyotaka Ayanakoji,he is the most mature person in our class."

Huh

"What led you to this conclusion."I asked.

"Well you are always calm.Even when sensei announced,there was no change in your face.Calm as ever."

Huh was she looking at me at that time?

"Well I just accept things more easily than others."

"That's what you called maturity, Ayanakoji kun"The pink haired girl said.

"I guess"

"But how come you are so mature ayanakoji-kun.I mean you are of our age too, aren't you."

"I am."

"Then how come you are so calm."

"I don't know myself."

I replied closing that issue.

"It's impressive.By the way I'm ichinose honami,I'm from Class B.Nice to meet you Ayanakoji kun."

Well it seems she heard my name when Kushida addressed me earlier.

"Yes nice to meet you ichinose."

Well I don't use honorific on anyone except teachers so I didnt care of using it on her.The thing is I don't care what they call me so why should I care.Its not that I don't respect them but since my birth I have never minded to use honorifics.Ichinose didn't mind it too.

Well sometimes I use but that's just when I'm not paying much attention in the conversation.

We exited the elevator and started walking towards school.

Then I wondered the question which Kushida asked me

"How come you are so calm and composed"

I lied earlier but I knew the truth won't do any good to them.And I don't care if they tell me that I dont trust them.But something's are better to kept hidden.

Timeskip

Chabashira sensei entered the classroom.She walked towards the podium and began writing on the board.

Midterm Exams

She started speaking,"5 days from now a test will be held which will be a good revision for your midterm exams.Try your best in the midterms,as to survive in this school you have to work hard."

A word catched my attention.'Survive'?

Why did sensei said survive.Can it be just normal and I'm overthinking it.It seems my partner also had similar thoughts as she was also in a thoughtful expression.After that day I haven't talked to her even for a moment.Well ain't that awkward.I had no problem in talking with her.But I didn't want her to think that I would work with her.And looking at her personality I didn't expect her to talk to me first.So we were like bunch of kids fighting.

Then sensei started her regular lecture.After the day was over I decided to head over but Before I could get up

"Excuse me,Kushida san,where is ayanakoji kun?"

Huh,why was ichinose looking for me.

All eyes turned

On me.

My highschool life is far from normal.

Horikita looked at me in surprise,Kushida was also bewildered and most of the girls in shock.

I can guess there thoughts, why is an angel like ichinose asking for a nobody like me

Nearly all boys gave me a death glare.I gulped.

And to add to my trouble, ichinose headed to my seat and grabbed my hand.
"Please ayanakoji-kun we don't have much time,hurry."

All the people were in shock.

Ike and yamauchi clutched their heart and pretended to faint to add to the dramatization.
I decided the best course of action will be to go along the flow.So we left the class.I didn't start any conversation as it was very weird situation.

Weird.it is much worse.First a girl who I have met today comes in class.Calls me in front of class.Grabs my hand.And is taking me somewhere.

We arrived at the back of gymnasium.Once we reached there ichinose stopped and looked towards me and started to ask,

"Ayanakoji-kun have you ever confessed someone."

Huh.Am I some kind of love Master or something.Yesterday Chihiro and today ichinose.Hell my life is connected more to romance than I think.

"No"

Ichinose was little surprised,

"How come,with your looks I thought that you were confessed by many girls."

Ichinose stop hurting my pride.

"Um I was kind of a loner."

"Oh never mind that I actually wanted to ask you something."

Huh

"Sure than ask"

"The thing is i.."

What is she going to confess to me.No.Not a chance.And even if she confessed I won't accept it.Atleast for now.Who knows what might happen in future.

"Im going to be confessed to by someone."

Hell then what am I doing here.She might not be thinking of starting a love triangle is she.

"I want you to pretend to be my boyfriend."

"What are you saying ichinose."

I was shocked beyond belief.

"I don't want to accept anyone's love right now.I want to focus on school and friends.And I don't want her to be hurt after I reject her."

I sighed.

As I was about to say something a girl appeared.It was none other than Chihiro Shironami.

Hell.Chihiro was talking about ichinose yesterday?

"Ichinose San what is ayanakoji kun doing here?"She said with tears forming in her eyes.

Ichinose looked down and said,"Sorry Chihiro chan he is my"

I said before she could say any further,"I'm just her friend."

Ichinose looked at me with widened eyes.

I said,"Ichinose do you understand how hard is confessing to someone.How much mental struggle a person goes through.Carrying stress of negative thoughts like what will he do if rejected.But while confessing to someone,saying those words that person forgets all his fears,and is ready to accept any answer.Do you think the person who is getting confessed to can be this selfish on the excuse of caring about feelings.Her brave attempt requires atleast a honest answer.Dont you think so."

Ichinose looked down.She didn't know what to say.

I walked away and before leaving I patted on Chihiro's shoulder and wished her luck.Her eyes now showed confidence.She was ready to take and face any answer.

I sat on a nearby bench and started to gaze at the orange sky.For that moment I cared about nothing else.Till now only the sky has had the power to eat my darkness away.The light destroys the darkness in me, although it returns soon after.The few moments of peace I love to preserve.

Ichinose and Chihiro after sometime may have completed their confession and would have already went home.But I didn't care.I just was enjoying the calmness.

Third Person POV

Unknown to him two people were looking at him from a distance.This two were ichinose and Chihiro.Both had a smile on thier face.

"Say ichinose San,do you know who gave me the courage to confess to you."

"Um who?"

"It was ayanakoji kun"

She was surprised a little but later a faint but genuine smile found its way on her face.

Chihiro didn't have any regrets now.When ichinose rejected her,to ichinose's surprise she was smiling.

Ichinose was surprised to why wasn't she upset.

Chihiro had kept to herself that she was bisexual for her whole life.She feared what society would think if she revealed her secret.She feared that what would her parents think.She lived in fear her whole life.But one man took down all her fear in one day.

She thought that finally she has found a friend who accepts her as she is and on whom she can rely on.

Ichinose's evaluation of ayanakoji has increased too.But she also braced herself for the battles between classes about to come.One day their classes may face off.She promised that she will give it her all when the day comes for the sake of herself and her class.

Timeskip On the day of quiz results

Sensei announced the results of the latest quiz.If you ask me the performance was very poor.It seems no one had taken studies seriously.Well there were students who had scored high like horikita,keisei,hirata and Koenji.But most people had scored below 60.I adjusted my scores to 50-65 this time to stop unnecessary suspicions of horikita.

"I see you have had quite a performance in the quiz."Chabashira sensei started addressing the class.

"Such scores,I have no words to say."

"But"

She marked 8 students on the board.

"If this was the midterm exam then these 8 students would have been expelled."

All hell broke lose.

Chapter 7-The Midterms (Part 2)

The three idiots were at lowest in the class.They were among the worst of failures.It seems that this quiz was a kind of eye-opener before facing the midterms.

The eight people mentioned were in alarm.After the teacher left the class hirata stood in teacher's Podium and started,"Everyone in class, Please listen to me.We must prevent expulsion by all costs.It would be bad of we lose our friends after spending so much time with them.I propose forming study groups."

From the corner of my eyes I could see horikita's face showing a irritated expression.I can guess why she is like this.Knowing her she must be thinking that people who can't even pass are better leaving the class.This way of thinking is very flawed.

Each person's usefulness differs.It is not possible for everyone to excel in every field.Human beings are meant to have flaws.And flaws are to be expected in a defective Class like ours.

Most of the students readily agreed except three idiots from our class.It seemed they didn't want to study.Man I seriously felt bad for horikita.How was she going to reach Class A with this folk.

The day was over.I made my way to the room.I seriously had nothing to do.No one in my class talked with me.Well Kushida sometimes opened up conversation but other than her,no one bothered to show pity on the loner.

I seriously felt great for having Kamuro and Chihiro as friends.Well kamuro was little rude,and Chihiro was a little,what can you say, Talkative?She talked a lot.I honestly can't imagine her talking for less than 30 minutes.Ichinose too graced me with her excellent conversations.She was good at holding long conversations but was also considerate of listeners.

Man is it just me or all highschool boys get this much attention from girls?

Well nevermind.I thought if I should help horikita a little but I too was in fix as it was very hard unless those three idiots take initiative to study.

I chose horikita as the leader of the class because she was agressive in nature.She wanted to reach class A.It was kind of a obsession.Rest of the class had given up their hopes and had already succumbed to their fates.

Well I knew horikita would do something for those three if she truly cared about reaching Class A and if she didn't care than she would be a disappointment.

Fortunately she asked those three before they could leave the class if they wanted to join a study group.

I wasn't scared of her dragging me in this class mess.She must have got the message when I showed her, her own brother's Contact.She thought I was aware of their relationship.But honestly speaking I didn't know anything except that they had a strained relationship.If she tries to go against me revealing unwanted things,I would have no choice but to expose their relationship.One might think this is no big deal but two people in concern, Horikita Manabu and Horikita Suzune knew very well how it would affect their status in school.A Class Student Council President has a sister who is in D Class.

It may result in me losing cooperation of the student council president and destroy my relationship completely with horikita.

Only if they knew I was the one who spread the rumour.

I wasn't a fool to lose their cooperation.They both were valuable assets.Horikita manabu for this school.I didn't know how much power the student council president had but when I came to know that the he knew about my scores I was sure that they must have a considerate amount of power.Horikita Suzune was important for two reasons.She can hold her own in conversations.And she was arrogant.

Arrogant people are the easiest to manipulate.Just once you show them that you are better than them,than they would keep chasing you,to get better than you.They can't stand the fact of being inferior.

This will make horikita the perfect candidate because I think she is the most arrogant woman in Class D.Of course excluding Chabashira sensei.That woman is one of her kind.

I decided to call it a day.There are still two weeks till midterms.

The next day

I made my way out of my room to change into casual clothes.Tosay was a weekend and I had been invited by horikita.Who knew what was that woman thinking.As much as I knew she wasn't one to waste her time.

Well I understand her idea of studying,but not all students in this school are like this.Even people in class D are enjoying this freedom they are getting from school.Talking of freedom,no one knows but I was the one most enjoying it.Well why am I enjoying so much?That's a story for another time.

I made my way to Keyaki mall where I found horikita standing.Apparently she had been here for quite some time.I thought I was going to come early.

"Hey"I waved her.

She graced me with a nod and averted her gaze as if I was the most uninteresting person.

Typical Tsundere.

The hell I was taking the insult.

"I thought you were one of the types who used their time judiciously but here you are spending your time in the mall."I tried to counter her by trying to insult her.

Keyword Tried

"Indeed I'm surely wasting my time,not by coming to mall,but by meeting you."

Damn woman.My self esteem was dropping day by day.Kamuro and Horikita were truly a force to reckon with.

I kept quiet as I didn't want me to spend the day depressed.

"Follow me."

She asked me politely.No more like she ordered me politely.One could see her irritation.

We made our way to the coffee shop 'Pallet Cafeteria'. Where we sat on one of the table.We ordered our coffees and sat.And the first question she asked was one I had expected.

"How did you have my brother's number?"

"_"

"I asked you a question ayanakoji-kun."

What the hell.Should I try to be intimidating,no that's no good.

The best way out of here was to lie.And fooling horikita was no easy task.

I had an option to keep silent but that may gave her an idea that I don't trust her.And that was a worst case scenario.If she thought that I didn't trust her,then she may gain some opinions of me.But I had to give her only one opinion of myself.That I am Superior than her.

In that way she won't question me any further.Whether I'm superior than her or not it doesn't matter to me but it would matter to her as she is the one with superiority complex.

So the most ideal scenario would be she would think of me as an mystery.So the fear of her being inferior to me would exist.If she fears my superiority,then that would definitely cause some frustuation in her which would lead her to become more curious of me.

That's why she would follow me, only to know me more.

So the best approach here would be to provoke her.

"Why are you so angry,is it because I threatened you or is it because I,a complete stranger have his contact while his own blood related sister doesn't."

Her eyebrows twitched,it was evident that she was angry beyond imagination.

"Just what the hell are you thinking Ayanakoji-kun."

"_"I kept myself silent with the usual poker face.

My silent treatment seemed to have angered her more.She left the place without even saying goodbye.The people sitting near our table must have thought this was lover's quarrel.The hell,she was a person who had no interest in love and I was a kind of person who had more interest in the topic love than the real thing.

I had no problem with her leaving me but that woman.She left the bill on me.

Well no use fretting about it now.So then I was already here so why not enjoy here.

So I decided to think what should I do about this whole midterm problem.

Should I leave it to their own strength.Apparently eight people were on the risk of being expelled.

Well their was one plan on my mind but it came with its own risk.I would be exposing it to Kushida who seemed to be too cheerful and not the type of person who I can expect to keep secrets.In simple words I didn't trust her one bit.But she was my best bet.The fact is I was ready to bet on Kushida more than horikita.

Horikita is just too good for suspecting people.Maybe years of staying alone changed her.

Days passed and the day for midterm came.

I sat on my bench waiting for my teacher to distribute the exam sheets.I had learnt that the results would be evaluated in a week and will be revealed in the class in front of everyone.Well not that it matters.

I had done everything in my power,now it was on them to avoid expulsion.

If they can't do this then they are nothing but liability for the class.

I need assets,not people who would hold back.

Out of eight people I only doubted three,Sudo,Ike and Yamauchi.

Those three would have a hard time as they seriously hadn't studied a bit.

Will this be the second blow to our class.If we take this blow,it might be too late to recover.Not that it matters to me.

Because I just want to live my life here in peace.

( A.N The next chapter would be the last in this volume.And I removed this from hiatus.Why you ask?Well because I was getting too much comments.Truth to be told,I didn't expect this many views for this book,I thought that being my first Wattpad book it would be horrible.Well im glad you liked it.And the updates would be weekly as I got exams coming soon and believe me online exams are a huge pain)

Epilogue

The test ended.I made my way outside.I didn't bother to look at others as it would be pointless as the results aren't going to change now.I made my way to the dorms and settled on my bed.

I started to surf the net.Well I came across what people call 'anime'.Honestly speaking I have never watched one.So I just started to watch a random one.Honestly I didn't understand it.Like what were those nosebleeds logic.This 'Anime' things were too different from reality.

I sighed and relaxed on the bed.Then I recalled my actions a week ago.

Flashback

I was currently sitting next to a 3rd year Class D student.He was eating a cheap free dish and he was perfect for negotiating as I had the upper hand.

"So you want the midterm papers of last year."He asked me.

"Yes"I replied without hesitation.

He glanced around and when he thought it was safe he whispered to me.

"20000 points."

I sighed."10000"

"Are you an idiot,no way I'm giving it to you at just 10000.Do you know how much risk I'm taking."He whisper yelled.

"Senpai I have many other contacts in the third year and I won't have any problem asking them for the same."

He just looked at me and started to smile, nervous ness still evident.

"Don't joke with me,you have just started your year and you are acting like you know people from my years."

I sighed and used my weapon.Sorry horikita Senpai.

When he saw the contact he was shocked.

He took the phone more like snatched it and checked the ID and confirmed that the contact indeed belonged to the school council president.

It was little selfish of me using Horikita Senpai's number for my personal gain but he too had investigated me it seems.How did he know I had gotten fifty in all subjects.It was a serious matter for me.If he continued to investigate me than this may cause some problems.

But for now I decided to use his number.Ill repay the favor by mending his relation with his sister but his number was indeed a reliable tool.

"How do you have this."He asked me.

"Does it really matter now?What matters now is that are you taking my offer or no?"I asked.

He looked down and gulped.

"Atleast 15000."he asked again hoping.

I sighed,"Fine but you have to add the quiz questions too."

He sighed in relief,"You won't need them but still you can have them."

After he handed me the papers and I transferred the points I made my way out and sat on the bench.

I compared the questions in the quiz and the questions of last year and my hunch was correct.

The questions were same.

Well it's time to decide who is in the need of saving.Apparently eight people were on risk of failing but they had all joined the study groups and I believed they would scrape by easily.

The only three who needed saving were the three idiots.Among the three I honestly didn't know whom to save.

Because honestly those three weren't even serious about studying.They just wanted to enjoy here.And seriously if I saved them,the efforts of the class would give us points and these three would reap the benefits.

I sighed.How troublesome.

I had a choice to give it to everyone but then it had a chance of leaking and I would become the centre of attraction and I definitely didn't want that.Moreover if i distributed the papers to all then it would be unfair to those who had put their genuine efforts in this test.

That would beat my purpose for what I have come to this school.

What is equality?

I was indeed being unfair by helping those three but I would definitely help them grow.If they continue to be liability for the class,Then I will be the one to expel them.

I opened my phone and under a fake email I sent the most stupid one of the trio, yamauchi a message.

X : Hey i have the paper which would be coming in this exams.

Yamauchi:Who are you.

X:You don't need to know that and it would be better if you don't leak it.You can help those two if you want.
Attachment:Image

Yamauchi:why should I believe you.

I just closed my phone.Why? Because being the idiot he is,he would definitely study the sheet.As the exams are nearing and he hadn't studied anything,he will put his hopes on the sheet.

And those two idiots would also believe him.I definitely didn't want anyone to drop out this early.

It seems I'm helping horikita more than I want to.

Flashback over.

I sighed and just slept not bothering about anything else.

Timeskip- The next day when results were going to be announced in the class.

Sensei came in.

She looked at us.

"I'm honestly surprised, Everyone did better than I expected and I got good scores from people I least expected to."

I saw sudo,yamauchi and Ike glancing at each other with nervous smiles on their face.

The paper had been same excluding some questions.

The results were announced.

Everyone had passed with good scores.

Koenji, horikita,Yukimura,Mei Wang topped the class but no one was looking at them.

The trio had scored with an average of 50-60.

They must have purposely decided to score average enough not too attract too much attention.

What the hell.They used their brains in cheating rather than studying.

But they still ended attracting attention I guess.

Their scores were so near that you might suspect they were cheating.

Now for my real plan,I took out my phone and sent the screenshot of my deal with yamauchi to horikita.

She looked at her phone and was shocked.

I just typed a message.

Now's your chance

She looked at me but I was already looking outside the window keeping a stoic face.I really hoped she realised what I was suggesting,if not than she really wasn't as good as I was expecting.I may need to look for someone else who can have the same influence on the class.

I don't want to manipulate hirata as he would definitely care for the whole class and try to help everyone and that would become a problem for me.

The next option was a girl named Karuizawa kei.Her influence on the girls section of the class was impressive.She might not be that good in academics but I will help her at that.

Kushida is no option.The reason is simple,I don't trust her at all.Their is more to her than she is letting on.

As the bell rang I left the class first glancing at horikita once before leaving.Surprisingly she too was staring at me.

I just went ahead on my path.

Third Person POV

Horikita looked at the figure of ayanakoji leaving the class.She was even more intrigued by him.Just how much this guy was hiding.But the main question in her mind was why was he helping her.What motive drives him.He is a kind of person who has no interest in reaching higher classes.

Then sensei's words ringed in her mind

"If you play your cards right you might make them help you reach Class A."

Was it really possible.To hold back such a cunning person was what horikita is thinking.

But she decided to leave that for later and approached the idiot trio who were cheering after their good scores and were talking to to Kushida.

"Ike kun,sudo kun,Yamauchi kun can you please follow me,I need to talk to you three."

Those three broke into sweat.

But horikita was already at the doorstep,her stern gaze making it impossible for them to escape.

They said their goodbyes to Kushida and followed horikita to the back of gymnasium.

She then took out her phone and sent them the screenshot ayanakoji had sent to her.

The three looked shocked.

"W..ho s..ent y.ou this Horikita."Yamauchi asked.

"That doesn't matter,but what matters is that you have definitely cheated."

"You can't prove it,their is nothing here which suggests that I saw those images."Yamauchi tried to say with a smirk.

"Your previous test scores suggest otherwise."Horikita retorted sternly.

Yamauchi's smirk fell.Now he was in genuine worry.If word got out then he might be in genuine trouble.

Ike and sudo looked at yamauchi,not knowing what to do.

They were in deep mess.

But the words which came out of Horikita's mouth shocked them.

"I can let this slide."

The trio looked at horikita in surprise.

"Only if you improve your behaviour and join my study group without any implications."

The three were bewildered.

Sudo asked her in low voice,"So you are just trying to help us."

"I want to reach class A and I will reach it even if I have to improve the failures of the class.Now do you accept the condition?Not that you have got any choice."

A clear checkmate.

Do or Die

Ayanakoji's plan was flawless.He had managed to get the three in control.

The trio nodded.

Horikita looked at them one more time and said,"If I don't see you taking study seriously then won't hesitate to report this to the school."

She said and left without noticing the blush on Sudo's face.

Horikita continued to walk and stopped near a bench.She sat down.

She begin to think of kiyotaka ayanakoji.

He had indirectly used her to get the cooperation of the three.

Now she was more than eager to know about the person who had such an influence on her.

Meanwhile

Ayanakoji was relaxing on his bed thinking about the past events.

He was thinking about the day he had come to this school.

A month had passed.The summer Holidays were coming soon.But with it new challenges were coming.

But it didn't matter to Ayanakoji.

His only concern was his highschool life.He will make sure that no one disrupts his Normal life while he is here.

(And Done.The First Volume is done.So how was it guys.I might make a SS but I'm still not decided on it.)

Volume-2

After the midterms it's time for the students to get their points.But Class D happens to be in deep trouble.With Class C planning to crush it so it can never rise again.With Kamuro's betrayal can Ayanakoji kiyotaka still live a normal highschooler life?

Chapter 1-Trouble

A week had passed since the midterms.And believe me I was living a perfectly normal life the whole week.

Talking with Chihiro,talking with kamuro,talking with Kushida, talking with horikita,talking with ichinose.Wait,I just now realised.I was only talking with girls.

I needed to change this.This wasn't normal at all.I had the contacts of four boys,the idiotic trio and an otaku whose name was sotomura.

The trio idiots were just a bunch of perverts and I didn't want to be isolated by the class so I avoided them.

Well sotomura,what can I say.He had a weird accent.He liked those 'Anime' things.

But seriously only four boys.I had badly failed in making friends.

Well atleast I have some girls as friends.But did they consider me as a friend.

Chihiro and ichinose surely did.

I wasn't sure about Kamuro.

Horikita was just a neighbour.

And Kushida,she seemed obsessed with horikita.It was as if she liked her but I could sense some hatred.Had they met somewhere?

Well honestly I didn't have any interest in their relationship.

I made my way towards the class.On my way I met with Ike.

The trio were actually well behaved in the class.I think horikita did catch on to my plan.

"Yo Ayanakoji"He called me.

"Hey"I said.

"Man you should study more you know,even I got more than you last test."

Yes the truth is he had got 58 percentile while I had gotten 56 percentile apparently.But seriously,this is what I get for helping bunch of idiots.Well I didn't reveal myself so no use complaining.So I instead decided to tease him.

"Oh I see,then can you teach me."

He stopped walking suddenly and started sweating.

"What's the matter Ike,when should we study?"

"Well you know ayanakoji I have to go to horikita's study group today so I can't teach you."He tried to escape but

"Well teach me tommorow then"I cut of his escape.

Now he was truly scared.I could see it.His body was trembling and he gave me a nervous smile.

I sighed.It seems I had taken it far too much.

"Nevermind Ike,let's go back to the class."

Ike suddenly returned back to his cheerful demeanor.

"You go ahead,I'll go call haruki(Yamauchi)."

He left and I continued on my way to the classroom.

I began thinking,what was my goal for coming to school.Understanding learning about equality was Indeed one of my goal.

But what was my real goal?

I want to find answer to this question.Can a terrible person like me have a goal.

Then another question popped in my mind.Am I really terrible? Using people for your own gains is basic trait of being human.So it is just me being human,right?

I have never once felt guilt using others,but the question is why should I?

Sigh.

How troublesome.I hope I get the answers to this questions during my stay here.

I entered the classroom.

I sat beside horikita who was for some reason glancing at me every now and then.

It seems she wants to talk to me.

Can't I have a break.I know the reason she wants to talk.It seems their has been a major problem.

The points were announced yesterday.

Class A-1004
Class B-663
Class C-492
Class D-87

Class D had actually secured 87 private points and that was huge growth.Class A had crossed the 1000 point mark and was in commanding position.Class C was completely safe with no threat from D Class.

Private points were distributed on the basis of class points.That is Class points100 were the private points given to students of respective classes.

So this month we were supposed to recieve 8700 points.

But it seems there has been an issue.We haven't received any point yet.This was just like the previous month.

I didn't have any serious issue as I still had 39830 points.Cooking your own food had its own benefits and I was reaping each benefit.Many ingredients were present in the free section and were actually of very good quality.Thus I didn't have any problem.It seriously cut down the cost.

People might call me a minimalist.But seriously speaking I'm not a minimalist at all.I just buy what's necessary.And the thing which I genuinely want to try,I buy it without second thoughts.

This school is truly a special one.Such infrastructure isn't possible without the government support.I wonder where they find finances to support this.

But I feel their project to create elites is successful.One who can survive this hell can definitely climb to the top of this world.

My chain of thoughts broke when Chabashira sensei entered the class.The class looked at her.The message on forum last month had affected her image in class.And the students were more wary of her now.She had no choice but to tell everything to the students or the students would complain to the higher authorities putting her job at risk.

She looked at the class.

"You already know that your class haven't received any private points."

The class nodded.The atmosphere was calm but most of the students were angry.After all this efforts in the midterms,they had received no points.It was inevitable that they would be angry.

Then Sensei continued,"There was an issue between the C Class and the D Class."

Now this piqued my interest.

"Apparently Class D's Sudo ken assaulted 3 boys of Class C and till that matter is not resolved both Class C and D won't be awarded points."

Everyone's eyes turned towards Sudo.

He stood up,"What the hell,that was self defence.They forced me to fight."

But that did nothing to stop the menacing glares of the classmates.They started gossiping.

"He has gotten too cocky since he scored good marks."

"He should be expelled,a delinquent like him doesn't deserve to be in a elite school."

Such harsh words were directed towards him that I sincerely felt bad for him.

Sudo sat down and held his head in his hands.He was sweating bullets.

Horikita was literally glaring at him.

Kushida stood up,"Come on,we should not doubt sudo kun like this,maybe he is telling the truth."

Hirata followed her,"Yes,as classmates we should not doubt him."

The glares weakened as the leaders of the class were trying to calm them down.

Chabashira Sensei continued with the lesson but no one paid attention to them as they were worried about their points more than the lessons.

Now what should I do.I thinked for two minutes and I found the best option.To take a nap on the desk.

I wandered into sleep.This school was really tiresome.

But I suddenly felt a sharp sensation on my arm.

I jolted up.

When I saw my arm it had a sharp point on it.

Then I looked at my neighbour and saw a shiny pointed object in her hand.She stabbed me with a compass.

"What the hell horikita!"I exclaimed.

She pointed ahead of me.

When I looked ahead I saw a towering figure over me.Chabashira Sensei.

"It seems Ayanakoji has learned everything and doesn't need my lessons so he is using that time to sleep."

What the hell.I was in some real mess.

I looked around.Everyone was looking at me.

"Ur,Sensei I was not sleeping."I lied.

"Then what were you doing,care to explain me."

This is wrong.When other students used to sleep in class she doesn't pay attention,than why me?Then I saw her eyes.She was taking revenge on me.I really can't understand ladies,so fixated on holding such grudges.

But I wasn't losing to her this time,if she wants to play dirty than let me play her way.

"Actually Sensei I was a little bored by the lecture and was trying to regain my mood"

I could imagine the trio saluting me.

I openly mocked Sensei's lecture.Hell was this wrong of me?

Sensei just smirked and went back to teaching.

If this was a normal school than who knows what might have happened but clearly here I wasn't much at fault.She only scolded me out of the whole class.

Why she won't take any action you might ask, because she still needs me.She believes im the link to reach Class A.And she won't expel me,not yet.Because she must have already figured out who was responsible for the lenient behaviour of the trio during the last week.

Once the class ended I was approached by horikita.

"You are a lot courageous than I thought,but knowing you,you must have did it on purpose."She said.

"_"Silent treatment.

She sighed and went to the sudo.It seems sudo is going to face the wrath of horikita.

Well I might as well go to Keyaki mall today.I need to buy the month's supply.

I made my way out of the class.

As I was walking,"Hello Ayanakoji-kun."

That voice.Still as cheerful as ever huh.

"Hello Chihiro."

"Me and my friends were going to the cafe.We just got our points today."

Apparently what sensei had told was true,we were the only ones who had not got any point.

"I have to head to the convenience store,I'll meet with you later."

"Oh fine."She left.It seems Class D was going to suffer huge damage to the class Morale.

I made my way to the convenience store.I bought all the necessary items and started to make my way to the dorms but before that I saw a girl entering a building.

She had pink hair like ichinose.She entered the building.It was actually the annex building.There were no cameras there.Wait a minute is this related to the sudo incident.

Only one way to find out.

(Hey guys,another volume begins and Sakura Airi enters the story.And I have already decided the plot for this story and it would be interesting.Kamuro might find out the true nature of our dear protagonist.)

Chapter 2-The Idol

I followed the girl and it looked like she was searching for something. I was in a distance where she couldn't sense me easily. She walked to a corridor and she picked something up. It was a camera. She looked afraid for some reason. Was something wrong with camera?

She put the camera in her bag and started to leave. I had already left and was out of the building waiting by door. When she came out she was surprised seeing me there.

"Huh." She started visibly flinched on seeing me, but calmed down soon.

"Why are you so worried" I asked calmly.

"Were you following me?" She asked in low voice.

"Why would I. I just returned from the convenience store." Well it was not a lie, I had just found her going in an annex building alone so I had followed her. Relief was visible on her face. She seemed to be the shy type. Because looking at her talking style, this seemed to be her first time talking to someone male. I can relate to her. I always blow up a conversation with a new person.

But our conversation was going normal. Is it because we both are loners? No for some reason she seems to be relaxed near me. But I have never met her. Well forgetting about that I decided to continue the conversation. If she was indeed related to Sudo accident, Horikita might have help.

"So were you just clicking photos?" I asked pointing at the camera.

She looked at me and was clearly uncomfortable.

I sighed, "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. I just wanted to know as I had never clicked one."

"Huh!!"She exclaimed in surprise.

What is this reaction. It's not my mistake that I wasn't given a camera or phone by my dad. I knew it was weird but I did not expect such reaction. Next time I'll brace myself for such reactions.

She realized that she had yelled, "Sorry, I'm sorry." She started apologizing while bowing.

She was bowing down too. Whoa this girl is too pure to be in high school. And cute too? But when she was bowing down I noticed a thing.

She was wearing fake glasses

I decided to stop her cries of apologies, "Seriously you don't have to apologize, I was expecting such response but I just didn't expect it on such scale."

She continued, "I'm sorry if I'm intruding your personal space, but why you have never clicked a photo. I mean everyone has. It's a little hard to believe."

Now that was difficult to answer. But I guess I should try.

"You use the camera to capture beautiful moments right, I guess I have to wait till I have one." A Wind blew and the sunset complimented my golden eyes. She was staring at me. Rather staring at my eyes.

"Your eyes are not like the others"

Huh.

"What do you mean?" I asked back.

"Nothing" She just replied silently.

She then requested something which was hard to process,"Ayanakouji kun will you please accompany me tommorow to Keyaki mall?"

My brain took few seconds to process what had just happened.

And how the hell did she knew me. I don't remember meeting her.

"Um" I was hoping she would continue to speak as seriously talking I'm bad at holding such type of conversation.

And being asked for a date by a stranger is far from what a ordinary high schooler will have. This is only possible in the 'Anime' world. For once I wanted sotomura to be in my place.

She continued, "My camera is damaged, and I want to repair it, and I kind of need help."

Oh. So this was the reason, but why she wanted me?

"Um sorry but I don't think we have met" I decided to speak.

"Oh Sorry, I'm Sakura Airi and, um. I am also in Class D."

Hell I've never seen her in the class. It seems she had some serious social problems. That must be the reason she must be asking me, but the question still remains, why me in particular?

"How do you know me, well we have never introduced to each other." I said.

"Oh I heard that day when Kushida san introduced you."

Man. I seriously thought no one cared about that introduction. When Kushida shot a deadly blow to my self esteem.

Her words clearly meant

Ayanakouji is a person with no presence

Well no use thinking about it now.

"Fine, I'll accompany you tommorow Sakura. When should we leave?"

"Um I didn't think About it." She replied.

I sighed and gave her my contact details. "Here,call me tommorow."

She looked shocked. It seems this was the first number of a boy in her phone. She took the contact and we left to the dorms. On the way their was a comfortable silence which I was enjoying to the full extent.

Once we reached my floor by elevator I said my goodbyes and entered my room and started to cook. It was still 8:12 PM but I had something to do so I cooked a little early.

Once I finished cooking, I made a call to a certain someone.

This certain someone was none other than the member of the idioticPervert trio Yamauchi haruki. I had suspicion that the person in question might be a model. Because, there was a recent popular model mentioned on the news feed. And I had a suspicion that sakura might be a model. Well I did't know it for sure, but who cares if I'm wrong. I'm just an average student afterall.

Yamauchi-Hello Who is there.

Ayanakouji-Its me, Ayanakojui.

Yamauchi-Whats up ayanakouji,you need something?

Ayanakouji-Oh yes,I just wanted to know something and I thought you might have an idea

Yamauchi-i will grace you with my knowledge

Ayanakouji-Do you know any model who goes to highschool.

Yamauchi-Huh why do you need to know. Don't tell me you are interested in them.

Ayanakouji-Im not, I just wanted to know.

Yamauchi-Well their are many. But In high school? Oh yes their is one who is trending on the web. I just checked her social handle yesterday. What was her name again. Yes Shizuku. She doesn't use any surname.

Ayanakouji-oh thanks.

Yamauchi-Now tell me why you needed it.

Ayanakouji-I just wanted to know what is modelling I guess.

Yamauchi-Don't tell me, you plan to become a model

Ayanakouji-I never planned on being one

Yamauchi-You won't have a chance there. It is for people like me.

Ayanakouji-Yamauchi you should really try modelling.

Yamauchi-You really think so? I knew it, I had it in me.

Ayanakouji-Yes people should have a change. Your face would definitely entertain them. Who knows you might get yourself a girl.

Yamauchi-I know, I know.

Ayanakouji-Oh please don't use any filters or the people won't laugh as much as they would when they see your real face.

I closed my phone. I definitely didn't want to hear his yelling.

I went to the computer and searched for 'Shizuku'.And know what, I found Sakura.

Her blog was full of pictures. Some were even taken on our school campus. How did I know it was taken in the school? Simple, The design of all the rooms in the dorms was nearly same and in one photo I could see her room.

I scrolled down to see the comments. I wanted to check just how popular was she. And believe me, her page was flooding with comments. But one comment caught my interest.

Believe me, I really felt disgusted by that comment.

Shizuku I'm near you. I saw you yesterday. You were buying grocery right. I can't wait for the day we meet.

This comment was supposedly posted yesterday at 3:43 PM. I searched and found more comments like this. It seems someone who knows Shizuku's real identity is in the school. Being Idol brings its own share of problems I guess. I closed her handle and just logged off.

I ate my food thinking what should I do. I can't ignore this now. That man's motives didn't seem too good.It seems I have to help Sakura this time. I'm leaving the Sudo issue to Horikita. I hope she does something.

The Next Day

I made my way to the classroom. On the way I glanced at the bulletin board. Their was nothing of importance. One caught my interest.

It was posted by my Class I suppose.They went this far to search for any witnesses in the sudo case I guess.

If you ask me if the class is United or no,than an obvious answer will come out of my mouth.Our class is far from United.

We have a kind of a representative leadership.Our Class leaders make the decisions for the class.But currently class leaders don't have complete control over the class.That is something they should do themselves,I don't intend to help them in everything.

I entered the classroom and my neighbour and I shared a glance.

I sat on my bench when she approached me,"I need your help."

I looked at her,"And how should I help you.You know right,it's impossible without witnesses.And with Sudo's record in school I don't think anyone would believe me."

She sighed and looked down,"You are right I guess.It seems this time is totally a lost case."

"Don't worry so much,just try your best in the trial.If you want I will accompany you."

She looked at me and said,"thanks,that would be a huge help."

The growth of horikita seems way too fast.She is breaking from he hole.She is starting to depend on me.It seems I underestimated the entity'Horikita Suzune'.

After the classes ended I made my way to the dorms.On way I met kamuro.

"Hey."I waved

"Hi"Whoa this is the First time she replied without insulting me.

"Are you alright kamuro?"I asked her not believing the scene playing before me.

"Huh what do you mean "She asked in irritation.

"No it's just that,you always use some smart words with the purpose of berating me everytime we meet."I teased expecting something back.

But instead I got an unexpected reply,

"Maybe I consider you as a friend."

I stopped on my tracks.

Friend huh.But kamuro,what are friends supposed to do.Trust each other?No, because being friends with you doesn't change the fact that you are a human.Because trust loses against human greed.This is the reason of fall of many people in the past.

I have a new thing to learn I think.

Can I trust a friend?

Chapter 3-Curiosity

Me and kamuro parted ways after talking a bit.I made my way to a nearby bench and sat their.

I began to wonder,has this school changed me?

I have been more involved in people than I was my whole life.Somehow I like this change.A change of lifestyle is what every human deserves.

I wonder how my life would have turned out if I had never came here.Would I have been happy?

This brings me to another question,what does it mean to be happy?

A man once said, happiness must be found in everything.But logically speaking is it possible?

What one believes is happiness to him can bring sadness to other.Than what is the point of being happy when it is causing sorrow to others?

For example,if a person wins a tournament and becomes happy.What about the person who came second.Both of them tried for the same thing with equal efforts but only one was declared the winner.

I believe happyness is something one must decide for themselves.What makes them happy,and what brings them joy.A person who tries to find happiness in the smallest things is a admirable human.

I wonder,if I was able to feel happy would I have a genuine smile on my face?

But I can't feel happy.Nor can I feel sad.I haven't allowed myself to feel emotions because,

Emotions make a person weak.

A person without emotions gains a power of his own.He is not scared of being betrayed and is ready to do anything without worrying.

Because being betrayed is said to give rise to sadness.A feeling which intrigues me.

I have seen a kid with whom I spent almost 5 years together die in front of me, but even then,

I didn't feel anything.

I just accepted his death.Showing acceptance over someone's death is a impressive trait.To overcome the grief you need a strong heart.But I don't need to overcome the grief, because I can't feel emotions.

I wonder what has happened to me which made me like this.

From childhood I was told that my level of curiosity exceeded every human's.I was once called a monster by my classmate.

I wonder if this three years can quench my thirst for knowledge.

I was broken from my chain of thoughts by a call.

I picked up and it was from Sakura Airi.

We decided to rendezvous at Keyaki mall.

I made my way their where I found Sakura standing with a purse.She was wearing pink frock and her fake glasses.Her body proportions were considered to be highly rated among females.Nothing less from on of the youngest and popular models in Japan.

I wonder how she was so shy despite her popularity?

Well it's time to get the job done.

She greeted me,"Hello Ayanakoji-kun,I thought you wouldn't come."Her voice was low,hinting her shy nature.

"Well now that I am here,let's head to the store.I do have some business in that shop."I replied in my stoic voice.

"Yes!Let's go."She lead the way while I followed her.Tommorow was weekend so many students were seen relaxing in Keyaki mall.

I did come here two times to just stroll around and it wasn't a bad experience.

As we made our way to the electronics Store Sakura shivered a little.It was faint,but slight fear was visible.She didn't notice it but she had stopped in front of the store,just trembling.

I sighed and put my arm on her shoulder.

She flinced on the sudden touch but calmed down when she heard me say,"Calm down Sakura,If anything happens I'll help you."

Third Person POV

These words didn't mean much to Ayanakoji but Sakura felt something.It was 'warmth'.She was comforted by the presence of the brown haired male.

They moved silently inside the store.Sakura made her way to the counter and ayanakoji followed her.Both were in their casual clothes and one could say that both of them looked good.Still neither of them were too concerned about their looks.

Sakura placed the camera on the counter.The person on the counter looked at the camera,then at Sakura.The moment he saw Sakura a disgusting smile was visible on his face.

"I.. wan..tted to rrepppa..ir m..y ca..mera."Sakura stuttered discomforted by the disgusting grin on the worker's face.

"Oh I see,the damage isn't much."He said with a creepy smile.

Ayanakoji was watching the conversation silently.

"We will need your contact information here."He said looking at Sakura with a smirk.

Sakura took the pen but started trembling.

But she calmed suddenly when ayanakoji took the pen from her and placed one of his hand on her trembling one.

He wrote his own contact number."When the repairs are complete contact me.Ill personally collect them."

The man's smirk fell and started to say,"No we need the buyer's.."

"There isn't any problem if I take it is there.Or do you have a personal problem."Ayanakoji looked at the man showing his eyes of coldness.

The man shivered and quickly took the form for him.

Sakura didn't see this as she was flushing red looking at ayanakoji's hand on hers.She felt 'safe'.

This feeling was new to Sakura.So she wanted to live it.But unfortunately ayanakoji pulled his hand away.

After doing the necessary procedures they exited and sat near refreshment area.

It was awkward silence but none of them complained.The silence was itself much liked by both the parties.Both being loners,they had began to love silence.

But after some minutes ayanakoji felt a little awkward.

Fortunately Sakura broke the silence."Ayanakoji kun I need to ask for an advice if you don't mind."

Ayanakoji looked at her for a moment and asked,"Why me?"

Sakura looked down with a smile on her face,"I don't know,but something tells me to ask you.I think you are the most dependable person in the class.Your eyes calm me down.I just don't know."

Ayanakoji was a little surprised.He was feeling a strange emotion.It wasn't love.He was feeling curious.He had indeed felt curious in the past but this curiosity was different.Because this curiosity confronted with the darkness in the eyes.

Does one feel like this when confronting one's darkness? Ayanakoji thought.

He felt hope.He thought that he could finally feel the warmth other people longed for.

His thoughts went to what kamuro had said to him earlier
"Maybe I consider you as a friend."

He wanted to understand,what does being one's friend mean.He wanted to know are friends supposed to trust each other.

Ayanakoji for the first time in his life,felt excited.

After their chat Ayanakoji and Sakura made their way to their respective dorms.

He made his way to the room.He sat on his bed and took out his phone.

He sent a message to kamuro.Apparently he wanted her to accompany while he went to retrieve sakura's camera.He had a hope that he could find the answer to his question by spending time with her.

Sakura had already paid to the camera shop.He was going to go collect it himself.After what Sakura had told her,he knew that the evidence would give Class D guaranteed victory against Class C.

But was he really going to use the evidence.He began to think,If sudo was suspended,than that wouldn't affect the class as well as sudo much.But if Sudo was expelled the class would fear expulsion and grow and become stronger.Because humans grow faster when they feel threatened.If the threat of expulsion was experienced by his class than maybe they would mature.

If sudo is expelled,he might gain hirata as an ally.And it might increase his influence in the class.

It was time to take things serious.Ayanakoji thought.

He had only one goal.

To put expulsion on table this trial.

(A.N. Sorry if the chapter is short,but this chapters are necessary for people to get insight of ayanakoji's thought.Who knows Ayanakoji might try to expel Sudo.)

Chapter 4-Betrayal?

As today was a weekend,the Keyaki mall was full of students.I made my way to the mall,a woman accompanying me.She was none other than Class A student kamuro Masusmi.People who knew us threw glances at us, probably wondering what a Class A student was doing with a defective Class D one.

Well neither of us were bothered by their thoughts.I simply didn't care.Kamuro might be thinking the same.

I remembered my conversation with Sakura.

Flashback

"I saw the fight between sudo and Class C.I also clicked photo of it which is in my camera."

Their was no change of expression on my face and I just nodded.She might have been surprised seeing me calm as I saw her eyes widen for a fraction of second.

She continued"I just don't want to be involved in this fight,I don't think I have enough courage to stand up for him.Sorry I think I'm a coward." she looked down.

I sighed,"Sakura"I called her in a calm manner.

She looked at me.

"I think you should not worry about the trial.I'll present the photo on your behalf."

She was surprised.She might have thought that I would encourage her,but sorry Sakura, helping you would go against my plan.

I continued,"Sakura I think you shouldn't be involved in this case.You might get pulled into this class conflict and I don't want anything to happen to you."

I saw her blush from my comment.I definitely didn't want this.I'm not a dense idiot.She might be falling for me.But I would have to reject her.Because she won't be able to handle my real self.

Flashback End

Me and kamuro entered the Electronics store.

"Why did you have to call me."Kamuro asked me but there was no irritated expression.It almost looked like she was enjoying our time.

"Isn't that's what friends do?"I replied.

She smiled before replying,"Who knew you would be my first friend here."

Now I was confused.We had been here for almost a month and I was her first friend.She seemed like a outcast.It meant even I was better than her.

Though my friend list was small,I wasn't a loner,not anymore.But it seems she was in the loner category.So that's why she was so comfortable speaking with me.I mean a girl like her would try speaking with a boring guy like me.

Apparently that wasn't the case.I was more friendly than I thought.

We made our way to the counter.The shopkeeper tensed on seeing me remembering our previous meet.Kamuro was busy checking the new camera's so she didn't notice.

Once I collected the camera I made my way outside with kamuro and we sat there.I took seat right next to kamuro.I didn't fail to notice our closeness but I didn't care.But kamuro did care as I saw a slight pink on her cheeks.

I opened the camera and began surfing through the latest photos.

Kamuro looked at me with an angry expression,"Hey pervert,it isn't your camera right so why the hell are you checking her photos."

I just looked at her and said,"Why do you care if I look at other girls."

She was irritated and got up to leave but I stopped her and showed her the photo which would decide the fate of our class.

She looked at me in shock.

Kamuro POV

I looked at the photo in shock.Our teacher had informed us about the Class D Sudo issue last time.It was the same shit that Class C ape had pulled against us.But somehow sakayanagi had pushed the blame on Katsuragi.That shortstack was smart,I agree.But we lost 50 points because of that.I do want to graduate from Class A and if they keep fighting then this may endanger the position of Class
A.

I looked at him somewhat interested.I was a little suspicious of him.Why the hell would he show me this.

Now that I realised he shared everything with me.Maybe he felt comfortable telling me?

I soon realised that he made me feel comfortable.In this school,I carried my cold demeanor but he still kept talking with me.

He never gave up.Did he love me.I could feel myself blushing.

I looked at him and sat down.

I sighed,"Why are you showing this to me?"

He looked down,"I just wanted someone to see this.Horikita wanted that sudo gets suspended so he learns the lesson.She told me to hide this evidence.And I think it isn't fair you know.Sudo getting punished for a thing which he never did."

I looked at him and I actually felt concerned for him.

"So what do you want to do?"I asked him softly.

"Nothing I just wanted to show this to you to get it out of my mind.But I have to agree with horikita,if sudo gets punished he will learn a good lesson.So I won't use this evidence."

He placed the camera on the table.

Then those Class C bastards are going to win again?

He looked at his phone and stood up,"Hey I will be back in a minute it seems I haven't missed some of my details on that Shopkeeper's form."

He left with his phone.My eyes went towards the camera.Suddenly a feeling flowed through my mind.

If Class C suffers damage than it may stop its attempts on attacking other classes.And Ayanakoji's class wasn't seeing it.

Now I understand why horikita was put in Class D.I mean atleast she should have thought something.

When I saw that notice on the forum last month accusing Class D's teacher against keeping information I was honestly surprised.How the hell did the Student Council help Class D.And now that I see,the average of Class D was actually better than Class C.

Their is something in Class D.They are slowly growing.But from what I heard from ayanakoji,if they are not ready to expel other Class students,then they are nothing less than Good hearted Class B trash.

I looked at the camera and I did what I do best.I put the camera in the bag and messaged ayanakoji,

Sakura just collected the camera.She was looking to approach but she was freaking out when she saw me with you.

I doubted if he would believe me,bt I don't care anymore.Because i finally have a chance to prove myself.I am a competent Person.Not a fool.And I will prove it to my parents who look down on me.Then maybe,they will pay attention to me rather than my elder sister.

I have to do it.I have to graduate from Class A.

Even if I have to betray you Ayanakoji-kun

Ayanakoji POV

I read the message from Kamuro.It seems Sakura was shocked seeing me with another girl.

I sighed.She must be worried because I left camera with kamuro.She didn't want anyone seeing her photos.But she already saw me going through her photos then.And I showed one to kamuro too.

How troublesome.Sakura might be angry with me.But she would hate me if she knew what I was going to do now.

But I didn't care.I have to save her for the sake of class.

Even if I have to break her.

I made my way inside the shop towards the man.

He looked at me nervously.

"What do you want now?"he asked with evident fear in his voice.

"You want to meet shizuku?"I asked in monotone voice.

He looked at me with surprised expression.

"What are you talking?"He asked me.

"I'll repeat again,do you want to meet the model Shizuku?"

He looked at me with a disgusting smirk.

"Yes"He whispered.

"I can arrange your meeting with her but on one condition."

"What"He asked me.

"You will go their alone."

Timeskip

I made my way towards the refreshment area.Kamuro was holding her bag and fiddling with her phone.

"Kamuro come on,let's head home."I called out to her.

She looked at me from her phone and nodded.

She looked a little nervous.

We made our way to the dorm.She was unusually quiet about it.When I asked her about it she flinched but denied her nervousness.

I sighed and continued towards the dorm.Once I reached my floor,I bid farewell and went home.I began to cook.

I seriously was tired things have gotten interesting.I think I'm going to get one of my ing to this school wasn't a mistake.

I made my way towards the bed and checked my phone.

I had recieved a message from horikita Suzune.

Trial tommorow after Classes.You and me are accompanying Sudo.Its in the student council room.

Oh the student council is involved.

I typed a message and sent it to the student Council President.

I have changed my plans.I won't expel Sudo this time.He had physical strength necessary for our class.

But from what I am doing tommorow, Horikita will lose her trust in me.Sakura would most probably be wary around me.And Kamuro will soon see a glimpse of my true nature.

The eyes which are capable of destroying someone's mental state.She will soon see my Cold Eyes.

But honestly I didn't care.As I have gotten an answer today.

Friends cannot be trusted.

Everyone puts their selfish agenda's above them.As kamuro did today.

Everything is moving according to my plan.And I will soon have a pawn whom I can move on my own will.

And that pawn will be none other than

Kamuro Masumi

_

(A.N. Hey guys, isn't my ayanakoji darker than the original.LoL.

And let me clear some things.

This story will most probably be one of these

Kamuro x ayano
Matsushita x ayano
Ichinose x ayano
Ibuki x Ayanakoji
Hiyori x Ayanakoji

Sakura, horikita fans I'm Sorry but I honestly can't imagine them with Ayanakoji.

And sorry kei shippers but the original LN relateion between Ayanakoji and kei is wonderful.I don't want to recreate it.So I'll try writing a new ship.

And let me warn you guys, don't get attached to any character.I might expel them in the future.)

Chapter 5-Trial

I was sitting on the bench staring outside.I saw horikita looking at me from corner of my eye.But I wasn't going to engage in conversation with that woman.She is really troublesome person to deal with.

She finally called me,"Calm as usual.What are we going to do in the trial.We got nothing to say in his defence."

I looked at her.She looked defeated. I sighed,I don't want her to be so depressed today.Many hopes lie on her.

"Don't worry too much, just use your words. Don't worry I've got your back if something goes wrong."

She looked at me and she gave a sigh. I bet I saw a smile on her usual irritated face.

Maybe Class D wasn't so bad.All the people were enjoying their time in the school.Was I enjoying?Its a difficult question.My enjoyment comes from my curiosity.The more the answers I find the more I enjoy.

One might wonder why I am so curious.

I am curious because I want to solve the mystery of my own existence.

Chabashira Sensei and Horikita can't grasp my existence because I myself haven't found an answer to it.

Am I just a tool?What it feels to have emotions?Why can't I feel them?

Who am I?

But their is one thing which separates me from the rest of people.

I don't question my own existence.In simple words I don't question why I exist.I am actually glad I exist.

Instead I question the reason of my existence that is for what reason I exist.What ambition should I have?What should I dream?

In simple words I'm searching for a reason to use all my talents.

Human curiosity is wonderful.The more curious you become,the moreyou grow.This is one of the reason I have grown so much.

For one to grow,one needs something to feed on.And I thought my hunger for curiosity defines my existence.But now that I think their is more to myself than just childish curiosity.

Timeskip

The classes ended and it was finally time for the trials.If my plan went as I thought than the trial won't take more than a hour.And I didn't want to stretch it more than that as I had more important matter with Sakura.

I looked at Sakura and she was also looking at me.

I nodded and then looked at the message I had sent yesterday.

Sakura meet me here tommorow at 5 PM.I have your camera but their is a slight problem.

It was a clear lie,but I can't risk anything.To strengthen your heart I need to break it first.

Horikita called me and I followed her.None bothered to look at us as they weren't informed about the trial.

I followed horikita and sudo,they were involved in some kind of conversation.

"Horikita what are we going to say."

Horikita glared at him,"It all depends on luck.Their is no shred of evidence in our side.Even I am feeling helpless.Only verbal argument can save you now."

He then turned to me,"I don't want to sound rude,but why is ayanakoji here.shouldn't we bring someone like hirata.I mean if this is battle of talking we should bring someone like hirata or Kushida right."He spoke and I didn't take any offense.He was somewhat right.

Then an unexpected reply came from horikita's mouth.

"I trust him more than anyone else in the class."

That reply surprised sudo but he kept quiet.

Trust huh.

Horikita trusting me might become your biggest mistake.

_

We reached the clubroom and to horikita's and Sudo's surprise the student council president was attending the meeting himself.

Tachibana Senpai was also present their and she was looking at me curiously.

I just made my way to a seat.

Chabashira sensei and sakagami Sensei appeared after some time.Sakagami sensei was followed by two students.One of them I identified as Ishizaki.

They made their way to the seats on the side opposite to us.

Once everyone settled the student Council President Horikita started.

"So is everyone gathered here.?"His voice meant clear business.

Sakagami Sensei nodded.Chabashira Sensei looked at horikita who was visibly shaking in the presence of her brother.

I sighed and I nodded in her place.

Manabu nodded and looked at tachibana.

She took the file and started speaking,

"According to the complaint lodged by Class C against Class D student 'Ken sudo'.Sudo is accused of attacking Class C students for an unspecified reason.And they demand action against him"

Manabu looked at Class C,

"Is this true?"

Ishizaki nodded.

"So by seeing your injuries it is a serious matter.And as you know violence without any reason in this school is highly punishable offence.It is counted as bullying.And being the student council president I can't allow it.I would like to bring expulsion on the table for this trial."

All hell broke loose.Everyone was looking at president with baffled expression.

He looked at me and smirked but averted his gaze quickly.It went unnoticed by everyone except tachibana Senpai.She stared at me suspiciously.

It seems she was suspicious of me.Not that it mattered to me.It only meant I would have another contact on my phone.

Sudo looked down depressed.

Manabu looked at Class D and asked for our views.Everyone looked at horikita.

But she was sweating and trembling.She was in a world of her own.She never expected her brother to be hear.She became nervous.If this continues than that may affect us.

I sighed and did the only thing which would snap her out of her daze.

I stretched my arms out and grasped her sides as hard as I could.

"Hyah?!" Horikita cried out in an abnormally girlish voice. However,
this was not the time or place for me to focus on that. Since she hadn't yet
regained her sanity, I grabbed her more forcefully and tickled her.

"W-wait. S-stop, stop!"
No matter how upset or dazed a person was, if you stimulated the body enough, they'd come back to her senses. Even if they didn't like it. The
teachers seemed somewhat taken aback by my actions, but right then I didn't care.

When I believed I'd roused her enough, I let go. Horikita, looking like she was about to cry, glared at me with startling intensity. I'd had to force
her, but I knew it was essential to return Horikita to her usual self.

"Get a grip on yourself, Horikita. We're going to lose at this rate. You
have to fight!"

"Tch..."

Horikita, looked at Class C, then the teacher, and then her brother as if
finally understanding our situation. It seemed to dawn on her just how
desperate our situation was.

"Excuse me. May I ask a question?"she said.
"Do you mind, president?"
"I'll allow it. However, please answer more quickly next time."

She looked at the two Class C students,"When and where did the fight take place?"

The other boy with Ishizaki replied,"In the special annex building after the basketball practice."

"Do you know why this fight took place."She asked.

"I don't know the reason,He just called us after practice to accompany him and led us to the deserted building and started beating us.We didn't retaliate as this was against the rules."

"Hey stop lying!you are the one who called me."Sudo yelled.

Ishizaki yelled back at him,"You Stop lying!you called us then punched us first."

Sudo was about to yell when horikita glared at him,"Sudo-kun I'll advice you to keep quiet.Seeing your record it is rather hard to believe you.Considering how you are getting into fights continuosly."

Sudo was surprised.He must be wondering,'On whose side are you horikita.'

But he simply sat down with sweat dripping from his forehead.

The Class C students sighed in relief.But it didn't last for long as horikita continued,

"But I believe their is no mistake of sudo this time.It is actually hard to imagine two students getting beaten bta single student.Moreover it is hard to believe that sudo kun would call you without any reason."

"And why might that be?"Manabu asked.

Horikita looked at him still nervous,"Because I trust him."

Sakagami Sensei started laughing,"That's pure naivety,Do you really think that counts as a proof.Sae their is something seriously wrong with your students."He smirked looking at Chabashira sensei.

Manabu continued,"I have to agree with them,your rebuttal is rather naive.You have no proof that sudo used self defence and you lack any allibi for your claims.The injuries on their faces clearly tell that they were beaten.Isnt that right sakagami Sensei?"

Sakagami nodded.

"Do you have any rebuttal Class D?"

Sudo looked down.But Chabashira Sensei and Horikita looked at me.

I just stared at nothing in particular.

When she saw me gazing down, horikita looked down.

Chabashira Sensei too looked concerned for a moment.

Manabu sighed,"Now then,I have heard everyone,I want to issue expulsion."

Sudo was distraught.I could feel it.

"The student Council hereby issues expulsion to Ishizaki and Komiya from Class C."

Everyone looked at him in surprise.

No one was expecting this. Chabashira sensei had a smirk on her face. Sakagami sensei didn't know what to say and asked, "What are you saying?"

Manabu switched on the projector and showed a image.

Everyone's eyes widened.

The image clearly showed Ishizaki grabbing Sudo's collar and the other boy with his fist up,which almost looked like he was about to hit sudo.

The two Class C students were looking distraught.Obviously this wasn't a part of their plan.

Manabu continued,"So how do you plan to explain this.You clearly mentioned earlier that he pulled the first punch.Were you perhaps by any chance lying?"His voice was intimidating.

Everyone in the room felt that. They began shivering.

Manabu continued, "This was given to me by a student."

Horikita suddenly looked at me.

But what Manabu said next confused her, "That student was from Class A."

Everyone was looking at the president in disbelief.Why would Class A get involved in this matter.But then kind of realisation struck Class C.They had attacked Class A previously in a similar manner.It was perhaps a revenge.

I looked at my watch.It was already 3:39.

Sakagami Sensei asked the president,"Why didn't you say anything earlier or were you actually siding with Class D.This is unfair."

A clever but desperate rebuttal.But this was not enough to corner Horikita Manabu.He simply said,"This evidence was provided by third party so it didn't matter when it is shown or were you planning to lie and win the trial?"

Now sakagami Sensei started sweating.

Chabashira Sensei added to his misery with a smirk,"Now,Now sakagami,It seems you have stooped too low.I wonder how will two expulsions affect your class?"

Sakagami Sensei looked down.It seems they were in a deep mess.

The boy with Ishizaki was starting to tear up.

Manabu continued,"So then I issue expuls.."

But I spoke for the first time in the meeting.

"With all due respect I believe that they shouldn't be penalized with expulsion."

Now everyone looked at me in disbelief.Horikita had a look of betrayal.Sudo was confused.I couldn't see Chabashira Sensei's expression.

Manabu looked at me,"Why?"

"Its simply because the evidence was submitted by third party.We failed to gather evidence.Seeing Sudo's record it is clearly seen that both of them are at equal fault.So I will suggest you only punish Class C for using your time."

A smile was visible on his face.He continued

"It is indeed true,If those who were affected don't have any problem then I have no reason to issue expulsion.But you two are suspended for two weeks and if any such case happens in the future, expulsion would be on table regardless of whoever submits evidence."

The two looked at me with thankful gaze and nodded.Ishizaki looked at me and mouthed me thanks but I didn't pay any attention.

"So I declare this trial over."I got up from my seat before anyone could call me and made my way outside.

But horikita was following me.So I made my way to the passage which ended into a terrace.

Once I reached their,I stopped.

Horikita was right behind me.

She asked,"Ayanakoji kun just what were you trying to do.Why did you revoke their expulsion.I don't understand you at all.All this meeting what was your goal."

"_"I just kept quiet staring at the sky.

She continued but this time her tone was irritated,"Tell me Ayanakoji kun,are you really trying to help Class D.I feel like I've been betrayed.Just what happened in your past to make you like this.Now I'm more than eager to know what Chabashira Sensei was trying to say."

A certain memory played in his mind.

Ayanakoji was seen standing in a row of students and one child was seen clutching his heart and breathing heavily.Ayanakoji just looked at him with the same apathetic expression.

Ayanakoji kept silent.

They both were interupted by the sound of clapping.

The most unexpected person had interupted us.

"I'm truly impressed ayanakoji,The result of the trial was already decided before the trial even started.You kept your end of bargain and surprised me in the end.I agree,I didn't expected you to revoke their expulsion."

This man was none other than The student Council President Horikita Manabu.Tachibana was right beside him.

His sister was shocked listening to all this.But her brother didn't even look at her.Even tachibana had a smile on her face while looking at ayanakoji.

Manabu asked,"Tachibana their is a position open for secretary right.Ayanakoji,join the student council."

Tachibana nodded and looked at me with a smile on her face.She was expecting an anwer.

His sister was far from shocked.All this information was hard for her to process.

I looked at my watch.It was almost time.

"Sorry president I must decline.I just want to live a normal highschool life and this would disrupt it."

Manabu smirked, "You can come anytime ayanakoji, I will accept you."

I nodded and bowed to him and tachibana slightly before leaving the terrace.Manabu and tachibana left with him leaving horikita baffled.

I started to make my way to the location I had told to Sakura.

It seems horikita would not trust me easily from next time and I also have to answer sudo.My stunt to cancel their expulsion will attract me attention from the whole class as sudo would most likely tell everyone what happened in the trial.I might even be accused of collaborating with other classes.But did I really care what they thought of me?

I just have to sacrifice the whole class if they trouble me too much.

_

(A.N. The next chapter would be the concluding one of this volume.And next chapter kamuro might fall head over heels on ayanakoji or she might lose trust in ayanakoji forever.

Its a surprise lol.I love cliffhangers.

And I really can't believe man.I mean everyone wants ayanoXkamuro or ayanoXmatsushita

Lol I can't guarantee you as I have already decided who will be with him.

You have to wait.

Cliffhanger XD)

Epilogue

I made my way towards the location.But when I reached their she was nowhere to be seen.It seems he Really intends to assault her sexually.I took my phone and searched for her location via her school ID.And I found her in one of the alleyways.

I made my way to the alley and I saw that the shopkeeper was about to touch her.I removed my phone and waited for the perfect moment to capture the photo.

Once he pinned her against the wall and she was about to cry I clicked the photo.

"A school employee assaulting a student.I think you are going to be fired from the school."

He looked at me in shock.

He started yelling,"You..you are the one who told me that I can meet Shizuku here.You did all that to trap me here."

Sakura was looking at me with wide eyes.But my current focus was that man.

I walked upto him and grabbed his collar.

"I have already sent this to the school disciplinary office.I wonder when will they come here."

The man started sweating.

And just as I said it two security officials arrived on the scene.They handcuffed the man who was yelling something at Sakura.But I didn't pay any attention to his rambling as he was acting quite pathetic.

Once everyone was gone I looked at Sakura who had now stood up.

I had readied myself for insults from her.

"I'm sorry Sakura,I don't even deserve forgiveness from you.I won't blame you if you want to break our friendship.But I just want to apologise to you."I said to her.

Then Sakura spoke the words which caught me off guard,"I for one second thought that you had betrayed me.Im sorry for thinking that you would betray me.I was scared but now I don't have any reason to be scared.Thanks ayanakoji kun."

When I heard her thanks, uneasiness fell upon my whole body.Just what are emotions?They are more complex than I thought.It seems I need to conquer the emotions of people if I want to understand my existence.

As curiosity inside me rose,it was finally time to confront Kamuro.

_

Meanwhile
Kamuro POV

I made my way out of the class and began to think of my actions these past days.I was feeling guilty of betraying ayanakoji kun.

I remembered my actions of last day

Flashback (Kamuro POV)

I made my way to sakayanagi with the camera in my hands.What would ayanakoji kun think of me now.He considered me as a friend.Will he stop doing so?

No,no matter what,I must do what is necessary.If class C students are expelled than Class C would suffer a huge damage which will consolidate our position of Class A.I didn't expect Class B or Class D as threats as I don't think they can beat her.As much as I hate to admit it, sakayanagi is really a cunning woman.And we need her for Class A.

I found her sitting in her dorm room.Honestly she looked cute in her casual clothes.Her petiteness added to her charm.But her laugh was creepy.

I made my way to the front of her bed.She had had given me a spare key of her room.

"So why did you want to meet me kamuro San?"

She asked.

I took out the camera and showed her the photo.

She looked at me with a creepy grin.

"How did you get this?"she asked

"Does that matter?"I wasn't going to rat ayanakoji's name to her.She is a hassle to deal with.Who knows she might try to expel him.I don't trust her.

She looked at me with a smirk,"So can you atleast tell me,how you found out about this?."

"Huh?What the hell do you mean."

"Did he talk to you about the camera first?"She asked me.

Now that I remember,he did talk.

"Yes."I replied confirming her previous sentence.

"Fu..fu..fu.Just as I suspected."

Huh what the hell was she talking about.

"So I believe you have already submitted this to the council?"

"Yes,I did.But my question is how did you know?."

"Its just my guess.But you are acting on your own like before I see.Dont worry after the trial is over,you will understand my importance and would be loyal to me.Because without me Class A doesn't have a chance."

What the hell was she talking.

I just left thinking over her words.What did she mean?

I had sent the photo already to the student council.If everything goes right,then those two would be expelled.With this I'll prove that I don't need sakayanagi if I have to be in Class A.

But still their was something in mind telling me that I'm going to lose.I don't know why but the feeling still remains.

Flashback Over

(Present Time-Kamuro POV)

I made my way to the school building and what I saw shocked me.Infront of me were the two students who were supposed to be expelled and their were two people with them.One was a tall and a well built student and other I identified as Ryueen Kakeru from Class C.He is rumoured as Class C leader.I decided to eavesdrop.

I heard them talking.

"So you were saying someone from Class A gave the evidence.Tch I should have known that sakayanagi was a bitch."The voice was definitely ryueens.

"We were about to be expelled but that brown haired kid with horikita saved us.I don't know why but thanks to him we were only given suspension."

Wait a minute.Brown haired kid? Ayanakoji?

What the hell is going on.

"Even horikita was surprised,but he still saved us.Horikita was trying to save sudo saying sudo shouldn't be giving any punishment and that all the blame was ours."The other boy with Ishizaki began to say.

Wait a minute ayanakoji said that horikita wanted to suspend sudo to give him a lesson.I don't know what is happening anymore.

"Helped us huh.Find who he is.We might gain a pawn in their class.And it's time to go after Class A now.I will be taking down sakayanagi before she does anything."Ryueen said.

I heard him.He was planning on using Ayanakoji.And more than that he was planning to go on war with class A.This was not part of my plan.I thought if they were expelled Ryueen would stop with this reckless attempts.

Did ayanakoji prevent their expulsion on purpose?To turn the C class against A Class?

No it can't be.Ayanakoji can't think like this.

Wait a minute now that I think about it,he has still not asked me about the camera.Today was school still he did not contact me.Was he waiting for the trial to be over?

No,no no my mind.What the hell is going on.I need to find him.

I took out my phone and sent him a message.

I left the school building and went to road Section B.

Their is saw the figure of ayanakoji standing with his hands in his pockets.

Ayanakoji POV

As expected kamuro had messaged me.The passage was deserted.Raindrops were starting to fall.

I remembered what I had done during this test.

I had purposely manipulated kamuro in stealing the evidence and presenting it on my behalf.I did this for three reasons.

First I wanted to test kamuro's loyalty.Second I wanted to shift attention of Class C to Class A so that Class D continues to take advantage of their losses during their fight.And third I wanted to check kamuro's ability.She did perfectly as I manipulated her.

Then I had a little chat with Horikita manabu that night.

Flashback

" Hello horikita Senpai."

"Who is this?"

"I'm Ayanakoji kiyotaka."

"I expected your call sooner or later.So what are you going to do ayanakoji."

"Senpai the evidence you have received,I would be pleased if you show it in the last.Also put expulsion on the line."

"Oh how did you know I have gotten the evidence.It seems you have a hand in that too.Splendid Ayanakoji.But you know it very well,that I don't do things for free."

"Senpai if listen to my wish I promise to entertain you tommorow's trial.Who knows you might find out more about me.And from what I know,you are trying to find information about me."

"You are right ayanakoji.To know your true talent,I'm ready to give you this favour.Now I know how your class performed so well in the Midterms."

"Senpai you are paying too much attention to our class."

Manabu just chuckled.

"Fine I'll do your favour,but you better entertain me Ayanakoji.I will do anything to know your talent.Afterall I need someone to take the position of school council president after me."

Flashback Over

I sighed.It seems he is too much interested in learning about me.He is not saying but he clearly cares about his sister a lot.

Both are the same, Tsundere Siblings.

Now the last question one might ask.

Why did I cancel the expulsion of Class C students.

Now that is a easy one.

I wanted Class C to grow and I gave them a chance.In this three years I don't want to be bored.Ill help that Class grow and force them to take the battles to next level.

Such childish attacks don't interest me.I will make the competition tougher.Because in the end I don't care whichever class wins.

As long as I live in peace thats all that matters to me.

_

Third Person POV

Kamuro stood behind ayanakoji.Ayanakoji was staring at sky.

She called to him,"Ayanakoji kun."

Ayanakoji continued to look at the sky.

"You manipulated me didn't you.You made me purposely steal the camera and made me the centre of this trial.You lied to me about horikita wanting to suspend sudo.You predicted everything and I was like a puppet dancing on your strings."

Kamuro didn't feel any anger in her while she was saying this.She didn't know how to feel.

All this time she felt guilty because she felt she had betrayed ayanakoji,but now it seems that she was the one betrayed.

Tears were threatening to fall from her eyes.

She decided to pick up the courage courage and ask the question which was stinging her.

"Ayanakoji-kun,do you consider me as a friend?"

Ayanakoji for the first time looked at her and made his way towards her.

Tears were going down kamuro's cheek.Ayanakoji wiped them and said.

"Yes kamuro,I consider you as a friend."

A warm feeling enveloped kamuro.

She now knew,she was in love with Ayanakoji Kiyotaka.

_

Meanwhile

Sakayanagi is seen sitting on her bed.She sees her phone and smirks.

"As I figured out kamuro was used.His plan was flawless.Now the question is who is he.Maybe I might find something interesting in my school life.I better warn kamuro.He might not even consider kamuro as a friend anymore."

Sakayanagi chuckles and sees her phone,"Oh it seems this summer vacations their is going to be a surprise for the students."

(A.N So here we go guys.The second volume is over.Kamuros route is complete.She is in love with him.kind of because in later volumes her true feelings about ayanokouji are revealed

Next Volume route will be Ibuki's .

So how was this volume.This volume was shorter than the previous one because I wanted to focus this volume on kamuro.I also wanted to reveal what ayanakoji thinks.

Do tell me how it was.)

Special Chapter-The mysterious Kouhai

(A.N. I am posting these because I will be directly jumping to the exam next volume.So just to clear some important conversations between characters.For example this chapter mentions the name of Nagumo for the first time.)

Tachibana POV

I just left ayanakoji kun on the terrace and me and Horikita San were walking together.

I decided to ask him a question,"President I was quite surprised when ayanakoji kun denied your offer."

President adjusted his glasses,"I expected him to,I can't say anything about him till I know what exactly he is after."

"Huh.What do you mean?"I asked clearly confused.

"Haven't you noticed.In all the meeting he was quiet but he decided to speak at the end and that too to save the C Class.Why do you you think will he do that?"

I started to think then a sudden realisation hit her,"Is he planning to betray his own Class?Don't tell me he decided to work for C Class."

Manabu just chuckled,"You are not wrong tachibana.He is safeguarding himself."

"Huh safeguarding from whom?"I asked not understanding what he meant.

"He is safeguarding himself from his own Class."

"Huh?I..I don't get it."I stuttered.

"He is slowly expanding his network in other classes.He has some kind of goal in his mind.And I'm trying to decipher that goal."

"This..this boy is really something."I said.

"He doesn't trust his own classmates."Manabu spoke.

"No trust,huh.But how come he doesn't trust his own comrades."I spoke

"Who knows what made him like this?"He gave me a question in reply.

I sighed.

What if I change his mindset.And make him believe to trust his comrades.

The amount of trust me and Horikita San put in each other is enormous.And that has made our relationship more beautiful.

But the question is how do I change this boy,when I know nothing about him.

Judging by his looks,he is a top tier Ikeman.But his bored expression degrades his appearance.

I would prefer Manabu San over him.But he interests me.

I mean it's not everyday,A Class D student gets the recognition of Horikita San.

And lately nagumo's movement has increased and that is one of horikita-sans problem.I wonder if horikita San really wants Ayanakoji to become the president.

I mean ayanakoji kun has the ability in academics as horikita San told me last week.But academics don't define a person.He must be perfect like Horikita San.

From that I remembered,there is going to be a special Exam for the first years.

I might discover his real ability in that exams.

But it means I will also be spending more time with horikita San.

I sighed.Calm your horses tachibana.
_

( A.N . I will be doing these specials as I will be skipping some volumes.For examples I won't be doing .5 or .75 volumes.And as karuizawa kei is not a part of ayanakoji's interests I may skip volume 4.Honestly speaking Volume 4 special exam is too difficult to understand lol)

Volume 3

As a Special Exam begins,what will happen when Ryueen meets Ayanakoji.After being isolated by the whole class can Ayanakoji still live his life in peace?

https//watch?v=Momh3QdzuWc

( A.N . The song or the video doesn't belong to me)

_

(A.N. Hey guys sorry but I'm not the best in writing descriptions)

Chapter 1-Freedom

All the students had boarded the luxury liner today at 5 AM. It was nearly 3PM and I was headed to a certain location in the ship. Apparently Chabashira Sensei had called me.I began thinking of the reasons she might call me. And the bigger question was why me? I was obviously a little suspicious of her intentions.

On my way to meet my Homeroom teacher my eyes met kamuro's. I remembered our confrontation two weeks ago. We were now friends, at least I would like to believe that way.

"Oh Hello Ayanokouji Kun, where are you headed to."

Well no use hiding it from her.

"Chabashira Sensei has called me to rendezvous with her." I said.

She had a surprised look on her face and asked me,

"Did you do something?"

"I don't remember doing anything apart from normal." I replied nonchalantly.

She shrugged "What is your obsession with doing normal things. It is unhealthy at this point."

Is it my obsession? But I didn't mind. Because for once I actually have freedom to be normal and I'm enjoying it to fullest.

I sighed, "It doesn't matter, does it now?"

She chuckled, "Now that you say, it doesn't."

She continued, "So why are you alone? This trip I didn't see anyone with you from your class."

That is true. The news that I saved C Class students from expulsion spread like wildfire and my classmates are suspecting that I'm cooperating with other class. Therefore I've basically been isolated from the class. Only hirata and Kushida speak with me. But at least I got Kamuro and Chihiro to speak to right?

But that also means if in future someone decides to betray the class, I would be accused first. I sighed, things are surely getting a lot complicated than I want them to. And in future a exam might come in which expelling someone might be the goal. Than I would most likely branded as traitor and they would expel me. Then things might get hard for me. And I prefer things easier.

Ishizaki had contacted me after the trial and we had chatted a bit. But I knew his true goal and trying to make me his pawn would be a huge mistake on his part. Because I won't hesitate to destroy him in the future.

"The news that I saved the C Class students has reached everyone's ears, so I have secured a spot in the D class Blacklist officially" I said to her.

She chuckled, "What else do you expect from them. They can't stand a chance against you. Even I was not able to understand your true motive."

Yes it it true. Kamuro has an idea of my strength but our relationship is in a neutral state right now. So I don't mind talking with her a bit.

"Is a ordinary life too much for me to ask?" I asked her while throwing a sideways glance to Ishizaki who was stalking me. He thought I hadn't noticed and I would prefer to keep things that way.

"Can a extraordinary person like you really think of having one." She teased me.

"You are overestimating me." I said nonchalantly.

"Oh I have every right to praise my first and only friend in this school." She replied.

I sighed, she really was a loner. I think that's why she enjoyed speaking to me. No one likes to be alone. She just tries to hide it. But she seems more happier since our confrontation. I mean I know we are friends but earlier she used to get irritated while talking to me. Now it seems like talking to me is the happiest thing for her.

So have I finally succeeded in making a friend? And truthfully speaking I don't mind talking to her.

"What about you?" I asked.

"As usual, Katsuragi and Sakayanagi fighting like dogs."

Wow, this girl doesn't hesitate to insult anyone.

"You know you shouldn't be telling me this things. We still belong to different classes "I advised her.

"But does it matter. If it's you than you will find out one way or the another."She retorted back.

What the hell was this girl expecting from me. Am I some kind of God or what?

"But Ayanakouji kun, you should be on your guard. Sakayanagi is too sharp. She will know at once when you act. And I fear she might expel you."

So this Sakayanagi person was this good huh? I should look out for possible attacks now.

"I'll see about it. Well I'll be on my way then." She nodded and I continued on my way to where Chabashira Sensei had called me.

If you ask me then the ship was really huge. Truth to be told it was my first time on a ship. I entered the ampitheatre. The curtains were closed and their wasn't a single soul present thre except Chabashira Sae aka my Homeroom teacher.

I made my way to where she was sitting and faced her.

"Are you enjoying your summer ayanakoji kun.?"

"Yes, I am." I replied with my stoic face and eyes searching hers for any kind of deception.

She chuckled, "You know, their is going to be a exam this vacation." Why was she telling me this? She has no reason to unless..

"2 days ago a certain someone called me. He told me to expel Kiyotaka Ayanakouji."

Third Person POV

Ayanakouji's golden eyes contrasted the darkness of the ampitheatre. Sensei didn't dare look him in the eyes and continued, "If you don't give satisfactory results this special exam, I may have to stop protecting you from him and expel you."

Ayanakouji asked in a intimidating tone, "Why should I believe you."

"Its your choice, but if you really want to protect your freedom, then reach A Class for me."

Ayanokouji grabbed her collar, "What are you up to Chabashira Sensei. You are indirectly exploiting your position and threatening a student."

Chabashira Sensei calmly retorted, "I don't care if it helps me reach Class A."

Chabashira Sensei was unsure but she was risking this gamble. Because he was the only one who could take the Class to the top.

_

Time skip ( Third Person POV)

Ayanokouji was standing in a unspecified location in the ship. It was night and no one was awake. Apparently Ishizaki had called him here. He didn't know why he was called but he had his suspicions.

He was waiting their and thinking about what Chabashira sensei told him. If what she was saying true than he must have reached here.

The thing he wanted, freedom was being denied to him again.

He sighed and looked at the dark sky.

As he was waiting a figure appeared. He was a young man of average height with shoulder-length magenta hair that is styled on either side and sharp magenta eyes that could strike fear onto anyone he met. His slim and muscular physique was an addition to his

Ayanokouji POV

He stood in front of me.

"So you are the one who helped us, huh." He started speaking.

"What do you mean?" I asked denying his suspicions.

"You are the one who cancelled their expulsions."

I replied casually, "Yes, but who are you"

He just laughed, "kukuku...ku"

"Say what is your name." I asked him again.

"Call me Ryuuen Kakeru. I wanted to thank you for that day."

"Uh your welcome then, and I thought I was going to meet Ishizaki."I said.

He started laughing again, "I have been keeping an eye on you for the last few days. Those Class D fools sure are an nuisance to you aren't they?"

So that's why Ishizaki was stalking me.

"Sorry but I can't comment on that." I said calmly to which he laughed again and said

"Don't lie to me Kay, I mean if I was in your place, I would have abandoned them long back. Say why don't you work for me?"

"Sorry I have to decline, I helped him out of pure goodwill." I lied and attempted to escape but he put a hand on my shoulder.

"Who said you had a choice." He said in a serious tone.

"Ibuki come out." He called out to the person who was hiding nearby.

I had spotted her some time ago but I decided to keep silent. So her name was ibuki huh.

From there came a teenage girl of average height with short blue hair that had single small hair strand sticking up and her purple eyes complimented her appearance. She came out with a phone in her hand. She handed Ryuuen the phone.

Ryuuen took the phone and sent a image to someone.

When my phone ringed I understood that he sent this image to me. But how did he get my number. Ishizaki seems to have ratted out my contact details to him.

I opened the file and it was an image. A troublesome one at that

Of me standing with Ryuuen.

"You were doomed the moment you decided to meet me Ayanakouji. I wonder what will happen if this image spreads. Suspicions are already their that you are a traitor. If this photo circulates then the suspicions will be confirmed."

So this was his plot huh, Blackmailing me. It wasn't a bad idea if it was executed more properly. I could have easily sabotaged there plan by misleading ishizaki. Ryuuen is certainly a cunning person but not as strong as I thought.

The moment I met Ryuuen, ibuki clicked the picture of us standing there. A clever strategy which blocked all my chances to escape because I decided to ignore it.

"What is the meaning of this. I prevented their expulsion" I tried to act like a good person.

He started laughing, "Kukuku,Do you think I care. Out of gratitude I'm ready to give you 50000 points every month. Isn't that enough?"

He tightened his grip on my shoulder, "And I don't think you are in any position to question me."

I could see ibuki looking down and I could hear her mutter sorry to me.

I looked down and sighed, "I understand."

"Then we are good, don't worry once we reach Class A I will gladly take you in our class. If I feel like it. Act like I say, and don't act smart or I'll make you regret messing with me." Ryueen said.

It seems everyone in this school wants to take my freedom from me huh. This is going to be hard. Ibuki, huh. Ryueen you are making a mistake by trying to manipulate me.

Because I don't have a heart which can be manipulated.

_

(A.N. Hello another volume begins. This might have more chapters. But I have planned what is going to happen so just keep reading.)

Chapter 2-Plans

It seems Ryūen has made me one of his pawn. At least that's what he is thinking. As Horikita has lost the trust she had in me, I need someone else. Another operator, but it is difficult to find one in our class. Hirata is no option. Kushida isn't trustable.

The only options which remain are Karuizawa Kei and a girl whose name is Matsushita Chiaki. But if I decide to use Matsushita then I would have to sacrifice Horikita, well things are definitely getting harder.

Why do I think Matsushita is important? Because she is holding back. At least that's what Horikita told me. But Horikita is yet to confront her. And the fact that she is holding back is known by only me and Horikita. But Horikita will surely take action impatiently. Therefore, I just have to gain her ability this exam.

It will be a hard one. Entertaining Ryūen and controlling my situation in the Class. But not that I have got any choice.

I sighed and made my way to the restaurant on the deck. Several Class D students shot me glares. It seems they still are suspicious of me. Not that I care. Silence is definitely more enjoyable.

I made way to sit at the table alone. I was quite surprised, although they suspected me, no one confronted me. It seems they believe in lies rather than asking me.

Thankfully I had Kamuro to talk to now. As I expected she made her way to my table. I had no problem being seen by people. Does it matter? She in Class A and me in Class D. It may increase suspicions. But seriously I don't want to remain alone for the whole Summer.

We started talking about trivial things. I actually talked more this time. This was a good change, I noted. When we were in middle of talking,

A person approached us, it was Katsuragi from Class A. He started speaking,

"Kamuro San, being the Class representative, I must ask you why are you here with Ayanokouji Kun."

How troublesome.

"I believe I have full freedom to choose who I want to be with Katsuragi. "Kamuro retorted.

He sighed and turned to me.

"I can't trust you." He said bluntly.

"Oh, sorry then." I replied nonchalantly.

He eyed me for few seconds and turned back to go to where the rest of A class was sitting.

"Now you know why I haven't made any friend in my class. They always keep talking about class points and strategies that they don't even care for someone's privacy. And even Sakayanagi is more tolerable than that Baldy."

Katsuragi was within range and heard Kamuro. Baldy huh, the description was quite accurate but I don't think Katsuragi was pleased. And I was right Katsuragi looked at her, but he was calm. But another A Class student didn't take it nicely enough.

"What did you say to Katsuragi San?"

He moved to grab Kamuro's hand but before he could touch her, I grabbed his and tightened my grip.

"Are you really a A Grade student, you were about to hurt a girl if I'm not wrong."

The student was shocked at my strength as he was not able to move his hand but kept quiet and looked down in shame when he realised what he had tried to do.

Katsuragi looked at him and told him, "Yahiko you should control your anger and don't ever raise your hand without any valid reason. Now go back I need to have some words with this boy."

He wanted to have words with me?

It seems I haven't yet realised but all eyes were on our table. Even my classmates were looking at the exchange between me, Yahiko and Katsuragi. They must be thinking, the quietest person in the class had silenced a Class A student. Well, hirata was about to approach me, to save me maybe, but he too had stopped when I grabbed Yahiko's hand.

Katsuragi approached me, "You are quite strong" He said.

I sighed, "I used to practice piano and calligraphy."

Katsuragi stared at me like I was joking. Well, it isn't a joke, I used to practice piano.

He sighed and said, "It seems I can't take Class D for granted" and he exited from there.

I turned back to Kamuro and she was red.

I touched her head, "huh" she yelped.

"Are you okay, your face is heating up."

She looked away, "Shut up idiot." and left the seat. And turned back once and said, "Thanks for saving me"

"Hmm" I nodded confused by the situation playing before me.

As I was contemplating what was happening Chihiro and ichinose approached me.

"Ayanokouji you are too dense for your own good." Ichinose said.

"I have to agree with her." Chihiro nodded.

"Can anyone tell me what's going on." I asked.

They sighed and took a seat at my table. Everyone was stealing glances at our trio. I mean nearly everyone in the restaurant. I have somewhat turned into the most popular person in the year. I could imagine yamauchi and Ike making plans to murder me. An idiot like me spending time with the most appealing girls in the school year.

This has turned into a hassle. Having popular friends makes you popular. I mentally noted. We started chatting and the conversation moved on till I stood up and bid them farewell.

I continued to move around the ship and I met the person who I didn't want to.

"You seem to be enjoying your summer." she said to me.

I sighed, "Why, aren't you too enjoying the cruise."

"I don't have time for it, this cruise is more suspicious then enjoyable" She replied while staring at the sea.

"Don't lie, you aren't feeling well are you Horikita." I called out to her.

She coldly retorted, "I don't remember asking you about my health Ayanokouji Kun."

I sighed and leaned against a nearby railing. Tomorrow we were going to reach the island. If what sensei was telling was the truth than we will have an exam on that island.

In this exam my objectives are simple.

Take care of Ryūen. Gain Matsushita's co-operation. And final, lend class D a hand. This exam is going to be trouble, because I may need to sacrifice Horikita.

_

Ryūen POV

"Did you see that Ayanokouji hold his hand. Man, he must be strong." Ishizaki said to me.

Ibuki just tched.

I started laughing and said," In a fight strength doesn't matter, what matters is the heart of the one fighting. Hats because if he comes in front of him, I'll destroy him."

Ichinose POV

So Ayanokouji is strong too. It seems I need to watch out for him. That's what Hoshinomiya sensei told me.

If he is threat for my class, I must protect my class at all cost.

"Ichinose you are in deep thought." Shibata called me.

"Nothing I'm just wondering about D Class." I said to him.

"You too huh." Kanzaki called out.

"Huh what do you mean." I asked. Chuckling at the fact that we were thinking the same.

He too said with a smirk on a face, "Ayanokouji from that class is a weird student. First, he saves that C class kids and now he went against Yahiko. We need to watch out for him."

Shibata and I nodded. Only time will tell what the future has for us.

Kamuro POV

I was lying on my bed thinking about today's events. He saved me.

He was definitely the one for me

No, I need to control myself. I have seen his strength. If I want to graduate from Class A, I need to win against him. And that's why at any reason I'm going to help Class A defeat Class D even if I have to partner with that Sakayanagi.

Because I still have to be acknowledged by my parents. That's my goal for coming to the school. And I won't let anyone destroy it, even if its Ayanokouji.

But at what level I am now, I can't defeat him. I have to grow strong. I need Sakayanagi's help.

Matsushita POV

Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, an average student by the looks of it. Somehow, I feel he is hiding something. And he knows something about me too.

Because before he grabbed that A class student's hand, he looked at me than tightened his hand. Was he showing me his strength? It's like he wanted to show his strength to me, that's why he blocked the blow at the first place.

But the question is if I wasn't there at that time, would he have saved Kamuro?

( A.N. Sorry for the short chapter but this chapter was for introducing Matsushita into the plot.

Dark Ayanakoji grins.LoL.

Well why don't you answer the question from Matsushita's monologue. :)

And thanks for your support and see you next time)

Chapter 3-Special Exam-Part 1

I made my way out and gazed at the scenery. The island was in sight. It was half past ten in the morning and we just had our breakfast. But the strange thing was, there was a helicopter standing there, Along with tents at the beach. I had a rough idea what this exam would be about.

I sighed; it would be a hard one. The ship took a turn, most probably to circle around the island and that's what happened. The beach was clean. It felt as if no tourist had come here.

As we reached the shore, we got ready to disembark. As I made way to my class, I was shot with suspicious glares. I mean I just prevented the expulsion of two students. It's not that big of issue.

But actually, their attitude was right. You need to be suspicious, because you don't know when you might get betrayed.

Although some students like Sakura, sotomura and Horikita did talk to me. Well, Horikita only asked questions. She didn't trust me, so she tried to get answers from me didn't mind answering her. I too need to help her a little. Leading a whole class in which nearly half are idiots is not a child's play.

We disembarked according to the rankings. Of course, my Class was the last to leave. I made my way outside the deck and was greeted by Ike.

"Yo Ayanokouji, we need to talk something important with you."

I looked behind him to see exactly who 'we' were. Then I saw the figure of yamauchi and he didn't look happy. He was holding gripping his hands tightly. It seems he was angry on me for some reason.

And when I followed them where there were comparatively less people.

"So Ayanokouji care answering us." Yamauchi asked me.

"Huh what?" I asked not understanding why those idiots are seeking my presence.

"How the hell do you know so many girls. How do you get them, tell us the secret?" Ike practically shouted.

The girls whose ears were in range of our conversation looked at us with disgust. But the boys their looked at me with anticipation. It seems the whole year was jealous of me talking to ichinose.

And if that was not enough a certain teacher heard us. And that was the worst outcome. In moments she was beside me.

"Oh my, don't you know? Ayanokouji Kun is a womaniser."

This woman was none other than the Class B homeroom teacher Hoshinomiya Chie. My previous encounter with her, was not so normal.

"Morning sensei, I'll be off now, Horikita called me." I attempted to escape, but she cut my routes.

How one might ask?

She came closer to me, till we were inches away from each other.

Her chest was touching my body. I wasn't worried of that after spending so much time with girls. But I was worried about the boys who were literally glaring at me and the girls who were looking at me with utter disgust.

I heard someone say, "That boy, he even ensnared our sensei."

"I'm going to kill him." I heard another saying.

I gulped. It seems my existence is been threatened by an alcoholic 30-year-old woman.

"So Ayanokouji Kun if you feel alone during this trip, come to me, I'll give you dating tips. I'm known for rejecting a hundred men. "She said with pride in her voice.

But then another voice was heard behind her. "Don't lie to them Chie, you are known to be rejected by hundred men because they couldn't handle your childishness."

Everyone sweat dropped on their conversation. It's not every day you see two teachers arguing like kids.

"Oh Sae, I was counselling Ayanokouji Kun with his love life."

Chabashira grabbed her by her collar and began dragging her towards the podium set up on the beach. I sighed but when I looked back, I saw yamauchi and other boys glaring at me with an evil smirk on their face. The girls had left already. I was in some deep trouble.

Time Skip

Ayanokouji POV

All the students from first year were standing on the beach. It seems Mashima Sensei, the homeroom teacher of Class A was about to announce something. It must be about the exam sensei told. I could see Ibuki come and stand beside me. What the hell. I could see some boys looking at us. It was like I had a girl from every class.

Even Horikita was glaring at me. I turned to ibuki, "What?".

She just saw my face and tched as she slipped a note in my pocket. No one saw her do it. It seems she was good in such things. It would be useful in future. She will make the perfect spy. But I don't plan on using her, at least not anytime soon, she is Ryūen's ace.

But I was wrong. Someone had managed to notice her slipping the paper. As the said person stared at me with suspicion.

It was Matsushita Chiaki. It seems she was paying close attention to us. Her observing skills were excellent. She might give me a challenge in that aspect.

She might be the most important asset if I gain her but my primary would be Kamuro. As she is my link to Class A. I need to help other classes so they pose a challenge to A class. But I'm personally against going after Ichinose as truthfully speaking her class is still an unknown element to me. I have to be patient and focus on expanding my control.

Class C is the most interesting but Ryūen seems to be fixated on using violence. It seems he knows no fear that someone might be stronger than him. It would be surely troublesome.

Looking at Class D our class is too weak. For our class to properly rise, I would need to eliminate unwanted people. Currently yamauchi ranks first in it. And that's the reason I'm so close to Kamuro. She is an honours student with midterm grades at an average of 90s. Her physical strength is yet to be seen, but as long as she follows me, I don't have any problem.

But to properly make her mine, I need to understand what's bugging her. She seems too fixed on something. And I need to find out the reason. I sighed and made my way to the back of the crowd not before signalling to matsushita. She followed me without any questions. It seems she was also curious about me.

I had purposely stared at her while blocking Yahiko's hand back at the ship. Being the observant one she read too much in the situation. She wanted answers. And I won't be denying her any as long as it doesn't affect me.

Of course, if she hadn't been there, I would still have saved Kamuro. After all I can't deny the fact that she was my first friend in this school.

We stood in front of each other, she was observing my every movement.

I sighed and called her, "Matsushita."

There were less people at this part of the beach. The D class students were at the front. So, we weren't visible. Boys who were near us were ignoring us as they had become quite used to me being with other girls.

"What did that Class C girl give you Ayanokouji Kun." she asked.

I sighed and gave her the paper which ibuki had given me. I had to start building trust.

She was shocked after reading the words.

Separate from the class group and follow when the signal is given.

Matsushita looked at me with questioning gaze. But I was unfazed.

"Are you perhaps really co-operating with C Class Ayanokouji Kun."

I looked at her for few seconds trying to read her expression. She was good in hiding it. Even I had to see it for few seconds before recognizing it.

She wasn't suspicious of me. It felt like she didn't care if I collaborate with other class. I began to doubt if she even cared for this class to reach Class A. I understood her. She didn't care about the class. She was actually curious about why I was collaborating.

She saw ahead of me. If Horikita was in her place she would have thought I was betraying her. But this girl was smarter. She understood my situation. I was in such a position that I could crush both C Class and D class at one go. I just have to provide wrong information to Class. Information is the most important and crucial thing in a battle.

I had no doubt. This girl was definitely more cunning than Horikita. She might easily be the best asset in the class. And she made the perfect scapegoat for me. If a time comes when my livelihood in the class is threatened, I will use her to protect my position.

I valued her at par with Kamuro. Kamuro had a lot to grow. I will turn her into a force to be reckoned with. Matsushita and Horikita will be my most valuable pieces in this exam. But unfortunately, only one of them will be important for the victory of this class. Horikita will just be a sacrifice, to complete my goal. Yes, I have my objective set.

I need to remove Horikita and replace Matsushita as the new class leader.

_

Matsushita POV

I made my way where my class was standing. I remembered the conversation me and Ayanokouji had just now. Shinohara waved towards me. She was standing with Karuizawa and Kushida. I don't know why, but Ayanokouji Kun told me to keep an eye on Kushida san.

But the strange thing was I accepted it. Something told me that this man was far smarter than he looked. But I didn't trust him. He must have shown me the paper as an attempt to fool me. Or was he testing me?

This man is too much of mystery. I pondered over the conversation we had few minutes ago.

Flashback

Ayanokouji Kun looked at me and said, "I'm going to backstab C class for D class to win." His voice was low so that only I could hear.

But why was he telling me this. Did he need my help?

But he is taking a huge risk. Backstabbing C class is no deal. They will definitely take things to expulsion like what had transpired in Sudou's case. He told that Ayanokouji had prevented the expulsions of those C class students.

My classmates being complete idiots started suspecting him of betraying the class. But they didn't see the bigger scenario. If we use our cards right, we can destroy Class C in one go.

I looked at him in anticipation for him to continue.

"I need you to become the leader of the class."

Flashback Over

I don't mind being one. As long as I had control over this class, I also had a chance to make my own plans. But first I have to evaluate Aynaokouji's he really capable of going against other classes. If I become Class leader, I will have more freedom to use my talents. And I won't have a Reason to hold back.

It seems my High school Life was about to get more interesting than it was till now.

( A.N . Hey, what's up. It seems this exam will finally declare the fate of D class. And I won't be doing volume 4 Exam, because Karuizawa kei is not their as the main girl so I have no reason to. I will be directly jumping to Sports festival arc after this exam . So I just wanted to announce this.)

Chapter 4-Special Exam-Part 2

Mashima Sensei stood in front of us.Everyone was looking at him.I was back in the row where D class was standing.Matsushita looked in deep thought.She might be thinking about my words.

But I need to keep an eye on her.If she decides to threaten my secrets than it may cause me problems.Horikita mustn't know about my secrets.It would be troublesome for me.

Mashima Sensei looked at all the classes standing with anticipation.

He took a megaphone and started speaking,"Starting today all the First years will be taking a special Exam."

Gasps of surprise could be heard all over the place.No one had anticipated such events.

Ike was bickering about how it was unfair to the students and the school was cheating on them by saying they were supposed to be on a vacation.

But he was insulted ruthlessly by Chabashira Sensei which made him quiet down in a moment.

Sensei continued, "When this special test period is over, each class' remaining points will be added to their total class points.Your point totals will reflect this change once summer vacation is over."

As he spoke, a gust of wind blew across the beach and kicked up a cloud of dust.

He basically meant that Class D had a chance of gaining some solid points to reduce the distance between Class C and them.

"So if we can endure this for one week, then starting next month we could see a huge increase in our allowance?!" Ike asked.That's right...This wasn't a competition to test our scholarly abilities,but our endurance.If we managed to curb our basic desires, we might get closer to being the top class. "Each class will receive one copy of the manual. If the manual is lost,you may have another copy.However, it will consume points,so please be very careful. Also,the student who was marked absent from this trip was from Class A.According to the rules of this special test, should any student have to leave due to illness, there will be a thirty-point penalty to the class as a whole.Therefore, Class A will be starting with 270 points."

Class A students started talking among themselves not happy with the current events.

But kamuro on the other hand looked completely calm.Its as if she knew of this exam.Had someone told her?I had heard sakayanagi is in battle with katsuragi to assert leadership over Class A.But kamuro was sakayanagi's follower.How did sakayanagi knew about this exam.It surely is confusing.The most possible reason must be that she was informed by someone from the staff.It puts the teachers at the most suspicioun.

I sighed,perhaps I'm reading too much into the situation.Mashima Sensei continued the explanation.

"I will now hand out wristwatches to every one of you.You are not to take them off until the end of the test. If you remove your wristwatch without permission,you will be punished.This watch doesn't just tell time.Its sensors also check your body temperature,your pulse,and even your equipped with a GPS.Also,in the off chance something bad does happen, this watch comes equipped with the means to notify the school.If you find yourself in an emergency situation, please do not hesitate to push that button."

So basically the watches were to look after the students.The chances of a violent fight breaking out is low.But the chance is still their.

We could prepare for anything with our points.Apparently anyone could request something,and just report to their homeroom teacher in order to use points to purchase it.

"Chabashira-sensei,can I ask you something?In the event that someone were to retire after we had already used all 300 points,what would happen?"asked Matsushita,her hand raised.

"In that case,all that would increase is the number of people forced to retire.Your points can't be changed any more after reaching zero."

As Mashima sensei explained further everything became clearer.

The students of my class were arguing about the toilet issue.We could use our points to buy certain things from the manual.And Portable toilet was one of those items.

Looking at the situation of the class,this exam was going to be one of the biggest challenge.The class was split into two groups.

The girls were adamant on using points for daily necessities while boys suggested that they should save as much points as possible.

Honestly speaking boys were being stupid,it's not like we were wild animals to survive without basic facilities in forest.They should limit what they want to use.

Its the best way out of this situation.But who is going to listen to a person who saved Two Class C idiots.

I sighed.Its better to stay quiet and go along the flow.

Class A had already left but the other classes were still discussing.Is this the difference between A and others.

I have to make my move into Class C this exam.If everything goes by the best case scenario then I would complete my most important task.

That task will cost me my relationship with her,but at this point I didn't care.

After some arguments a portable toilet was to be kept.I was relieved.Hygenie mustn't be compromised at any cost.

Phones weren't allowed.It made things a little harder for my plan.But I had somewhat expected it.I may have to acquire some points for certain equipments.

I sighed and started following the class who had started to venture in search for spots.The mood of class was a little down.No one had expected this test.

Horikita started walking beside me,"What are you upto this time ayanakoji kun?"

I looked at her,"I'm enjoying my vacation."

She looked at me with disbelief but sighed.

I asked her,"What about you?It doesn't look the same for you."

"Since when do you care about me?"She asked me.

I sighed,"Horikita,you should look after your health.You are important for this class.And I'm sorry."I genuinely apologised.

She was surprised but she looked ahead staying silent.

Horikita I wanted to apologise for what I'm going to do this exam and I genuinely meant it.

It seems there are not going to be any expulsions this exam.Acquiring points by acquiring spots seems simple.But when we take class competition into consideration the scenario changes.

This test is going to hard.I have to remain in the shadows.Because if I come in the frontlines,then I might not have freedom.And I'm ready to do anything for the sake of it.After spending 15 years as a tool of that man,it's time I fight for my freedom.Even if it means expelling someone.

Timeskip

We had reached deep into the forests.Chabashira sensei was accompanying us.She had not even glanced at me since the test begin.It seems she is still scared of me.My eyes told her what she needed to be told.

"We should decide our leader first before we search for the spots."Kushida spoke.

I was surprised.I didn't expect her to speak.But she was right in a way.If we decide it near a spot, their is a possibility that we might be spied upon.

Even here we can be spied upon but I had not seen anyone nearby.I have been looking from quite sometime.But it seems,Class C had put all their trust in blackmailing me.Its pity that they don't know who they are up against.

Hirata spoke,"I agree,we need to acquire spots too.We should decide the leader now.Anyone volunteering?"

They started gossiping.

Most of them taking hirata's name.I made my way to Matsushita who was standing with a girl whose name was Sato Maya.She was a member of popular girl's group,led by Kei karuizawa.That group was made for the sole purpose of wasting time.I mean who spends whole months private points on buying clothes.She was one of the people who lost all their 100000 private points in a month.

I made my way there.Sato looked at me.And she surprisingly waved at me.I mean everyone in the class had been ignoring me,due to the suspicions.But it seems some are ready to talk with me despite it.

"So you are ayanakoji kun right."

I just nodded,not wanting to waste my time and looked at Matsushita.

She understood that I wanted to talk to Matsushita and her expression turned into a disappointed frown and she walked of.What was her problem?

Girls are certainly a mystery.I wonder if my mother is like this?I would certainly like to meet her one day.It feels good to have a person whom you can call your family.Even if I am a terrible human,I don't resent that man for taking everything from me.Because of him,the existence named 'Ayanakoji kiyotaka' was born.

'Never resent your past,Use it to build your future.'I believe in this.Even a human like me has principles.

I just want to enjoy freedom for three years.Is it too much to ask?

Matsushita looked at me and I whispered in her ear.After listening,she nodded and made her way to hirata.

"Hirata kun,I think we should choose a person who is capable of leading the class well.Therefore I nominate Horikita San to become the leader."

Horikita was surprised.She never expected this.All the students agreed to it.Because horikita herself didn't have any problems.She was still keeping her tough act.

Her sickness was taking a toll on her.She might not be able to keep the act for the whole exam.But still I wanted her to be leader.

Because at the end of this exam she will be broke beyond repair.Then I will join the pieces of her heart to make her the strongest asset of Class D.

I sighed.

I'm really a terrible human being.

Chapter 5-Special Exam-Part 3

After the leader was decided we started searching for a spot.I sighed,as many people shot me suspicious looks.They were perhaps not comfortable with me knowing the name of the leader.But I didn't mind if they decided to change the leader because I would find it soon enough.

"So we should split up to search for a good spot."

I sighed but I spotted ibuki looking at me behind a tree.She was really careless.Anyone from class could have spotted her.

I took this as a cue and split from the group going my own way.

No one questioned me.But Matsushita glanced at me.It looked like she had an idea where I was heading.She had read the note earlier.It seemed she had spotted ibuki.

I made my way,and when I was far enough I looked at Ibuki.She tched and said to follow her.

I decided to start a conversation with her.

"So what's up."I blew it.Honestly I didn't know what to say to her.We weren't exactly friends.We were from different classes.And I wasn't good in holding conversations with strangers.

She looked at me and tched.A feeling of nostalgia hit me.It was the same way me and kamuro met.She looked at me as a disgusting insect.Now she's my friend and I'm the one controlling our friendship.Maybe ibuki was walking on that golden path too.

What the hell has happened to me.This thinking is unlike me.

Is this what people call pride?Am I feeling proud of making friends.

Am I getting curious?

Now how will I feel if I become the most popular person in the year.It would be interesting.But that would conflict with my other goal.That is,to lead a normal highschool life. He told me once, 'One who doesn't use his talent is nothing but a fool.'

I was interested in learning how it felt to use all the talents I have.So I put my best in that room.But now,I no longer harbour any curiosity towards it.

I just feel more empty when I think about using my talents.Because the same talents are the reason I was denied freedom.

We reached near a tree and I saw Ryuuen and a large man.Honestly he was too tall and looked as if he would stomp on me.When Ryuuen saw us he smirked and looked at ibuki.

"Now tell him,before I kill him."Ibuki said to Ryuuen.Kill me?This girl is dangerous.

Ryuuen just chuckled"Comeon now ibuki, don't be such a spoilsport.He is one of the top guys in the year.He has even got ichinose with him.Kukuku I'm taking down ichinose by using him."

I internally sighed.This guy is a pain to deal with.

Ryueen looked at me once and turned towards ibuki.

Surprising all of us he punched her.I would have been able to stop it but I wanted to know why exactly he punched her.If he did something further then I will have to stop him.I definitely wasn't going to see a girl being beat in front of me.

Ibuki was shocked too.He grabbed her by throat and threw her at a tree.

He then started saying,"Ibuki,I expect you to sabotage Class D."

Then everything became clear.Ryuuen really was a cunning man.

He then told us his plan.If you ask me,this plan was having flaws,but I didn't question it.

After he completed his talk I decided to head back to avoid suspicions on being away.

I reached there but no one noticed me as they had found a spot and were deciding when to head their.

"So lets fix the spot which Ike and sudo kun have found out."Hirata called out.

When we reached their I was surprised.Not by the fact that they had found this spot in so less time.But by the fact that who had found it.

I never expected the idiot trio to actually do something.

But it seemed Ike had knowledge about campings as his assistance was gladly welcomed by our class.Even I felt thankful to Ike for having this knowledgeable.I don't want to eat berry's for 7 days,you know?

The spot was a very fine one.Their were lot of trees surrounding the spot.And a small stream was flowing to the right side of the camp.

I looked to see the reactions of Class D students.All were happy.Even horikita who usually had her arrogant behaviour was impressed.But the fact that she was sick was still sticking out.

I went to stand beside a student whose name was Miyake Akito.He was standing beside a girl who had a very unique reputation.Her chests were the most developed in the whole year.

I sighed.Damn my dirty mind.

I asked Miyake casually,"Where is Koenji?"

He looked unsure as I was just a stranger to him.But in the end a jab from the girl standing beside him made him spill the beans.

"We have no idea.He had went to search for spots but he still hasn't returned."

I sighed,"Rollcall is about to begin."

He nodded,"I know,but I can't do much in this situation."

I nodded.Koenji is bigger problem than I thought.

Now then,who should I talk to?

Kushida?No she is definitely talking with her friends.Unlike me she is most likely the most popular girl in our school year.

Then my eyes went on a certain pinkhead who was coincidentally staring at me.But was it a coincidence.I sighed and went to speak to her,

"Hey Sakura,what's wrong you were staring at me."I asked oblivious.I mean the best way to get out of this situation was to act dense right.I don't want to play with her feelings,but I seriously don't know how to reject her.She is not even confessing to me.This is a very troublesome situation.

Sakura flushed on hearing me,and began shaking her hands in embarrassment.

I sighed,"Come on let's head to search for something to do."

She was the perfect companion.She won't doubt me with my plans but I needed someone else too.Then my eyes fell on a idiot.

I looked at Sakura who was blushing furiously.It seems she hadn't expected me to call her.

We started to make our way to yamauchi haruki.

I knew he was in love with Sakura and it was the perfect time to make use of it.

"Yamauchi,me and Sakura are going to search for some firewood.Mind accompanying us."

I pointed at Sakura to make my point.

His face lit up and he smiled.Quite creepy if you ask me.

"Yes Sakura chan,I'll gladly accompany you both."

We made our way to hirata and told him that we'll be heading to collect firewood.

He smiled and nodded.He was concerned about me,due to the ongoing suspicions in the class.But I brought it upon myself so their was no need for his concern.

I led them both to where the plan would start.Their she was,lying on the dirt.

Ibuki Mio.

The bruises on her face were enough to tell the story to yamauchi who quickly went to help her.

"Are you alright?"

Sakura was also worried.

She tched,"And why do you care if I'm fine or no."

Yamauchi just ignored her comment and said,"What happened exactly?"

She looked at him and then at me,"I didn't agree with Ryuuen so he abandoned me."

Yamauchi had a look of anger on his face.Sakura felt bad for ibuki.

Yamauchi looked at ibuki,"Do you have place to stay?"

Ibuki just stared at the ground.

I decided to take the baton in my hand,"You can stay in our camp if you want to."

None of the other two were surprised.It looks like they were thinking the same thing but were afraid to say it loud.Probaly worrying what the class would think.

Then I passed the baton to Sakura.

"Don't you think so too Airi?"

Sakura flushed on hearing me calling her first name.

"U..um... Yes I agree with Kiyo... Ayanakoji kun."She tried to say my first name but unfortunately she couldn't.

This was the reason I brought Sakura.I really feel bad for using her feelings for me.But I don't have much choice do I?

No one in the class trusts me,so I have no one.

Man I'm a loner in my highschool years.

Sakura did her job now it was time for yamauchi.

"Yes I agree with Sakura chan.You should come with us."

I knew it.He would definitely agree with whatever airi would say.

I sighed and held a hand in front of ibuki.She looked at the other two with surprise.She didn't expect them to believe her story so easily.Then she put the pieces together and she looked at me.She had caught my plan.

I sighed,why is everyone so good in observing.

She took my hand and we started to make our way to our spot.

Ibuki too had suspicions of me now.

This Exam is turning into a hassle now.

I sighed and looked at everyone in the spot who were chatting with each other while setting the tents to live.

When everyone spotted us with the Class C girl,they immediately looked at me in suspicion.I sighed and looked at Matsushita.

She glared at me seeing my plan.It seems she knew I was using her.

Like I care what she thinks of me.

After some conversation and Matsushita convincing everyone to let Ibuki stay.

Everyone agreed and went back to doing their business.

But a problem arises,water.

"We think we should drink the water from the river."Ike suggested the class.

"We aren't drinking from it.Who knows if it is even pure."A girl,whose name being Satsuki Shinohara retorts.

I sigh.

This is gonna be a troublesome test.

_

A.N. Hey guys,I know it's a late update.But seriously I'm focusing on my other COTE fanfic.So this will have slow updates.

Chapter 6-Special Exam-Part 4

"We need to save our points. You know it right, how much gap is between the classes. "A boy name Keisei Yukimura retorted. But the girls were hard to convince.

And Shinohara was too arrogant. I mean that whole group looked arrogant. They were more interested in living a plush high school life rather than aiming for Class A. I sighed and looked at Matsushita. She averted her gaze. It seems she too wasn't going to go against her friends.

Should I try to say something. No, it might give an undesired response considering my current position in Class.

So, I decided to walk over to ibuki. I know it would give rise to suspicions, but that won't stop me from making new friends. Friends, it seems I am slowly Starting to understand the meaning of the word.

"Hey" She looked at me with suspicion.

I sighed, "Why are you angry. Don't tell me, you think my class doesn't trust you."

She tched, "Why the hell are you here."

I sighed and sat down beside her.

She was surprised by my sudden action.

"You need to relax you know. You are not alone. I'm with you." I could see a slight blush on her face which turned into anger,

"Are you by any chance flirting with me. If that's the case, then I have no interest in you."

A clear rejection. Thank god she was not my type. Now that I think about it who is my type? I wonder.

"You have rather high opinion of yourself. Why would I flirt with you out of everyone?"

Take it ibuki.

But I made a mistake. She stood up and kicked my stomach. Man, that hurt. Well, I kind of deserved it.

Luckily no one saw it as they were busy setting up the tents.

I sighed and got up.

I decided to join Horikita's was standing there isolated from everyone.

"Hey."

She just looked at me, "What are you up to Ayanokouji Kun."

"Huh what do you mean?"

"I saw you sharing glances with Matsushita San earlier."

"Oh, am I not allowed to look at other girls now?" I asked her.

She glared at me, "It seems you have grown too much social Ayanokouji Kun. "I didn't expect you would change this much in two months."

I just remained silent.

She sighed, "I can't make myself to trust you."

I sighed, "Horikita, you think too much. Why are you so fixated on reaching Class A. If you can give me a good answer, I might think about helping you. You don't have to answer me now. Think for yourself for once. Not for your brother."

I said and stood up. I knew she would be shocked but I don't have time for her immature self.

A day came to an end. We managed to gather fruits and Hirata.I bought canned food using points. I didn't have any plans to make move in the first two days. I was just going to enjoy my freedom.

At night time the boy's tent was in some discussion about points. Well, I decided to go to sleep not wanting to hear their theories.
_

The morning came and I woke up from my slumber. It seems I woke up very early. No one seemed to be awake.

I stepped outside the tent and was met by a girl in our class. Her name being Karuizawa kei. She looked at me and averted her gaze as if I was the most disgusting person breathing.

What the hell is the problem with girls in this school.

I sighed and decided to explore the island.

The silence was enjoyable.

I roamed around the island and came across a cave. It was a spot possibly. I started to head towards it, but stopped when I saw Yahoo with a card. I was suspicious at first. So, I looked carefully. Katsuragi was nowhere to be seen. Kamuro had told me that there was an internal rift in Class A between Katsuragi and a girl named Sakayanagi.

I decided to leave from there. I didn't want to be spotted. That would cause problems.

Exploring Class C camp was waste of time. Ryūen had already told me his strategy. So, I had an idea who is going to be the leader.

So, then the hardest would-be Class B.I don't know how strong ichinose is. I can use Chihiro to find out the leader but there is a chance ichinose would find out. That would put my position on a risk. I need to remain vigilant with matsushita too. She shouldn't suspect that I have more talent than what I show.

I made a frustrated noise. Why was I getting so worked up? This is unlike me. I have gotten too much involved with the class. Now I'm starting to regret the decision to save Ishizaki. I mean saving them has advantages more than disadvantages but still, it makes me harder to move from the shadows.

I need to dial back a little. I was near Ichinose's camp. What I saw was a not so surprising scene. All the class members were laughing and having fun while doing camp tasks. This is real unity a class should have. In terms of unity Class C and Class B are the strongest. Violence is effective for Ryūen and I am not exactly against violence. But he needs to know his limits, because sooner or later someone is going to oppose him leading to a betrayal.

As I was mentally calculating every class position, I heard a cheerful voice calling me.

"Oh, hello Ayanokoji Kun." I looked in the direction of the cheerful voice to be met by the strawberry hair.

I waved at her to return the greeting.

"How come you are here." She asked once she reached near me.

"Just strolling by. My class isn't friendly to me at the current moment." I said in an imperturbable manner.

She gave a worried glance but shrugged it of and asked me, "You can come to our camp if you want you know. Our class doesn't mind an extra person."

"Like that one huh." I said pointing to a person wearing glasses. I knew about him as Ryūen had told me about him at some point. But still I feigned confusion in front of Ichinose. It might turn out suspicious. At this current moment I don't know exactly how strong Ichinose is, so I have to wait before I evaluate.

She smiled seeing the class C boy helping her own class. She was too kind for her own good.

After some more talk we parted ways and I think it was time. I went back to find everyone in the class opening their canned food. It seems they settled for the vegetable set today. No one wants to eat fruits for the first day, I guess. I collected my own food and went to sit beside Horikita. Her condition looked worse than before.

She looked at me but kept quiet. We ate our food in silence just looking at the peaceful moon in the dark.

Time skip (Next Day)

I got up from my sleeping sack. I stood up and went out to catch free air. It was hard to sleep in the tent this time. It was too packed. Apparently some sleeping arrangements were changed yesterday. Just as I stepped out I found the figure of Ibuki standing out beside a tree. The expression on her face was of distress. I decided to talk with her.

Just as I stood beside her, she tched and looked ahead. I too looked ahead and kept silent. She spoke after a minute.

"What the hell do you want."

"Just asking when are you going to do it." I asked her.

"Huh?" She asked acting confused.

"The photos. "I said looking ahead.

She looked down and spoke in a very low voice, "About that,... the camera isn't working."

I sighed and looked at her before asking, "So what are you planning to do now."

She tched and folded her hands to portray her frustration, "I just don't know. I can't understand what to do anymore."

I sighed and said, "you know you need to forget about that camera. Someone has probably caught up to our plan. And speaking of it I can also be one of the suspects."

She looked at me but averted her gaze.

"Why don't you get the card itself then. "I said breaking the silence.

She looked at me in surprise. "Just what are you getting at?"

I replied in seriousness, "Exactly what I mean. Steal the card."

She looked at me awaiting explanation and I began to explain my plan. After I had finished explaining, she looked at me in suspicion, "How do I know that this is not a trap?"

I just stared at her showing my indifference for her suspicions, "Not that you have any choice."

I stopped for a moment as I could feel her sudden glare at me. I continued,

"I wonder what would Ryūen think about your failure. This is the best plan I can come with it. If I were you, I would have thought twice before failing a task Ryūen gave me. It indirectly puts your class position at risk. And you know how exactly."

Her eyes widened after hearing my reasoning. Every word spoken was true. They were on cooperation with Class A and if they failed to complete their part of deal then they would lose more than they had planned. I purposely waited for two days before approaching ibuki as I wanted Ryūen class to use up their points so Ibuki would have no choice but to go by my plan. I have obtained my first asset for this plan. Now it's time to make my move tonight.

"You. You what the hell is going on. " Ibuki started whispering looking at me.

I just walked away. I know it, she would go through my plan. Class C has already used all their points. And if they don't manage to complete the deal, they will not get private points either. In short Class C will be destroyed in this special exam unless they go by my terms.

The tables have turned Ryūen, you should have thought twice before trying to manipulate me.

(A.N. The book will have slow updates as I think I should complete this volume before putting it on a hiatus.)

Chapter 7-Special Exam-Part 5

It has been tiring till now. Ibuki had agreed to my plan. She had her own qualms about the situations but she had no choice. She must be unsure who exactly she is working for. Because she came to this class to infiltrate under Ryūen's orders but she is now going through plan of my own.

Things sure take a turn, for better or for worse.

Currently my concern is Horikita who is the leader of the class. It's the third day and her sickness were starting to take a toll on her. I had gotten quite early. I wondered whether I should go up and stroll outside. Before I could think anymore, we heard someone yelling, "ALL THE BOYS GET OUT OF THEIR TENTS NOW!".I recognized that voice as Shinohara's. Slowly all boys woke up not at all happy from being woken up from their sleep.

We looked at half of the girls of our class were standing in front of me and the other boys. They looked angry for some reason. My sixth sense told me that something bad was going to happen but I managed to suppress it and stood among the other boys.

Hirata being the sensible one nervously went ahead and asked, "Shinohara San, Is something the matter?"

Shinohara on seeing hirata immediately went to him and started saying, "Hirata Kun the boys have done it now."

All boys turned towards shinohara not understanding what she meant.

"Today Karuizawa San woke up to find her underwear stolen."

Silence. It took a minute for the words to process in every mind which had heard her.

Hirata became a little serious, "What do you mean, how is Karuizawa is she alright." He went into a concerned boyfriend mode. But to me that looked like a normal concern a friend would have.

"No, she is a mess. She has been crying since she found out. Kushida san and Maya san are comforting her inside. Honestly speaking I never expected boys of our class to be this bad. "She said throwing a look of disgust at the boys.

Sudo noticed this and didn't take the insult quite well as he started shouting, "I what the hell are trying to prove. If anything happens you all put the blame on boys. What about that Class C girl, why won't she do it?"

Shinohara just tched and ibuki simply ignored Sudo, "She won't do it. She is a girl and she knows how Karuizawa is feeling. Unlike you lot, just a bunch of perverts."

This time Yukimura spoke, "That's just idiotic reasoning you have. Why would we be even interested in her. Ask her boyfriend for that matter."

Shinohara took offense and shouted at him, "huh who are you calling an idiot huh. Shut up you four eyed closet pervert."

Hey he didn't even call you an idiot even if you are a one.

Yukimura got angry and almost charged at shinohara if hirata had not stopped him.

Shinohara flinched and her face showed that she had realized she went a little too far. But still her pride took better of her and she continued,

"Did you see. He was about to hit me." Shinohara said giving another look of disgust to Yukimura.

The other girls voiced their support for shinohara blindly. This angered Yukimura even more. The situation was about to get worse when suddenly matsushita came and stopped in front of me and called out loudly for the whole class to hear.

"Ayanokouji Kun do you have any idea about this?"

Everyone gave looks of confusion to her. I too stayed calm.

"I don't "I replied.

"Then there is no problem if I check your bag right"

Why would I have a problem?

I sighed and stepped aside pointing at my bag. Matsushita nodded and went to check the contents of the bag.

Third Person POV

Everyone was confused on matsushita's sudden actions but they were too surprised to question her. Matsushita's friends knew that she wasn't too active in the class and were little surprised seeing her boldness.

While checking matsushita suddenly stopped. She had something in her hand. Then she turned around.

It was Karuizawa's underwear.

Ibuki's eye widened. This wasn't the part of plan. Ayanokouji stood there but this time his expression was a little serious. Girls were looking at Ayanokouji with anger and rage in their eyes. Hirata had a worried look in his eyes. He knew that Ayanokouji Kun won't do such thing. He was obviously being framed.

"So, you are the underwear thief huh." Shinohara started speaking with menace leaking from her tone. Ayanokouji was however unfazed and kept looking at matsushita.

Matsushita started to speak, "I knew something was up. The fact that you saved class C students from expulsion is enough to make you a suspect."

"What do you mean Matsushita San." Okitani asked not understanding what Matsushita was getting at.

Matsushita faced the entire class. Horikita was watching this scene in interest. Matsushita folded her hands and spoke, "Ayanokouji Kun is conspiring against the class. I wanted to tell you guys but I wanted to avoid panic."

As she spoke those words everyone's attention landed on Ayanokouji who was still calm but, in the inside, he was calculating everything. All the students in Class D looked at him in rage.

Shinohara went and was about to slap Ayanokouji but her palm was stopped. The person who stopped her palm was matsushita.

"That's not a good move Shinohara san. If he reports this incident of you slapping him, we would fall into their trap and our class might suffer."

Shinohara was again shocked by her friend's actions but stayed quiet this time.

Matsushita turned towards Ayanokouji and said, "Ayanokouji I think we demand an explanation about this."

Ayanokouji just kept quiet.

This time matsushita raised her voice, "Ayanokouji Kun if you would please retire, that would be the best for everyone."

Everyone looked at matsushita in shock, "But ,matsushita san we would lose points if he drops out." Onodera said.

"That would be better than losing all." Matsushita calmly retorted, although only few students actually understood what matsushita actually meant.

She was saying to eliminate the traitor from the equation and compensate it by saving more points.

Hirata stepped in uncomfortable with the explosive atmosphere, "Matsushita san don't you think that's too much."

Matsushita didn't even look at him and said, "What do you think Ayanokouji wanted to do by stealing Karuizawa sans underwear. Did he just take it because he was a boy? No, his objective was to spark a tension between students of class D. Class C would have used our class tension to climb up the class ladder using us as a stepping stone this exam."

It took a minute for everyone to process what matsushita had just said. Their respect for matsushita increased tenfold. Who would have thought that she was this smart? Horikita looked at the scene with an unknown feeling in her stomach. She had just realized something but still she decided to feed her ego and ignore the feeling. Her ego was still preventing her from realizing her own shortcomings.

Ayanokouji just looked at her and without any words took his bag and exited their camp spot. Nearly everyone was surprised as no one had expected him to actually leave and not this quickly.

Time skip

Horikita followed ibuki to the best of her ability. How could she be so careless. Matsushita and the whole class had gone to the nearby stream to freshen up and solve the conflict between the boys and the girls. It was a good strategy to return peace to the class. After the recent fiasco, the class wasn't in best spirit. Horikita refused to go with them as she was still fighting her sickness.

Ibuki had used that chance to go after Horikita's card and steal it. Horikita kept following the footsteps and she finally started hearing some voices.

"You actually succeeded. Kukuku those D class brats are too easy." She had heard that voice somewhere.

"tch just get on with it. I feel disgusted just standing here beside you." She recognized this voice. It was Ibuki's.

"Kukuku why don't you enjoy, there is a chance tomorrow it might rain."

"Are you done or not." She heard ibuki asked. Horikita was hiding behind a tree. She calculated what she should do in this situation. She can't confront them now as her sickness is starting to take toll on her. She groaned inwardly. The best choice here would be to keep quiet and consult someone. But her ego was too high to actually consult someone. As she was thinking she suddenly felt a hard push which sent her on the ground. The noise attracted the attention of ibuki and Ryūen.

Ibuki saw a shadow at the place where Horikita had stood before and her eyes widened.

Ibuki never expected to see that person here. "You."

But the person who pushed Horikita had already escaped from there.

Ryūen smirked seeing the form of Horikita lying on the crowd, visibly distressed from her sickness. He smirked and yanked her forcefully by head. Horikita screamed in agony. Ryūen spoke, "Kukuku, what a cute face you have. But it was fated to be spoiled the moment your class went against mine. I wonder what would you incompetents do now. See this what I have here." Horikita looked at the card in Ryūen's hand. It was the Class D card.

"We have already taken the photo and we have no use for it, here you can have it back." He threw the card on Horikita's face.

He stood up and left leaving an injured and sick Horikita behind with her class card. Ibuki felt pity for her but she decided to follow Ryūen. After some moment's tears started streaming down Horikita's face.

"Why am I so useless. Nii san you were right; I should have never chosen this school." With that she fell unconscious.

After few minutes' torchlight fell on her unconscious body. Horikita opened her eyes barely responding to the light but couldn't make anything as black dots started to cover her vision.

She fell unconscious after saying 'Help' to the unknown figure who was shining the torchlight at her.

_

Timeskip (Day Of Special Exam Results)

6 days had passed since the test commenced. No one knew what was going to happen. Everyone had gathered on the beach as results were about to be announced by Mashima sensei. There had been no roll call today. The atmosphere in Class D wasn't bad nor was it good either. None of the Class C students were present as they had used up all their points and already retired.

Class B were in high spirits confident that they were going to win, the same with A class. Suddenly a person came out from the forest. He now had a slight beard on his face.

That person was none other than Ryūen kakeru. Every class was shocked on seeing him.

Katsuragi immediately confronted him, "What is the meaning of this Ryūen thought you retired."

Ryūen just smirked and put his arm over Katsuragi shoulder, "Chill baldy, why are you getting so worked up. Could it be you are afraid that I could win."

Katsuragi removed Ryūen's arm which was around his shoulder and walked away. Ryūen just smirked even wider and put his hands in his pockets and waited for Mashima sensei to announce the results.

Mashima sensei stood on the podium and took a megaphone.

"Now we would announce the results for this Exam. Coming in last place with 0 points, Class C."

A silence spread across the entire beach which was broken by sudo who was laughing loudly.

Ryūen stood there shocked to his place.

"Coming in third place Class A with 120 points and in the second place we have Class B with 140 points."

A silence spread in the beach. No one was no longer interested in the ranks of A class and B class.

All that mattered was the words which they were going to hear next.

"And coming in first place..."

Mashima sensei was about to speak but his attention went to the person who had just come out from the forest. He was looking perfectly fine considering he had spent 3 days in the forest.

That person was none other than Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.

Everyone's attention went where the brown-haired boy was standing. The most shocked were the D class as they had thought that he had retired,

Mashima sensei continued the announcement, "Coming in first is Class D with 225 points."

A wind blew on the beach. The D class students were all jumping in joy and celebrating. Ayanokouji just stood there staring at the scene blankly. He had only one thought in his mind,

'There goes my peaceful Life.'

(A.N. Yeah :) The next chapter is the epilogue)

Epilogue

I stood in front of the woman who had called me to the deck. The test had just concluded and I was summoned by her. I can't actually refuse a teacher so I decided to go along.

"Honestly Ayanokouji I am impressed. Whatever means you might have used but you still managed to win."

"I believe you are satisfied then."

"Yes, for now this will suffice."

"Now I believe I owe some answers. Did that man contact this school again?"

I was sure she wasn't going to answer but I still asked as to check whether my deduction is true.

"Yeah, your father told me. Ayanokouji Kiyotaka will choose expulsion of his own accord. You are going to burn your wings just like Icarus did when he went after freedom."

I moved closer to her and stared at her with nothing but coldness in my eyes.

"Chabashira sensei stop lying. Because I was thinking why would you care about asking me to help class D. You show everyone that you don't care about reaching Class A but you are the teacher who cares the most aren't you."

Chabashira sensei flinched under my cold eyes and bluntness and that confirmed my suspicions.

"That means my father never contacted you. Because he would never bother to talk to a teacher. He would directly go to the director of this school. I know how that man thinks. He won't bother with nobodies like you at all."

Chabashira flinched again hearing my tone and words.

"That means you have been using me on your own accord. I wonder what might be the reason. You have a vague idea of my abilities considering you approached me. So, does that mean, you are trying to use me to reach class A."

I glared at her. She just averted her gaze and couldn't speak at all.

No, she can't speak even if she wants to. I just exposed Chabashira Sae in front of her own eyes.

I just turned and left, not bothering to look at the fearful expression on her face. That would give her a message, I am not the one with whom you should mess with.

Timeskip

I was outside with Class. Nearly All the students in Class D were throwing looks at me but I didn't care. Finally, shinohara and Karuizawa came and stood in front of me. Many more students followed her.

Shinohara started speaking, "Uh Ayanokouji Kun..."

I raised an eyebrow.

Shinohara averted her gaze and blurted out, "LookI'mSorryforaccusingyou."

Silence.

Karuizawa sighed and said, "Matsushita san told us everything. How you acted on her plan. She also told us why you decided to save those Class C students. We are sorry for doubting and isolating you."

Everyone had an apologetic look on their face. It was kind of embarrassing for me to be apologized by everyone so I just said,

"Don't worry I had agreed to matsushita's plan so it was my decision but I hope we all can be friends rather than doubting each other."

With that everyone's expression lit up, "Yeah we are never doubting Ayanokouji Kun again, he and matsushita san will lead our class to victory."

Matsushita gave a nervous smile to the girls as they all flocked around matsushita praising her.

I shrugged and made my way my room. On my way I met with a pair of sharp eyes.

Ibuki Mio

"Huh you." She too looked surprised on seeing me.

"Hi" I simply said.

"Damn you. So matsushita girl was controlling you all along. Tch we should have never trusted you."

With that she went on her own way not sparing a glance at me.

Trust huh?

But Ibuki I have never trusted you, not even once.

Third Person POV

Horikita was sitting on her bed. The results were announced few hours ago. She got up and messaged a person. She wanted to know what exactly had happened. She was in her room when the results were announced. So, she was more than surprised when the results were announced. No one expected Class D to come first.

She made her way to the upper deck. The sun was setting and the sky was looking peaceful. A gentle breeze gave a touch that the Speranza was actually floating in air.

Standing before her was the man she couldn't figure out. She just couldn't understand him.

"Ayanokouji Kun what did you, No I don't want to know that. Just tell me why did you help the class when you said you didn't have any interest in helping?"

The brown-haired boy just looked at her with a calm expression, "Remember Horikita, I asked you a question in the exam. What exactly are you aiming for? Give me a reason why I should help you reach Class A."

Horikita narrowed her eyes and answered, "Because we can reach class A"

"Stop lying to yourself Horikita. "Ayanokouji spoke bluntly.

Horikita flinched at the accusation thrown at her.

"You don't care about the whole class reaching class A. You just want yourself to reach class A. you don't care about any of the classmates, you just do everything alone. But you don't realize one thing. You are actually the most useless in the class currently."

Horikita couldn't believe her ears. It was the first time someone other than her rother had called her useless. She was used to always being praised by everyone around her, continuously feeding her ego.

"Answer me Horikita, what have you done this whole exam other than slowing the class down. If someone else was the leader than we could have gone to spot hunting all days."

It was true. The leader was needed to capture a spot. As Horikita was the leader it was her responsibility.

Horikita still tried to escape from Aynaokouji's accusation, "But I was sick."

Ayanokouji didn't let her escape, "You should have not become the leader then. But you still became one to protect your ego."

She didn't have an answer for that.

Ayanokouji sighed and put a hand on her shoulder. Horikita didn't respond to the sudden contact as she was too stunned by his earlier words.

"Rely on the Class Horikita. If you can do that than I might become your ally whom you can rely on."

With that Ayanokouji left to confront the person who was hiding and listening to the exchange between him and Horikita.

Horikita realized, just how foolish she was. Ayanokouji was right, she was too busy in reaching class A that she forgot that she needed allies.

Ayanokouji POV

I walked to matsushita who had been listening to my conversation.

Once I reached there, she spoke, " You are good at lying. You yourself wanted and planned to make her a leader didn't you."

I thought about what all I had done this exam. My plan started when the leader was being chosen and Class D students were still suspecting that I was a traitor.

Flashback

Matsushita looked at me and I whispered in her ear.

"Our best chance is to make Horikita a leader. She won't nominate herself because she is sick. But you nominate her."

After listening, she nodded and made her way to hirata.

"Hirata Kun, I think we should choose a person who is capable of leading the class well. Therefore, I nominate Horikita San to become the leader."

Horikita was surprised. She never expected this. All the students agreed to it. Because Horikita herself didn't have any problems. She was still keeping her tough act.

Her sickness was taking a toll on her. She might not be able to keep the act for the whole exam. But still I wanted her to be leader.

Flashback End

She was correct in a way but in truth I don't think I lied completely. Because Horikita is the one who accepted to become the leader so she was the one with responsibility.

Next, I found out where ibuki had hidden the digital camera and destroyed it to move to the next part of the plan.

Flashback

Ibuki looked at me but averted her gaze.

"Why don't you get the card itself then. "I said breaking the silence.

She looked at me in surprise. "Just what are you getting at?"

I replied in seriousness, "Exactly what I mean. Steal the card."

She looked at me awaiting explanation and I began to explain my plan.

"I would create an explosive situation in the class. Then you and me can steal the card while the class is still in tension. Horikita would not suspect me and I would divert her attention so that you can do your job..." I continued to explain some more points.

After I had finished explaining, she looked at me in suspicion, "How do I know that this is not a trap?"

I just stared at her showing my indifference for her suspicions, "Not that you have any choice."

Flashback End

I had told Ibuki that I would be the one creating the explosive situation but it was a trap and she fell into it.

Ibuki was not the one who had stole Karuizawa's underwear. It was Matsushita.

I had instructed matsushita on everything and as planned she met me outside. She put the underwear in my bag as planned and we both went to sleep.

So, when at morning it was discovered that Karuizawa's underwear was stolen chaos broke. Ibuki thought that this was my plan but she was shocked when the underwear was found in my bag. Matsushita acted perfectly. I had planned to leave the camp on my own for my next plan stage. Ibuki was definitely shocked. She feared that someone had caught up to her and my plan so she became restless and made a move on the same day when she had the opportunity.

Then came the main part of my plan to sacrifice Horikita. As I had instructed matsushita to distract the whole class and take them to take away there mind from the recent conflicts. Of course, not everyone would have agreed on going to explore the place for fun but matsushita used the excuse of the dark clouds over the sky.

It was true it rained heavily on fourth day and clouds were visible on the third day. So, class accepted her excuse and went on spot hunting

Horikita didn't go as she gave excuse of guarding the spot. And then all went according to plan. When Ibuki stole the card, Horikita didn't have anyone to ask help for so she followed ibuki.

She wasn't confronting Ryūen and ibuki which conflicted with my plan.

So, I pushed her so thatRyūenand ibuki could see her.

Ibuki saw my face but I had escaped by then.

Then after half an hour I went back to find an unconscious Horikita on the floor. I took her to the teacher's camp and I used one condition put on the list

Leaders can't be changed without a valid reason.

Retirement due to health issues was a reason enough to change the leader.

Once the leader was changed, I bought necessary supplies for me using the points in the card and handed the card to matsushita.

So, when it was night I went to search for spots and secure them. In three nights, I managed 4 spots. It was easy as I already had an idea where the spots were. The boat had taken rounds of the island. From there the spots were visible.

My retirement was not announced to anyone as I had never retired. But matsushita had informed them that I have retired so everyone was surprised when they found me walk out from the forest on the last day.

Ryūen knew Horikita was retired and there were rumours that I had retired too so he found the person who had the card. It was too late to infiltrate class D again as no one would believe ibuki now.

So, he assumed that matsushita was the leader.

And that's where he lost.

The real leader was me

Ayanokouji Kiyotaka

"What was your goal? "She asked me.

My goal was simple. To remove the suspicions on me and make Matsushita the leader of the class. Everyone now believes that I saved Class C boys under the order of Matsushita Chiaki.

In short in this exam, I had neither gained anything nor lost anything. Now I am just an ordinary student in the eyes of other students, just like I wished to be.

Now if Ryūen decides to leak that photo with which he was blackmailing I would simply say Matsushita gave me the order. In short, I'm back to living my life as an ordinary high schooler.

Matsushita suddenly asked me, "Now what do you plan to do now. Next exams are going to be more hard now."

"What do you mean, I don't plan to do anything." I simply said.

She narrowed her eyebrows, "You know it right that I know all your secrets. I can expose you whenever I want."

Suddenly the atmosphere became tense. I remained silent and let her speak.

"I expect you continue contributing to the class Ayanokouji Kun. I don't mind being your tool. Because that's what you have done this exam. I was just a tool for you to remove the suspicions that you were a traitor. Now everyone believes that I was the one who saved those Class C people. I think you are good at manipulation so that's why I'm saying."

She moved closer to me and whispered in my ear.

"Stay in the sidelines if you want and take this class to Class A."

With that she left me. I was left alone there. The sun had set. The moon was quite beautiful.

Matsushita you want to be my pawn huh?

But remember one thing,

Every pawn is disposable.

_

A.N. Here we go guys, Volume 3 is finally complete. LoL did you think matsushita betrayed ayanokouji. Lol you all fell in Ayanokouji's trap then. I foreshadowed a lot of things as the story progressed.

So then how was this volume?Do tell me.

Credits to the owner of the image. I found it on web.

Special Chapter - Aftermath of the Island Test

Third Person POV

Ryūen stood in his room biting his nails frustration visible on his face. This was not supposed to happen. Class C should have come first. But still they failed. Coming dead last. There was a rumour that a girl with name Chiaki Matsushita is controlling Class D. So Ayanokouji was working under her huh. No, this story seemed too convenient to be actually true. Something was wrong. No, he knew something was wrong. There was no way for matsushita to foil his plans. If Ayanokouji was working under her, he would have told her about that plan.

But from what Ishizaki had told him, Ayanokouji was alone most of his time. Ryūen was not a fool. After Ayanokouji had saved the class c students he had told Ishizaki keep an eye on him. So, there was ninety nine percent chance that Ayanokouji took that decision on his own accord.

He used matsushita as a cover for his actions.
He groaned thinking how easily he was played with. He had been dancing on Aynaokouji's palms from the very beginning.

He looked at a photo in his phone.

Matsushita Chiaki huh? If he was planning to use her as a cover than he would destroy the cover itself. Then he can expose him and then destroy him.

Ichinose was sitting with Kanzaki and hoshinomiya sensei.

"Sensei Class D really came first," Kanzaki started the conversation.

Hoshinomiya sensei just smiled in response.

"Yeah, it seems we can't take class D lightly." Ichinose said with a genuine smile on her face.

"But all is good because we came second this time you know. We should enjoy our ranking till it lasts."

Kanzaki and ichinose smiled but their smile turned into an expression of confusion when they processed her words again in their mind.

Enjoy our ranking till it lasts.

What did she mean by that?

"Sensei what do you mean? Ichinose asked.

Hoshinomiya smiled and stood up, "Let me give you an advice. You both are only thinking about there coming first. Think why and how they came first. Or rather who led them to victory."

With those parting words she left the place leaving behind a confused pair of class B.

Now that ichinose thought about it, there was a rumour that matsushita was controlling class d and Ayanokouji from behind the scenes.

But what if, Ayanokouji had something to do with the victory of Class D?

Kamuro sat in her room wondering the latest events. She knew Ayanokouji was smart but this is just absurd. He managed to defeat all the classes.

No, he is not an opponent she could go against.

She needed to move on her own now to safeguard her position in the class. She can't rely on Sakayanagi to win against him. But nothing normal would work against him.

She shrugged in discomfort.

Why was her life so much of a mess?

She needed a break from all this.

A break where no one would bother her.

Not her parents, not this class competition and not her own mind.

She sighed and looked at the ocean outside. They were returning back to school tomorrow.

She asked to no one in particular.

"Sister what would you have done if you were in my place."

Volume 4

With the upcoming Sports festival, can Ayanokouji live his ordinary life when Ryūen has his eyes on him?

A.N Yeah I know it's sports festival not zodiac exam. But honestly speaking that volume has 228 pages in the original LN and is very complex. And the problem is I don't want to use my time on thinking a story and understanding those rules. Karuizawa is not the main girl in my fic so I don't want to write unnecessary things.And honestly speaking I plan to write the more interesting volumes. Sorry if you wanted the zodiac island test. But I won't be writing it. And I had said this back in the first volume

Chapter 1-The Mischievous Sprite

A month had passed since the Island test had concluded. After we returned to school, I had a date with Ibuki. Well, what can we say, a forced date? It might seem surprising change but, no one had suspicions on me anymore it seems. But it works in my favor so I don't mind. I looked outside the window waiting for Chabashira sensei to enter the class and start the lecture.

The students of Class D were really enjoying their time. Well Class D did come at the top. I was no longer bound to obey anyone's orders. Matsushita might be a problem but I don't mind as long as she doesn't investigate me.

The relationship between me and Horikita was same as before. But as I observed her more and more, I she really had changed. She no longer was the arrogant girl everyone knew. She had turned over a new leaf. Class D has grown in these months since the year started.

Our lineup now had two capable leaders, Matsushita and Horikita. Though Horikita had lost her popularity last special exam, her opinion was still considered important by the whole class.

Hirata and Karuizawa's relationship looked more and more unnatural. Something was definitely wrong. Hirata's smile seemed to be artificial rather than genuine.

And lately kushida is acting strange around Horikita. I don't know much about kushida but it seems as if she has a grudge on Horikita for some reason. But I have not seen Horikita talk to anyone since she entered this school.

Could it be they know each other way before they entered this school. I remembered a popular line from a western movie, 'Our friendship goes way back'. But I can't imagine Kushida and Horikita being friends. No, their personalities are two extreme points.

Why do this thoughts keep nagging me? Why do I even care about the class issues? I now have an ordinary life but still I feel curious. I groaned when I felt a sharp pain on my arm. I looked at the side to see Horikita glaring at me. These toppers, they take studying too seriously. Can't they take it easy for once. But they still are the toppers. I mean it is difficult to score this high marks in the first year of high school in such a convenient high school. This school basically has all the facilities for distraction, like the movie theatre, the food court and much more. It's not hard to get swayed by it and neglect your studies. Because You just have to pass and graduate as Class A to secure a job or a higher education.

Sometimes I think this is unfair for the students who actually have the ability but still don't get opportunities just because they graduated from a class other than D. That's why I feel reluctant to help this class. Do they even deserve to be in Class A? Now that I look, none of them have actually contributed to the class.

A famous geologist Charles Darwin once quoted, "It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent; it is the one most adaptable to change."

Does this class really deserve to graduate from Class A. Yeah, I am curious about this? Does this class really have what it takes to rise to the top? Let me see for myself,

Whether I should help them or leave them to their own devices.

_

Time skip

The classes had just ended and I was on my way to home. I wondered whether I should stop by keyaki mall. It's been quite a while since I went there. In the end I decided against it, that would be too much of a hassle. As I was on my way, I spotted a familiar figure at a distance. She was with one more person. The other person looked quite short for her age and she was taking the aid of her cane to walk. She too had spotted me.

Kamuro was about to head the other way when she stopped. She was talking with the other girl with lilac hair. She just nodded and they both headed my way.

Should I run? I don't want trouble but it would look rude if I run now. I was the one who made eye contact with them so it is a common courtesy that I should at least wish them. But looking at them I think that this is not going to be just a friendly greeting, rather a long and absurd talk.

Poor me, can't trouble have pity on me for once.

Kamuro came and waved at me, nervousness trickling with her wave. I just nodded and shifted my attention to the other girl who was staring intensely at me. She had a smile on her face, but unlike her cute figure, that smile looked like that of a mischievous sprite Ariel from Shakespeare's work 'The Tempest'. But this girl was trouble. A petite teenage girl with lilac coloured hair and violet eyes is what I can say about her, not to mention her cuteness. Well, that charm doesn't work on me unfortunately or else I would have gone into 'Must protect' mode like any other normal human.

I turned to Kamuro to ask what her deal was but she answered without me asking it, "Don't ask me anything about her."

I sighed and turned back to the girl who was still staring at me with a smile on her face. I decided to call her, "Um Hello"

She didn't even flinch, as I expected her to. That means while in daze she was completely aware of her surroundings. That's a rather rare quality very less people possess. Kamuro is a loner and if she has contact with any other person in the class than that could be the class leader. So, this girl is the leader of class A?

"Hello there you must be Ayanokouji Kiyotaka Kun from class D."

"Yeah" wait, how did she know my name. Oh wait, I forgot that I became popular due to some unfortunate events in the past.

"Yeah, I guess. "I replied in a dull voice.

"Arisu Sakayanagi, Class A." She said with her smug smile. She put forward her hand and I shook it as gently as possible. Hey don't blame me, I don't know how human contact works.

"Kamuro San talks a lot about you. Although I'm the only one she can talk to, because she has isolated herself quite well."

Kamuro glared at her but kept quiet.

I nodded and racked my brain to search for the best way to continue the conversation.

I started speaking, "It's a nice day."

Silence. Kamuro started laughing while Sakayanagi had a sad smile on her face. Why would she be sad though. Well, no need to think too much. I'm sure that no one in this school knows about my past. But I could be wrong so I need to eliminate anyone who knows about it if he or she is planning to expose me.

Damn, I really need to work on my conversation skills. One can figure many things from my behaviour.

One that I lack conversation skills meaning I had been an introvert most of my life or I became one due to some event in the past. Second the bored expression on my face gives threatening vibes to an extremely observant person.

I snapped out of my trance when I heard Sakayanagi start speaking, "Kamuro San could you please leave both of us here."

Kamuro spared a worried glance at me but nodded nonetheless and went on her way. I turned back to Sakayanagi who adjusted the black beret on her head and started speaking, "So Ayanokouji Kun I see that you have did brilliantly in the special exam."

My expression didn't change but I became a little alerted by her statement.

"I don't know what you are talking about. I acted on matsushita's behalf."

"Your excuses are wonderful Ayanokouji Kun but sadly I won't fall for them. You are not even reacting to the stalker behind you."

Yes, it is true. Ibuki has been following me since few days but I'm letting her do what she wants. I have already retired from the class competition so I have nothing to worry about. But I think I should confront her now.

"That's none of my issue I guess."

She chuckled and said, "It's almost a fated meeting between us. I have always wanted to meet you Ayanokouji Kun. Since I saw you."

I narrowed her eyes. I don't remember seeing this girl in my past. Well technically I don't remember seeing anyone. My past is blank just like my face.

I kept quiet waiting for her to continue. "I believe that you came to this school to enjoy peace"

I became serious. She really knew my past. Ok cool down, it's no use panicking. I need to assess the situation first.

"Don't worry I have no intention of revealing any secrets. At least not now."

I relaxed a little, she is smarter than she looks. If she knows my past than she should have an Idea of who I was in the past. She won't pick unnecessary fight with me.

Kamuro arrived concern still in her eyes, "Ok you two have been talking for too much. I even had an ice cream in the meantime."

Sakayanagi chuckled and said, "Kamuro san don't worry I have no intention to expel Ayanokouji Kun."

Kamuro sighed in relief but immediately said in a low voice, "I don't care whatever you do cripple."

Sakayanagi just smirked and both of them went on their way.

I checked my phone and continued on my way. I entered an alleyway and waited there.

And the person who was tailing me walked right in front of me. She flinched when she saw me staring at her. Now she had no excuse.

"So then tell me why have you been stalking me." I asked.

She tched and said, "So you knew all along huh. Then why didn't you call me out then. Were you perhaps enjoying me stalking you pervert?"

"I really didn't know you were following me." I lied to escape this title bestowed upon me.

She tched and leaned against the wall with her arms folded, "Hey tell me something, is it possible to collect 800,000,000 private points?"

I looked at her in slight surprise. Was Class C really thinking of this way. But I had no need of answering her so I just said, "I don't think its possible but matsushita might have an idea."

She glared at me for some reason.

"I don't even know that girl. But warn her Ayanokouji Kun. Ryūen has something planned for her next exam."

I narrowed my eyes at her words. Ryūen is really a troublesome opponent. I don't know when the next exam would be but one thing is for sure.

This exam I'm going to settle things with Ryūen once and for all.

Chapter 2-The Sports Festival

We all sat rooted to our seats waiting for Chabashira sensei to speak. Apparently, a new special exam was on the schedule. Though I was not going to do anything special for the exam, I did have to face Ryūen. I contemplated whether to warn matsushita or not but decided against it as to not freak her out. I would warn her when the time comes near. Well, no matter whenever I tell her she would be freaking out.

Because no matter how you look at it. Ryūen would take things to violence. She must already know it to some extent. But I was sure of one thing, Ryūen would take action during the exam.

As I was exploring my options, I didn't notice Chabashira sensei entering the class. It's when Horikita pinched me I gave my undivided attention to Chabashira Sensei. I definitely didn't want to deal math Horikita now.

She stood on the podium and looked over the class. Our eyes met for a second but she just averted her gaze.

No one noticed it so there wasn't a problem, but if she continues to do this this might be a problem. Then there's matsushita. I shrugged my shoulders and put my focus back on Sensei. No use worrying about that.

She walked over to the keyboard with a chalk in her hand. And with that the words 'Sport festival' were written on the blackboard.

Every student thought one thing in relief, "Finally something normal which all schools do."

But sadly, this school was filled of eccentric rules and regulations that it was inevitable for us to avoid fighting among classes.

"there would be some rules to followed. These rules have been used for years since the school started as this festival happens nearly every year"

The students groaned hearing that this would be another type of exam but paid attention nonetheless.

She took out three brochures which were safely tucked in a file and handed it to Horikita matsushita(I was surprised if I may add) and Hirata. I didn't miss the look on kushida's face when the pamphlet was handed to Horikita.

Horikita sent me a picture of the pamphlet on my phone. I was about to ignore the image but I stopped myself when my eyes caught a shiny pointed blade in horikita's hand. I had only one choice if I wished to save myself from the cruel fate that was about to befall me by the hands of my executioneer. I sighed, they were serious on involving me in every exam.

The sports festival's competitive system is built upon dividing all school years between the Red Team and the White Team.

Class A and Class D will be on the Red Team. Class B and Class C will be on the White Team

Allocation of points for all participants in the competitions (Individual Contests)

1st placer gets 15 points

2nd placer gets 12 points

3rd placer 10 points

4th placer 8 points

1 point each will be deducted for placing lower than 5th place.

In the case of team competitions, the winning team will be allocated 500 points. Allocation of points for participants of recommended competitions

1st placer gets 50 points

2nd placer gets 30 points

3rd placer 15 points

4th placer 10 points

2 points each will be deducted for placing lower than 5th place. The relay which will be the final contest will be awarding 3 times the points.

The impact of the outcome of Red Team vs. White Team would be crucial in the long run for the top. From the totality of all the school years the losing team will have 100 points equally subtracted from their class points across all school years.

The impact of separate ordering of school years

The class that takes 1st place will be awarded 50 class points. The class that takes 2nd place will not have any change to their class points. The class that takes 3rd place will have 50 class points subtracted. The class that takes 4th place will have 100 class points subtracted.

The framework of the exam was quite simple if you ask me. But the most intriguing part was the participation table. It was the list of the order of participation of class. If we manage to get the participation table of other class, we might completely obliterate a whole class.

I have no means to get it at the current moment, well even if I have one, nothing much would change. It's not as if my classmates can actually come at the top. Except existence of few gifted people like Sudou and Onodera. I can't imagine anyone winning.

I doubt if I can win even a single race. I sighed, how ordinary I am.

As the classes ended, I set out towards the art club. It has been a long time since I met Kamuro. I thought I should pay her a visit. Well, it is definitely beneficial to have friends. I can pass my time better than I usually do. Well, my usual passing time involves visiting library but the books in the library somewhat bore me. I think the reason for that is that I am a high school student now.

As I was thinking about the stupidest things, I didn't notice that I had reached on the entrance of the art club. I decided to knock on the door but just before my hand reached the door, it opened on its own. The person who opened the door let out a surprised gasp on seeing me.

It seems she wasn't expecting anyone on the door.

"Oh, my Ayanokouji Kun. You scared me." It was Chihiro Shironami.

"Chihiro, I was just coming to visit the club. There was no way I could predict the exact time you were going to open the door."

Chihiro started laughing and fully opened the door and invited me inside. I sighed and set out inside the room. When I entered the room, I was met by some 12 students in the room. Most of them were chatting and gossiping. Chihiro left me as she had somewhere to go.

It contrasted to how the atmosphere in the art club should be. Peaceful? No, it was far from that. It was as if I was roaming in keyaki mall during the weekend.

I spotted Kamuro, detached from everyone in the corner sitting on a stool using a phone. It seems she hadn't started painting yet. Well, I was quite early. There was time for the art club activities to officially begin.

I sighed and decided to call her attention.

When she heard her name being called, she looked at me and she just nodded. Something was wrong. She didn't seem like usual. I shrugged, something might have happened and it isn't my business.

When I went near her, she kept the phone aide and greeted me.

"Hello Ayanokouji Kun."

I nodded and returned the greeting. Then I fixed all my attention on the couple of beautifully drawn paintings. The outcome of a painting will depend on many things, but most of all it is determined by your choice of colours and how you choose to apply, arrange, and group shapes in the picture.

I didn't know Kamuro was this good. But one painting took all my attention. It was a painting of a girl. Anyone could mistake that the girl was Kamuro but she wasn't. One could argue that Kamuro had done mistakes while drawing her own facial expressions. But Kamuro was not the one to make such mistakes. Anyone could tell seeing how perfect her other paintings were.

I was definitely sure, the person in this canvas was some other person.

"Hey Kamuro who is this?" I asked.

Kamuro looked at me and then to the painting I was pointing at I noticed the expression on her face turned blank. Her eyes seemed darker. Something was definitely up.

"Oh, it's my elder sister." She said with a blank expression.

"I see." I had no plan to pry in her life as this was completely useless information to me. But if this is responsible for her isolation from the others I may have to step in and help her grow.

She was little surprised when I didn't question her any further. But her mood seemed happier. It seems she was constantly questioned about her sister.

I sat on the stool next to her. She decided to start the conversation.

"You did it now didn't you. You just kicked baldy from the top like it was a piece of cake. And also, that Class C Ape. He is very disgusting. I was happy when I saw that class C had 0 points."

Did she mean Ryūen by Ape? This girl was quite good in giving innovative nicknames.

"What do you feel about other classes Kamuro?" I asked her.

She shrugged, "The only class which interests me is yours at the moment. I doubt you are the only weapon Class D has. I have heard about someone named Sudou who is part of your Class. He seems to be quite athletic."

She had a lot of information considering hardly 3 months had passed since the high school started.

"Yeah, I guess." I replied.

"Then if you talk about B class and C class, I don't think they are threat to class A at the current stage." She continued ending her evaluation of the other classes. Well can this be called an evaluation? Well, its Kamuro we are talking about. Unlike me she doesn't care about weaklings.

"So, what are you planning this exam? If it's you then you must have a way to come at the top."

I sighed and crossed my arms and said, "I don't plan to do anything this exam."

She shrugged her shoulders, "As you wish. You should enjoy more rather than continuously scheming like that ape and Sakayanagi. Who knows if you would still get time to spend with friends and actually enjoy?"

I turned towards her, "Aren't you enjoying your life here.?"

She flinched when she heard my question. But she quickly regained her posture and didn't answer anything. I obviously noticed her flinching but decided it would be better to keep that piece of knowledge to myself.

We later went to chatting normally and both of us enjoyed our time together. I left when the club was halfway as I didn't want to talk too much. She needs her time to herself too right?

We waved and I left the room. I decided to visit some other clubs along the way, now that I was in the clubs section. The first club which came into my peripheral vision was the music club. It had a variety of instruments inside it including piano. A sense of Deja vu hit me. I sighed and decided to go ahead with my stroll. The next clubs were the tea ceremony club, cooking club and the calligraphy club.

The last club which came was the cosplay club. I was about to walk in when I noticed someone looking at the club with visible depression.She was the last person I had expected to see here.

It was Ibuki Mio from class C.

A.N This volume the main focus would be on Ibuki. So the next chapter I have announced who all be the main love interests of Ayanokouji

And beware, the next chapter might be little serious. As I need to write some character development for ibuki I have to brainstorm my mind to think about hers and kamuros character. LoL I spent 3 days on this and the next chapter. I usually do it in a day.

Chapter 3-A Painful Memory

I slowly made my way towards her after putting my phone back in the pocket. I stood behind her also looking through the window. The entire of the cosplay club was visible. The only anime I remembered watching was something called, 'Death Note'. The main protagonist was quite interesting but was still kind of played in his own game by death. So, I didn't really have much idea who they were dressing up to be.

I decided to call ibuki as I had no interest in seeing boys dancing in a peculiar manner and saying 'Nico Nico Ni~'.

Just as I touched her, she flinched and snapped from her daze. When she saw me, a deathly glare was directed in my direction. She grabbed my hand and dragged me upstairs. I didn't complain as I didn't want to die. After some time, I found myself on the rooftop with a glaring ibuki in front of me.

"Uh hi "I said not knowing what to make out of this situation.

She just sent a glare in my direction. Can't you be a little sweeter ibuki?

"If you rat whatever you saw just now, I won't hesitate to end your life. "She said in threatening tone.

"Oh, who is going to believe me anyway" I said in return not giving a clear response to her previous statement.

"That doesn't matter. Just forget what you saw today "She said.

I decided to dig in a little.

"Weren't you a member of track and field club? "I asked.

"I am member of Track and field club. Today was just a mistake, nothing else."She strongly rejected anymore ideas.

"Oh, I see but it didn't look like it "I said but regretted as she grabbed my collar,

"Why the fuck do you still remember that. I thought I told you to forget it" She shouted profanities at me

"Huh you know that I can't exactly forget what I see. The brain doesn't work that way. "I said to her.

"I don't care how the fuck does your brain work. But I do know how to kill you."

"Hey! We are school kids; we aren't supposed to talk about killing each other." I said acting scared for my life.

"I don't care just forget it." She said.

I sighed, "Fine, I'll tell the brain to forgot how you were staring at the cosplay club. How you wanted to be the..."

Her glare turned darker, "Do you find this fun Ayanokouji?"

I sighed, "Okay, Okay I understand, now can you leave me please? "She tched and removed the hands from my collar and went near the rooftop railing looking outside the sky.

I removed my phone and searched for something. I opened her contact which I had got when I was working with Ryūen last exam and sent her an image.

A popping sound of notification was heard from her phone and she checked it. Just as she looked at her phone screen a horrified look could be seen on her face. Which turned into rage.

"Ayanokouji" She yelled and rushed towards me.

"Oh, stop for a minute. "I called out in hopes she would atop.

That image showed ibuki looking at the cosplay club quite clearly. Anyone could make out that she was looking at the people cosplaying. Well, my photographing skills cannot be underestimated.

She frantically reached out for my phone which was now in my hand held slightly above her height.

I could imagine her cursing her height.

Realizing she couldn't reach the phone she grabbed my collar and stared with hostility.

"You have two choices. Either handover your phone and live for 10 minutes or die in two seconds."

What the hell was wrong with her. What kind of choice was this?

"Come-on don't be so angry. I'm not sending this image to anyone." I said, but she didn't remove her hand from my collar and stared with hostility.

"But it was interesting to see you enjoying..." I didn't get to say anything more as she moved to punch me which I barely avoided.

"Oh, come On. That punch would have really hurt."

I said moving away from her.

"What the hell do you want from me?" She spoke. But this time, I didn't see any anger in her voice rather I saw desperation in her tone.

I would be lying if I say that I wasn't surprised. This was not the Ibuki I knew. This was nothing like the usual one who takes pleasure in degrading Me, heck she even called me a pervert last time for no reason.

"I just want you to say why were you looking at the cosplay club like that." I asked her.

"I just decided to pay a visit to cosplay club because I felt like it okay. Was there a problem if I pay a visit to other club apart from track and field?" She asked. But I could see her lie and I wasn't going to let her escape. Because she clearly desired to be in the cosplay club, this may hold her back from her full potential.

And there was no way that I was going to let this slide. She had a lot of potential and I was going to draw it out from her.

"Don't lie to me ibuki. You and I both know that this isn't true. Tell me truth and get over with it." I pressured her a little to break her mental barriers she had put.

Ibuki gritted her teeth at my words and removed her hands from my collar and looked down.

"It is because I am a girl. "She said in a low voice.

Her words confused me. I didn't understand what exactly did she mean. She sensed my confusion and sighed.

"My birth was a mistake."

As I heard those words from her mouth, I became serious. This was much more severe than I had earlier thought. Its not everyday you hear someone question their own birth. And such talk didn't suit ibuki.

"What do you mean ibuki?" I asked her for explanation.

She tched again and asked an unexpected question, "What do you think of me Ayanokouji?"

I thought about it for a moment than answered, "Well your kind of cold. But yet you don't push away your friends. So, I can't figure you at all."

Ibuki started laughing. When she stopped, she turned towards me and said in a more serious tone," I believe that you won't tell what you hear now to anyone else."

I nodded; I wasn't the one to rat someone out just for fun. I knew my limits.

She sighed and asked me while gritting her teeth, "What if I tell you, my dad never wanted me to be born. What will you think?"

The sound of crickets and flies can be heard along with a gentle breeze blowing through the rooftop. I was surprised. It seems I wasn't the only one with family issues.

The best way here was to stay silent and let her continue. Because whatever I answer may worsen her mental state if she takes it in the wrong way.

When I wasn't answering she continued, "My father never wanted a girl child. He wanted someone to carry forward his legacy and dojo. He wanted a boy. Heck that bastard was even ready to abort me if it wasn't for my mother. She did her best to stop my abortion and I was born."

She paused for a moment, then continued,

"If anyone else would come to know that he had tried to abort his daughter his image might have been affected. So, he made the home a living hell for my mother. He didn't hurt her physically but the mental torture he put her through."

I didn't need to hear anything more. To be honest I found it disgusting that people like this existed. I know what it feels to go through that, so I can relate to it.

"From my birth, I was alone. My father didn't allow me to meet anyone else of my age. At first, I thought he was caring for me and protecting me, then I understood. He hated me. I was more on the feminine side. I too wished that I play with other girls of my age. I had no interest in sports and fighting."

One by one the words registered in my mind. This changed my entire understanding of the existence of Ibuki Mio.

"But I was still okay with it as my mother loved me with all her heart. The love she gave me far exceeded the hate directed towards me. Once I asked her, why does my father hate me so much, do you know what she said?"

She asked me. I looked at her. A faint smile was visible on her face.

"She said that it doesn't matter that my father hates me, what matters is that I love myself."

We stayed silent for some time.

"Those words might not mean anything to you, but they meant the world to me. Those words give me the strength and I began to defy my father and become who I am and want to be. I spent my time in art and music and I enjoyed it. I even watched anime while sneaking in my father's room."

Ibuki was smiling. This was the first time she was smiling genuinely. I didn't know but I felt something. It was as if I could relate with her.

"But all good things come to and end one day" She started saying,

As she said those words, the mood on the roof top tensed threefold. Ibuki's smile was lost and she just had a blank and lifeless expression on her face.

"My mother couldn't take it anymore. All that mental torture finally broke her. And then..."

She paused and her knees gave up.

"She...She...gave up on life. No more like she... she gave up on me."

A teardrop fell from her eye. She touched the drop on her cheek,

"huh?"

She desperately started rubbing her eyes trying to stop the tears which were now flowing freely.

"No...No...No...stop it...please stop it."

I sighed. If I don't do anything she would most likely break now. That might be advantageous to me but, I remembered Ibuki's mother and her words.

It doesn't matter if someone hates you, what matters is that you love yourself

Why do I feel like those words were meant for me?

I sighed and embraced her tightly. She flinched in the sudden embrace but soon lost her will and started crying loudly.

I needed to do this, not just to make her one of my assets, but to show her, that her birth wasn't a mistake. She deserved to be in this world as much as anyone else.

She kept sobbing and between sobs she continued her story, "That day when my Mother died. Something inside me changed. I became angry on my father. More than him myself. I decided to do everything which boys do, heck I even cut my own hair short. Those hair which my mother loved. I was doing everything in my power to make him acknowledge me. And one day I succeeded. I was a rank holder in the martial art championships but still he refused to acknowledge me. Even Than... That bastard had the audacity to say that he will not acknowledge me since I'm a girl."

She kept sobbing for quite some time.

"Ibuki, what if he doesn't acknowledge you."

She still had her face buried in the crook of my neck but she was listening to me,

"There are some relations, which matter more than blood ones. Your past might not have been the best one, but you were always loved. Your mother always loved you. It was wrong of her to give up on her life but whatever mistake she might have done; I can say with certainty that she loved you."

I could hear her gasp but I continued,

"You had done nothing by being born to her. But yet she loved you. She loved you because you were born. So how can you say your birth was a mistake."

She removed her face from the crook of her neck and just stared at me.

We kept staring at each other but she smiled. A smile in which there was no pain, she was free from the past holding her back.

She got up and wiped the remaining on her tears.

"Aren't you going to stand up pervert what is the problem with you boys."

I sighed as I stood up. She was back too normal. The normal Ibuki who wasn't serious but rather plain stupid.

I removed my phone and was about to hand it to her so she can delete the image but she just returned it, "You can keep it. I don't care. But if you tell a single soul what happened here, I'll make your high school life a living hell."

No, I was actually feeling threatened. This girl could actually make my ordinary high school life less ordinary if she wished for it. I wasn't taking any chances.

She began to leave but stopped at the door, "Hey, I uh... Thank you." She said in a very low voice.

I decided to tease her," What I didn't hear it"

She growled and said, "Fuck off pervert." With that she was out of my sight.

I sighed and looked at the setting sun. I began thinking, what if I had someone to love me. Would I be different?

Now I was more than curious to know, what exactly felt to love and to be loved.

But now the question was, who should I love?

A.N. (Sigh of relief) Finally Ibuki's character development phase 1 success. Next volume would be kamuro's. Well what can I say this chapter was quite long. And I never watched Love live in my life, it was my sister who showed a video on youtube of Nico Nico Nii to me. Lmao that was addicting.

And we have come a long way. So now the story can go in only two routes

Ibuki x Ayanokouji

Kamuro x Ayanokouji

LoL I still don't know whom to choose but that's a story for future volumes so thanks for taking your time reading this.

Sorry If the backstory is cliche.

Chapter 4-Nagumo Miyabi

I set off towards school with ichinose beside me. We kind of met in the elevator. Turns out we live in the same dorm wing. I expected her to be with someone as she is one of the most popular girl in the school year. But that wasn't the case or so it seemed to me.

"So Ayanokouji Kun, how are your studies coming along? "Ichinose asked me breaking the silence I was enjoying.

"Well, I have studied enough to clear the passing criteria I guess." I replied.

"They say the term exams would be in a special way. Might be another special exam."

Now this attracted my attention.

"What do you mean?" I asked trying to draw out some useful information.

"Hoshinomiya sensei told us about it last week."

Hoshinomiya Chie. The homeroom teacher of class B. I had met that woman only twice and I knew that she was a huge pain to deal with. Both of the times we had met she had put rather a lot of effect in seducing me.

I didn't question any further as not to give rise to any troublesome suspicions.

We continued on the way to the school with a lot of people joining our duo to form a group of eight. All of them wanting to talk to ichinose. I kind of became the ninth wheeler if such a term exists.

Ichinose threw me an apologetic response but I just waved it off and went ahead. As I entered the corridor, I saw Kamuro so I decided to greet her.

But a surprising thing happened.

She looked at me and just went away. Not even bothering to acknowledge me. What was the problem? Was it because I pointed out her sister's photograph yesterday? No, it's too soon to reach onto a conclusion. Its better if I focus on other things. I need to make some preparations for matsushita to take the stage. But I am suspicious of one person in the class. I first didn't think much about it, but now after so many instances of mood swings or in more accurate terms, personality shift. Something is definitely up with her.

I didn't notice that I had entered the class. I shrugged pushing away all these thoughts and took a seat.

Timeskip

The second period was granted for the team meeting. Both the teams were supposed to meet in the auditorium. Which meant that there was a chance I would be seeing the Student council president, Horikita's brother would be there too. This festival is gonna be quite interesting. Of course, I'm not going to do anything in the exam but when the exam ends, I will have to settle things with Ryūen. But first I need evaluate how strong he actually is. It is not advisable to go up against him unprepared. According to my current knowledge he has three people who are constantly with him. One being Ishizaki, other is a tall boy who is quite well built. And the third is ibuki.

Oh, talking about ibuki, I received a message from her. But it was deleted in one minute she sent. Sadly, I didn't get to see what the message was. It must have been a mistake, or why would she message me.

We got up and made our way to the auditorium. I was walking along the idiotic trio. For once they were talking about something apart from their perverted and twisted fantasies.

"What do you think sudo, how many are you planning to win."

Sudo laughed loudly, "Dunno, I honestly don't expect any competition. I've been training and playing sports my whole life. After my mama left me and father neglected me, I knew I was a scum. So, I chose this school. Here even someone like me can have a future."

So, this was the reason he had joined this school huh. Well, he was much stronger than I expected even mentally. He really was someone this class needed.

Ike said in an apologetic tone, "Man you got it hard."

"Don't mention it, I don't give a damn about it anyways I should more concentrate on how to win Horikita. Ayanokouji you are close with Horikita right. What is her first name?"

"Horikita's huh, I think it was Suzune" replied to him.

Sudo started blushing and he tried to say those words, "S..uzu... Damn it its too hard to say her name."

"But the pronunciation of Suzune is quite simple. "I asked him confused what was hard in saying Suzune.

The trio looked at me blankly. It was creepy to see those three with these look.

Ike asked, "Yamauchi is this the same guy who has a harem of his own."

"So, it seems Ike sensei. Sudo what do you say shall we deal him the supreme judgement." Yamauchi said while looking at Sudou.

"Horikita give me strength to kill Ayanokouji for insulting my love for you."

"Love for whom?" From back came a voice which sent shivers down the spines of the trio.

Standing behind them was Horikita Suzune herself.

"Just what are you idiots are talking about?" I gave a sigh of relief; thank god she had not heard everything. I might have had to dig a grave for sudo. That would have been exhausting.

Sudo nervously started saying, "Oh nothing Horikita." Horikita just shook her head not sparing any effort to hide her irritation.

She turned towards me, "Ayanokouji Kun, you don't mind if I take some of your time do you."

"Oh, but I do mind..."

"Thank you for coming Ayanokouji Kun." With those words she already made way in a corridor. I sighed seeing that I had no escape.

Sudo looked down in anger and just walked away. Yamauchi and Ike also walked away laughing at Sudou.

When I reached near the corridor, Horikita was standing there with her arms crossed.

"What do you want Horikita?" I asked her as I didn't want to waste her time with her.

"Ayanokouji Kun, should I believe that you have no interest in contributing to the class now?"

"That's not it, but I would contribute according to average of the class."

She sighed, " I see. But that certainly doesn't stop me from taking your advice correct?"

"Huh that's not what I mean..."

"Thank you for your future efforts Ayanokouji Kun." With those words the devil left me. My fate had been sealed. She called me from there to here just for 2 sentences and a question?

I sighed and started to walk back towards the auditorium. On my way I bought a can of juice from the vending machine. So, I decided to stall time until the meeting was over. It was not as if the meeting was mandatory. When there were five minutes left for the meeting to end, I set out. As I was walking towards the auditorium, I encountered the people I wish I never should have encountered.

Ryūen Ibuki Albert and Ishizaki had just exited the auditorium and their eyes met mine. Ryūen smirked and walked towards me with those three following him.

"Kukuku, if it isn't the mastermind behind Class D's victory. "Ryūen said loud enough for the other three to hear.

The other three were shocked when they heard him. Well Alberts face didn't change but I noticed his eyebrows twitching when he heard those words.

"I don't know what you are talking about. It was all matsushita's plan."

Ryūen just laughed and took a step forward towards me. This was definitely not good. If I get into scuffle with him right now, I may end up attracting attention.

Thankfully Ibuki stopped him, "Oi we aren't here to fight."

Ryūen just looked at her and smirked, "Since when do you care about him so much ibuki. Don't tell me you are a part of his rumored harem."

Ibuki got flustered for a minute but regained her composure.

"Just leave him alone Ryūen. He clearly doesn't have anything to do with it." Ibuki said to him.

"Yeah, he was the one who saved me from expulsion" Ishizaki supported Ibuki and spoke in my favor.

I seriously need to thank ibuki, well this is not the perfect time to thank her.

Ryūen just laughed, "To think that my own dogs would question me, you sure have played your cards right Ayanokouji."

Ibuki tched at the words dog but kept silent. Ryūen took another step towards me.

Ibuki quickly stood in front of me. "I said to leave him alone tch." She said in a little anger.

Ryūen looked surprised but then started laughing, "This is quite fun. So, then Ibuki are you really going to stand against me."

He said while glaring at ibuki. Ibuki glared back not even caring that it was three against two situation. But Ibuki was a rank holder so she must be confident of her skills. But this was Ibuki we were talking about.

She hated losing and she had the courage to stand against people she had no chance of winning.

Ryūen smirked and took a step against ibuki. Ishizaki was scared and confused what to do but he decided to go with Ryūen.

Just before things could escalate the sound of clapping broke our tension. It was a blonde boy. The way his posture was gave a feeling of authority.

"Wow, my kouhais are quite feisty aren't they now."

Now only I realized there was a crowd starting to develop around us. This has turned into more troublesome than I had thought.

"Kukuku and who might you be? "Ryūen asked not even bothering to look at the person who had interrupted them.

The blonde boy just laughed loudly, "Kouhai you are quite funny. Now then what were you going to do. Is it some kind of fight? If it is, I won't mind being a spectator."

"Kukuku why don't you join the fight, or are you just scared and prefer to be the spectator."

The blonde kid just laughed at Ryūen's provocation, "Unlike you fools I know when and how exactly to crush my enemies. So, these cheap provocations won't work on me."

Ryūen just smirked and said, "What a nice excuse for shitting your pants."

At this the upperclassmen smirked but unlike the previous one, this smirk didn't hide his anger.

He advanced towards Ryūen and Ryūen also took steps towards him, but all stopped when one man entered the scene.

Everyone became quiet at once. Though they were grinning and staring at each other with hostility they stopped on sensing the student council president.

"What exactly is going on here, would someone care to explain"

It was more of an order rather than a question. The authority in his voice made it all clear.

The boy just shrugged his shoulders, "Senpai I was just having a chat with my dear Kouhai here. People need to know about the future council president, right?"

Future Council President? Oh, it seems I asked it out loud.

"Just so you know, I'm the current student council secretary, Nagumo Miyabi. He said while smiling at me and ibuki.

"Ill be looking forward to facing my Kouhai's after I officially take the office next year. Be sure to entertain me." With those words he left the place.

It seems the interclass competition isn't the only thing to look forward to now.

It might be possible in the future,

That I have to face the entire school year.

A.N. This chapter was to introduce Nagumo miyabi as in the LN he is introduced by hirata during playing soccer. But that scene was difficult to write considering the flow of my plot. So I decided to write this.

Chapter 5-The Thorn in our Side

I was waiting beside Ike as the boys were getting their grip strength checked. We had been allotted our homeroom lectures for practice for the sports festival.

I was currently observing Sudou who was smiling with pride while glancing at his grip strength of 80. It was truly astonishing how someone could boast this much. But he more or less deserved it. Sports was his only plus point and I didn't see him any less even after he was boasting so much.

But rather he was in my good book. I had no plans to expel him. But I looked at two people. One was just standing there with her cold demeanor. And other was just staring at the her.

Horikita and kushida. They were the ones who I was currently uncertain about. It won't be hard to expel Horikita but kushida was still an unknown quantity. Both were important to class to some degree. Horikita was excellent in academics and sports both. Same was with kushida. But if either of them harbors any ill thoughts against the other than the class might get caught in the crossfire.

So, the most ideal way would be to expel one of them. But the question was whom to target. I didn't have a clear idea what exactly the tension between them was.

Kushida was an important asset. She could give me the information about the entire school year if she worked for me. Moreover, she was considered equal to Horikita in academics by our classmates. The only factor which was missing would be strategic thinking. And I had a feeling that kushida is much more dangerous than what she gave out to the others.

On the other hand, Horikita Suzune was just a means of my contact with student council president. I needed information on the other school years and he was the best asset for me. Moreover, Horikita and her stern behavior was necessary for our class.

It was hard to choose between them. But first I should try to understand what exactly their situation is. If they both become allies then I won't need to expel anyone of them.

But if they do get in my bad book, I won't hesitate to remove anyone of them from the scenario.

Because I don't really care about who is useful to the class , I care more about who is useful to me.

Time Skip

After doing a blunder of having my grip strength measured more than 60. I had to suffer the consequences. I genuinely thought that 60 was the average after hearing sudo.

But I regretted my decision when I realized who exactly I had asked.

I sighed as after doing some little training and exercises we were on our way back to the classroom. On the way we were met with the obvious stares of 4 class C students. Naturally class D grew wary and stopped on their tracks.

Being the oblivious fellow I am, I continued not caring that almost all of class C was looking at me.

Sorry Ryūen, such cheap tactics won't scare me. He must have deliberately sent 4 students to spy on me as to make me nervous.

It would have worked if it was any other person. Any other person would have been scared of being continuously followed and wouldn't have felt the best mentally.

But years of being continuously watched has turned me ignorant to even the most hostile ones. So, I just watched as if I had no worry.

Ishizaki was one of them spying so I waved at him as we were best of friends. He was shocked, would be an understatement. Who the hell waves to an enemy? Well, that's me Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.

He waved back at me while giving a sheepish smile. The other two lackeys with him immediately went away not bothering to spy at me. They were just going to make fools of themselves as I didn't feel even a grain of pressure on me.

Just as I was about to enter the class a certain girl stopped me.

"Hello Ayanokouji Kun", It was Maya Satō. She had tried talking to me during the uninhabited island exam once but I was busy executing my plan with matsushita back then. I forgot to apologize to her, I think this would be the perfect opportunity to make it up to her for that day.

"Hey" I called out.

"Um can I ask you for something?" She said in a tone which I couldn't quite figure out. It was nervous and determined at the same time. Well, it's not as if she was going to confess to me, right?

Right?

"Uh sure go ahead." Since when did people start asking me for favors.

"Can I have your contact number?" She said while holding my hand.

Huh? What's wrong with my luck. It seems this world is far much cruel than I had thought back then.

"Oh, sure, I guess." I just handed her my contact number. She typed it in my phone and called me. Such dedication.

"And also, can I call you... by first name." She asked while nervously looking down.

Oh, what's the big deal in it. It's just a name, right?

"Sure, you can call me Kiyotaka if you wish too."

Her eyes sparkled as she involuntarily moved closer to me.

"Thank you Kiyotaka"

You are too close Satō. Although I have no problems with your closeness to me, I don't want unnecessary rumors to start between us. That wouldn't be something I would look forward to.

Well leaving that, why should I be the only one to be called by first name?

"So, I can also call you by first name too, right?"

Silence. She stared at me in shock and in somewhat happiness.

"Oi aren't you lovebirds moving too fast?" a girl approached her. It seems nearly the whole class had been listening to our conversation.

The girl who approached us was none other than Karuizawa Kei. The leader of maximum girls in the class.

I saw Satō blush but I remained as I am.

Is there some problem if I call her by first name? Wait lovebirds? When did I agree to that?

"Uh..." I didn't know what to say. This was an unfamiliar situation to me.

If someone asked me too, I would definitely write an autobiography titled, 'The troubles of an Ordinary student'. I bet my romantic life would fill half of those trouble. Just how many encounters have I had with girls. I literally had 17 contacts and 58.6% of them were girls. Wait a minute, why did I calculate that again?

"It was nice to know you Kiyotaka Kun." She said while covering her face with her hands.

"Oh, it was my pleasure Maya."

She let out a cute squeak and ran out of my sight when she heard me calling her first name. Karuizawa and several other girls started laughing loudly.

"Oh, my Maya has become a lovesick maiden now" It was Nene Mori a girl from our class.

"I mean just look at her, she is completely infatuated with him. You are quite lucky Ayanokouji Kun." This time it was another girl whose name was Kayano Onodera.

Huh? Since when did I know you. Oh wait, maybe she is approaching me because she wants to be my friend? Am I that popular? But why can't a boy approach me like that. Seems like my popularity is limited to female population rather than male.

"Oh I..." I didn't know what to reply to that, I mean what was I supposed to do when I found out that a girl liked me. I had read it in a book, I was supposed to be surprised. So, stuttering can count as a surprised expression I guessed. People might say that I am overacting but seriously this was the first time I had found myself in such a situation. Where the majority of the attention was on me and that to due to the concept of love with which I was totally unfamiliar with.

I remembered the words of Scott Lentine, ' Wanting to be free. Wanting to be me. Trying to make people see. And accept the real me.' Though this quote might be considered irrelevant to the current situation, if we look carefully than this is more relatable to me.

It seems I had solved the question about who is capable of being my partner for these three years.

One who has the courage to accept my cold eyes, is the only one I can expect as my partner who can teach me what love is.

Time skip

I had somehow gotten involved in this exam in a way. Currently I was standing beside Horikita in front of the staircase leading to the staff room where Chabashira sensei was waiting. We had the participation table in a file to submit it to sensei. Horikita was looking at me, "So Ayanokouji Kun, have you taken a glance at the participation table?"

"Yeah, I guess. You have done a good job." I replied bored by the questions she had been asking since we set out to reach here. Me and the idiots were enjoying hot cup noodles. I had received the Extra Spicy Tom yum goong flavor. I didn't really know how it tasted so I was looking forward to eat it. But my moment of piece was interrupted by Horikita and she had dragged me here.

"I have taken everything in consideration and then have designed this. I think this is our strongest line up entering the race." She said eyes brimming with determination.

I nervously replied surprised at the aura of determination she had, "Oh well, it's nice I guess."

One thing was certain. Due to my actions last exam, Horikita had definitely changed for better or for worse.

As we were on our way to the staff room, we were met by the figure of Ryūen coming towards her.

"Kukuku, I look forward to facing you Ayanokouji.", with these few words he left the place.

Horikita looked at me with an odd look. "Just what are you planning Ayanokouji Kun?"

I sighed, "Nothing at the moment but I will say one thing. This exam I might get serious. a little"

She looked at me with odd look but kept quiet as we came in front of Chabashira sensei inside the staff room. She looked at me and grinned but I didn't pay any attention. Horikita noticed her grin and narrowed her eyes. She sighed knowing there was no use thinking about that as she must have known, that I'm not going to tell her anything.

She handed the participation table to Chabashira sensei and said, "Sensei I believe we are on time?"

We had been given deadline of a week to submit this and Horikita was submitting this at the last moment.

As Horikita submitted this she felt a sigh of relief.

Chabashira sensei smiled at her, "Horikita are you sure about giving this file to me. Only one file from the class can be submitted. I can't accept the file submitted afterwards."

Horikita replied with confidence, "I'm perfectly sure about it."

With that Horikita turned to walk out but I held her hand.

She threw a confused look at me but I continued to stare at Chabashira sensei as she continued to grin at me.

"Horikita you need to think. Don't you think something is wrong?" I asked her.

"huh", she just gave me a confused glance.

But then her eyes widened as if she had realized something.

She immediately went near Chabashira sensei, "Wait sensei, what did you mean when you said that no file can be accepted after that. I'm the only one who is submitting right?"

At this Chabashira sensei started laughing, "Yes you are right Horikita. You aren't the only one who has submitted the participation table. I had already received a file from someone who wished to keep his identity hidden."

At this Horikita went into panic, "But sensei, I... I don't understand. The person who submitted... He submitted on his own accord. The class doesn't agree with it. So, doesn't that mean...it is invalid?"

Chabashira sensei merely chuckled, "Unfortunately that's not the case, once a file is submitted it can't be changed and take it this way. Now that you are here, how can I know that you are representing the whole class? What proof do you have?"

"That is..." Horikita opened her mouth to retort, but nothing came out.

Horikita looked at me.

I thought she was going to ask for my help but, "I'm sorry. Ayanokouji Kun. It seems I'm really incompetent one."

It seems she had really matured from the last exam. She was stronger than before.

But Horikita you are wrong about one thing. You weren't the one who was incompetent.

Your strategy was quite good. Submitting at last moment is indeed the best one can come up with. But no strategy can succeed if there is a thorn in our side.

But that person wasn't aware of one thing.

My plan was already in motion from the day the exams were announced.

It was about time I smoked out the traitor from Class D.

_

(A.N. I don't know if you remember but Kiyo doesn't know about kushida's true nature as he never took her help in the Sudou case in this fic. And I have thought about everything so I assure you that you won't be disappointed at the end of this volume. Man my hands are shaking to write kiyo vs Ryueen. It might look that this is too sooner than volume 7 but again this is a fanfic. So thanks for reading.)

Chapter 6-Ibuki And The Pervert

I sighed as I realized I was late for the school. Well, a leave for a day won't hurt right. It's not as if they would care if I didn't come for a day.

Or would they? Well, I doubt they would even notice that I was absent. I mean I may have become well known, but I actually don't have friends with whom I spend time with. The trio didn't actually consider me as one of them. So basically, I was in the phase of high school where I was well known yet alone.

Matsushita had done her job well and all that was left was to wait for the events. They were approaching at a fast rate. Just one week and I would find out who exactly the traitor is.

A message notification interrupted my thoughts as I opened my phone lock to check it.

Contact ID - Ibuki (Scary woman)

'Where are you?' Her message read.

'Huh what do you mean by where I am? Don't tell me you are doing what I think you are...Stalking?' I tried to make a joke but for some reason I had a bad feeling.

I was met with silence for some time from that line. She suddenly called me. I sighed taking the call which was from my executioner.

"Hello Ibuki?" I asked wondering if she was still on the line.

"You really are dangerous."

Huh. How did she even come to this conclusion? Don't tell me, she really was stalking me. Ryūen you should have at least sent Ishizaki. I mean this girl is too smart for her own good.

And since when did people start becoming dangerous for joking.

"Uh Ibuki, I don't get it what you are trying to say." I said in a confused tone.

"Why haven't you come to the school today?" She asked and ignored my question.

"I'm in my room Ibuki" I replied while standing up with the phone still in my hand.

"It's rare for you to not come to school." She said in a somewhat low voice but I still heard it.

I froze on hearing that statement.

"Ibuki answer this question, exactly how many days have you been stalking me?"

Again, she graced me with silent treatment.

Just what was her problem. Well, that was how she was, it's no helping it then.

"Ibuki? "I asked her.

"I'm coming." Then the line was hanged up from the other side. It took a minute for me to process what has just happened.

Did a girl just invite herself into my room?

Wait a minute, this is the moment I should be freaking out, right? I mean it's far from normal for a girl to visit an idiot's home who doesn't even know what to talk about with a girl apart from something serious. In other words, how to be casual.

It was quite tempting to search the web for 'How to be casual with a girl' but I resisted those urges. I need to learn it on my own. It's no good if I forever remain like this.

Just as I was in a dilemma, a loud banging on my dorm door interrupted the silence. It was definitely ibuki. I decided to wait a little and annoy her before opening the door. But I removed that thought as soon as I heard a banging which was near enough to actually break the door. I am not paying points for door repairs.

As I opened the doors, I was met by a girl who had hid her face under a mask. At first glance one could mistake her as a robber but I understood who she was when I saw the short blue hair.

I sighed as she practically pushed me aside and rushed inside. I dint miss her iconic tch though. I closed the door and followed her inside.

She was removing the mask and helping herself on my bed.

"Um So..." I was trying to start a conversation.

"Don't even bother pervert" She quickly said, blocking my words.

"Hey you are the one in my room so doesn't that mean you are the perver..." I stopped when she sent me a glare.

"Never mind that" I replied to escape from the certain death which would have been awarded to me if I had continued what I was speaking.

"So, can you at least tell what are you doing in my room" I asked making up some courage.

"I just wanted to skip classes for the day I guess" she replied with a shrug.

"Well, that's alright but why my room?" I asked the important question.

She crossed her arms, "Do you have any problem if I meet you. And even if you have, bear with it. Ryūen has given me a job. To keep an eye on you."

"I see". I made my way towards the kitchen and asked her, "what will you drink."

"Isn't there anything to eat."

Huh, exactly whose home were you in ibuki? I sighed and replied, "I'll bring you teas and some cookies."

The cookies I had purchased a day ago came in handy. I wasn't planning on eating them as they tasted too sweet for my liking. Yet I couldn't just throw them. So, I had planned on giving this to the idiot trio. But if ibuki wanted to have some sweet snacks, I wasn't the one to complain.

Ibuki didn't mind cookies as I didn't receive any rejection from her. After two minutes I was in front of her with tea and some cookies for snack.

Wait a minute, it was still morning. So why were we having snacks and casually talking while missing school.

I shrugged away my thoughts and sat beside ibuki. I saw ibuki flinch from the corner of my eye when I took a seat next to her but she regained her composure in a minute.

"Now that I see Ayanokouji Kun, you don't keep much in your room. Could it be you are a minimalist."

I sighed, "It's not that. I just don't know what to buy."

Ibuki almost spit the tea she was drinking and started laughing. I regrated saying those words. I had been promoted to the position of laughing stock from a nobody in Ibuki's mental ranking system.

"How clueless are you. I mean even I know what all things boys can buy for enjoyment." Ibuki said laughing.

We both kept silent for a minute.

But she started laughing again, "I can't stop myself Ayanokouji, its funny thinking that you are the one who is supposed to be a dangerous enemy according to Ryūen."

I raised an eyebrow. It seems she was enjoying teasing me.

"Ibuki do you want to know what do boys actually enjoy?" I asked her.

Ibuki looked at me somewhat surprised at my question but still amused.

"Well, what are you waiting for show me fast" She said to me.

I didn't have to hold back then huh.

I grabbed her wrist and dragged her backwards such that she was leaning on the wall and I was pinning her arms against them. She flinched on the moment and blushed various shades of red at our closeness. I could smell her perfume. She was too stunned to react or even block me.

I gradually took my right hand which was free and held her waist gently.

She blushed even harder but didn't make any move to oppose me.

"I don't know if you have noticed Ibuki, but even though you try to be and look like a boy. The girl side of you does have a charm, which attracts boy."

I heard her gulp. It seems she was very nervous. But I was too excited to let her go now.

"You wanted to know what I enjoy huh" I asked her.

She didn't give a reply. The look on her face was quite amusing. I had never seen her like this.

"So ibuki, will you spread your legs for me?"

This maybe was the last straw for her as she closed her eyes. Wait a minute did she really thought I was going to have my way with her. I quickly removed myself from that position. Ibuki started to breath heavily. Then the look on her face turned dark.

"I didn't know Ayanokouji your hormones were this intense. To think you were this much of a pervert. Why don't you just die."

Ouch. Well, that hurt a little. But Ibuki it doesn't look like you hated this as your cheeks are still pink.

Well, I might be overthinking this. Every girl's reaction might be this. And I did this after making sure our conversation or actions weren't being recorded so I'm not in trouble.

"Uh you asked" I was met with a painful jab on my shoulder.

"You damn pervert, tch I'm going to kill Ryūen for sending me to stalk you."

I sighed as I heard the door closing. It seems she had left.

Well now that I think about it. She was the first girl to come to my room on her own accord. But it seems I couldn't help but tease her. I sighed as I saw that she hadn't eaten the cookies at all.

I sighed again as I took one of it and put it in my mouth.

Too sweet

_

(A.N. It seems someone is taking someone's place. XD)

Chapter 7-Sudo's Rage

It was finally time. The sports festival is beginning. If this was any other exam, I would have been bored but as this is my first time for a sports meet, I feel quite excited. Being homeschooled didn't let me enjoy such events so I don't have an idea how they work.

I sighed when I heard my phone ringing in other words, someone was calling me. It was Matsushita Chiaki.

"Ayanokouji Kun, how are you" She asked me.

"I was indeed a lot better before you called." I simply replied.

"That was quite rude Ayanokouji Kun. But I'll let it slide this time. I did as you told. You know what you have to do this exam right. If you disappoint me this exam, I may have to expose everything you have been doing behind the back of the class." I heard her say.

I involuntarily groaned in frustration. I should have never trusted this girl. She has become into too big of a problem.

"You know it right matsushita, how I am. Yet you want to try your luck?"

"Its not luck if you have the assets Ayanokouji Kun. So just do as you are told if you value your ordinary life" She told me.

"You know matsushita if you continue with this, I may have to leave an unordinary life after all. So, then what would you do if I decide to go against the class" I said with seriousness in my voice.

At this the other line went silent. Matsushita must have never expected this. But she needs to realize, that I'm not someone who she can threaten. Because she is the one who is getting threatened right now.

"Y..ou, won't do... it ri...ght?" She asked me stuttering, it seems she hadn't considered that possibility.

"You know it very well right, "I am indeed capable of doing that. And more that that, do you really think you can stop me from doing so?"

At this the other side of the call become silent. I was driving her into a corner. I could make her my pawn right now, but that would be for the sake of the class. She would act completely for the class.

So, I need to make sure, just how much could I trust her?

_

Time Skip

The inauguration ceremony had just concluded and it was time for the first half of the festival to commence. Announcements were made by Mashima sensei. I saw Sudou speaking to, or at least trying to speak to Horikita.

Hoshinomiya and Chabashira sensei were in the medical tent, and some other staff members accompanying them. Fujimaki from class A gave a speech for the opening ceremony.

"Ok let's win the festival and Suzune" I turned around to see Sudou standing alone and talking to himself.

It was quite Creepy.

It becomes even more creepy when you realize what he just said. He just objectified Horikita. I sighed; how can one be so much of a creep.

The first event of the festival was the 100-meter dash. A camera was installed pointing towards finish line and the starting line. So, there was no chance of unfair decision by the race master. The line between victory and defeat could come down to a hair's breadth in such competitions.

"What group are you in Kiyotaka-Kun?" It was Satō who asked that question. I had given her permission to call me by my first name but hearing it from her felt weird for some reason, and I couldn't pinpoint it.

"Seventh" I replied, looking over at the program table.

"I'll be cheering for you Kiyotaka Kun" She said while smiling.

"Thanks for rooting for me Maya" I said while looking at the first scheduled race participants on the table.

With that me and other first year boys headed to the starting line of the first event. The first group consisted of Sudou and Shibata. I had heard that Shibata was one of the fastest runner when me and Chihiro were talking. I was about to see both of them in action. But more than excitement, I felt pity for Sotomura who had been grouped with them.

Both of them took their pose as the race was about to begin. The rest of the people in the group had already succumbed to their fates and were competing for the third rank if not the first and the second.

Mashima sensei brought the voice of the automated clap near the megaphone. And

CLAP!

The race started, it was almost pitiful to say that by 4 seconds, Sudou and Shibata were already ahead by about 15 meters from the rest. And the gap was still increasing. Sudo put all his effort in this race, so did shibata. As they neared to the end line, sudo took surpassed his previous sprint by taking another one.

But shibata was still able to catch up to him.

Both of them finished the race at almost same time. Sudo looked frustrated on the closeness they finished, while shibata looked like he had enjoyed the race to the fullest. I sighed knowing, sudo's frustration. Who won't feel bad, when another person beats you at something which you have trained so hard for?

Third position was win by someone from Class C. And the last, it was sotomura.

And so, the other races began. All the later groups till sixth proved to be a major disappointment for class D. In these sixth races, there were 9 people from class D. With an average of 2 people per race, we had come last in all 6 of them. It was quite embarrassing considering that Class D wasn't good at academics either.

I sighed as my turn finally came. And surprisingly sudo was again in my group. One person could indeed compete in one event two times but at his own risk. If he overexerts himself than that wouldn't be too good for the class. But he believed that he was the leader and he has to do everything for the class.

We stood at the starting line. Katsuragi was in the lane next to me. He was adjusting the band on his hand when his eyes met mine. He just nodded at me. I too did as a sign that I had acknowledged his greeting. I was in the second lane, and sudo in the first. Katsuragi was at the third.

It surely was interesting. I had no intention to come first. But I had no intention to come last either.

I stretched my legs and concentrated on my breathing. I just had to concentrate at the speed and keep it to the track average.

All the crowd gathered was looking at the race with slight interest. Most of the eyes weren't on sudo, but were on me. It seems I had attracted a lot of attention during the first few months here.

We took out pose, and patiently waited for Mashima sensei to use the Automated Clap. It was a device which was acquired by the school to prevent delay due to human error in the race mechanism. The school spent too much. Well, I wasn't the one to complain.

Clap!

The race started and I ran. But unfortunately, I had miscalculated a little. It seemed that the other people in my lane were all very fast runners. So, I had no choice but to take a sprint. For a moment, about 30 meters away from the end line me and sudo were at the same level. The whole crowd was silent when I had caught up with Sudou but fortunately they thought that sudo was taking it easy as sudo was about to take another sprint seeing I was catching up to him.

If I had continued like this, then maybe I would have ended up coming first. But sadly, I didn't have any intention of come first.

I suddenly reduced my speed and the effort I was putting in the race. And sudo won the race, with me coming third behind Katsuragi.

The crowd started cheering for sudo. I was getting looks from many people but I paid them no mind and I headed to the Class tent as the girl's race were happening.

I didn't want to miss them.

I reached the tent and sat on the floor with my bottle of some orange juice to drink. Just as I was about to drink, I was interrupted by Sudou coming inside and taking the bottle of juice from my hand and throwing it. I bet there was a dent on that bottle of metal as I heard a very unpleasant sound.

Suddenly all the attention of the people in the tent went towards us. Sudo was looking at me with anger in his eyes. I stood up as to not be in position where I can't defend myself if need arises.

"What's the matter Sudou" I asked with disinterest.

This angered him even further as he grabbed the collar of my shirt. This alarmed the whole class as they started coming towards us.

"Don't bullshit me Ayanokouji. Why did you slow down back there?!!"He yelled at me.

"I don't know what you are talking about Sudou. You were clearly the winner" I replied in my usual expression.

"Oi you bastard, are you mocking me!!" this time he yelled very loudly. I bet the voice reached outside the tent.

Hirata, kushida and Horikita entered the camp. It seems they too had heard Sudou yelling and had come here leaving their races.

"I just wanted you to win sudo" I said thinking that he would listen to me and stop this.

"Stop this bullshit. I've been seeing you since a long time. You are trying to take her away from me aren't you. You people are just, fuck you just fuck you all" He said holding his fist in the air about to punch me but hirata stopped him.

"Sudou Kun calm down. Please don't be this angry." Hirata said to Sudou.

But Sudou punched him in the process. Hirata stood there holding his jaw where he was punched.

As if on a cue Chabashira sensei entered the tent.

"What is happening here?" She asked us.

"Its nothing sensei" surprising everyone it was hirata who spoke .

Chabashira sensei narrowed her eyes at sudo and him, "Are you sure?"

Hirata nodded giving a smile. That smile must have hurt considering he was just punched hard at the jaw.

Chabashira sensei nodded and left the tent leaving us alone.

All the girls went over to hirata and checking on him. They also glared at Sudou, who didn't give a damn about them. He just glared at me, then he looked at Suzune. She was looking at sudo as if he was an idiot.

Sudo looked at me and whispered, "You are just another one of those bastards. I'm tired of being under estimated and mocked my whole life. Now I won't complain even if someone calls my life a joke. Because that's what you have made it into."

His words were full of menace and rage.

With those words he left me alone. I sighed as I walked outside the tent. Horikita joined me, "It seems, hiding strength has made a huge mess Ayanokouji Kun."

"Seems like that" I replied while looking at the race of girl's section starting.

"It seems someone really betrayed us." She said while sighing.

It was true. The matches were indeed kind of fixed. Class D has been losing too much. It was true, Class C had gotten their hands on the participation table of class D.

"Nothing can be done about that now I guess." Horikita nodded having had accepted that fact.

After some time, it was Horikita's turn and she took her position at the fourth lane of the track. But this race wasn't going to be easy on her. If I was correct Horikita had completed 2 races before this.

And had came first in both of them.

But this time someone had shown up.

That someone looked at me and smirked. I sighed and waved at her. Then that girl went to stand beside Horikita taking her position in the adjacent lane.

Horikita glared at the other girl. The said person just smirked even more.

"Let's see who wins Horikita."

This is a race I didn't want to miss. Two demons against each other.

But that wasn't the only shock. Another girl came to the starting line. She stood right next to the other girl.

It was happening.

Kamuro Masumi, Ibuki Mio and Horikita Suzune were going against each other.

_

A.N. Holidays really suck, I mean I don't have anything to do as I don't play games either. So here you go.

Chapter 8-Ayanokouji's Blunder

Third Person POV

It was time. Kamuro, ibuki and Horikita had taken their respective positions. One could obviously sense the tension between two of them. Ibuki and Horikita were practically glaring daggers at each other. Horikita and ibuki had met earlier during the uninhabited island test and Horikita had lost the card because of her. In one way this could be considered as a defeat for Horikita. So, this was a chance to defeat ibuki and have revenge. For Ibuki it was a different thing.

If Ibuki were to be honest, she was not sure what exactly were her feelings about Ayanokouji. Being as new as Ayanokouji in the subject of love didn't help her cause. But she did feel a certain level of pull towards Ayanokouji and she didn't deny it. She had refrained from attaching herself with any boy due to her hatred for father. She came into this school only to leave away from her father. Her father wasn't hard on her like before after his wife died but still didn't have the courage to acknowledge ibuki. He was as ibuki called him, a spineless coward. Ayanokouji was one of the few boys whom she held respect for.

The real reason ibuki wanted to win this race was because she was jealous of Horikita Suzune. She wanted Ayanokouji to see that she was better than Horikita. The world may call Ibuki's reason stupid.

But Ibuki didn't give a damn about how the world thought of her. Because she had been betrayed by the people who were the world for her, she had lost the ability to care about some billion strangers.

Kamuro was in conflict with her feelings. She had earlier thought that she was in love with Ayanokouji but she thought again about it. Was this really love. Or was she just looking for someone to rely on? She sighed. She had only one task to do in this school. Love will only hold her back. She was going to try her best to surpass Ayanokouji or at least stand at equal terms with him.

The three girls took their lanes and adjusted their posture. Three other people were in the race. One being Nishikawa from class A.

Mashima sensei brought the Automated clap closer to the megaphone.

Clap!

With that the three girls sprinted as if there was a devil on their tail. The other three girls didn't even bother to run and let Ibuki, Horikita and Kamuro compete.

Ibuki was leading Horikita by a little distance... Kamuro was just a toe length ahead of Ibuki

Ayanokouji was watching the race but unconsciously his attention went over to Kamuro. More precisely her chest. It was hard not to notice as while running it was quite evident that it was quite huge. Her chests were more developed than the other two flat chested beauties. It wasn't just Ayanokouji, all the boys watching the race had their eyes on kamuro's chest. Ayanokouji began comparing it with another girl in his class Hasebe Haruka.

In all this thinking he forgot about the race. He was snapped from his dazed state when ibuki pinched him. Besides her was Horikita.

That's when Ayanokouji realized, that he had messed up very badly. He didn't even know who had won the race. His thoughts were occupied with kamuro's breasts the whole time.

"Oi pervert did you see the race?" Ibuki asked him while she had her arms closed. It was ironic how ibuki had called him a pervert. Ayanokouji wondered whether she was a psychic to read his inner thoughts.

Horikita just looked at him with her eyes slightly narrowed in suspicion.

"Ur yeah it was quite good, I guess. You all were very close." Ayanokouji said, trying to get out of the blunder he had made.

Ibuki smirked, "Then why do you look like you had seen something terrifying.

It wasn't terrifying but it can be counted as sexually stimulating, thought Ayanokouji but decided to reply,

"Yeah, it was terrifying to see three people in such close battle."

Horikita stopped ibuki from speaking. Ibuki was annoyed by the action and was about to speak but Horikita beat her to it,

"Ayanokouji Kun, if you did saw the race. Could you tell us who won it?"

'Damn it Horikita. How can you read me so easily?' Ibuki also looked at Ayanokouji expecting an answer from him.

Now he had to use his brain to guess the winner. When he was previously watching the race, ibuki was second with Kamuro in the first. So, there was no chance Horikita could have won. He knew Horikita's speed, when he had followed her in the uninhabited island. It definitely looked like Kamuro had won the race. But,

"Ibuki came first right."

Horikita sighed and went away leaving ibuki and Ayanokouji behind. Ibuki was smirking looking at her retreating form and said, "Tch, jealous."

Now how did I know ibuki was the winner? It was quite simple actually. If Ibuki had lost she would have taken out her anger on me. I doubt I would have been alive now. The fact that Ibuki smiled when she came to meet him was enough for him to convince that she must have won the entire race, or against Kamuro.

In reality Ibuki had come first and Horikita second while Kamuro came third... Horikita had sprinted harder this time. But it didn't matter now as he was out of the mess.

He didn't even see ibuki and Horikita run. His entire attention was on Kamuro.

If one was to say, Ibuki had won the battle but lost the war to Kamuro

Ayanokouji POV

After the 100-meter dash races were completed. The results were announced.

Red Team: 2011 Points

White Team: 1891 points

It seems the red team had already taken the lead. The next came the hurdle race. Sudou seemed still angry and was openly ignoring me. Well, I really didn't care.

Sotomura looked even more nervous now. I put a hand on his shoulder. He thought that I was encouraging him as he gritted his expression with determination.

But in all honesty, I was pitying him.

In the end sotomura didn't clear any hurdles and ran into another student. All the students in class D sighed knowing him. Shibata had come first without any difficulty and had become Sudou's main rival.

The race between Sudou and shibata was quite interesting. Sudou was running as if this was his last race and shibata was enjoying the competition. Which one of them would win?

In the end it was Sudou who won the race with shibata slightly behind. Sudou was happy at his performance. The entire class D was happy and glad that they had Sudou with them.

It seems I wasn't chosen for the next event. Well, that works out nicely for me. I looked at matsushita and she nodded. She had indeed done her job. I wanted to avoid coming face to face with Ryūen at any cost. And the game where we had to capture the flag was a condition where I had to directly confront him.

Horikita came to me, "Why aren't you in the capture the flag?"

I sighed, "Who knows. The traitor might have an idea about that."

She groaned and touched her head in frustration.

"We really have been betrayed haven't we. I still can't accept that someone would do this to their own class."

I looked at her and said, "Horikita it is no longer the question whether you accept it or not. It all depends on what you do from now."

"Huh, what the hell do you mean by that?" She asked me.

I looked at the battle between class D and Class C. Ryūen had kicked Sudou but it was difficult to see as the class C boys had covered them. I was able to catch from a little gap, and it was not even clear. But I was sure about one thing. Ryūen had resorted to unfair tactics to win this competition.

Well, it didn't matter as I have already predicted the results of this festival to some extent. I never planned or took in consideration that Class D to win.

"What do you think would happen if we were to lose Sudou?" I asked her,

"Huh, what does lose him mean?" she asked me.

"Horikita weren't you the one who was going to abandon him during the midterms. "I asked her.

Her eyes slightly titled in confusion.

"You just thought of him as an extra burden for the class. But what do you think now?" I threw a question at her.

"That..." She furrowed her eyebrows in confusion.

It seems she still hadn't realized,

"Horikita what do you think would have happened to our class these sports meet if he wasn't with us?"

At this her eyes widened and she looked at sudo. Sudou was arguing with the referee saying that Ryūen had cheated, but no one was believing him. It might be due to Sudou's past record. He isn't what you would call trustable. His tyrant like behaviour is known by everyone in the school.

"The... Then why are you telling all this to me. Why not matsushita?" She asked me.

It seems Horikita had misunderstood somethings.

"Horikita, I'll be honest with you this time. You are the person I trust more than matsushita. That's why I believe that you should be the leader of the class."

I said my true thoughts about Horikita to her. I had never thought about matsushita more than a disposable tool. It was true that she had some abilities, but I have never valued anyone's abilities. I have never cared about their talents.

It has nothing to do with me.

Because talent isn't the only thing you need if you want to climb the ranks.

Horikita all this time, you were my focus. Matsushita was just fooled by me. Did she really think I would make her into a leader? She was a type of person who cared about herself. So, she would definitely try to reach class A on her own by exploiting the class.

I had Horikita entirely figured out. The real Horikita was the one who wanted to climb the ranks of class A on her own.

That was what I was aiming from the day I started talking with Horikita. I was shaping someone who would lead the class.

"Now you have the choice, Horikita. Matsushita is now the leader of the class, so you must have noticed she is showing more of her abilities. Now if you were to become the leader of the class, what do you think would happen. She would have to follow you no matter what with no way to hide her abilities as she had already shown them" I said to her.

She needed tools of her own if she was going to take over this class from Matsushita. Sudou was just the first link in it. Matsushita was still favoured by people as she was more approachable and everybody believed that they won the island test because of Matsushita's plan.

It was about time the real Matsushita Chiaki was exposed. She had run into my trap. Now I have to gain one more element for my plan to succeed.

_

A.N. Dark Ayanokouji has trapped all the reader in his masterplan.

Dark Ayanokouji grins lol.

This would be longest volume till now I guess. But don't worry it has only three more chapters left before the next volume starts.

Chapter 9-Counterfeit

Dissociative identity disorder (DID), previously known as multiple personality disorder (MPD), is a characterized by the maintenance of at least two distinct and relatively enduring . The personality states alternately show in a person's behaviour. People with these problems usually adopt a counterfeit personality to hide there true intentions.

I looked at the other people in the starting line with us as kushida was tying our legs together. It was finally time for the three-legged race. Ichinose was next to me as she was smiling and talking with her partner Shibata Sou.

To win the three-legged race, coordination was very necessary. Even the fastest pair would lose if they don't have any sense of coordination between them. So, thinking about my relationship with kushida, one could say that we were indeed on quite good terms. We had talked rarely since the uninhabited island test started. No, I don't remember talking to her these last months.

So technically this was our first meet in many days. Not as old friends but as mere acquaintances.

Kushida stood up and gave her usual angelic smile, "Done, now let's just try and do our best Ayanokouji Kun."

I nodded and waited for the race to start. It was just a 75-meter race with 3 more pairs from other three classes. One pair had been chosen from each class as participants. This race was supposed to be kind of fun race considering the intimacy or more accurately a certain degree of closeness of the participants in a pair.

As the clapping sound reverberated through the ground all the pairs started their journey to the finish line. I intentionally slowed and made it hard for kushida to coordinate with me. She was surprised at the level of irregularity I was showing. She must have caught on that it was intentional.

"Uh Ayanokouji Kun what's the matter?" She asked me with confusion in her voice.

"Can't you see what I am doing kushida?" I asked her,

"Huh" She just gave me a confused glance.

"Horikita should have been in your place. You aren't maintaining the coordination with me."

I didn't miss the menace in her expression for a split second when I mentioned Horikita. But she was adamant on keeping it till the end as she returned to her usual face. A face which had managed to fool many till now. A face which hid everything which was behind the surface of a kind girl. Even I was fooled by it for quite some time. She had blended quite well with everyone that it was hard to think that a girl like her could have two faces.

"Ayanokouji Kun, what's the matter. You don't seem to be okay. Are you mad at me for some reason? Sorry if I did something wrong" She asked me showing a look of sadness.

I just looked ahead at Ichinose and Shibata who had already crossed the finish line and were celebrating on their win.

"You are the problem Kushida. You act like you are good, but the fact is your act is the only thing you are good at." As I said those words, I could now see a smirk on her expression.

"So Ryūen was indeed correct. You are not an ordinary person aren't you Ayanokouji Kiyotaka?" she asked while looking at me.

Even at the complete shift of her character, I didn't look surprised. My expression remained as it was.

"You were the one who betrayed the class to Ryūen weren't you."

At my words she just laughed. People had stopped looking at us. Well, who pays attention to the dead last? And moreover, the creepy thing was she laughed in such a manner that was hiding her personality.

The angelic laugh didn't have the same effect as before. It was just a ringing to my ears now, nothing more than that.

"Ayanokouji Kun, You and I both know that everything was going according to your plan then why are you making such stupid statements." She asked me.

"No, I just wanted to see which was the real you."

She just looked ahead. We were now in coordination and making our way to the finish line.

"You know the day we met for the first time, Ayanokouji Kun?" She asked me.

I remembered the day we both had met; it was on the bus. I was sitting with the first person I met in the school, Kamuro Masumi. Technically speaking the first person I met was Koenji Rokusuke. But he was not a human anymore so we will go with Kamuro. I still vaguely remember kushida asking me to give up the seat.

"Yeah, what about that?" I asked her.

"You lied that day, didn't you? You had never met Kamuro san before have you?" So, she knew huh. Well, it was quite easy to know if you yourself had two faces in the society.

"So, you knew all along huh?" I asked her.

"Of course, I knew. Because I went to the same school with Kamuro san."

It took me a minute to process what she had just said. This was new information to me. I looked at her, but she was just smiling at me.

" Then why didn't she know you?" I asked her.

At this her expression turned dark.

" Of course, she doesn't know it. No, I bet she even knew her own classmates after what happened to her sister that night"

That night?

"What do you mean?" I asked her hoping I would get some valuable information.

"You might not know but...,"

She paused as her expression darkened and she clenched her fists.

"her sister was murdered."

As those words went out of her mouth, the atmosphere between us became even more tense. This was not some ordinary issue anymore. I had gotten too involved.

I kept quiet not knowing what to say.

"It was quite brutal you know, but the thing which angers me is that the man who murdered her is still on the run. " Kushida said with coldness and anger in her voice.

"Her sister was the ideal for many people in school. Everyone loved her. I would be lying if I say that she was the only person I couldn't make myself to be jealous of. She was my friend, you could say. I actually cared about her a lot, and why I cared about her is a personal story. But that bastard had to do that to her on Kamuro san's birthday" As I heard those words everything started clicking.

The painting and the dull look on her face that day. Just how much are you hiding behind that ice cold demeanor of yours.

"So Ayanokouji Kun, I hope you leave Kamuro san alone. I might be two faced but I'm not heartless. You too are hiding something aren't you? You aren't the gloomy and idiot you look to others. Those eyes, I had seen those somewhere, of such indifference. Yeah, now I remember, Kamuro's parent had those during their elder daughter's funeral. They looked like they had lost everything. And that's why Kamuro has suffered enough, so if you try to hurt Kamuro san, I would make sure to remove you from this school along with Horikita"

After this only silence prevailed. So Kushida cared about Kamuro huh. It seems ibuki and Kamuro, both have had tragic childhood.

Unknowingly I'm feeling closer to both of them. With them, I feel like I can share the darkness i have been carrying with me. I shrugged putting all these thoughts out of my head. It seems this piece of information has made my plan execution even easier.

We were so engrossed in talking that we didn't notice that we had already crossed the end line. Kushida untied our legs and left me. Class D had come last in the three-legged race event too. I sighed.

Class D was faring the worst among all the classes. I veered from my path when I felt someone calling me.

"Hello Kouhai, how are you."

It was Tachibana Senpai.

"Oh, Hello senpai. You seem to be in high spirits."

She blushed when I ask that, "Actually, I'm going to run with Horikita san in the three-legged race." She said nervously fiddling with her fingers.

Oh, it seems Tachibana Senpai was quite stable in her love life than me. I had no clue what love is or who to love. I won't be lying if I said that I was just looking for a person who could be useful to me in a longer run. One could also say that if I were to enter a relationship, then I would be just leading them. Well, I actually didn't care, but after hearing about kamuro's past I might have to reconsider.

"It seems you are quite lucky." I said to her.

I regretted opening a conversation with her about elder Horikita because,

"I know right, Horikita san is too good for me. Yet he cares so much about me. He is so responsible person and there is no one like him..."

Go tell all this to him woman, I have no interest in joining Horikita Manabu Fan Club.

I let my thoughts slip away from Tachibana Senpai to the current condition of Class D. Sudou's injury in the last event has put Class D on a risk. Class D was depending on Sudo for winning most of the competitions. Some students of class D had realized that there was a traitor in Class D. So far everything has gone according to my plan. Well confronting Horikita wasn't in my plans but it didn't matter. It only made things easier. Now that I knew about Kushida, and that she cared for Kamuro. I need to test their bond. How credible is Kushida when she was saying that she would do anything for Kamuro.

Of course, Kamuro and Kushida issue will be resolved after this festival. In this festival, I had only one goal, my confrontation with Ryūen.

I was snapped from my thoughts when I felt a sudden pain on elbow. Tachibana senpai was looking at me with a pout on her face.

"You aren't paying attention to me, are you?" She asked me.

I would have if you talked about something other than your crush.

"Ah sorry, I was just thinking."

She smiled and patted my shoulders, "Don't think too much. I know how smart you are. Horikita san has kept a close eye on you. But let me give an advice, from a senpai to Kouhai" She said as she came near my ear,

"Get laid before its too late." With that she left me stunned to the core. Who knew the person who worked for the strictest and most serious school council president was also a Sexual advisor?

I shook these thoughts aside and concentrated back to the capture of flag, class D girls were going against class B.

Ichinose and the rest of the class was charging towards class D like bunch of unicorns going to claim their god. I looked at the Class D girls who were smirking. It was as if the raging sadists were waiting for the angels to come.

In the end, the angels lost as the class A girls had captured the Class C flag. Ibuki was shouting profanities at her class. Ishizaki came to take her away from the ground as she was attracting quite attention but ended up being kicked at such a place that everyone who saw that couldn't help but feel bad for his future. In the end the teachers had to take her away.

We ended up losing the tug of war too. I left the rope just to see what happens for fun. And everyone nearly fell if not for Sudou and a boy whose name was Akito saving them. Then I realized that Class D was even weaker than me when I was taking 'minimum' effort.

I sighed as the final event came. The relay. Sudou was supposed to end the race. I was in the third position. Horikita in the first.

As I made my way towards my position, I realized Sudou was standing on my place. As he saw me approaching, he took a breath.

"Ayanokouji look I'm sorry for earlier. I should not have been that harsh."

It seems Horikita had done her job.

"So, lets er... shake our hands and forget what happened. I already apologized to hirata." He said while hiding his face, more accurately his own embarrassment.

Hey isn't that too much of development? Just how much was he simping for Horikita?

"Uh fine I guess." I replied not minding it.

Suddenly someone approached us. It was Horikita Suzune.

"Sudou Kun can I have a second?"

Sudou's expression obviously lit up, as this was the fist time, she wanted him and not me.

"Of course, just say it."

She let out a nervous breath and said, "Sudo Kun could you let me run at the last position."

Huh? Now this was new. Why would Horikita, who knew their best chance in winning was with Sudou. Then I looked at the final lineup.

Horikita Manabu.

Everything became clear. Seriously Horikita, your obsession of proving yourself to him is a little too much.

Sudo was surprised, "Sure but can you tell me the reason at least?"

Horikita looked down a little embarrassed on confessing, "Um... Its actually my brother is in the last lineup. And er... our relationship at this moment is no..t so good. So, I thought this was a good moment to make things right between us."

Sudou looked over at the man in question. Then it took him a moment to realize.

"Horikita, your brother is the student council president." He yelled attracting everyone's attention. Even Elder Horikita was looking in our direction.

Damn Sudou, way to embarrass your crush in front of everyone.

Horikita glared at Sudou who on realizing what he had just done nervously scratched his head. And so Horikita went over to the last relay point.

I went to my third point and stood there. But my happiness didn't last long. Well, I should have figured that considering the fate I have.

Just when Horikita stood beside her brother for the race. Her brother left the position. She, no not only her every student watching him leave his point was stunned. He made his way towards me and grinned.

"So Ayanokouji, lets have a race, shall we?"

I don't want a race, but I do want a peaceful life.

_

(A.N. Well it seems our dear Ayanokouji doesn't have 'peace' in the _ Room Dictionary.)

Chapter 10-The Battle between the three years

"Uh student council president are you sure you want to race against me?" I asked the person smirking in front of me.

"Why would I be joking? It would be a shame not to compete with a fellow first year." He replied not even looking at younger Horikita.

Horikita was looking down. She knew that I knew her brother as I had trapped her last time with his contact number. But still she wouldn't have expected this.

"Then why me if I ask?" I asked him. We had attracted too much attention. Well, I was already popular, but I hadn't shown any abilities and this much spotlight might put even more restrictions on me.

"I just wanted to know, how much the speed of an 'Ordinary student' really is?" Damn this guy.

I sighed, "But are you sure, you might not get the competition you need if you compete with me."

At this he looked at the person who was standing beside me, he was a third year in elder Horikita's class. The boy immediately took the message and went to take Elder Horikita's place in the final lineup.

Then he looked back at me, "Are you sure about that?"

As if on a cue another person approached us.

Nagumo Miyabi.

He looked at me with interest, "Hey you are the same boy I saw that day after the sports meeting between the three years aren't you. It seems Ryūen is too soft as you are still alive."

Isn't that too harsh, Ah Ayanokouji don't mind him. You can't do anything; you are very ordinary unlike Ryūen and Nagumo.

"Uh yeah I guess." I replied.

He laughed and patted my back, "Oi boy cheer up, I didn't expect anything from you so no need to be ashamed. But I am quite interested, Horikita senpai seems to have some interest in you."

"It's nothing like that, it's just we two are acquaintances so Horikita senpai wanted to have race with me." I replied.

Nagumo looked at elder Horikita, but his expression was unreadable.

Nagumo smirked, " then why don't we spice up things a little. You have caught my interest too Ayanokoji."

Why did I choose this school? Well, no use moping,

"Let's make this race a race between three years, shall we?" Nagumo said smirking.

"What are you up to Nagumo." Elder Horikita looked at Nagumo wary of his intentions.

"Nothing senpai, you see I wanted to race against you. But it seems you want to race against this first year. Don't you think he should know about both his seniors rather than just you?" Nagumo asked smirking.

Elder Horikita looked at him then at me. I kept silent. Maybe elder Horikita would pity me and leave me alone...

"Fine let's have a race then."

I was being too optimistic. For some reason I was suspicious of Elder Horikita. He was not a person who would have agreed with this. Maybe I'm just overthinking it.

A teacher has approached us thinking that there was a commotion, "What's happening here?" He asked in a stern voice.

Nagumo looked at him, "We are making changes in our positions if it's okay."

"Now?" Mashima sensei asked looking at the time. This was the last event and they had to wrap the sports festival soon.

"Yes Sensei" Horikita Manabu replied.

"Ayanokouji Kun" I heard a silent voice calling me.

It was the younger Horikita. Nagumo and Manabu also looked at her.

"Nee San, I think you should race with Ayanokouji Kun on the final position." Her voice showed how hurt she was. I sighed internally, if I talked with her anymore there was no doubt she would break down. That's why I answered to get this over with.

"Fine, I'll race on the last position." I said not looking at Horikita. I knew what she was feeling, that she is inferior than me. But I didn't have time to comfort her. I have more pressing issues at the moment

Me, elder Horikita and Nagumo were standing on the final position. Most people would be feeling excited getting to compete with the student council president and secretary Nagumo Miyabi. But I wasn't feeling anything.

Class D had already lost the sports festival. Though the penalties weren't that huge, the private points prizes were huge. In that sense they can be calculated as loss too.

But did I care. No, I didn't care about the point gain and point loss of the classes. I already knew the outcome of this festival.

So, it won't hurt if I get a little serious will it?

Fine if Horikita and Nagumo want to go against me, then for the first time since entering this school. I will get serious.

But I still can't come first. Because there is a reason Manabu is the student council president. I need to be careful. He is definitely planning something. I have a slight idea what his plan might be, but I still want to go with the flow.

I was curious. Curious to know how strong Horikita Manabu actually was.

Clap!!

The race had started. Sudou had given class D a very huge headstart. His speed wasn't even comparable to other people in his row. Even the third years and second years were being mercilessly defeated. By the time Sudou reached the second runner from class D we were leading 3rd year class A which was second by 36 meters. The second runner for our class was kushida. She had taken the baton and was running at her best speed. But it was a fact that she couldn't beat third year and second year.

Slowly 1st year Class D lost its lead to 2nd and 3rd year Class A. Kushida almost lost to 3rd year Class D too. The third runner who took a brilliant sprint was Horikita Suzune. She was pouring her feelings into every step she took.

I looked at Elder Horikita who was standing beside me,

"I think I have an idea what you are planning, but what makes you think that I would run seriously." I asked him.

He just chuckled, "I think you understand exactly why you would race seriously don't you."

He was right. This has all been a clever setup by him. I had done only one mistake in todays sport festival. I should have not slowed down during Sudou's race. Now Sudou and many other people in the class knew that I was holding back that time to let sudo win. But I can't use that excuse now can I. I would surely be criticized, if I were to deliberately run slow and most probably would lose all the trust, I had earned during the uninhabited island test.

For the first time in my five months as a student in this school, I didn't have a choice but to become serious. But being serious didn't necessarily mean that I would have to come first in the race. I will respectfully come third or second just a few steps behind the succeeding runner. But from what I knew of Horikita Manabu, he must have already thought this.

What was elder Horikita thinking. I hadn't interacted with elder Horikita much to predict how he worked. Truth to be told we had talked only three times during my time here. In short, he was a mysterious person to me.

I sighed as I saw Horikita drawing closer to me with the baton in her hand.

I looked at elder Horikita who was just smiling.

"Please do go easy on me Student council president."

He just chuckled and looked at the runner approaching him. Nagumo who was next to him was also smirking.

Horikita was coming closer. She had caught up with the preceding runners of Nagumo and Horikita Manabu. But the person who was going to pass the baton to Nagumo was leading Horikita by a slight gap of some 5 meters.

But that didn't matter anymore. Only one thing mattered at the moment. To compete with the person next to me.

"Run Ayanokouji Kun."

Nagumo had received the baton a second earlier and had already started to run. Me and elder Horikita started to run at the same speed.

We had to run only 120 meters. Ok then, I'm going to go faster. I remembered running everyday during my childhood in an open field. But it was just a memory.

All three of us were running at the same speed. But Elder Horikita and me were clearly catching up to Nagumo. I didn't know who was going to win.

Only 60 meters left. I could hear the sound of Satō cheering for me. Rest of the spectators were silent. It seems no one had expected me to run against both the student council alumni. But now that I had taken leap I can't back down. So, I continued on my current pace.

Only 30 meters.

Me Nagumo and Horikita were now at equal level. Now I decided to adjust my breathing and running speed such that I was slightly behind Nagumo. Elder Horikita was supposed to be next to me, but he had switched his track as to get next to Nagumo.

Only 10 meters.

I closed my eyes, yeah, I was right. This was not my childhood run. This was the first run I had taken as a free human.

_

The race had ended and I was being crowded by the entire class D.

"Whoa Ayanokouji, that was so cool." I heard Karuizawa saying.

"Yeah, I still can't believe that you managed to defeat the student council president. You were amazing Ayanokouji Kun." Onodera said to me.

It was true. It seems I had gotten too serious. Nagumo had come first and I second. Elder Horikita was just behind me and Nagumo. It was a very close race, Horikita just stood there silent not looking at me. I sighed; it would be hard to make things right with her.

As Class D were celebrating in the tent, a boy entered. It was Nagumo Miyabi,

He stood right in front of me. Suddenly the atmosphere in the tent became tense.

"I don't know what should I feel about defeating Horikita san. I saw him running for the first time today and I was happy to defeat him. But it seems I wasn't the only one to defeat him." He said as he glared at me.

Hirata quickly came in front of me and nervously smiled, "Nagumo Senpai, you are scaring Ayanokouji Kun and my class."

It was true, rest of the class was trembling a little.

Nagumo just laughed and looked at hirata, "Oh sorry about that, you all can continue your celebration."

With those words he went to exit the tent. Just before exiting he looked back at me, "You sure are interesting Ayanokouji, please entertain me in the future."

The class was shocked the threat and many were throwing pitying looks at me. I entered into some casual conversations and after some time I got up, "I'll take my leave now"

Nobody said anything as they had started exiting the tents as it was 4 pm and everyone was tired. I quickly headed to that place we had decided to meet.

As I reached there, he indeed was standing there. The same place we had met during the first month of my time here in this school. Now I understood why he was so respected. I stood in front of him.

"Congratulations Ayanokouji, it seems you really are exceptional one." He said to me smiling.

"You are one to talk, Student council president." I said to the man who was sitting on the bench.

He hummed acting oblivious.

"You came third on purpose, didn't you?" I asked him.

At my words he stood up and came in front of me.

Yes, it was true, Horikita manabu came third on purpose. I became sure of it when Nagumo said that he had never seen Horikita Manabu run.

"You didn't challenge me because of Horikita did you. You were planning to challenge me even if Horikita had took Sudou's place."

He never cared if Horikita got to race with him or not in the first place. I had suspected this when he agreed to Nagumo so easily.

"You did all this just to shift Nagumo's attention towards me. Didn't you?" As I asked this question he chuckled again,

"I knew you would suspect that." He spoke.

"Yeah, I suspected that you wanted Nagumo to consider me as an enemy. But I never suspected that the great Student council president would lose to his junior just because he wanted Nagumo to consider me as an enemy."

He had changed his tracks on purpose so that I couldn't suspect that he was holding back. He used the fact that nagumo had never seen him run to his advantage and held back without anyone suspecting anything.

He straightened his posture and he was back to being the intimidating person he was. I didn't have much time. Ryūen must have already reached there.

"Ayanokouji my offer is still open. Join the student council. Nagumo would be elected as the vice president tomorrow."

Why did this man want me to join the student council so badly? That he would actually lose to his juniors in a race the entire school was watching.

The fact that I had defeated Horikita Manabu was enough for Nagumo to narrow his eyes on me. In short, this race had been a setup since Horikita Manabu approached me. Now that Nagumo had his eyes on me, it would be more difficult to take things easy.

"Why do you want me to get into the student council so badly? Tell me the reason and I would think on the proposal." I asked him.

He sighed and looked towards the now empty playground. Everyone had retreated back to the dorms.

" I am just trying to protect this school from Nagumo's ideals. His ideals go against the natural traditions of the school."

I see, so this was the reason he was worried. No there must be another reason for it. And I had a slight idea what the other reason was but I kept quiet for now.

"Sorry but I have to still decline your offer. I'm not ready to give up my peaceful life." I replied to him.

He didn't seem unfazed by my rejection at all, "You can't escape it Ayanokouji. One day or the other you would have to face it. You can't have both peaceful life and talents with you."

I looked at him and said, "Then I would gladly take down fate itself if it prevents me from having peace."

He grinned and put forward his hand to shake, "I'm looking forward to what you do Ayanokouji."

"Watch over me senpai", I said as both of us shook our hands.

Today I found out, why he was the leader of the third-year class A. He became the first person I actually acknowledged in this school.

I understood today, just what kind of person Horikita Manabu actually is.

_

(A.N. It seems there is a new enemy on Ayanokouji's list. And today we saw the reason Horikita Manabu was in Class A. Man that was a huge chapter. The next chapter would most likely be the epilogue of this volume. Was this volume too long?

Sorry I wanted Class D to react more on Ayanokouji's win but that was taking too many words. I usually don't write more than 2000 words but today I had to write 500 more. But I enjoyed writing it.

Did you enjoy reading this chapter? Because next volume we would be finally moving on to the main battle of this volume,Ryūen Vs Ayanokouji)

Epilogue

I made my way towards the destination matsushita had messaged me. I had just now discovered Elder Horikita wanted me in the student council. But I really had no wish to. If Nagumo really has interest in me, then I would have to make him lose it.

And the most effective way for that, would be to let someone else have the spotlight. I had not yet decided who to give the spotlight to, but ibuki was the easiest sacrifice at the moment. It would be hard to sacrifice Kamuro considering that Sakayanagi is still an unknown element to me. That's why it was more than necessary to remove matsushita from the side. I remembered our conversation the day the sports festival was announced.

Flashback

"What exactly do you want me to do Ayanokouji Kun." She asked me.

"I don't know about you, but there is a traitor in our class." I told her.

"Then what exactly do you want me to do?" her surprise was evident but she didn't question it.

"Make a participation table yourself."

"Huh? But wont that require the whole class?" She asked me.

"No, you are one of the central figure of the class and even if the teacher suspects you, she doesn't have any power to stop considering she has declared that she won't interfere with the class." I made it clear knowing matsushita would somehow manage on her known.

"Fine, but are you sure about the traitor thing?"

"Yeah, I'm more than sure. But Ill warn you one thing, this might be my last time working for you because this exam I'm going to attract some attention"

"What do you mean?" She asked now sounding little concerned.

"Just joking" I said.

In reality I wasn't joking, but I wanted her to become scared. When she realizes how crucial I am for the class she will definitely try something and will destruct.

"And I have one more request, make sure I don't come in an event where I have to face Ryūen one on one. I mean a game like capture the flag. It is better if he has vague knowledge about me."

No one knew much about my fighting skills except for the fact that I had stopped a punch by Yahiko to help Kamuro.

"Fine, I'll have it done but you know right that I know everything you..." Her voice appeared somewhat tense. But I didn't care so I cut the call.

As I reached the building which was deserted at this time, I saw her waiting. Kushida Kikyou. She was smiling and standing there leaning beside the door.

"So, you really came huh?" She asked me.

I just kept silent. She chuckled and started making her way towards the rooftop. It was 4 38 Pm.

As she opened the doors leading to the rooftops, I found four people standing there.

Ryūen seeing me smirked. Ibuki and Ishizaki were shocked and albert didn't show any change in expression. I looked that the cameras were altered with. It seems this really was going to end in violence.

"Oi stop joking with me." Ryūen started laughing.

Ibuki immediately grabbed Ryūen's collars, "What is the meaning of this Ryūen. Why is Ayanokouji here, I thought we were seeing matsushita."

Ryūen removed her hand from his collar and said in a threatening voice, "Why do you even care Ibuki, don't tell me you are protecting him even after what happened on the Island test."

Ibuki tched, "It was that matsushita girl's work. Just leave him out of here. He is just a little smart and a good pawn for matsushita. So, don't do this Ryūen."

Ryūen just laughed and looked at the girl beside me who was smiling.

"Kikyou, tell me did you see something different today."

Kushida's smirk fell, "Yeah, the whole participation sequence was different from what I had told you."

At this Ibuki's eyes widened. Ishizaki wasn't understanding anything which was going on in front of him.

"Then the participation table was already submitte..."Ibuki started whispering and her eyes widened.

"Then but..., in many events we were still in favor. I mean if they had changed the table beforehand, they should have had an upper hand right. It looked like we were on the winning side every time. How can you explain that?" Ibuki asked the boy who was just grinning.

Ryūen just chuckled, "It seems coincidences do happen a lot, don't they Ayanokouji?"

I just looked at him silently. I knew this wasn't a coincidence. Matsushita would never choose easily guessable names in the races. She did want to win too. Considering her abilities, she was capable of making a participation table equivalent to Horikita.

Then how did Ryūen guess that which person of class D will be participating in which race?

The answer lies not in the question whether it was a coincidence or not, but on the true intention of Matsushita.

As expected, she came up with a plan which resulted in todays confrontation between me and Ryūen.

Flashback

"So, did you do it?" I asked on the phone while sitting on my bed.

"Yeah, I initiated contact with him." She replied.

"So, you went by that approach huh?" There would have been many approached to that situation. But matsushita chose the double agent approach. She had contacted Ryūen and had talked with him. Ryūen only cared about exposing me so he would definitely hold onto any straw he saw. I was sure that Ryūen will not believe her.

"I earned his trust by sharing a part of the participation table." She said sighing.

So, she had used that for negotiation. It wasn't bad nor it was good. Now Ryūen could hold matsushita's word to a little value. Then as planned a confrontation was arranged about which only four people knew.

Me, matsushita Ryūen and one more person who was in the center of this plan. Now we only had to wait for that day.

Ibuki tched, "Don't joke with me Ryūen. That cant be a coincidence. Tell me the truth"

Ryūen started walking near me and said, "Wasn't your win on the island also a coincidence. Wasn't your removal from the class group because you stole a pair of panties also a coincidence? Isn't everything related to you a damn coincidence Ayanokouji. So, tell me ibuki, why don't you believe me when I say that me guessing their names was a coincidence?"

Ibuki fell silent at that, Ryūen was stating facts. Even she can't refute the fact that everything related to me was a coincidence.

I could have said, 'Coincidences can be freaky' but I refrained myself. Come on Idiot this is one of those high school moments when you are supposed to be serious.

"Why are you asking if you know everything Ryūen, I'm here now"

Ryūen's smirk now fell, "Oi don't joke with me, tell me what you have brought. You have some secret plan don't you."

"You are overestimating me Ryūen. I never planned on doing anything more than what's required." I said simply.

"Hey wait you too, what the hell is going on?" Ibuki now said confused at the situation.

I decided to reveal myself, "Don't you see it ibuki. I was the one who came up with the uninhabited island plan. Not matsushita. I was the one who destroyed camera that day. I was the one who framed myself so I can win points on my own."

At this Ibuki's eyes widened, Ryūen just started to laugh.

Ibuki now scared, "What... What the fuck is the problem you too. You... You both."

Ryūen now looked at me with hostile glint in his eyes,

"Ishizaki get him" Ryūen ordered Ishizaki.

"Bu..but Ryūen Kun..." Ishizaki looked unsure.

"I gave you an order Ishizaki" Ryūen yelled making everyone other than me flinch. Ibuki did not know what to do. The expression on her face was of betrayal.

Ishizaki groaned and headed towards me.

He stepped back, balancing his weight on his left foot, and threw his right fist out in a curved punch at my temple. But my reaction time was lot better than his punch. Turning ninety degrees to the side, I brought my right forearm up to counter the blow, formed a fist with the left, and threw it at his outstretched jaw.

A red fluid dropped on the ground from where I had punched. It seems I had used a little more power as I was more than sure that I got one of his tooth.

Silence, a silence which complimented the deadly tension grew between us. Even the tiniest of sound was threatening. Ibuki and Ryūen were looking at the scene with wide eyes.

Albert rushed at me, he had assessed the situation and had understood how strong I was. He aimed his left hand on the left side of my face. But I knew he was feinting. It could be easily deduced by the irregular hand and leg movements.

Whichever move you are assuming, there is a connection between the hands and legs. This was a traditional fighting style so it was easy for me to spot the irregularity. Because I knew almost all the possible moves of his fighting style. It wasn't hard to analyze his moments.

I moved a little backward to avoid his left hand which in reality was aimed at my throat. He must have planned on strangling me, of course not to death, but still I wasn't gonna take a risk.

I grabbed the hand he had thrown with my own and aimed a kick on his knees. The ligaments and tendons that hold a knee in place aren't strong enough to withstand hard lateral movements. Therefore, kicking his knee to the side was enough to cause a tear which disabled him from his movements. I ended my fight with him with a sharp punch on his temple which was enough to knock him out.

"You...You bastard" Ibuki moved to punch me, but I just sidestepped. She had anticipated it and directed a kick towards me. If I had blocked her, that would have left me vulnerable so I took the hit.

She was regaining her posture but before that I made my move. I targeted her jaw with my fist by coming straight up, minimizing lateral movement. Her head snapped straight up. The sudden move to the jaw was enough to knock her out too. Ishizaki came from behind me aiming a punch at the back of my head which I caught and reacted with a sharp kick on his already bleeding face.

He fell down holding his nose. I didn't stop as a sharp kick on his stomach made him screech in pain.

Just then I heard laughing, "I can't believe it. So, all this time a monster like you was hiding in plain sight."

Ryūen Kakeru.

"But Ayanokouji, do you think you can defeat me with skills. Let me test how strong your spirit is."

As he said that he came at me with killing intent. I don't know why, but I was feeling something which I had suppressed for so much time.

The coldness in my eyes is just a façade, to hide my true nature.

A nature much darker.

For the first time in nine years, I felt thrill. A thrill which you get on winning. Even on the uninhabited island, I wanted to win only because Chabashira sensei told me to. But now it was different, I was ready to sacrifice everything just for the sake of winning.

For the first time in nine years, I went all out.

I grabbed his throat and pinned him on the wall. He broke free from my hold as I dodged the right kick aimed at me and directed punches on me. But this was nothing. Pain wasn't something you can monopolize Ryūen. After some three punched I grabbed his hand and twisted it. He yelped in pain but was still smirking.

That smile, I know that smile. Just like my father. I hate it too much. I can't let you smile Ryūen.

I kicked him on his jaw and used the momentum of my body to push and break his balance. Just when he lost his footing, I pinned him down and started raining punches.

After some eleven hard punches I stopped for a moment to look at him. Blood, a sight which I had seen after so many years.

"Ku..ku do whate..ver y..ou wan..want ayano..kouji.. but I wi..ill be the one to ha..have the last laugh." He spoke through his broken and deformed face.

Oh Ryūen, did you seriously think I came here without a plan.

"Do you really think I didn't know what you and matsushita had planned?"

At this his eyes widened.

"Ryūen, I knew it from the beginning that matsushita was going to betray me. No, it is more like I led her to betray me. If I'm not wrong you had planned to record this confrontation and leak it, didn't you?"

He looked at me, fear taking over his previous expression.

"But you forgot that I wasn't alone."

At this Ryūen's eyes widened in realization.

"Ryūen this fight was orchestrated by me. To remove both you and matsushita from the equation. All this time you were being used to protect my peaceful life. You, Ibuki, matsushita were just some of the tools for it. "

"You.. you"

"You can't report this incident either, you know why don't you."

Yes he would not be able to report anything. Matsushita must have been taken care of by now.

Ryūen looked like he was close to giving up. He knew the situation was hopeless. But Ryūen, who said I was done?

I continued the barrage of punches on him. Deforming his face more and more. I wanted more of the thrill I was having right now. With the twentieth punch I took out his consciousness.

I stood up and looked at the only person who was awake. He just looked at me in fear.

"Ishizaki clean this mess." I ordered and he just nodded in fear.

I looked over the unconscious form of ibuki. I sighed; I can't trust Ishizaki with her.

I picked ibuki in my arms and started to walk towards the infirmary. Ignoring the rampage, I went on and the battle I had just won.

That was the past now and was insignificant to me. What mattered to me the present and the future. I am more than sure Horikita Manabu will figure that I was the one to do this but without any proof he is powerless, this will send him a message too.

Just how serious I am about living my peaceful life.

_

(A.N. And here ends the 40th chapter. I don't but the next volume might take some time as in the next volume _ Room is going to be introduced for the first time. And this has two short chapters. One is matsushita's POV ie. her side of story. And The second is Ibuki's side of story after waking up. Damn I can't believe five months have passed since I started writing this fic.)

Special Chapter - The Face Of A Monster

Matsushita POV

Till now everything was going according to my plan. If I was correct Ayanokouji-Kun must have already reached the rooftop. I took my phone and started to make my way towards the building where the confrontation was taking place.

I knew I was going to betray him but I had no choice. I knew, just how important he was for the class. If he were to step down Class D wouldn't have a chance to even rise to Class C.

At the start of exam, just when he said that this might be the last time he works for the class. I was afraid. I don't care if he uses me or Horikita san as cover, as long as I have a chance to graduate from Class A it doesnt matter.

That's why when I initiated contact with Ryūen, I joined hands with him. Apparently his only goal was to expose Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.

And thats how I came up with this plan. I didnt know how strong was Ayanokouji Kun, but I had feeling that he was much stronger than he showed. Then if I record his strengths and expose him, it would all work in my favor. If everyone has an idea of his strengths, then he would be expected to do more for the class. He wasnt the one to budge under pressure, but he wasnt the one to openly show his true nature.

All this time he had hid himself well. He hadnt told me everything he had done during the island special exam. But when I saw Horikita San injured, I was sure of one thing.

He was behind it.

There was one more reason to expose him. If everyone knew of his strengths, people would naturally become wary of him and he wont be able to move against the class. Moreover, other classes would target him which would force him use his talents.

All in all, I had thought all this through. Exposing Ayanokouji was the best option this class had. The only sacrifice he would be doing was his peaceful life. And I didnt understand, why was he so fixated on living a peaceful life. Whatever the reason, I cant let him live his peaceful life for my sake.

As I reached near the rooftop I heard a loud voice,

"Do it Ishizaki"

I quickly hid behind the door. There were three doors connecting to different sections of rooftop, so it wasnt difficult to find a door which gave the best visual of the confrontation. Moreover, I had already checked over all those doors and I had memorized all the possible angles so it didnt take me much time.

I saw six people on the rooftop, Ishizaki, Albert, Ibuki, Ryūen, Ayanokouji Kun and Kushida?

So Kushida san was the traitor it seems. I always doubted her kindness. I had been observing these few months her growing hatred towards Horikita. If I can record her in the footage too, then that would reveal her true nature to everyone. But that wont do any good as she wont have any use then. If I threaten her than she wont betray the class again and use her skills for the betterment of the class.

So, I started to record only Ayanokouji and now Ishizaki San who was moving towards him. This is the first time Im going to see Ayanokouji Kun fight. Let me see for myself just how strong is he.

But what I saw scared me. He had calmly and skillfully beaten Ishizaki in just some moments. He had briefly glanced at me during the fight and thats when I saw it. The real nature of Ayanokouji Kun. All this time I just knew that he was not exactly a good person. But when I saw those eyes, eyes of indifference. A shiver ran through my spine. Now I knew why he wanted a peaceful life. I knew those eyes. The same eyes I saw on my cousins face when Aunt and Uncle died. I still remember that day, when my cousin came to live with us as there was no one to take care of her. I remember her crying and hugging me. All my comforting was of no use to her. Losing someone, had Ayanokouji Kun also lost someone in the past?

A feeling of guilt began rising in my body. What if he came to this school to get over the death of someone close to him? No, I need to control my emotions. Thats his past and he should deal with it. If I feel sympathy now then I wont be able to reach Class A. And whatever he might have suffered in the past, didnt make him a pitiable creature. Everyone had gone through it. Death doesnt have mercy on anyone.

I pushed away the feeling of guilt and continued to record the video. The thing which shocked me was when Albert was defeated. Just how strong was he?

As I was in middle of recording I felt a hand clamp over my mouth and I was pulled behind by a bunch of brown hairlocks. I tried to scream but that just came as muffled grunts. Then I scanned the figure pulling me.

I froze.

Kushida Kikyou?

How did she reach here? Wait a minute, if I recall than I never saw her after Ishizaki came to attack Ayanokouji Kun. So, she must have already exited the rooftop before the fight began.

Then she knew that I was recording the fight. Wait how did she knew? This didnt make any sense.

I was thrown against a wall. I let out a yelp after feeling pain on my head.

I looked at her.

But this wasn't the angel. This was the face of the real demon hiding inside her She was looking at something. Then my eyes widened as I saw my phone in her hand. I tried to get up but the pain in my head didnt allowed it.

She threw the phone on the floor and leaned down next to me. That smile,it was filled with hostility.

Then she did something which changed my entire view of her.

A dull sound reverberated throughout the area. I brought my hand towards my cheek feeling the stinging sensation.

"My, My Matsushita San, it seems you have gotten too involved." She started to speak ignoring the red marks on my cheek.

"Wha..what do you mean?" I asked acting oblivious trying my best to ignore the pain on my cheek. I knew what exactly she was talking about but I still wanted to know how did she find out about this.

"Oh, if you are wondering how did I know you were here recording the confrontation, then blame that on assuming that Ayanokouji would not betray you."

Huh wait, Ayanokouji betraying me?

"Did you really think that he would trust you. This is very funny to even imagine. With that she started laughing."

Then I looked at everything which has happened between me and him.

Then I began connecting every dot which I could find. So, all this time from the moment he talked to me, I was just a cover for him? He only told me orders and I worked for him blindly. I was an idiot. I think I could trust him. But I ended up regretting it in the end.

I suddenly felt my hand yanked forward. I yelped at the sudden contact and looked at kushida. She was looking in the direction of the fight. Her expression was no longer taunting, it was very serious.

I moved my head to see what exactly she was looking at.

And then I saw it. Ryūen was on the ground, his entire face was contorted. The look of fear on his face didnt go unnoticed. But then a punch went on his already bruised face. Which was followed by another, it soon turned into a barrage of them.

Then the person who was beating him looked in our direction.

Then I saw it, the true face of a monster.

Special Chapter - The Face of An Angel

Ibuki POV

I walked in the courtyard towards the tree. The tree where most of my memories were attached. The tree where I understood the meaning of love. It seems I had just woken up from my sleep. My father must have gone to dojo so I had all the time for myself. I could spend my time with her and look over the flowers.

As I entered the courtyard I saw the tree. And there she was sitting on a swing attached to the tree looking at the sun with a beautiful rose in her hand. Her lap was quite tempting, able to comfort me at my hardest moments. I slowly started to make my way towards her wanting to be in her embrace.

How I wanted to hear her beautiful voice, to tell me again and again, how beautiful the world was.

I finally reached her.

She looked back and smiled when she saw me. Her eyes held tenderness. It was as if she was the most precious thing for me. So delicate yet so beautiful. How she would compliment my long hair which I had inherited from her.

She moved her hand which held the beautiful rose towards me. I smiled and took the rose in my hand.

I didnt need anything more; she was there for me every time.

But

The rose started wilting at a fast rate.

I was shocked and turned towards my Mother to ask her whats the matter with the rose I gave her.

But there was no one on the swing. I called out from my mother, where might she be hiding at this moment? Today is her birthday so she should be happy right? I even made her cake. Of course, I had to hide from my father to make it. But it was beautiful. It was her favorite flavor, A strawberry one. Thank god my friend had taught and helped me in baking. I might have ended up destroying the whole kitchen then father would have gotten another reason to yell at me.

I made my way towards the house. Where could she be? Could she be in her room? I opened the door but was instead met by silence.

I sighed; mother was very good in hiding. But I knew her favorite place, my room. She even knew where I hid the manga stack from my father. She knew everything about me. So, I rushed to find her. I sighed when I came in front of a room.

And opened the door.

The rose in my hand has wilted completely by now. So, was she? I looked at the woman who just few minutes ago was the definition of beauty.

Now I saw as everyone surrounded her sleeping form. Why was she sleeping, it was her birthday! Many people were surrounding her.

I rushed and started to wake her. Mom sleep after you eat your cake. Rest of the people in the room just looked down. Even my father, who I had never seen cry had tear stains on his eyes.

I continued trying to wake her up, but she wasnt waking. I kept trying, until I felt someone embrace me. It was my father. Why was he embracing me, didnt he hate me?

Then he whispered in my ear, She is not going to wake up Mio, Im sorry.

Finally, all things came back. I remembered everything. My mothers funeral, the news that said she had committed suicide.

I didnt realize that I had tears in my eyes. She betrayed me. She had promised to stay by my side, yet she gave up.

The tears werent stopping and I didnt want them to stop. I wanted to cry myself to sleep because I know the next morning she will come back to me.

But it seems I was wrong. She never came back.

Why? Why does all the shitty things happen to me? Being hated by my father, losing my mother and even losing myself.

But then I felt strong pairs of arms embrace me. I didnt know who it was nor did I care. I just wanted whoever it was to hold me.

I wanted someone who could wake me up from this dream. I cried not caring about the time passing by. I needed it.

Then suddenly everything came back. I remembered that fight. Aynaokoujis betrayal.

_

My eyes snapped open; it took a moment to adjust to the light. I looked at the room. I was in the infirmary. I then realized that someone was embracing me. It was Ayanokouji.

I pushed him away from me. That damn idiot.

"What the hell were you doing you pervert." I asked in anger.

He got up from where he had fallen. He shrugged and said, It looked like you were having a nightmare so I thought embracing you might help.

"And who told you I needed comfort?" I yelled at him with an irk mark on my head. This damn pervert, does he not realize that he is the reason Im in this shit hole.

He said nothing but touched my cheeks. Then I realized there were tears on my eyes.

"Your tears told me otherwise." He said as he gently wiped my cheeks with his hand.

"Th..that.." I stuttered not knowing what to say.

I heard him sigh as he sat on the chair next to me. He closed his eyes and said,

"You have PTSD don't you?"

I looked down not knowing how to reply.

"You know ibuki, I can understand you to some extent. How it feels to be betrayed by someone."

As he said those words I looked at him. For the first time I saw him with an emotion. But I couldnt understand what that emotion was. But I knew it wasnt his usual monotonous expression.

"My mother abandoned me the day I was born. I too had a cruel father just like you."

As he said those words my eyes widened.

"I never knew what love was my entire life. So, I never knew what losing something actually felt. Because I wasnt attached to anything I didnt have anything to lose."

As he continued, I felt stupid. I was an idiot. He had gone through much worse than me. Yet I kept moping. About how bad my life was.

"But ibuki, I always had a hope. A hope that one day I will be free. Free to explore this world. Maybe search for that mother who left me and forgive her. And finally, be happy for once."

His words left a hole in my heart.

He turned towards me, "So Ibuki, cherish what you have right now. The past is something which you cant change. But the past has made you what you are today. It has given you strength to carve your own future. So Ibuki, dont just give up. Because you are not alone."

As he said those words my eyes widened.

"I dont know about the future, but I will be there for you this three years. To wipe all your tears just like today. So be yourself. And know one thing, even if I betrayed you today. I would never judge you."

Then I realized. All this time, I only wanted one thing. Even after my mother passed away, I wanted to be acknowledged by him. I was so fixed on my past that I couldnt see anything else.

In the race of getting acknowledged by everyone, I forgot to acknowledge myself.

I looked at Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.

Ayanokouji, thanks for showing me how naïve I was. Next time we both meet; I will make sure we are on equal grounds. I will become someone whom you can rely on.

In the next three years, I will be the one to save you from your darkness, just like you saved me.

Thank you, Ayanokouji Kun for staying by my side.

——————————————————————————-————————————————————————————————————————————-

(A.N. There was a typo on the chapters. Apparently there were no punctuation marks. So I have edited it.)

Volume 5

What does it take to lead a class, but this time it's not about leading only. It's about taking over the class. With the class divided in two factions under two different leaders, can Horikita win over the class from Matsushita?

(A.N. This volume won't follow canon events)

Chapter 1 - The Game Of Truth And Lies

As I entered the class, I was surprised to find the atmosphere quite tense. It seems something had happened while I was at home. Well, I was about twenty minutes late so I can't actually complain.

That's why the moment I entered the class every eyes turned towards me. I shrugged and went over to my seat. I wasn't getting involved. When I sat on my desk, that's when I noticed Horikita was not on her seat. She was standing in front of matsushita. They were having some kind of dialogue.

The red rash on matsushita's face told me what exactly had happened between her and kushida. I still wondered why she went as far as to slap her. It was pure idiocy. If matsushita wants she can tell everyone that kushida is the one who slapped her. That's another thing that no one would actually believe that a kind person like kushida is able to do things like this. But still that was a stupid move on her part.

Kushida is still a dangerous opponent. She guessed my identity last exam after all.

The day the sports festival was announced I made contact with her and sent her an email. Of course, I sent her an anonymous one. She didn't reply but she did read. The message was actually a threat. I had written that I was going to expose her this exam. Well, it was a lie as I had no intention of exposing her.

But the threat did do its job, to attract her attention. The next email I sent was the day Matsushita contacted me and told me about her double agent plan. That's when I decided to take a step ahead, why do you hate Horikita?

She didn't reply to this email too. So, I tried to enter a negotiation with her, but that wasn't easy as she was not replying to my chats at all. That's why I used my final chance of negotiating with her and while the three-legged race confronted her.

After the race just before I faced Horikita Manabu I decided to reveal her the contents of matsushita's plan. She had no choice but to help me as she too was involved in the Ryūen fiasco. If I was exposed by matsushita I could easily reveal kushida's every secret. So, she had no choice but to protect her and my own identity.

But now that the negotiations are off, we are neither allies nor friends. The most accurate term would be enemies. Now that there is no record of my confrontation with Ryūen. In short technically in the eyes of everyone, I never made contact with Ryūen. So that automatically rules away the possibility of kushida being involved with Ryūen hence no one can prove tat she betrayed the class.

The last exam has ended with the defeat of Class D. It was inevitable considering Sudou and me were the only people with acknowledgeable performances.

The current class standings were,

1-A 3rd 874

1-B 1st 753

1-C 2nd 542

1-D 4th 262

Class D also lost some extra points due to not competing few races which rubbed salt to the already miserable wound. In short the condition of Class D was quite miserable.

But this was also the perfect chance. For Horikita to take over the class from matsushita.

Third Person POV

Horikita looked down at matsushita who was also staring at her.

"Matsushita San, the class considers you as the leader of the class I believe."

It was indeed true. Everyone believed that Class D's victory on the uninhabited island was due to matsushita and so most of the people supported her. Her social position was much better than Horikita due to her being friends with Karuizawa kei. So naturally matsushita san was taking the major decisions in the class. In fact, in the last exam Horikita had to confirm the participation table with matsushita before she submitted it. Although it wouldn't have been of any use, matsushita was best at acting oblivious.

Matsushita, even after the state she was in yesterday. A helpless maiden, was not a bit fazed. She didn't even consider Horikita as her enemy. She had an idea who was the one pulling Horikita's strings but she had no other way than to keep quiet.

"I believe that is indeed the case Horikita san" She answered.

"So, I believe you are indeed answerable to the performance of the class" Horikita said with a stern voice.

Matsushita just looked at her in a bored fashion, "Yes I am."

Horikita then said in a loud voice, "So would you please enlighten us the current class standings."

Matsushita now stared right at Horikita. Both of them stared at each other without blinking. The tension in the class increased tenfold. Hirata couldn't do anything but watch as it was futile considering this was just some basic questions. He had no right from stopping Horikita from asking something so he stayed in his seats nervously looking at the scene playing in front of him.

Matsushita finally asked a question which surprised the entire class, "Why should I explain the class condition to you Horikita san?"

Horikita was a little irked but kept her cool, "I believe that I'm the student of this class and I deserve answers for what happens in it."

"Then you are saying that the leader should justify and share every move which he or she does with the class?" Matsushita asked another question in answer to Horikita's response.

Horikita said in a matter-of-fact tone, "Of course the leader must share his every move to the class. If not during the exam, then at least after the results are announced. How are we supposed to trust you if you keep hiding things?"

Then matsushita asked a question which made Ayanokouji look at the conversation with seriousness. He was just looking outside the window earlier not caring who won between matsushita and Horikita. But now the whole scenario had changed.

"Then I believe the leader should know everything which happens in the class, what do you say about it Horikita san?"

Horikita flinched at the question but still had to answer as the whole class was observing them, "Yes you are right matsushita san."

Matsushita stood up and made her way towards Ike, Yamauchi and Sudou, "Then would you please explain how Sudou, Yamauchi and Ike Kun managed to pass in the first exam with a score well above the average of the class."

Horikita became a little nervous. She now understood what exactly matsushita was trying to do. She was cornering her into exposing Aynaokouji's identity.

Horikita was about to answer but matsushita cut her of turning towards Yamauchi and asking him the question, "Why don't you tell us the answer to that question Yamauchi Kun. You must surely have done something to score this many marks."

Ayanokouji was feeling helpless. He can't do anything right now. If he speaks now he would be indirectly involving himself in the class issues and matsushita would definitely use that to her advantage. He didn't have anyone to rely on either meaning he just has to helplessly rely on Horikita now.

Yamauchi became nervous. He had thought that everybody had forgotten about the midterms. He was helped by an anonymous person during the exams. The anonymous person was in fact Ayanokouji but he didn't know that.

"Wh..what do you mean, Mat..sushita san, we studied for it." Yamauchi tried to defend himself and his friends but matsushita cut his escape.

"Then how come you weren't even among the average during the first test sensei took before the midterms?"

Yamauchi was now sweating bullets of nervousness. He didn't know how to answer.

"I..ts just that we didn't feel like studying that hard you know." Yamauchi gave a pretty stupid reason but matsushita was still not going to leave him.

"So, doesn't that mean you are holding the class back? If you are going to score such marks and give such reasons doesn't that mean you are not serious about reaching higher classes?"

Yamauchi realized, he had nowhere to go. He tried to answer but nothing came out. He was too afraid.

Matsushita turned towards Horikita, "So Horikita san, you were the one who met Yamauchi san and those other two just after exams. So, you must know what exactly they did to score such good marks? Even kushida san saw you calling them out to talk didn't you kushida san."

Kushida stood up and said, "Um that day, Ike Kun and Yamauchi Kun were talking to me. And Horikita san indeed called them out to talk something."

Now all eyes turned at Horikita. The gazes from forty students attacking her.

But she managed to keep her calm and answered, "I too had a doubt like you matsushita san so I wanted to ask them the same question. I found out that they indeed had studied hard for the test."

Matsushita just chuckled, "I have to give it to you Horikita san. You are quite good at lying aren't you. But don't worry."

With that she turned towards the trio who were now trembling out of fear. Matsushita smirked and went towards her desk. She removed a paper from there and made her way towards Yamauchi.

"Yamauchi Kun, if you indeed studied hard for that test, you can answer this question from the midterm again can't you?"

Everyone's eyes widened and they turned towards the trio and matsushita.

Yamauchi was in an internal battle. He was thinking of an excuse but he didn't get time to think as matsushita slammed the sheet on the table.

"You were about to solve the question Yamauchi Kun. What's the matter, don't tell me you can't solve it now. You are even attending Horikita san's study session's now. Don't tell me that you were just pretending to hold classes for the trio Horikita san?"

At this Horikita flinched. She had been cornered. Ayanokouji was looking at the scene with his eyes narrowed. He was getting impatient. Things were going faster than expected. He had expected that such a thing will happen but matsushita was not wasting any time. Something had definitely happened. He remembered that day after the midterms. He had made a note of who all were there that day when Horikita confronted the trio. Matsushita was not there.

Someone else was in this plan with matsushita. And he had an idea who that person was.

Matsushita now started glaring at Yamauchi, "What's the matter Yamauchi san, if you did study for the exams why don't you solve this?"

She said pointing to another question. This was one of her other trick. She was deliberately putting pressure on Yamauchi. So even if he knew how to solve a question, he would not able to do anything under pressure.

Matsushita's glare turned darker as she asked louder, "Perhaps Yamauchi Kun you never studied. Did you cheat then?"

At this every eye turned towards them.

Yamauchi not able to take any more finally fell prey to Matsushita's trap, "Fine I received answers someone alright. He sent us the test papers and we studied that because we didn't want to fail."

Matsushita smirked and turned towards Horikita, "Did you know about this Horikita san?"

Horikita was not calm now. She knew Yamauchi would most likely spill the beans about her involvement so she found it impossible to lie.

"Yes I knew" she confessed while looking down.

Every eye in the class widened on hearing that. Outside the class Chabashira sensei was also hearing the discussion in interest.

Now matsushita said, "So you must also know who was the person who sent Yamauchi Kun those test papers. Don't you Horikita san?"

Every eye turned towards Horikita expecting an answer. Horikita flinched due to the pressure directed at her.

She had been cornered by Matsushita and had no escape. Matsushita wasn't joking when she said that she was one of the best in the class in terms of emotional battle. Ayanokouji himself had not expected Matsushita to be so strong in reading the situation so accurately.

If Matsushita became the leader for the class, she would focus on moving alone to the upper class and sacrificing the rest. So Ayanokouji definitely didn't want her in the class. But the situation had now changed. Now he didn't want her in the class to protect himself.

Horikita looked at Matsushita who was smirking at her.

A game of truth and lies had just begin. Horikita's future movements will determine who will conquer the class.

(A.N. This Volume doesn't follow canon events. )

Chapter 2 - Suspicion Arise

Third Person POV

" Sorry but I can't reveal it to you." Horikita couldn't find any other way she could answer without exposing Ayanokouji.

She was indeed making a gamble by hiding information from the class, but she can't expect to reach Class A by playing safe can she?

Matsushita had a face of irritation on her face, it showed how desperate she was to expose Ayanokouji. She couldn't tell the class directly that Ayanokouji was the one behind Class D's success. Because another question would arise, why didn't she tell everyone that he was the mastermind of their success when they won the uninhabited island test. That would also make her a liar in her eyes. And she knew how stupid half of Class D was. So, she doubted they would understand the logic.

And she can't risk her position as the leader of the class anymore. It was no longer the question of reaching Class A alone. After her confrontation with kushida she had given up on the idea of transferring classes.

Because it wouldn't matter which class she goes. As long as he remains in the school. She now knew, just how dangerous Ayanokouji was. Her focus was no longer to use him to reach Class A. Her focus was to remove him from the school. Because none of them had realized yet, Ayanokouji was planning something.

It all felt suspicious to her from the start. Why was he helping the class if he wanted a peaceful life? At first she had suspicions on Chabashira Sensei which were confirmed by him at the Island Test. He never did anything till now by himself.

If he had no interest in the class Competition as he said, then he had no reason to help her. But Matsushita was scared, scared that he might decide to betray the class. So, she had to expose him as soon as possible if she wanted to save Class D.

"I see, so doesn't that mean, I too can't reveal the reason behind the failure of Class D in the recent exams?" She asked her.

Horikita wanted to retort but couldn't answer anything. The class was confused , they didn't know anymore whom to trust and whom to not. Matsushita had succeeded in one of her objectives, to create a situation where the class can't trust the leaders.

Horikita reluctantly said, "Yes"

Before Matsushita could say anything more Chabashira Sensei entered the class from where she was hiding and listening her students talk. She was impressed, Class D isn't as weak as it looks.

Ayanokouji POV

Horikita felt relieved seeing the were interrupted. Matsushita sighed and just went back to her seat feeling satisfied. The class was still in tension. The seeds of doubt had been sown. Of course, if I was in Horikita's place I would have been able to trap matsushita in her own words. But me holding back limited my possible moves. But something had to be done. Matsushita is starting to doubt me. I can't let her know my true intentions. That would be a lot of trouble.

But I also can't expel her right now. That would be too suspicious and create an even bigger rift in the class. At this moment the class doesn't trust anyone to be the leader. Of course, Hirata, kushida and Karuizawa are exception to this. Kushida is not an option, and I don't have any kind of contact with Karuizawa. Of course, I can use Satō to get closer to Karuizawa but at this moment I don't think contact would be possible.

Now I am starting to regret saving Sudou. No, I have to be positive. I can't give up on him after I have saved him two times. I need to think of something which will solve the problem of leadership. If expulsion is not the solution, then the only choice left to me is... I sighed the situation has really turned troublesome. I will use that option as the last resort but for now I need to focus on Horikita. In the end it will all depend on her after all.

As the classes continued, I was wondering about my conversation with ibuki. I ended up telling her about my past. Well kind of my past because that was not entirely the truth.

As the last lecture ended and Mashima Sensei exited the class. No one moved. Every eye looked at matsushita who was just looking at her phone unfazed. It seems they had expected something to happen and were going to sit in the class and see the drama. I sighed as I had to seat. If matsushita makes a move I should at least see it with my own eyes. Horikita is useless at reporting things. She might hide somethings from me too.

I shrugged thinking that I should contact the person who is helping matsushita now. That's the only way to deal with matsushita at this moment.

I sent the message to that person. I was surprised how did she and matsushita even team up against me. It seems there is another motive behind these recent developments in the class.

The notification came. She can't meet me now it seems. I sighed and decided to retreat back in my dorm rooms for a day.

As I started preparing food, the bell rang.

I was surprised considering I didn't get visitors much often. I made my way towards the door and saw through the gap. Outside was Ibuki Mio tapping her feet indicating her impatience.

I sighed and opened the door. Just as the door opened, she rushed in and punched me in the shoulder. Of course, I could have avoided it, but ibuki would have started another fight. Yeah, she was too prideful to accept her defeat. And her punch really didn't hurt so... I don't really care.

"Why the hell did you take so much time to open the door." She yelled at me.

You ringed the bell like 23 seconds ago. She really had some serious anger issues. She closed the door and I went back in the kitchen. She sat on the sofa and started fiddling with her phone.

Wait from when is she so casual with me? Oh, I'm the one who is the idiot it seems. She has been getting a bit too comfortable lately. I even thought that it was what we can call love. But I can't be sure. Well time will tell, so I'm definitely patient enough to wait for that day.

I brought the coffee to her. She looked at me from her phone. She sighed keeping the phone away and took the coffee.

"So why are you here. Did Ryūen tell you to tail me or something?" I asked her.

She tched, "I'm not his dog or something. And no, he didn't tell me to."

I sighed and asked, "So why are you here exactly?"

She looked at me with a glare. What did I even do?

"Are you saying I'm not allowed to come to your room?" She asked me, demanding an answer. It seems she didn't want No for an answer.

"Uh that's not what I meant but still I thought you weren't the type to waste your Tim..."

I couldn't say anything as she suddenly punched me. She is too abusive, one day I would really like to payback.

I looked at her but she wasn't the usual ibuki, her features were a lot soft than usual.

"Ayanokouji, talking to you isn't waste of time. You should not sell yourself short like this."

I was surprised seeing the worry in her eyes. But I felt uncomfortable. Those eyes of worry, I wasn't used to them. I for a second thought that, ibuki was lying. But then I realized after seeing the genuine care in her eyes. I was the one ignorant. Every word she spoke was truth.

I decided to break this intense romantic movement, "I never knew you were so caring Ibuki."

Another punch. I looked at her and she was blushing. Well that really was quite embarrassing.

"So ibuki, what's up with Ryūen and Ishizaki after you know what happened that day."

She started laughing.

Huh?

"You really kicked his ass. He is very angry. He has planned on staying low, but he will soon return to face you." She said stopping herself.

"Oh, I see, thanks I guess." I spoke.

She then looked at me with complete seriousness, "Ayanokouji Kun please answer my question."

What kind of question. But looking at her serious face it looks like it's something very serious.

"Are you a gay?"

When I heard those words, I stared at her blankly. What did she mean by that?

"What do you mean?" I asked her a bit uncomfortable because I myself didn't have any idea of my sexuality.

She leaned closer to my ears, "Albert is infatuated with you. after you beat him"

When I heard those words the world around me kind of slowed down. I looked at her and saw a serious expression on her face.

Don't tell me she is actually serio...

"Hahaha..." I heard laughing.

"Ayanokouji, did you really just believe me. Hahaha" She said in between her laugh.

"Ibuki that was not funny at all." I said not wanting to talk on this topic anymore.

She continued laughing for some time then stopped. We talked on random subjects for some time. It was quite fun considering she was disgusted by my presence just a month ago. Certainly, an improvement, I guess.

As we were in midst of our conversation. Most of it was about the things going on in the class at the moment. I talked to her about the matsushita problem. She didn't comment anything on it and I was thankful.

She really understood me huh? Could it be she is the one...

Just as we were in conversation the doorbell ringed.

I sighed and got up. I looked at ibuki, she nodded and went to hide in the kitchen. It won't be good if I'm discovered with her. First of all, I'm with a person from other class. And second people may think we are a couple. Well that definitely won't be good.

I went to the door and opened it. And standing outside the door was Kikyou kushida. She was smiling in which was enough to charm any person on the earth.

"Hello Ayanokouji Kun." She greeted me.

I shrugged and just opened the door, "Help yourself".

She giggled and went inside and sat on my bed.

"So how are you doing Ayanokouji Kun? I hope everything's fine." She asked me.

I replied nonchalantly, "I believe you know what I'm going to ask aren't you?"

She tried to act oblivious.

"What do you mean Ayanokouji Kun, your face is so blank and creepy that I can't even tell what are you feeling at this moment. How can I know what you want to ask me?"

I ignored the insult thrown at me like a piercing dagger and asked her the question. I knew ibuki was eavesdropping the whole conversation but it didn't matter.

"Kushida, why are you helping matsushita?"

At this a sick smile made its way on her face.

"Ayanokouji did you really think I'm going to let Horikita take the leadership. That would make my goal harder to achieve."

"Do you really want to expel Horikita that much." I asked her wanting to know how much hatred she held for her.

On hearing my words, she just started laughing,

"Yes, I want her out of my life. I can't have anyone in this school who knows about my past or my real nature."

Past huh, I would have to look into her past to grasp her. At this moment I can't understand her.

"But I don't think matsushita is stupid enough to trust the person who slapped her." I told her.

"Ayanokouji you should rather worry about yourself rather than her. It seems she is fixed on exposing you in front of the class."

"Kushida what exactly are you planning to get by manipulating matsushita." I asked her.

"What could I get on using that bitch I guess?" She said mockingly. She paused and looked at me with a glare.

She said, "My goals have changed Ayanokouji. You should have already understood my goal by now if you did beat Ryūen and me last time."

Yes, I have understood her goal more or less. She is the one who instigated this whole tension between the class by manipulating matsushita.

After analyzing the events which happened today, If I'm not wrong than she only has one goal in mind.

To get me, Horikita and Matsushita expelled from the school.

_

A.N. Thanks for 50k views. I'm blessed to have you all as readers for my fic. Thanks again.

Chapter 3 - Exposed

"But even if we told anyone about your true nature they are unlikely to believe us. I don't even have interest in your nature or past" I asked her.

She just laughed and said, "It's true that you can't expose me even if you wanted to. Because I can expose you anytime. Though people might not believe because of your gloomy look you keep exhibiting. But they are most likely to believe the angel rather than the loner."

"Then why include me in your to expel list?" I asked her. Of course, I had no problem if she planned to expel me because I don't actually care. But I needed to know more about kushida. I needed to understand her modus operandi before planning what to do with her.

Expulsion was a good option for me but that would be a double-edged sword. First of all, she is quite popular meaning she knows many people. She is known as a trustworthy person in the year. So, if a condition arises where we have to make an alliance with another class, then she would be our trust and negotiating chip in the negotiations.

So as much as I want to expel kushida, I can't. At least not till, Horikita becomes the leader of the class. At this moment matsushita doesn't know what's right and what's wrong, she is just being manipulated by kushida.

"Because you are getting closer to Kamuro Ayanokouji." As she spoke those words, I remembered my conversation back during the three-legged race. When I understood kamuro's situation and kushida's connection to her.

"I warned you didn't I. Stay the fuck away from her Ayanokouji." Kushida said in a threatening voice.

I just kept silent waiting for her to continue.

"You think I haven't seen you with her. But you are just leading her. You think I can't see that. If her heart breaks one more time, she might not be able to take it anymore." She said in pure hostility.

I looked at her with amusement. She actually cares a lot about Kamuro.

"Why do you think that I will break her heart" I asked her.

At this she started laughing and turned towards the table. Then I realized, it was the same cup from which ibuki drank coffee some time ago.

"Could you please call that bitch hiding in the kitchen Ayanokouji Kun."

I sighed having been discovered and looked at the hallway. There stood ibuki, now glaring at kushida.

Kushida just gave her an angelic smile, "Eavesdropping is certainly not admiring, isn't it Ibuki san?"

Ibuki shot an even more nasty glare at her.

"What the hell are you on about from all this time. What is this about hurting that Kamuro girl?" She asked. It seems she isn't well acquainted with Kamuro. Well, Kamuro had in reality interacted with almost six students since she had entered the school. She was serious on staying a loner.

Kushida just grinned and said, " And why do you think Ill tell you anything. By the way Ayanokouji did beat you hard that day. That must have really hurt right. Go and cry to your mother..."

At this ibuki became angry on hearing the word mother and rushed at kushida. I could have stopped her but I had no reason to as it was between both of them. She punched kushida hard on the face.

Kushida's eyes darkened when she felt the stinging pain of her face. Her face was now that of seriousness.

Ibuki spoke with venom in her words, "So all this time you were a good person huh. Seems you were a bitch all along Kushida. Just show the people your real self. Just how bad of a person you are. Stop acting, it's so disgusting"

Kushida looked over at ibuki with a serious look.

Ibuki threatened her, "If you bring my mother again in our fight I'll kill you for real."

Kushida stood up and grinned, "It seems you are quite close to your mother huh. Yeah I can understand. I too am close to mine. She is the only one who hears me. She is the only one who understands me. I'm sorry for bringing your mother in the fight. "She said while bowing.

Wait did kushida just apologize to ibuki? The punch must have hurt really bad I guess. But the look on her face didn't show any fear or pain. It showed genuine guilt. It seems she loved her mother a lot.

Then kushida turned to ibuki and said,

"Ibuki san, no person is perfect. Every human heart has a demon inside it. The sooner you accept this fact the better chance you have of surviving in this world."

With that she left leaving a stunned ibuki behind. I sighed, it seems me and kushida did have something in common.

Unlike Ibuki, me and kushida were not distorted from the harsh reality of the world.

Time Skip (Next Day in the class)

I sighed as I saw matsushita walking over to me during the class.

"Hello Ayanokouji Kun, how is your day,"

"Oh matsushita, it's as always."

She giggled, "Ayanokouji Kun could you tell us about your actions during the sports festival? I mean you did go on an impressive run against the school council president."

She is too troublesome. I looked over at kushida who was looking in her book and was smirking. The attention of the whole class went over to us.

"I guess I just wanted to contribute to the class." I said wishing she just left me alone.

"I see, but if you had run like that in every race we could have won. Are you perhaps not using all your talents Ayanokouji Kun?"

"But aren't you the same matsushita san?" A voice interrupted the whole class.

Everyone turned to look at Horikita. Matsushita narrowed her eyes and looked at Horikita in confusion. Even kushida turned her attention towards the scene.

I looked at Chabashira sensei who was just smirking at from beside the podium. I sighed, what was I thinking when I made a deal with her.

"Aren't you holding back too matsushita san?"

_

Third Person POV

At this matsushita's eyes widened but she quickly masked her expression with a calm one. There was no use for Horikita's claims if she can't prove it.

"I have no idea what you are talking about Horikita san." Matsushita said calmly.

Then Horikita came closer to her and asked, "Are you sure about that matsushita san?"

"Yeah I'm definitely sure about that Horikita. There is nothing I can gain from lying to you can I?" She said in a strong tone.

Horikita smirked.

At this matsushita flinched. Something was definitely wrong. Matsushita looked at Ayanokouji who was just staring outside the window. Matsushita inwardly cursed; something was definitely not right. Horikita looked too confident.

Horikita chuckled and went over to her desk and pulled out a sheet of paper. A feeling of nostalgia hit the class. This was all same as the day when Yamauchi was exposed by matsushita.

But this time, it was matsushita the one who was on the edge of a dagger. The next few moments might be the moments which decide her fate.

With that Horikita showed the paper to matsushita. Matsushita paled on seeing it.

"Matsushita san, you scored 59 percentile in the first test since entering the school if I'm not wrong. Then in the midterms you scored 62 percentile with a satisfactory average in every subject."

Matsushita just kept quiet and looked at the paper in her hands. How was this even possible. There was no way Horikita could have gotten her hands on those. Weren't these supposed to be classified.

"So then how can you explain your 2nd Rank in the entrance exam among all the students who gave the test."

Matsushita was holding the sheet with entrance examination ranks and marks of every student who were now attending ANHS first year.

Ayanokouji sighed and remembered her conversation with Chabashira Sensei a day back,

Flashback (Ayanokouji POV)

After Ibuki left I changed my clothes and started to make my way towards a specific location. Horikita must be already there.

And I was right she was looking irritated. When she saw me she gave a menacing glare?

"Ayanokouji Kun, perhaps I should discipline you a little. You are thirteen minutes late."

"Sorry, I got caught up in some things." I replied.

She sighed and rubbed her head, "So why did you call me out here?" She asked me.

"I needed you for something, please follow me." She sighed but still followed me.

As we were on our way, she started speaking. "Ayanokouji Kun, I..I" She said but paused.

I looked over at her. She was looking down.

"What's the matter Horikita? You look tense."

"I'm sorry Ayanokouji Kun. I.. I wasn't able to say anything back to matsushita back then. I..I'm sorry."

She stopped. I sighed looking at her.

She started speaking, "I've always been so incompetent. Even during the uninhabited I was useless to the class. During the sports festivals too, the class lost because of me. I'm sorry Ayanokouji Kun. I...I'm really sorry." She looked down. She looked ashamed of herself.

Ayanokouji made his way towards her. He lifted her chin so that she was facing him,

" Horikita if you think you are incompetent why do you think I am still relying on you?" I asked her. Horikita couldn't answer anything, just kept staring at me.

"Because Horikita it doesn't matter to me how many more times you fail. I would always be there watching your back. So Horikita do watch my back in return."

I left her and continued on my way. I turned to look at her and she was smiling to herself. I shrugged, I will always prefer her over matsushita and she needs to understand that.

We finally reached in front of the staff room of Chabashira sensei. Horikita looked confused but didn't question him. Inside she was, doing her work. Chabashira Sensei looked at her students and smirked, "How unusual to see you meeting me on your own accord Ayanokouji."

I just shrugged and looked at Horikita who was beyond confused. I sighed and turned towards Chabashira sensei, "Sensei, about this recent issue in the class what do you think about it?"

Chabashira sensei just laughed and said , "If I'm too be honest you are fighting like kids. Is there even a reason for this stupid feud."

I then asked her, "Sensei what do you think causes a conflict?"

Sensei looked at me and answered, "If I have to answer than my answer would be Misunderstandings. People misunderstand each other most of the times most of the times. They never try to understand the opposing party. They go to any height to fulfill their selfish desires."

"Its not wrong but its not entirely correct either Sensei, I believe the reason of conflicts most of the time is far beyond simple misunderstanding. The root of every conflict is inequality."

Yes its true, even in the recent feud in the class. Kushida's feeling of inferiority played a role. The reason why matsushita is trying to expose me because she feels she in inferior to me and wants to use me for reaching class A.

"It has always been like this sensei. We see people fighting for equal rights now days. Why is that so. Because they feel that their value in society is less than the people who enjoy equal rights and a good lifestyle."

Chabashira sensei and Horikita were just staring at me with disbelief. Well, nobody expected me to be this philosophical I guess.

"What are you onto Ayanokouji?" Chabashira Sensei asked me.

"What do you think we need if we want to end the conflict which is going on in this class Horikita?" I asked Horikita who was looking confused.

"We need to end the root of the problem I guess but how can one remove inequality?" Horikita answered and also asked a question.

"Yes you are correct Horikita we need to eliminate the main problem. As to how, there is no way to remove inequality from the society. Inequality will continue to exist as long as human emotions exist."

Yes that's the truth. There is no scenario possible where everyone is living in harmony enjoying equal rights.

I continued as I removed my private points card from my pocket, "But we can try to make it equal cant we? Sensei the day we entered this school, you told us didn't you? That every student is to be treated equally?" Sensei nodded in response.

I then said, "Then the student council had access to the results of the entrance examination didn't it? So, don't you think we deserve to have it too? Because me and Horikita Manabu are students and are hence to be treated fairly"

Silence, that was the only thing present in the room. It was broken by Chabashira, "You are really interesting Ayanokouji. It is indeed true if you put it that way, but you know it right student council has certain privileges."

I just kept quiet. Even if this plan failed I had another plan with me but that was a very risky gamble so I focused on this plan.

"Fine I'll let you have it, but do you know how much does it cost?"

I looked at her and asked, "How much?"

"4 million points, think you can pay it." As I heard those words I immediately knew she was lying. Because she looked to be smiling a little too much while saying that.

I had only 1 million and found out Horikita also had the same amount as me.

We were about to give up when Chabashira sensei called us, "But I can make an exception for you two."

I looked at her, she was still with that nasty grin of hers.

"If Ayanokouji agrees to help this class reach class A. I'll think about it." She spoke.

What?

"Sorry but I have no interest in doing whatever you are suggesting..." was what I was saying but Horikita interrupted me,

"Sensei he will indeed cooperate with me." She shot me a glare.

I sighed, well no use thinking about it too much. Chabashira sensei doesn't know much about my abilities so I can definitely fool her.

As we exited the staff room with the results in Horikita's hands. Her eyes widened when she looked at something.

"She was holding back this much?" Horikita wondered loudly.

It seems its your time to be cornered one, Matsushita Chiaki.

Flashback End (Third Person POV)

I looked back to Horikita and matsushita who were now standing just beside me

"So, what do you say matsushita san. I'm waiting for your explanation."

_

A.N. Sorry for the continuous POV shifts

Chapter 4 - The End Of Peaceful Life

Matsushita just kept quiet to stunned to say anything. It seems she never expected this to happen. All class was looking at her waiting for an answer. Some were still confused about what was happening.

"Matsushita San, could you please hurry. We haven't got the whole day." Horikita moved near matsushita and said with coldness in her eyes.

"I..I" Matsushita tried to speak but couldn't come up with the answer for this.

The next person who spoke was the class leader, Karuizawa Kei.

"Is this true matsushita san?" Her eyes showed how hurt she was because of matsushita's action.

Matsushita looked at Karuizawa and stared in her eyes. She finally directed her gaze downwards succumbing to her fate.

"So, all this time, we were being lied to huh? We were so close matsushita san, yet you lied to us. Tell me matsushita did you ever even think of us as friends?" Karuizawa asked glaring at matsushita.

Matsushita quickly looked at Karuizawa and said, "No Karuizawa san, you and the group are my friends."

"Then why didn't you tell us? Did you not trust us?" This time Sato Maya was the one who asked her.

"No, that's not it Satō, I just wanted to enjoy my life as aver.."

But before she could speak someone else grabbed the attention of the class. That girl stood up and looked down.

"Sorry matsushita san, but I think the class deserves to know."

Matsushita narrowed her eyes in confusion, "What do you mean by this kushida San. What does everyone want to know?"

Kushida said in a tone enough for the whole class to hear.

"You were planning to join class A on your own. How could you even think of betraying your own friends...that's..that's so cruel matsushita san."

She started crying to make her statements more believable. And class D being the stupid one believed kushida in an instant.

At this the whole class went into uproar. Matsushita herself stood there shocked. Well, it's not my fault that she trusted kushida. I had predicted this to happen to some extent. Kushida would do anything to expel me, matsushita and Horikita. Though this plan's motive might have been cornering me but now that matsushita was the one being cornered kushida took the opportunity.

"Is it true matsushita san?" Shinohara was the one who asked that.

Matsushita could have chosen to lie but she didn't. She just kept her head down and stayed silent. It seems she was really regretting trying to reach class A alone. She must be thinking she deserves that.

But matsushita, you never deserved this treatment. Your only mistake was trying to mess with me. From the start when I approached you. I knew I had to sacrifice you sooner or later.

All this time you were on the right. You weren't wrong when you wanted to use me to reach Class A. You weren't wrong when you tried to expose me. But matsushita, you were too naïve. All this time you never tried to understand me even though you were so close to me.

That led to your doom. Now that you are out of the picture. I should start making preparations for the other one. I don't plan on expelling her as of now. That would be a stupid move to be frank. Kushida is too much of a valuable piece, much valuable than Horikita and Matsushita.

Time Skip

5 days had passed since Matsushita was exposed from the class. Kushida took over the reigns and matsushita ended up being isolated by almost the whole of Class D. Even her own friends were not willing to talk to her. Hirata tried to talk to matsushita but she never talked back to him. She just remained silent, like a robot.

I might not have been in a Primary education school before I entered High school but I knew what exactly being isolated feels like. It is another type of harassment to be honest. If this continues for the next three years, and she is denied human contact. She might take a severe step. And I definitely don't want her to take such step like suicide and self-harm.

I sighed, am I some kind of counselor for the girls of these schools? Well, it was my decision to talk to her after all.

So, I went in the library where she was just sitting and staring at the ceiling with lifeless eyes. It seems five days of her existence being ignored by the whole class was too much for her. She must be too used to human contact.

I just went and sat on the chair next to her. She looked at me and her eyes widened for a second before returning back to their original state.

"So Ayanokouji Kun, your plan worked fine huh?"

"Yeah, everything was according to my plan."

She chuckled, and asked

"So Ayanokouji Kun can you answer me one thing."

I looked at her waiting for her question.

"What were you thinking when you approached me? Were you planning this from the start? Was I just trapped by you?"

Her eyes told she just wanted honest replies and I wanted to give that to her. I believe she deserves it after what she has gone through in last months.

"Yeah, I had actually planned to have you expelled. "I said the true words in my mind.

She started laughing gently. She appeared relaxed for some reason.

"You are too blunt you know Ayanokouji. So, what are you planning to do now Ayanokouji Kun? Are you still going to expel me? Because you have already half succeeded in it. I was myself thinking of doing something of this situation I have found myself into."

I crossed my arms and looked at the book shelf in front of me.

"That is, your choice, I can just try to tell you to stop but in the end the decision will be taken by you. So, take a decision you wont regret. But I don't have any goal of expelling you anymore." I advised her.

She laughed in return, "Don't worry, I'm not going to commit suicide or anything. Were you perhaps worried about that?"

Well at least now that she was okay, I should leave her on her own devices.

"I'll somehow manage three years I guess." She said sighing to herself.

I shrugged and looked on the books kept on the shelf. There I spotted a book which stood out from the rest. It was quite popular among the third years and second years. You might wonder how do I know, well tachibana senpai can talk about things other than simping for the student council president. It was the book 'Farewell, My Lovely' by Raymond Chandler. I should have it once I'm done with matsushita, I mentally noted.

Me and matsushita sat in silence, which we both enjoyed till it was time for the library to close.

Time Skip

Another week passed in a flash; it seems time wasn't waiting for me. So far in these last 12 days, I have enjoyed the most peaceful life one could have. Today was a day like the last one. I was supposed to talk to Kamuro. She has been ignoring me since the sports festival. Has something happened?

She was reluctant to talk to me today but somehow I managed to arrange a café visit between us. Everything was peaceful for now.

I made my way to the pallet after the classes to meet with Kamuro. Could it be something about her sister? I sighed; I was going to know it once I talk to her.

But just as I was on my way I got a call. The ID belonged to Chabashira Sensei. Why was she calling me? I accepted the incoming phone call and opened the conversation.

"Hello Chabashira sensei, is something wrong. "I asked her.

"Ayanokouji, please come to the main building of the school." Her voice was serious. She didn't even greet me and looked to be in a hurry.

"What's the matter?" I asked her, not wanting to waste my time with her. But she just cut the call. I sighed and turned back to go to the school. Well lets here what the woman wants me so urgently for.

I entered the main building and climbed up the stairs to find myself in the entrance of the staff room. There stood Chabashira sensei, tapping her foot impatiently.

Once she saw me she gave a signal to follow her.

As we were on the way she asked me, "Are you feeling well."

I replied with a blank stare. If I wasn't why would I be beside her now.

She didn't even care about my response and kept walking. I had an odd feeling once we reached the room of the school's chairperson.

She knocked on the door. After receiving the permission, she told me to go inside.

I shrugged and opened the door,

But then I saw him.

He still had that sick smile on his face.

"It's been a long time Kiyotaka. You seem to be enjoying the freedom you have now too much."

The atmosphere in the room changed. I stared at him with pure coldness.

"It has indeed been a long-time father." I replied to the person who was my own father. My tone was threatening, my eyes were an addition to the hostility I was releasing at this moment.

But he was unfazed by the look I gave him. He just stood there with a grin. But I knew one thing. This man was angry. Afterall his best product has escaped white room.

"Let's have a father and son talk, shall we Kiyotaka?"

I knew one thing, after this talk, my life won't be peaceful anymore.

(A.N. The Next Chapter would be the epilogue. This volume was for Horikita to become the leader of the class. And well you must have guessed, and if you haven't hiyori is going to be introduced next volume. But she isn't ayanokouji's love interest so don't ask me about it.)

And this chapter was intended to be short as it was the buildup to Ayanokouji's talk with his father.

Epilogue

I looked around. Only me and him were in this room. It seems this meeting has been planned. I took a seat on the nearby chair and he did the same, taking a seat across the room.

"You have sure changed a lot Kiyotaka. I didn't feel the same hostility from you which I was able to feel when you were under my supervision." He said looking at me.

"You too have changed a lot. Your smile has become even more nastier than we met last time." I said not removing my eyes from his.

He laughed, "This school is making you more of a rebel Kiyotaka. I don't remember you talking to me like this when you were under me. You have become quite disrespectful towards your owner."

I crossed my arms and said, "I do not belong to you. At least not for two and a half years more."

Yes I knew, he will sooner or later find out that I had escaped to this school. I knew I was free only for three years I am here. That is the sole reason I chose this school. To taste freedom.

His smile now faded away along with the aura of anger around him. It was replaced by a cold stare of hostility. He wasn't angry now. He was much more than just angry. It was same as me, if I have to describe, then a feeling where you want to win.

"Kiyotaka, stop this foolishness at once. You know it yourself, how much we have invested in the white room project. You don't want to waste your 14 years of excellence for this worthless school of garbage." He said with a stern tone.

"You are wrong about one thing; I'm not wasting my time here. This school is not garbage at all. The people in here, they never went to white room or any other facility, yet these same students become the leaders of japan in future. What do you think makes me special father? Is it the fact that I'm called a monster in that facility?" I said justifying my choice to escape that place.

"What about your curiosity, the same curiosity which helped you reach to heights in activities where no ordinary human could think of." He asked me another question.

"That's more of a reason I should be in this school. I need to learn many things before I go on and take over japan as your wish father."

"And you think the garbage in this school can feed your curiosity huh. Don't fool me Kiyotaka, you of all people should know that there is no one in the world who can hold candle to your abilities." He said in a matter-of-fact tone.

"That's where you are wrong. You might think that I'm perfect but in reality I'm not. Since this school started I began to realize. I have lost my ability to survive in the outside world. Months have passed since I entered this school. Yet I don't want to adapt to it at all. That thought never even crossed me. I still wake up believing I'm in those white walls. Its as if those white walls have become a part of me after living there for fourteen years."

Yes that's true, it's as if my past is chaining me from growing further. I can't get past those white walls.

That man just looked at me in disinterest. I continued,

"Our Ideologies are different. Your idea of strong is too extreme for this world. To create a human who doesn't bow down to a god. That's just like a stupid tantrum of a kid."

"Mind your tongue Kiyotaka, you might regret it." He said when he heard my insults.

I continued ignoring his threat, "My idea about being the strongest isn't the one who has the best abilities but the strongest is the one who is the most adaptable."

Yes I have been searching the answer for this since I entered this school.

What makes someone strong?

Is it his fighting abilities? Or his academic strength.

A person who is confident of his martial arts and his academic record can be considered as someone 'strong' but that doesn't necessarily mean he will survive in this world.

Take for an example, if a student from this school is sent to the facility I was grown in. Will he be able to cope up with it? Will he be able to go through years of hell like I went through?

But a person who can cope up with that hell would be one of the greatest human to be ever born. Someone who surpasses me. He would be at the top because he was able to 'adapt'.

So, I decided, to surpass the current me I need to adapt to the outside world. I need to break away from the chains of my past holding me back. That has been my goal since I entered this school.

That's why I'm so fixated on living a peaceful life. Because that's the only thing which can help me surpass myself.

"Kiyotaka I'll just tell you one thing, give up on your naïve ideology at once. Because that ideology cost an innocent family a life."

My glare darkened knowing where this conversation was heading to.

"The day you left the facility, do you know what happened to Matsuo's family?"

He stood up and came right in front of me. I kept my guard just in case.

"The day you left; I destroyed his son's life. He was a bright one. He got himself admitted into one of the reputed colleges in japan. But, he was never able to go to one. Because he passed away in an accident."

That man smiled saying that.

"It was a pitiful sight; his father was looking at his son's corpse being carried away hopelessness in his eyes. His wife was weeping and clutching the coffin not wanting to let it go. There two-year-old daughter just stood there not knowing what had happened with her poor brother."

He started laughing, only this person can laugh after destroying a family.

"But that's not all, days later Matsuo met a similar fate, he was burned to death inside his own house in front of his two year old daughter and his wife."

I looked at him with a calm look. I need to collect my thoughts right now. This is the past and it doesn't matter to me anymore.

"Do you know what has happened to Matsuo's wife and his 2-year daughter, they now live in the slums. With his wife working as a prostitute to feed her own and their daughter's mouth. It's all because of you Kiyotaka."

There was no doubt that this was all true. This man had the ability to it. Despite remaining in the shadows, he was as powerful as the prime minister of Japan.

"So, should I pity him? If that's what you expected from me then you are wrong father. I'm not this weak that a few deaths will weaken my spirit. More than that I pity you father, because you have failed. Even after her husband and son died she is still working for her daughter. She didn't give up on her life. So, what are you going to do, kill her too? Because that would prove how you lost to an ordinary family." I said, there was one thing which my father would never lie about.

He stood silent for a minute then looked at me with an unreadable expression.

"Yeah you are right Kiyotaka, that woman indeed is strong. I can't believe she still has the spirit to live on after I took everything from her, so I let her live. But I'm sure of one thing, her daughter will grow up to hate you Kiyotaka."

Oh, that's what he is concerned about.

"Then she is welcome to challenge me anytime she wants. Because that's what I desire from the bottom of my heart. My defeat will mean you will lose. That you failed in creating an ultimate human like you wished to."

The door opened revealing a man. By his looks he was most probably in his fifties. He looked very tense for some reason. Well, many people do feel tense when they are in front of my father.

"Sensei, I believe you have talked with him." The man said to my father.

My father just tched and went back to take a seat.

The man who had entered wiped the sweat off his forehead and took a seat on the chair which was for the chairman. Why am I twisting the sentence? I meant he was the chairman.

"Sakayanagi your school surely has grown a lot. My son believes it surpasses my own ideals." My father said with a hint of hostility in his voice,

"Getting praised by your son is an honor sensei." The man replied not making eye contact with my father. Wait Sakayanagi, as in Arisu Sakayanagi.

"Sakayanagi you said it to me earlier that I can't withdraw him from the school right?"

Sakayanagi just nodded in response to the question.

"Then it won't be a problem if he is expelled under the rules of the school right?" My father asked Sakayanagi.

Sakayanagi gulped and said, "Yes, if he gets expelled under the rules and regulations of schools than there is no problem."

My father stood up from the seat and looked at me, "Kiyotaka, the way you are living right now. Going to this stupid school with your stupid ideology, you will not surpass yourself. Always remember one thing, you are easily replaceable."

With those words he left me with Sakayanagi.

Replaceable huh? I don't think so. Because as far as I know, there is no one stronger than me, not even you father.

I now looked at Sakayanagi sitting in front of me.

"Hello Ayanokouji Kun, please have a seat here."

I got up from my current seat and sat on the chair in front of his work desk. I looked on as he drank a glass of water and sighed in relief.

"So, Mr. Sakayanagi, about what my father said, is it true that I can't be removed by him without my consent." I asked him wanting to confirm few things.

"Yeah that's indeed true. As long as you have a clean record and are free of any condition for expulsion, we can guarantee that you are safe from him."

"So, you knew my father. Then that means. You must have also known me. Then how did you take me in the school?" I asked him.

He just sighed in return, "Why are you asking if you already knew about it?"

I acted oblivious, "I really don't know what you are talking about.

"You had an idea about how this school worked didn't you? So, you purposely scored 50 in all subjects to attract my attention didn't you."

Yeah it was true. I had an idea how this school worked. I had tried to find out the rankings of the entrance exams of the students but there was not a single record of it on the web. Meaning one thing, the information was supposed to be classified. It was suspicious considering this was a government school and were usually shared with everyone. Then it must have something to do with the admission process. So, I assumed that exams weren't the one deciding whether a student enters the school.

It was indeed just a guess as I had no idea of knowing the exact reason. So, there were only two scenarios available for me if I wanted to attract the attention of the school administration.

That is, to score 100 in all subjects or 50 in all. I was going to go with scoring 100 but then I remembered I had to stay low. Who knows that man might have connection with this school too? I was satisfied when I got the acceptance letter. And after spending few days in this school I confirmed my earlier theory and came up with the Class D being defective bunch idea just a week after entering this school.

"I can't deny that" I replied to his question.

"So, you are her..."I started to ask but he cut me off,

"Yeah, I'm Arisu's father." He replied.

So, it might have been his wish to put her in a Class A. But I wasn't interested in her.

"So, I can leave now, right?" I asked the person sitting in front of me for permission. Kamuro must be waiting for me.

He didn't reply so I thought he meant yes and started to make my way outside but then he called me,

"Ayanokouji"

I turned to face him.

He looked at me with serious expression, "Take care of Kamuro San."

_

(A.N. It seems some crazy things have happened.

Am I updating too fast, Nah I just love to write. I typed this chapter in an hour lol, and about Kamuro, it will be revealed in the special chapters/chapter for this volume.)

Special Chapter - The True Him

Kamuro POV

I was standing in front of the Keyaki mall. When was he going to show up? It seems he had noticed that I've been ignoring him since last few days so he arranged a coffee between us. When I first met Ayanokouji, I never thought much about our meet. I still remember the bus ride as if it was yesterday. He entered the bus and came to take a seat beside me. I just ignored him.

But he still tried to keep conversation with me. That was the first time in four years I had actually talked to someone. I just couldn't speak with anyone after what happened that day.

I remember her words as if she spoke them yesterday, 'I hate you'.

I couldn't understand why my own blood sister was hating me. She was the ideal student in school. Everyone looked up to her. She excelled in sports and academics. But yet she hated me. I could hear her crying when I passed through her rooms sometimes. Even though she hated me, I knew. She was going through lot of pain. Everyone looked at the ideal girl she had made herself into. None of them were interested in her feelings.

So, when she died, it was as if I lost a part of me. I still remember that day, we were supposed to celebrate my birthday. But she never came. She was killed in a store robbery. Shot three times on the chest. What was her mistake? Why did she have to die?

I can't understand it. So, I tried to take her place. I tried to become perfect just like she was. An ideal for other students. In the process I stopped talking with anyone. I was all alone. But my hard work did reward me handsomely. I won many competitions and always topped any examination. But my parent's behaviour also changed after her death. They rarely spoke to me. Just giving me a sad smile when I topped the class or won a competition. They never felt happy for my achievements as they felt for my sister's.

Was this there way of saying they never wanted me in the first place?

I removed those thoughts from my mind as I saw Ayanokouji across the road talking on his phone. Then he turned towards the school and started walking. I was curious, I knew Ayanokouji. He would never go to school building on his own when we were supposed to meet. He valued the meeting more than anything else.

I started to follow him, keeping a safe distance. It was crowded so it was impossible for him to spot me.

As I followed him, I thought about Ayanokouji.

At first, I thought I loved him. But then I realized, it wasn't love. I was just depending on him. I just needed someone. I needed someone so I can escape from my past and not face it. I was just being a coward. Me and Ayanokouji have different lives, I can't mix both of them. We...just aren't meant to be together,

I saw as he headed in the direction of staff room after entering the main building of the school. I waited until he was out of my sight then made my way to the building following him. Was he in trouble? I wanted to be by his side and support him but that wasn't possible. Nothing was possible. Everything was a lie since start. I doubt he even considers me as a friend. But still, I wish to be with him.

I hid behind the corner of the corridor behind a wall. I peeked to see him enter a room. Chabashira Sensei left as soon as he entered that room. Once I checked no one was there I made my way to the room in which he went. When I reached there, I was shocked. It was the chairman's room. Why would the chairman want to meet Ayanokouji?

Was he really in some trouble? I decided to eavesdrop the conversation inside. As I put my ears on the door, I heard a voice.

It wasn't a voice I was used to. It was cruel, indifferent.

"Kiyotaka, stop this foolishness at once. You know it yourself, how much we have invested in the white room project. You don't want to waste your 14 years of excellence for this worthless school of garbage."

Why was the chairman speaking to him like that? What is this about a school being garbage? As thousand more questions ran through my mind, I concentrated on the conversation they were having.

"You are wrong about one thing; I'm not wasting my time here. This school is not garbage at all. The people in here, they never went to white room or any other facility, yet these same students become the leaders of japan in future. What do you think makes me special father? Is it the fact that I'm called a monster in that facility?"

Facility, Monster, what exactly is going on? A shiver ran through my entire soul when I heard the next words from the other person in the room.

"What about your curiosity, the same curiosity which helped you reach to heights in activities where no ordinary human could think of."

Is he talking about Ayanokouji? I know Ayanokouji is special but this...

"That's more of a reason I should be in this school. I need to learn many things before I go on and take over japan as your wish father."

Huh, father? Wait, what did I just hear? Take over japan. Is this really Ayanokouji speaking?

"And you think the garbage in this school can feed your curiosity huh. Don't fool me Kiyotaka, you of all people should know that there is no one in the world who can hold candle to your abilities."

"That's where you are wrong. You might think that I'm perfect but in reality, I'm not. Since this school started, I began to realize. I have lost my ability to survive in the outside world. Months have passed since I entered this school. Yet I don't want to adapt to it at all. That thought never even crossed me. I still wake up believing I'm in those white walls. It's as if those white walls have become a part of me after living there for fourteen years."

What is going on. Unable to survive in the outside world. Just what have you been through and how much more are you hiding under than expressionless face of yours?

They continued on about some things I couldn't understand. Adapting? What exactly did he mean when he said about creating a person who doesn't bow down to god? This is ridiculous.

"Kiyotaka I'll just tell you one thing, give up on your naïve ideology at once. Because that ideology cost an innocent family a life."

Huh. My heartbeat increased when I heard those words. What's going on, someone died because of Ayanokouji?

"The day you left the facility, do you know what happened to Matsuo's family?"

Who is matsuo? Could it be he is the one that man is talking about?

Third Person POV

"The day you left; I destroyed his son's life. He was a bright one. He got himself admitted into one of the reputed colleges in japan. But he was never able to go to one. Because he passed away in an accident."

Suddenly Kamuro felt an uneasy feeling. She didn't want too here anything more. But there was something stopping her.

But she regretted staying once she heard the next words the man spoke,

"But that's not all, days later Matsuo met a similar fate, he was burned to death inside his own house in front of his two-year-old daughter and his wife."

At this something inside her broke. She remembered a distinct memory which she had tried to forget all her life.

Her sister's funeral. She was just there looking as her sister was put to rest. She remembered all those days her mother would cry herself to sleep. Her dad turned into an alcoholic. Kamuro was neglected since the death of her sister. She didn't realize but she was crying horrified when she heard Aynaokouji's response.

"So, should I pity him? If that's what you expected from me then you are wrong father. I'm not this weak that a few deaths will weaken my spirit"

This wasn't the Ayanokouji she knew. It was as if the Ayanokouji she had been seeing till now was just a fragment of an illusion cast upon her. Suddenly all the memories she had pushed back came out. Tears started flowing freely. She imagined herself being in that 2-year girl's place.

She didn't even react when a hand was put on her shoulder and she was guided somewhere.

"Chabashira, look over her, I'll go inside."

She heard the name of Chabashira Sensei being called and she looked at the teacher who was looking at her with concern.

She was guided in the staff area by Chabashira sensei. There was no one there at the moment. Chabashira Sensei made her sit in one of the chairs.

She brought Kamuro a glass of water which she earnestly drank to calm down. She still could hear his voice as if it was a second ago.

The indifference in his tone over someone's death.

She felt afraid of him. She just wanted to get away from him. She never imagined him being this cruel.

Suddenly the door to room opened and from there stepped a pair of golden eyes. His brown hair and serious look were the only things Kamuro could see.

Ayanokouji Kiyotaka sent a look to Chabashira sensei, she flinched but left the two alone. Kamuro was petrified and was remembering the death of her sister. Just looking at Ayanokouji was enough to scare her. She didn't even notice as Ayanokouji had made his way in front of her.

Ayanokouji put a hand on her shoulder, wanting to snap Kamuro from her thoughts. Kamuro flinched at the contact by Ayanokouji and backed away. She was scared, scared of his entire existence.

Ayanokouji just sighed and said, "I'm sorry that you had to hear that."

Kamuro just shook her head, "No... No..I heard nothing... I'll go now."

With that Kamuro stood up and was about to leave when Ayanokouji grabbed her wrists with force. Kamuro yelped at the sudden pain, but flinched when she looked into his eyes, the eyes full of apathy. Those cold eyes which carried a copious amount of darkness in them.

"Sorry Kamuro, but this time I can't let you leave. You have gotten too involved in me and you can't back out now."

A.N. I wanted to finish this volume today itself because tommorow is a very special day for this fic. You will see in tommorow's Author note. Coincidences can indeed be freaky

And with this chapter, we have completed half of year 1, yeah my fic will have only 10 volumes, ie. 5 volumes more.

A.N. The 50th Chapter

Hey guys, I was on an updating spree last 4 days because I wanted to post the 50th chapter on this day. In real life, my lucky number is 5 and co incidentally this fic has a huge resemblance with it.

This Fic has 50 chapters.

This Fic has 5 volumes.

This is my 5th author note (I deleted the rest of them because one of my readers said that it was a little annoying)

This is my 5th book (I took down the fifth fic I wrote because wattpad changed some of it guidelines and I didn't want someone else to report me because of mature content. In reality wattpad guidelines are turning BL as they want the app to be kid friendly)

Today is 5th of March

I started writing this book 5 months ago.

The latest volume has 5 chapters

And there are exactly 5 Special chapters.

And I have just passed 55.5k viewers.

Coincidences can be Freaky indeed. So guys keep reading and enjoying the series.

And let me confirm few things,

First of all this fic will have 10 volumes. I will be skipping one of the volumes. Either the Volume 7 or the Volume 8 because Ryueen and Ayanokouji's confrontation has already been concluded. And volume eight is only there for the T-Rex scene.

And please, this is my first fic. I literally wrote at the starting of this fic. Don't expect too much from me in the romance department. I don't know how to write couple love and all of that. I only know fluff.

And I focus on psychology more. Human emotions are just awesome. That's why I enjoy writing monologues.

And one more thing, my holidays are gonna end soon, so there is 5% chance I may put this book on hold. Sorry even though I love writing, I prioritize my studies more.

That's all and thank you for reading.

Volume 6

"Kamuro even the kindest and purest of hearts can't stop someone's death, what right do I have to stop someone from their fate as a devil?"

A.N. This volume would take the things slow as a new character is going to be introduced.

Chapter 1 - A New Friend

The days went by slowly, but now it was time. For the examinations to begin once again. Class D had a slight chance to overtake Class C this exam. But that will depend on how the class takes this exam. It also depends on Ryūen's approach on the exam . After his defeat, he might decide to stay low. Being reckless won't do any good, and he already knows it.

I sighed as I pushed away these thoughts and focused on eating the instant noodles. The situation in the class was also peaceful, at least for now. But the peace was actually the last thing needed for Class D at the moment. Because Class D had let down their guard.

Sudou had become some kind of bodyguard for Horikita, which she didn't like a single bit. But getting irritated from Sudou's continuous persistence and complains of her being in danger from Ryūen. She finally let him do what he wanted.

The situation with girls was quite interesting at the moment. Not a single one of them talked with matsushita. Some did want to talk but held back because they didn't want to be targeted. It was clear from matsushita's eyes that she was hurt. So, I started to talk to her and she stopped caring about the girls in the class. Well, we certainly got closer. Most of our time together was spent in the library as she didn't like activities which girls did. In reality, that was just an excuse for not having anyone to do those activities with but I was not the one to mock her.

As I was floating in my thoughts I almost forgot about the meeting I had with matsushita. I sighed and changed my clothes to outdoor ones.

It was sunny outside. The whistling of birds was a rare sight here in ANHS so I enjoyed every chirping to my hearts content. Music really is powerful isn't it. Somehow it is able to calm down my hostility. Its ironic considering no amount of love can change me.

I entered the library finding most of the seats occupied by third years. They do leave the school before us I guess. Their final semester must have begun.

And there I saw her; she was sitting on a table in the back where there were less people. But she wasn't alone. A silver haired girl was with her, looking at matsushita with enthusiasm. It was funny considering matsushita was just nervously smiling and listening to whatever she was saying.

I sighed and made my way towards that table. Once I sat beside matsushita she gave me a look which was crying with relief. The other girl became quiet at the new presence. It seems she was the shy and lonely type.

Matsushita also looked shocked. But she calmed down and put her attention back into her book. Wow matsushita, you should have at least introduced her. This is too uncomfortable. I sighed and got up, grabbed the book I had borrowed last time.

Just as I was about to start reading, the girl sitting in the front called me.

"Um, is that 'Farewell my lovely' you are reading?"

I looked up from my book and flinched at the scene in front of me.

The most adorable smile, I had seen in years. A smile that somehow reminded me of my past. It was different. All this time I've been in this school, I've not seen a genuine and an innocent smile. All of them are full of deception. But she, she just felt different.

"Yes." I replied.

"It is a masterpiece, you should definet..." with that she just continuously kept on speaking.

I was surprised and somewhat understood matsushita and why she was so nervous. I looked over to the said girl who was just looking at the scene in pure amusement.

The girl in front of her, after giving an in-depth summary of the entire story and other works of 'Raymond chandler' realized what she had been doing. She blushed in embarrassment and looked down.

It.. it was cute.

You might be thinking I'm overreacting but, even I know what is cute and what is not.

She fake-coughed to hide her embarrassment and turned towards us.

"So, you two also like to read books?" Her eyes held the same excitement which a kid has when he is getting his favorite toy.

Me and matsushita nodded and her eyes gleamed in happiness.

She suddenly grabbed mine and matsushita's hand and asked, "Would you like to see some books, I have some with me."

Matsushita looked at me. Wait how am I supposed to answer her. Its not as if I want to read any books. Then I looked back at the silver haired girl whose eyes showed how excited she was. I unconsciously said yes, but regretted it the next moment as she brought some eight books from her bag and started to tell us about them.

After about a half hour of hearing about some indigenous writers she finally said something apart from books. But it was shocking as she didn't say, she asked us.

"Oh, it seems I have taken a lot of your time, would you both join me for lunch?" She asked us with those innocent eyes which sadly matsushita couldn't resist as she said 'Yes' in a moment.

She took a second to realize what she had just said and hid her face on table in embarrassment. It was funny considering that this was the matsushita who was so close to expose me back a month.

We made our way to the Luncheon Restaurant and sat on an unoccupied table. Wait a minute, I didn't even know her name.

"So, um should we introduce ourselves?" I asked.

The silver haired girl exclaims, "I'm so sorry, I forgot that we just met. I'm Shiina Hiyori, from Class C nice to meet you...um..."

"Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, Class D." I introduced myself to her, matsushita following me soon after.

"Matsushita Chiaki, a classmate of Ayanokouji Kun here." She said with a smile. It has been quite sometime since I have seen her smile.

"Its my pleasure to meet you Kiyotaka Kun and Chiaki san."

Huh? We threw a surprised look at her. Didn't we meet her like an hour ago?

It seems she noticed the question marks on our face as she quickly said, "I'm sorry if you don't like me calling my fir.."

"No, its fine, we were just kind of caught off guard." Matsushita looked happy for some reason. I can understand her, no one in the class cares about her as of right now. So, she really needs some kind of human contact to move back to her usual annoying self.

"So..um tell me about yourself" I asked her.

What the hell, this is not a date. I inwardly shook my head and grimaced at my own question.

But it seems my worry was futile as she was too innocent to think like that.

"Ok so I'm from Tokyo and I love reading, even the bag I'm carrying is full of books..." and so we talked.

Talked about strange things we thought never existed. I was so busy thinking about what to do for the class and how to safeguard my peaceful life, that I forgot what exactly peaceful life meant?

I remembered what advice I gave to ibuki back some time ago.

To acknowledge herself, but

Have I acknowledged myself?

Am I just blindly doing all of this to be better than me? What am I going to prove by being the best or the strongest? Because one day, I'm going to die, it won't matter whatever legacy I leave behind.

When I looked at hiyori, I saw the genuine happiness in her voice. I felt something which I had never felt till now.

I felt envious of her.

"We should meet more often Ayanokouji Kun and matsushita san." She said as she got up from her seat. Me and matsushita followed her out of the restaurant.

"Yeah I don't mind it." I said those words.

I didn't know if I will regret getting closer to someone. But I wanted to know for myself, what being in peace means.

What do I desire, yeah its true?

I'm curious about something, and I won't have it another way.

Time Skip

I was on my way to meet a certain someone, a day had passed since my meeting with hiyori and well my curiosity is killing me. I want to meet her again, but well curiosity did kill the cat. I have to be patient with her.

As I reached there the figure just glared at me,

"what do you want Ayanokouji Kun?"

"Just wanted to check on how you are doing." I said in a stoic tone.

"Don't bullshit me, just get this over with." She snapped at me.

"It seems you really hate me Kamuro" I said looking at the purple haired girl.

She just averted her gaze.

"Fine then I have a request for you" I said to her.

She looked at me in confusion, "And why would I want to hear what you want to say?"

"Arrange me a lunch with Sakayanagi."

A.N. Yeah sadly Ayanokouji group isn't in the fic. Sakura was eating away the pages of LN, (no hate intended for Sakura but she really was taking the pages with no character development)

So it's time for the new group of four people in my fic which will be taking place of Ayanokouji group,

The Hiyori Group

Members

Ayanokouji Kiyotaka

Matsushita Chiaki

Shiina Hiyori

And a mysterious fourth member

Who do you think the fourth member will be?

Chapter 2 - A New Challenge

The cake was very sweet, but the sickly-sweet smile in front of me was dangerous. It has been three minutes since I'm sitting on the table and since then, she has been smiling like crazy. I kinda regret arranging a meeting with her now.

"So Ayanokouji Kun, you wanted to talk to me?" She asked me.

"Yeah sorry for taking your time." I replied while taking another bite of my cake.

She chuckled, "It is my honor actually, never did I think that I would be standing in front of your father's greatest product."

I sighed, and turned towards her. I asked, "I want you to tell me about Kamuro."

She gave an Oh look and chuckled, "Could it be you have a little high school crush on her Ayanokouji Kun."

Why is everyone so interested about my love life?

I shrugged and said, "It would be preferable if you got to the point. So, are you going to tell me or not?"

She sighed and leaned under the support of her cane, "Truth be told I don't know much about Kamuro San. But I have an idea what you want."

I looked at her and she stared right back.

"It's about her sister isn't it?" She asked me. I just nodded in response.

She closed her eyes for a moment then stared back at me with seriousness.

"Do you know about fire which happened four years back?"

I did hear about those. Those were one of the darkest moments for the entire country. A whole hotel was set on fire by a man. Nearly 34 people were killed that day. The man never was punished because he was thought to be mentally unstable. So, then she was...

"Yeah, she was one of those victims." She said, her eyes showing her sadness.

"I never thought someone could be this sick." I said to her.

Killing innocent people for fun is just insane. A monster like me understands that then why can't humans like him understand.

She just chuckled sadly, "Well it's no use thinking of it now. This is the past and we need to accept it."

I nodded. I didn't feel like eating the cake anymore. At least wherever her sister might be, she must be seeing Kamuro huh?

Heaven and hell, what an interesting concept. Yet to be understood by humans. Simple because there is no human alive who can uncover the truth about them.

"Sorry but I don't know anything more about her? She pretty much keeps to herself. I don't think she has talked with anyone in the Class A apart from me."

With that we ended our little chat and parted ways. I relished an ice cream before heading back to the dorms.

Time Skip

A new day in the school with a new announcement. But unlike previous time, this wasn't a special exam. It was time for the upcoming term examinations.

But this exam everyone in the class looks tense. Well because expulsions would be kept as penalty. Chabashira sensei shares a brief look with me, then turns to the whole class and starts explaining the procedure of the exams.

According to teacher, tests would be taken before exam and is supposed to be as easy as middle school. But, the tests aren't completely useless, as it helps determine the pairs for the final exam of the semester. There will be tests on 8 subjects with 50 questions per test.

There are 2 ways to be expelled due to this exam; The combined total of the pair is under 60 for a test, or If the cumulative score of the pair is below a certain number both student will be expelled, even if they scored above 60 in all tests. In the last exam, it was 700 points. To get 700 points it necessary to achieve a minimum of 43.75 points per test to pass.

As class starts speculating about how the pairs are determined, Chabashira sensei mentions another thing about the special exam. The students are tasked with writing the final exam questions for another class, then that class has to 'defend' against the 'attack'. The winner of the battle (The one with the highest score) will gain 50 class points from the loser. To ensure that no impossible quizzes are made the teachers monitor the questions. If the quizzes aren't finished the schools template questions will be used instead.

Winning this exam won't be much problem if Class D actually studied. Well, that is a very huge hypothesis I'm on too.

If I have to say who in class D are academically sound, then that would include Hirata Yosuke, Horikita Suzune, Keisei Yukimura, Wang Mei, Kushida Kikyou, Matsushita Chiaki now that she has been exposed and the person whom I believe is the best in academics. Koenji Rokusuke, he is quite unique. I would be lying if I didn't want him as an asset, but he isn't showing his true strength at all. Even in the sports festival he didn't show up.

I need to understand what exactly he is thinking before I make a move. But he would be the harder target. I sighed as I saw Horikita approaching me, "Ayanokouji Kun, would you please assist me with some things?"

I turned to face her, "Do I have any choice?"

"Honestly speaking, you are doomed to suffer." She replied with a stern gaze directed at me.

It seems my fate has been already sealed. I got up from my seat with the usual blank expression.

I immediately regretted as I found the discussion panel...to be quite big for my liking.

There on the table sat Hirata, Karuizawa, Sudo, Horikita and an unexpected person. It seems Horikita didn't know that kushida was a traitor. Well only me and matsushita from Class D knew about kushida. I don't think she will be reckless anymore. She knows how strong I am, but I can't let my guard down.

I still don't know what Ryūen is planning, he is too quiet currently. The only way to gain information about his current status is through ibuki, but seriously speaking. I don't think Ryūen as a threat. He is just a pebble on the road I'm walking on.

"Horikita San, what do you think should be our strategy this exam?" Hirata asked while nervously glancing at Karuizawa who was clinging to his arm.

Horikita looked at me and said, "I think Ayanokouji Kun might have an idea about that."

All eyes turned towards me. Is this what I get for helping you, damn both the Horikita's are troublesome to deal with.

"Uh I think the key to winning this exam lies in the test we are going to give before the actual exams I guess. I mean the order in which we score marks might decide the pairs we are going to be in." I answered while looking at my phone.

I looked up from my phone and I saw they were thinking something.

"Yeah you might be right about that. After all sensei did say that the tests would be important. But orders might be important too. That's very nice point Ayanokouji Kun." Hirata smiled and said to me. Horikita only nodded. But Karuizawa for some reason looked at me in suspicion.

She said, "I didn't know you could think this good Ayanokouji Kun?"

"Well staying with a cunning person like matsushita might have changed me little I guess."

"So, you still talk with her huh?" Karuizawa asked while looking at me.

"Yeah, there is no reason for me to just ignore her." I answered casually.

"Huh, don't you see what she did. She basically lied to her this whole time. Even when we were so close. How can we even trust her now?" She said accusing matsushita.

"But is she the only one hiding something? Aren't you hiding something too Karuizawa?"

At this Karuizawa flinched. Was I being straightforward, but I had to take some risks if I have to gain Karuizawa? If I can have her work for me, I will be controlling all the girls in the class indirectly.

I had noticed how hirata and Karuizawa are in the class. There smiles seemed force for a reason. They were definitely hiding something. So, I needed information if I wanted to have an upper hand.

Karuizawa looked down when she heard the question. Everyone turned towards her. Hirata was about to say something but I was faster,

"Never mind, I was just kidding."

There was no use for asking anything more. Kushida was here and she must have Definitely sensed Karuizawa's panic. But her face showed confusion which meant only hirata and Karuizawa knew about that secret.

"Ayanokouji Kun, I'll advice you to stay on track. I despise useless chatter" Horikita turned towards me and said.

"Oh, sorry Horikita." I apologized and she continued with the rest of the plan. They came to a conclusion that the highest scorer would be paired with the lowest scorer. Similarly, the second highest with the second lowest, and so on.

Karuizawa was glaring at me throughout the meeting. Well, it seems another troublesome piece to deal with. Not that it matters to me though.

Third Person POV (Sakayanagi's Room)

Sakayanagi stood there in front of Kamuro. They were in Sakayanagi's room.

"Kamuro san, what do you think about the upcoming exams and class battle."

Kamuro just looked blankly at her, "Class A is going to win, that's all I can say for now."

Sakayanagi looked at her with an amused expression, "Oh how can you be sure. And are you really okay, there is a chance someone might get expelled this exam."

At this Kamuro just tched, "So what, if they can't handle this then they don't deserve to be in class A."

"I don't understand how do you deserve to be in A class." Sakayanagi said.

At this Kamuro just glared at her in anger, "What do you mean by that?"

"You have a defect don't you? Your sist.." Sakayanagi was about to say but Kamuro grabbed her collar,

"Don't talk about my sister you cripple." Kamuro said in a menacing tone.

Sakayanagi just laughed, she knew why she was put in class A. Her father had deliberately put Kamuro in A class. He knew about kamuro's past and he wanted her to face the demons of her past. And the only way to face them was showing her how defective she was despite being in Class A.

"You sure have got a tongue Kamuro san, giving unusual names to me. But please remove your filthy hands from my clothes Kamuro san." Kamuro glared at her but obeyed her.

"Now that's how should you behave, like a slave." Sakayanagi said in a prideful tone.

Kamuro didn't reply to the insult thrown at her and just kept glaring. She knew better than to talk to her. She acknowledged how strong she was.

"Which class do you think we should get to face, Kamuro san?" Sakayanagi asked out of curiosity.

Kamuro thought about it, it was better to face against class C or Class B as she knew about the monster residing in Class D.

But,

"I think I would've wanted to face Class D."

Sakayanagi was amused by the answer. What was Kamuro talking didn't make any sense, didn't she know how dangerous Ayanokouji was.

But that's the reason Kamuro wanted to face Ayanokouji. She knew how strong Ayanokouji was. In the future Class A and Class D will definitely face each other, but its better to face the demon now.

Because Kamuro knew, the only chance to remain as class A was to suppress Class D. To protect Class A's position, she had to make sure Class D never advance to Class C. Because as long as its academics, it didn't matter how smart Ayanokouji was, Class A was far superior than Class D.

She knew, if Class A wants to win, they had to make sure to destroy Class D at any cost. Because in the end, Ayanokouji alone cant save the whole class forever.

A.N. Guys thank you for your support. I read all the comments in the previous chapter. You have motivated me a lot. So then, I assure you, no matter how much hate I get in the future, I will keep going. Lets see this Fic till the end.

Chapter 3 - Beneath the Sunset

The chirping of birds woke me from the slumber I was in. It was another weekend, and three days since I met Sakayanagi. Yesterday our opponents were announced. And it seems Class A were facing off against us. The entire class was tense. It seems Horikita would be facing Sakayanagi. Even if I wanted to help class D I was helpless, as the exam is going to be based on the collective performance of the whole class. The most I can do is to keep kushida in check.

My focus currently is Kamuro. There is a kind of connection between why she was put in Class A. Something is clearly suspicious. Because if I'm to be honest, she is much more defective than Horikita and Kushida.

I changed my clothes into casual ones and made my way out. I was supposed to meet with matsushita and hiyori today. I entered the elevator only to find a pair of gradient red eyes staring at me.

"Fancy meeting you here Ayanokouji Kun" she said while glancing up from her phone.

"I should say the same about you Horikita."

She sighed and put away her phone to focus her complete attention on me.

"Can't argue with that" She replied.

"So where are you headed to" I asked her while leaning on the elevator wall.

"Would it inconvenience you if I don't want to share where I am headed to?" she asked me in her usual tone.

"No, not at all. Why should I care where you go" I said sighing?

She twitched her right eye and gave a fake smile, "You are surprisingly quite blunt Ayanokouji Kun. That was a rude thing to say to a friend."

"How can one be a friend if he can't even tell where he is headed to?" I asked her.

"Ayanokouji Kun, that's a rather stupid argument. But for the sake of my pride, I'll tell you. I'm headed to the convenience store."

"I see, I too am headed to the library" I said while crossing my arms.

"It seems you really have some kind of attraction to matsushita san" she asked in a curious tone.

"That's not it, its just that I feel bad for her" I said.

"Since when did you start feeling bad for others Ayanokouji Kun" Horikita asked while sending a stern gaze at me.

I just shrugged and said, "Might be after seeing you try so hard to reach class A. It honestly brought tears to my eyes."

I could see a irk mark appearing on her forehead, "Are you perhaps mocking my goal Ayanokouji Kun?"

I quickly denied the accusation thrown at me "No Horikita, I'm quite proud of your struggle to reach the top."

Before she could say anything more, the door of the elevator opened. She sighed, "Killing you has to wait till next time we meet Ayanokouji Kun."

I too said my goodbye and made my way towards the library. As I reached there I saw hiyori and matsushita sitting on a table. But there was one more person with them.

I sighed and made my way towards them. I saw matsushita nervously smiling while looking at the fourth person. The fourth person was just staring at me with a glare. I sat down beside matsushita and turned towards hiyori. She was just smiling.

Too sweet.

I shook my head inwardly and looked at the fourth person who was sitting there,

"So, you too like to read books ibuki?"

She just tched, "Tch I don't hate them."

"Then why are you here? Did you want to join our group?" Matsushita asked.

Ibuki glared at her before saying, "I'm just here to protect hiyori from you pervert." She said while pointing an accusatory finger at me.

I saw hiyori blink and look at me with sadness, "Ayanokouji Kun, are you really a pervert."

Before I could say anything ibuki said, "yeah he is a damn pervert. He likes being stalked by me."

Matsushita coughed loudly at that. We all turned to look at her but she just nervously smiles and signaled us to go on.

Hiyori asked, "How does make that one pervert Mio san?"

Ibuki just tched, but hiyori continued, "But why do you stalk Ayanokouji Kun, Mio san?

Ibuki flinched but said quickly, "Ryūen gave me the orders to follow him."

Hiyori then gave a confused look to ibuki, "But Ryūen san hasn't been talking with you from a month. So, he definitely didn't give you any order, so why were you following us to the library. Even today you volunteered to join me because you wanted to be with Ayano.."

Before she could speak anything more ibuki held her hand and started to pull away the silver haired girl from the table. The silver haired girl just kept quiet and simply let a blushing ibuki drag her away.

Once they were out of vision matsushita started laughing lightly, "Ayanokouji Kun, it seems Ibuki san wanted to be with you."

"Yeah, it does look like that" I said sighing.

"So Ayanokouji, are you really stepping down from helping the class?" matsushita asked while looking at me.

I sighed, "I don't plan to do anything this exam. I already have my focus on something else."

Yeah, I had my full focus on kamuro's issue. It was peculiar why she was in class A. Something was definitely off.

"I see" she said with a thoughtful expression on her face.

Just as I was about to talk something more ibuki and hiyori came back. Ibuki looked a little flustered and hiyori, well hiyori was smiling again.

"Where were you two?" Matsushita asked ibuki and hiyori.

"Hah, why does that concern you girl" Ibuki said in an irritated tone.

Well, ibuki definitely hated matsushita for some reason. Matsushita waved her hands in surrender not wanting to mess with Ibuki. Hiyori pouted while looking at ibuki, "Mio san, that was very rude of you."

Ibuki just rolled her eyes, "Whatever."

Hiyori turned back towards matsushita, "Don't worry Chiaki san, Mio san wanted to tell me something."

Matsushita just nodded, and went back to the book she was reading. Just before I was about to read, hiyori clapped.

She looked very cheerful and turned towards ibuki, "Mio san, I think if you are going to guard me every day why don't you join the group itself."

Wait, guard every day?

Ibuki just tched, "I got better things to do than to be in a stupid group."

Hiyori looked hurt and looked down, "I see, please forgive me ibuki san, I didn't know you hated to be in groups with me."

The three of us panicked when the smile on her face was replaced by an innocent sad look. Matsushita glared at ibuki and ibuki freaked out seeing hiyori sighed,

"Fine, Fine I'll join your stupid group kay, just...just fucking don't cry." Ibuki said in a panicked tone.

Hiyori looked at ibuki still sad and asked ignoring the curse ibuki just said, "Are you sure Ibuki san?"

"Yeah, I'm sure" ibuki said avoiding Hiyori's gaze with a blush on her face. Well, who wouldn't be embarrassed in this situation?

Hiyori grabbed both hands of ibuki, "Thank you Mio san."

"Just get it over with" ibuki whispered softly.

"So, the first step towards our group should be calling each other without honorifics" Hiyori said smiling.

I had no problem with it so I just nodded. Matsushita did the same. I looked at ibuki who was looking very flustered.

"What's the matter Mio?" matsushita asked her smirking.

Ibuki glared at her and looked at me. She took a deep breath and said, "Hello ki..Kiyotaka."

Silence. Did ibuki treat me like a human just now. I couldn't help but pat her head as a joke, "Nice work Mio."

At this matsushita and hiyori looked at me. Matsushita was holding back her laughter and hiyori was smiling even more sweetly if such a smile exists.

Ibuki was silent.

Matsushita whispered in my ear, "Ayanokouji Kun, you did too much damage to her heart. I think we lost her."

Huh? I turned towards ibuki who was now glaring at me, "How dare you touch me pervert." I did notice the blush on her face but decided to keep quiet. I don't want to get insulted in front of hiyori anymore.

As time passed I continued reading. I was reading an interesting book at the moment. It was about the story of Jonathan Livingston Seagull, a seagull who is bored with daily squabbles over food. Seized by a passion for flight, he pushes himself and learns everything he can about flying. His increasing unwillingness to conform finally results in his expulsion from the flock. Now an outcast, he continues to learn, becoming increasingly pleased with his abilities while leading a peaceful and happy life.

It was so much related to my whole life. No this, is my story indeed. The book ' Jonathan Livingston Seagull: A Story' like a biography of me.

As I was reading, I noticed ibuki glaring at me and matsushita who was next to me. She too had noticed Ibuki's glare and was in turn glaring at me.

I sighed, why was I being glared by them.

I kept my book on the table and turned to ibuki.

"Mio could you...please stop glaring at us."

Ibuki asked an unexpected question in return, "Are you and matsushita san dating?"

I looked at the seat next to me. Matsushita was trying to hold back her laughter.

"No, we are not" I replied shrugging. I did notice the smile of Ibuki's face.

After half an hour more we decided to leave the library. Matsushita shared her contact with ibuki. Ibuki was surprisingly more tolerable with matsushita now.

Ibuki and matsushita left. Hiyori had asked me to accompany her. I followed her steps reaching a bench after some time. She dusted the bench and sat on it. I sighed as I sat next to her gazing at the sun who was now setting.

"The sunset is very beautiful isn't it Kiyotaka?" she asked me.

I looked at the shade of orange who was going to be gone for the night soon.

"Yeah, it is."

"Seeing it with friends is even more wonderful. Though I don't know about Mio, but Chiaki would definitely love it."

I just hummed in response.

"Say Kiyotaka Kun, can I ask you a question?" Hiyori started still looking ahead. I could hear students chattering at a length.

"Do you really consider us as friends?"

I turned towards hiyori who was still smiling. I just kept quiet and stared at her. She didn't mind and continued, "I can tell Kiyotaka Kun, all those bruises on Ishizaki Kun and Ryūen Kun weren't just coincidences after all."

I looked at her with a serious expression but she was unfazed.

"You rarely show emotions Kiyotaka Kun. But that doesn't necessarily mean that you have to be like this forever."

I just kept quiet and continued to hear her talk,

"I don't know if you consider us as friends Ayanokouji Kun, but remember I won't let you leave this school before changing you."

The gentle breeze blew over us. I was just staring at those eyes who were now looking at me.

The next words she said, made me realize how naïve I was.

"Every face deserves to smile Kiyotaka, and I would return your smile to you. That's a promise from me, your friend."

For the first time in my life, I felt at peace. That's the reason I was envious of her. This is the life I always craved for.

A life where I had someone, whom I can trust without ever doubting in this worthless world where I trusted no one.

Today beneath the sunset, I made my first friend.

A.N. Thanks for reading.

Chapter 4 - The Battle For Class A

I looked to my side to see Horikita looking at the rest of the class with a satisfied look on her face. She was confident about her actions. I too agreed with her, if the class is able to manipulate the scores perfectly than we might have a chance against Sakayanagi.

As Chabashira sensei entered the class with a stack of test papers in her hand. She looked sternly at all of us and relayed some basic instructions about solving the tests. Ike and Yamauchi were more than happy. Of course, they would be happy. Because for the first time in their life, they were told to score zero in a test. For them it was a dream come true.

As sensei handed the papers, I glanced at my right to see matsushita looking at me. She just shook her head and gave me a thumbs up. Might be good luck for the exams.

I looked through the paper. The school was true to its words, the paper was indeed quite easy. Even a middle schooler could score 60 easily in it. Of course, you need to have basic concepts in your mind. You just have to apply the formulae.

Like a question here was on the simultaneous equations. They were too basic if you ask me. Well, I learnt the theory of relativity at the age of ten so my opinion might not be much of a reliable person to judge the difficulty of this paper.

Just a minute later Ike and Yamauchi got up from their seats and handed their papers to Chabashira sensei. Sensei wasn't shocked just a little amused, "Don't tell me you want to give away such opportunity Ike. This paper is quite easy."

She asked him, to which Ike just laughed, "Sensei, who needs to study when Horikita san is there to save us."

I looked beside me to see Horikita giving a stink eye to Ike. I really pitied Horikita. I could feel matsushita grinning and saying, 'You wanted to be leader huh.' Chabashira sensei just shook her head and took Ike's paper. She too didn't want to waste her time with him.

After the tests ended I was in the class hearing other students chatting about the exams. Apparently the marks were going to be declared tomorrow. Matsushita waved at me as a sign of goodbye and left the class. She had no use staying in a class where her previous friends didn't even greet or look at her. Matsushita looked like she didn't care anymore if anyone acknowledged her or not. It seems she was seeing hiyori group as her home now.

As people started leaving for the club activities, I decided to leave too. I had wanted to stay a little considering I had nothing significant to do. But I received a call at night.

"Hello, Ayanokouji Kiyotaka" I said into the phone.

I was surprised when I heard her voice.

"Pleasure talking to you Ayanokouji Kun." The voice said.

"What do you want Sakayanagi? I was about to sleep." I told her to which she just laughed.

"Ayanokouji Kun, I wanted to request you something." she told me.

"Go on and ask" I told her.

"I want you to compete with me" As I heard those words I gripped the phone tighter but still calmly responded,

"I have no interest in class competition anymore. Please don't contact me for this reason." I told her calmly.

"White room." At those two words my entire demeanor shifted. A whirlpool of emotions was swimming through my mind.

But she quickly added with a chuckle, "Don't worry I'm not going to blackmail you. Because my father himself has some connections with white room." I knew that but it still put me at risk.

"Then why did you call me if you knew I was going to reject you." I asked her still in the same seriousness.

"I just wanted to say to you, I will make you face me." With that she hanged her phone.

I let out a frustrated sigh and just sat down on the bed. What was Sakayanagi playing on? If I were on her place and I wanted to force someone. I shrugged and decided to sleep.

_

The next day the results were announced. It seems our guess was spot on and manipulating the scores had really worked. I had been paired by none other than Sakura Airi. It was quite hilarious as when our pair was announced she shrieked in front of the whole class. Yeah that was really embarrassing, not at all hilarious.

I was trying to get Horikita out of the class but she was not ready to budge. Why can't she listen to me for once? I sighed and gave up to wait for my troublesome fate.

As class D was in uproar about the marks and tests, a sudden clanking sound took their attention.

There in front of the class stood none other than leader of Class A, Arisu Sakayanagi. Beside her were Masayoshi Hashimoto and Kamuro Masumi.

"It's my honor meeting a class who lost all its points during its first month of being in this school. I wonder how they are even keeping trash in this school."

Most of the class was looking down ashamed. It was as if they were seeing a deity in front of them. It looked like they already had accepted the fact that Class A was superior than them.

But the person beside me, went in front of the class. Sudou just behind her.

"Says the class who lost to us during the uninhabited island test." She said it loudly for the entire class to hear. Sakayanagi just smirked and Kamuro gave a look which showed how disgusted she was with Horikita's lie.

"Oh, but do you really think that would have been the case if you had gone against me when I was serious? I can buy someone from your class in minutes, you know that?" Sakayanagi said. I understood the moment she said this. She was planning something.

"That doesn't change the fact that you lost to us" Horikita said calmly.

"Fufufufu, if I want I can not only crush you, but also your brother anytime I want Horikita San. I can understand by seeing you, he is all talk." Sakayanagi said smirking. I could tell she was lying about her brother but that was still disrespectful.

The mention of her brother was enough for Horikita to lose her composure. Horikita glared at the shorter girl who was unfazed by it.

"It's nice to finally meet the leader of Class D" Sakayanagi said while giving her a hand to shake.

But Horikita didn't make any move to shake her hand back. She was looking down on Sakayanagi. The whole class was looking at the exchange.

"Sakayanagi san apologize about what you said to my brother now" Horikita said in anger.

Sakayanagi looked at her outstretched hand which had been ignored by Horikita and smirked.

"And why should I apologize Horikita san. I'm simply stating the truth. Your brother is nothing compared to the likes of me."

I could feel Horikita getting angrier but she still kept her urges in control as she hadn't attacked Sakayanagi till now.

"My brother is the best student this school could ever have. You can't even compare to the likes of him." Horikita said in anger.

"And who says so, his sister who is in Class D. A class which is meant for the trash of the school." Sakayanagi said with a sadistic grin on her face.

"You..." Horikita was about to lose her cool. But before she could say anything,

"Prove it to me that your brother is indeed what the rumors say." Sakayanagi said.

Horikita looked at her in confusion, "What do you mean by that?"

Sakayanagi came a little near and said loud enough for the entire class to hear, "If your class manages to defeat Class A in the upcoming exams then I would myself bow and apologize to you and your brother in front of the entire first year. And if you think I'm joking then..."

As she said those words the entire class gasped as two people entered the class. These two were none other than the student council president and tachibana senpai. This was enough to send the whole class into panic.

Horikita has now fallen into Sakayanagi's trap. There was no way out now.

"Nii san..." She called out in a low voice. But D class heard her and started freaking out. The student council president was her brother. Sudou was looking at the situation in a helpless manner. Kamuro had a stern look plastered on her face and hashimoto was just smirking.

Horikita was herself freaking out over the appearance of her brother. Her brother was looking at the scene in disinterest. Tachibana was worriedly looking at younger Horikita.

"Horikita san, I'm waiting for an answer?" Sakayanagi pressed Horikita not allowing her time to comprehend the entire situation.

Horikita had no choice but to go with Sakayanagi. Because she must be thinking that her brother is going to watch which choice she is going to make. She was being sucked into vortex,

So, she took the leap of death into the vortex in front of her like a fool,

"Yes, I accept your challenge. I won't let anyone insult my Nii San." Horikita said with determination.

Sakayanagi just chuckled, "I admire your determination Horikita san , I'm honestly impressed. But..."

Her smile turned into a sadistic once. The atmosphere in the room changed.

"If you lose to me Horikita san, then you have to kneel down to me in front of the entire school year and your brother."

As she said those words, all the eyes in class D widened in fear and they turned towards Horikita. That's why I was telling her to leave the class. But she had to be arrogant. I knew Sakayanagi would play this card. Kamuro did know about Horikita's brother.

Horikita begrudgingly accepted, "Fine, I accept your conditions."

Third Person POV

At this every eye in the class widened. Even Sakayanagi was surprised, just how much did Horikita adore her brother. It was scary. This was the reason Ayanokouji was trying to make Horikita leave the class.

"Fine Horikita san, we will soon see, if you are just garbage or someone whom I can respect." Sakayanagi said and turned to Horikita Manabu who was looking at her, "Sorry for taking your time Horikita san now shall we head over"

Manabu cast a glance at his sister than back at Sakayanagi, "I thought you had something important to say to student council. I can't believe you brought me here for this."

Sakayanagi just chuckled, "I apologize for the inconvenience but I wanted to see your sister. But honestly speaking, I'm quite disappointed."

Manabu adjusted his glasses and turned the other way. Horikita and the entire class was looking at him. The next words Manabu spoke shocked the entire Class D,

"Don't compare her to the likes of me. She is nothing but a disappointment."

Sudou was about to charge on him but stopped himself when he heard Horikita, "Nii san, no. I will prove it to you. I'm not a disappointment"

Everyone was looking at her. Manabu had also stopped.

Horikita then turned towards Sakayanagi with hostility, "You...how dare you bring my brother in this . I will make you pay, mark my words."

Sakayanagi ignored her insult and looked at Horikita. There was nothing in Horikita's eyes, just pure bloodlust. Manabu smirked and started to leave the class with tachibana following him.

Ayanokouji sighed and looked outside the window.

The battle for A class has now truly begun.

[A.N. What do you think, who will kneel down before whom.

Horikita or Sakayanagi]

Chapter 5 - Preparation

Once the school ended, I turned towards Horikita. She just looked at me and asked, "Ayanokouji Kun, I need a favor from you."

I sighed knowing what she was going to ask. Well, I had to help her after all.

"What do you need?" I asked her.

"Could you arrange me a meeting with Matsushita san? I want to ask her something."

Well, that was surprising. Why would she want to meet with matsushita?

"Yeah, I'll arrange one." I replied to which she simply got up and left.

"Where are you headed to?" I asked her, to which she just shrugged and left. I sighed and messaged matsushita. She agreed and we were going to meet Horikita the day after tomorrow. Apparently matsushita was going to shop some personal clothes with Ibuki and Hiyori. Of course, I was not included. I am not some kind of pervert.

I started to walk towards the dorms where I met Hiyori waiting. Once she saw me, she smiled, "Hello Ayanokouji Kun, how are you?"

"I'm fine, what about you?"

"I'm as good as I could be." She replied in her happy go lucky attitude

"So, were you waiting for someone?" I asked her.

She just shook her head and said, "No, No I was just taking a brisk walk."

"Oh, then let me join you."

Her facial features lit up at my words.

"It's my pleasure to have you by my side Ayanokouji Kun, ibuki san would be angry at me though." She giggled a little and we started walking.

She talked a lot. I mean too much. Being the socially awkward person I am, I wasn't able to keep up with the daily events in Class C. The life in Class C seemed very relaxed since Ryūen has stopped coming to classes. He just attended them for attendance it seems. Class C life was like a roller coaster.

"Hey Hiyori, do you mind if I ask you something?" I asked her in a casual tone. Well, my casual tone is not 'casual' at all.

She nodded and turned towards me.

"If you are given two choices, between a friend and your own life. Which would you choose?"

She was thinking and she answered, "I won't care whatever I choose."

I was confused and looked at her to which she laughed and said,"..."

I turned to look up at the sky. A choice huh, what should I choose?

Should I choose Horikita or should I choose my peaceful life. I shook my head. Since when did I start caring for her. She is just another tool for me. But somewhere in my mind, I knew that was a lie.

My feelings were a little conflicted. And I knew what had caused this. Hiyori, what exactly were you doing to me? Why am I starting to change? Was this because I had made a friend?

Two Days later

Me and matsushita made our way to Horikita's room. She had called us to meet her. Matsushita was glaring at me throughout our way to Horikita's dorm wing.

I sighed and turned to her, "Just listen to her once. Please" I requested her,

She just rolled her eyes and said, "I'm letting you do this because you are my friend, but if that girl shows any more of her arrogance, I'm gonna kill her. I bet she wants your help Ayanokouji Kun, why call me? "

I just grunted and looked at the door. She was right in a way though. Her arrogance had led to this. If she continues to bring personal problems in Class competition then I would have no choice but to eliminate her like matsushita.

I knocked on her door and it took few seconds for the door to open. It seems she was expecting us. We entered her room. Her room was quite normal, a room suited for a minimalist. It seems Horikita was really a minimalist after all.

I sat on a chair and matsushita took her seat on Horikita's bed. Horikita stood in front of me with dark bags on her eyes. It seems she hadn't slept for days.

"Horikita San are you okay?" Matsushita asked out of concern for the other girl. In response the other girl just shrugged and looked at matsushita seriously.

"Matsushita san, I wanted to request you."

Huh? I thought she needed my help. Even matsushita was surprised but looked at Horikita amused.

"What help do you need from me Horikita san? I mean I'm not even respected in class anymore so will the class accept me helping?" Matsushita asked her to Horikita responded sternly,

"Please don't worry about the class matsushita San. If we continue to think about what our class likes then we really are what Sakayanagi San said, trash of the school."

I was just looking at the conversation in amusement. I was sure of one thing though. My plan since entering this school has worked. Horikita has really changed.

Matsushita asked another question, "But why me, you yourself said that I cannot be trusted."

Horikita just replied, "It might be true that you cannot be trusted. But in that way, we will never come to terms beneficial for the class. So, one of us has to start it. And I'm willing to take the gamble by trusting you."

Yeah, Horikita had definitely changed.

Matsushita just started laughing, "And what's in it for me? You seriously think I will help you after all that has happened in the class."

To which Horikita calmly responded with a single word, "Kushida."

At this matsushita turned serious. It was visible she was angry.

"What about her?" She asked Horikita.

Horikita looked with equal seriousness, "If you help me, I'm willing to sacrifice Kushida san from the class."

Matsushita started laughing, "And why would I believe that. I've seen you spend a lot of time with her lately."

Horikita just calmly replied, "I was confirming few things. But now I am sure of it. Kushida san needs to be eliminated."

What talk did she have with kushida? I sighed and decided to just listen to their conversation for now.

Matsushita now asked, "But why do you want to crush her though. She is contributing to the classes a lot more than me?"

Horikita just sighed and looked down, "If I'm honest I don't want to remove her from the class. But if sacrificing her would give this class a chance than I'm ready to risk it."

Matsushita still hadn't forgotten how kushida had betrayed her and Horikita was playing her cards right. I was honestly impressed by Horikita. Matsushita shrugged and looked at Horikita with complete seriousness.

"Now please explain your bet with Class A. I can't believe you would go this far to prove yourself to your brother. Your brother doesn't even care about you. So how are you going to take responsibility for that," Matsushita asked her.

Horikita sighed and said, "You don't understand Matsushita san, this might be a chance for us."

I understood where she was going, but matsushita looked confused.

"Sooner or later, we would have to face A class again. If we manage to defeat A class now, we can make an alliance with Class B on equal terms. Currently no class considers us a worthy opponent. This might change once we defeat Class A Matsushita San." Horikita tried to explain to matsushita.

Matsushita just grunted, "You thought all this after you did that bullshit bet with Sakayanagi didn't you. When you were betting with her you were just concerned about proving yourself to your brother, stop fucking lying Horikita san. This is not a joke." Matsushita said in anger.

To which Horikita snapped, "Do you know what is a joke matsushita san. The fact that you and Ayanokouji Kun fought with class C behind my back is a joke. The fact that you were planning to remove me from the class is a joke Matsushita San. The fact that my brother refuses to acknowledge me even after 8 years is a joke. The fact that I was put in Class D while my brother in Class A is nothing but a damn joke."

This was the first time I was seeing Horikita so worked up. Even matsushita was stunned. How did she know that I fought with Ryūen?

"Did you really think I would brush it off. Seeing your face told me that you were involved in an altercation. Then I connected all the dots and understood why Ryūen was out of picture." Horikita said now calming down.

Horikita was more perceptive than I had previously thought.

"So, what do you suppose I should do Horikita san. I'm sure you didn't call me to show how smart you are." Matsushita said with disinterest.

Horikita hardened her expression and said, "I need your help matsushita San."

At this matsushita started laughing and asked, "Horikita san, you know it right. We are going against Class A. There is no chance of winning against them. Our academic ability doesn't hold candle to theirs. Do you still wish to struggle hopelessly?"

Horikita was unfazed by her mocking tone and said with determination, "I am not scared of Class A. If it means Class D can reach Class A. I'm ready to risk everything."

Matsushita then sighed and looked at Horikita, " It is not about what you think Horikita. Have you even studied for the exams? I don't think they would be easy as you are making them to be."

To which Horikita replied with a bored tone, "I already studied it in two days."

Wait...What?

Matsushita was silent and stared at Horikita too stunned to speak. Even I was little surprised. She completed her entire preparation in just two days. Just how serious was she about winning. Now it all made sense, the dark eye bags. Did she even sleep?

"So, what do you plan to do?" I asked as Matsushita was still processing what Horikita said.

To which Horikita replied, "I'm going to take the responsibility of all students scoring below class average and teach them myself."

Huh? I looked at her again surprised.

"Horikita you know right, nearly half of the class is below average you speak of." I asked her.

She just replied with a stern tone, "It doesn't matter to me how many of class are below average. What matters is that how many of them belong to the class. I'm not betraying everyone's hope. I'm going to defeat class A even if it kills me."

This was what I saw in Horikita when I first made Contact with her. She had the ability of leadership. Something which was crucial for any class.

Finally, Matsushita spoke, "but are you sure the class would take things seriously? I mean they don't look the hardworking type to me."

To which Horikita replied, "That's the reason I need you Matsushita. I have realised that I alone can't do everything, so please help me."

Matsushita sighed and rubbed her temple. She then looked at me and was about to speak when Horikita interrupted,

"Sorry Matsushita san, but we are not relying on Ayanokouji Kun."

Huh? Matsushita was shocked beyond belief.

Horikita continued, "Matsushita san, aren't we relying too much on Ayanokouji Kun."

At this matsushita kept quiet. It was a fact she couldn't deny. The whole Class D was depending on me at the moment. But...

"So, I won't let Ayanokouji Kun interfere this exam. Class D will win fairly against Class A. So matsushita san, lend me your strength." Horikita said in determined tone.

I never imagined such a day coming. This exam was perfect for Horikita to prove herself. Even if I was to help, I could just increase 30% chances of Class D winning. Rest all was on the academic performance of the class.

But should I trust Horikita. Can she really win against Sakayanagi? I was more than a hundred per cent sure that Class A was going to emerge victorious.

Horikita was going on a hopeless battle.

Matsushita got up and looked at Horikita with equal determination. Horikita and matsushita shook hands, matsushita still looked unsure of not using me but she also knew that they were relying on me too much. If they kept relying on me too much they are going to destruct, and Horikita understood this.

I sighed, should I trust Horikita? Then I remembered my conversation with hiyori

"Ayanokouji Kun, it doesn't matter whatever you choose. What matters is that you are the one making the choice and you are true to the choice you make. I won't let others choose for me."

Yeah, I was getting worked up for nothing. I just had to make a choice which I won't regret.

A.N. Please don't compare this fic with the original LN. You all are underestimating Class D too much all because of those Reaction Fics. You just hate them for no reason. Ayanokouji was hiding his abilities and that is the reason they were so worked up when suddenly scored 100. Whether you like it or not, I'm going to give character development to every character in the story. I'm not just going to focus on the love interests.

Chapter 6 - Not Alone

Third Person POV

As Ayanokouji entered Class D he found nearly every student of Class D looking intently at the people standing on the podium. The three prominent figures of Class D Horikita Suzune, Hirata Yosuke and Karuizawa Kei were standing in front of the Class. Horikita had a serious expression on her face. Karuizawa sent a suspicious look at Ayanokouji which he simply ignored and made his way to his seat.

Horikita glanced at the time piece and waited for a few minutes. After the last person Sudou entered the class with a huge bag in his hand, she went at the front. She began to address the class, "As we all know we will soon be facing examinations. So as the leader of the Class I would like to discuss few things with you all. But before that Sakura San, could you please close the doors"

Sakura timidly nodded and got up from her seat. She closed the door and Horikita began to speak again, "Thank you Sakura San, please take your seat."

After Sakura sat back down, Horikita turned towards board where some names were written. These were the names of students who had scored below average.

Nearly 23 people from the Class of 40 were severely bad in academics. The average percentile of Class D being 57%. It was far less than the average percentile of Class A which was 89%. A gap of 32% wasn't easy to cover. It was almost impossible.

Horikita then turned back towards the class and said, "The goal for our coming exams should be to increase the grades of people who are well below the average. Because as long as our total score exceeds there the average won't matter. I can expect the top scorers of the class to do score high marks and also lend there help in helping those below average."

No one objected and Horikita continued, "I will take the responsibility of people who are have the lowest scores in the class which include Ike Kun, Yamauchi Kun, Sudou Kun, Sakura San and Satō San."

The people in question nodded. Sakura looked at Ayanokouji who was staring outside the window. She wanted to study with him but it looked like her fate was decided. Koenji was just brushing his hair with comb with a smirk on his face.

Horikita turned towards Hirata and asked politely, "Hirata Kun, could you please take care of the rest of the boys who are not so sound in studies?"

Hirata nodded and smiled but a girl spoke up, "Why can't hirata Kun teach the girls?"

Hirata just nervously smiled and Horikita let out a frustrated breath. She turned towards the girl who asked the question and said, "Matsushita San is taking the responsibility of teaching the girls."

The class was silent for a minute processing Horikita's words. 'Was she serious, Matsushita was not trustworthy' was what everyone was thinking,

And so, the entire Class D was thrown into a state of turmoil. Everyone was yelling confused at the actions of there leader. Wasn't she the one who told them that Matsushita was untrustworthy and her current actions conflicted with her previous ones? It was all so confusing to them.

Horikita rubbed her temple, she had expected there would be problems but not to this extent. This was going to be harder unless matsushita was telling the truth. She glanced at Karuizawa beside her who was tapping her feat to ease her nervousness. Horikita shook her head, she was going to trust matsushita.

"I believe that even though she lied to us about her marks, that doesn't mean she can't contribute to the class and redeem herself. Everyone deserves second chances is what I believe in." Horikita calmly said.

Yeah, Horikita had changed. Earlier she wouldn't have given anyone second chance. But now, it was different. She had failed Ayanokouji Kun nearly four times but still he didn't give up on her. And Horikita was not going to give up on her goal.

The class still didn't agree and just said, "No Horikita San, sorry but we are not joining her group. Let the boys join her group. Who knows what else she might be hiding?"

Horikita shook her head and then moved a little forward and asked in a low voice, "Fine, I'll ask the class then. Who wants to join the study group of Matsushita San?"

To which none of the people sitting on the benches raised their hand. Out of forty students, only one hand was raised.

Karuizawa Kei had agreed to join Matsushita's group. Nearly everyone stared at her in shock. She was one of the people who hated matsushita for lying to her. But now she was the one saying that she was ready to join the group. The truth was Karuizawa was not ready to join her group but a certain someone was forcing her to.

Karuizawa sighed and turned towards the whole class, "Are you sure about not joining the group? Because I think we all need to put away our differences and join. If you really want to study then nothing can stop you from it." As she said that the girls in the class started agreeing to her. Though some were reluctant they still joined Karuizawa because they didn't want to be alone in this.

Some more groups were formed before the bell rang and Chabashira Sensei entered the Classroom.

Class B were having a study session in the library. There opponents were Class C so Class B had a huge academical advantage. Ichinose was sitting beside Kanzaki and discussing something.

"So, do you really think Ayanokouji Kun is behind the victory of D class." Ichinose asked Kanzaki in a little serious tone.

Kanzaki nodded and said in a little frustrated tone, "I might not be able to prove it. But I am sure, that guy has some kind of connection to Ryūen's backing down. Even the student council president is wanted to race with him. He is a threat Honami."

Ichinose sighed and closed her eyes. Ayanokouji was her friend, and she didn't want to break all connections with him. But it looked like this was inevitable. She had to protect her class from him at any costs.

A hand was placed on her shoulder. She flinched on the sudden contact and looked behind to find Chihiro. She was smiling and said, "Honami Chan we have finished the problems you set."

Ichinose just chuckled and went back to teaching them. Kanzaki was tense. Ichinose was too kind for her own good. He had to know exactly how much was Ayanokouji a threat.

A week had passed since Horikita started teaching. It was a lot harder than she had ever thought. She had to set hundred questions for five people every day. And those too were different for each as the five had different problems.

Satō and Sakura were much easier to teach. Even Sudou was bearable but Yamauchi and Ike, they were very horrible. Horikita had to teach them the entire basics of Calculus before they could even think about solving physics problems. Her schedule was hectic. She didn't even get time for her routine exercises now.

She was overworking herself. And that day, all that work took toll on her. She fainted in school. Ayanokouji carried her to the infirmary as Sudou was himself absent. Ayanokouji sighed while looking at the unconscious form of Horikita.

Her face was burning. Must be fever, Ayanokouji thought. And he was indeed right. The nurse said that it was a mild fever due to overexertion and lack of sleep. She needed rest.

So, she wasn't getting proper sleep from 7 days, thought Ayanokouji. For a person like Horikita who had a routine fixed for herself, this was very bad. She needed rest.

Ayanokouji sighed and he sat beside her. It was no use of winning at the cost of her health. She needed to keep her metabolism in perfect shape.

After an hour Horikita started to wake up. She could slowly make the place where she was in. She sighed as she had an idea what could have happened. She knew she was overworking herself but there was no other way she could help Yamauchi and Ike. She never could have known those two were this behind. Even during the study sessions, she kept for them, she never knew they were just copying the answers from somewhere.

They were not even worried about there scores.

Horikita never expected this when she took responsibility of these five. It was becoming a nightmare to her. Only four more days were remaining for the exams to begin. And she had to teach half of the concepts to her study group. She was finally beginning to realize how hopeless this all had been.

Though there was less chance someone from Class D will be actually expelled because the lowest scorers were paired with the highest ones. But if she were to be honest and estimate who would win. Class A was winning with a huge margin.

It was all hopeless. She had failed her brother and her Class. She no longer deserved to be leader was what she thought.

Unconsciously a tear slipped from her eye. She didn't realize more start flow as she was too much disappointed. Disappointed at herself.

Ayanokouji looked at the scene in front of him and sighed softly. He knew this was going to happen. It wasn't her fault but she had to take responsibility.

Why? Just because she was the leader. People may try to say that the leader isn't the one who is at fault. But the leader will always be at fault because he volunteered to become one. If Horikita couldn't handle this, then she should never have become the leader. Her arrogance led to what she is now.

Ayanokouji didn't try to comfort her because he knew it was pointless. Horikita needed time to herself. She needed to think about it herself. Ayanokouji didn't have time to keep comforting everyone.

Horikita had to get out of the mess she had created for herself. Because he didn't feel sympathy for her at all. She might be his friend but she needed to see the task she had taken till the end. With those thoughts Ayanokouji left the infirmary leaving a weeping Horikita behind.

Horikita knew Ayanokouji left her, she herself understood how disappointed he was with her. She kept crying for some more minutes. Her tears were not yet ready to stop. Suddenly she felt someone embracing her.

She flinched at the sudden contact.

It was Matsushita Chiaki.

"Mats..sushita ..san." Horikita called in a broken voice.

Matsushita just hugged her tighter, "Just let it all out Horikita san."

"B..ut" Horikita called out weakly.

Matsushita just run soothing circles on her back. With that Horikita finally broke down. All the pressure she had on her; all the stress was released. She melted into the embrace and gripped matsushita tighter. Matsushita sighed as she felt Horikita's tears on her shirt. She never was the comforting type. But she genuinely felt bad for the girl.

After some minutes Horikita calmed down a little.

"I'm sorry matsushita san." She called out weakly.

Matsushita just said softly, "Why didn't you ask me for help?"

Horikita weakly responded, "You had no reason to. You were already doing enough with your group."

Matsushita sighed and cupped her face.

"Did you forget our deal or what. I gave you all my strength the day I made an alliance with you."

Horikita just looked down.

Matsushita chuckled and said, "Horikita san, you look very cute like this."

Horikita's eyes widened as she made effort to cover her face but failed. Matsushita started laughing at her antics. Horikita also crept up a smile. She didn't know what will be the result of the exam. Because she was ready for any. Because she knew, she wasn't alone.

Outside the infirmary stood Ayanokouji Kiyotaka eavesdropping on there conversation. He looked at the phone screen at the message he had sent minutes ago,

'Horikita needs your help Matsushita, come to the infirmary.'

Chapter 7 - Motive

Matsushita POV

"Ayanokouji Kun, I need your help." I called out to the person in front of me. He just sighed in response and leaned against the wall.

"Horikita has already made it clear that she won't take any help from me this exam." He replied while staring at me.

I just chuckled and said, "You of all people must already know that Class D doesn't stand a chance. Even if she dies working harder than she is now, at this state the class doesn't even stand a chance against them."

He nodded and replied, "Yeah I know, Horikita took that challenge on whim. It is no doubt her arrogance led her to where she is now."

"So then.." I was about to speak when,

"Sorry, but I still won't help this exam." He replied in a stern tone.

I sighed; I had expected this. But I thought.. he would be a little more kind on me.

"I see, sorry for having taken your time." I bowed a little and started to make my way out when he called me,

"I said I will not help the class to win this exam. But I never said anything about not helping the class."

Huh? What did that even mean. I turned to give a questioning stare at him to which I received a shrug in return.

He said, "Do you really think I care about what happens to Horikita in this Exam?"

I should have gotten used to his words, but they still were harsh. He moved towards me and said, "But you do care about her, don't you Matsushita San?"

I sighed and rubbed my palm, "It seems I do care about her. This feeling to protect someone is indeed unnatural. But... I certainly like it."

He nodded and said, "You certainly have changed Matsushita. Earlier, I would have considered you as a threat for the Class, but from now what things are looking like. You might end up as the most powerful asset of the class."

I chuckled, "That is some high praise coming from you Ayanokouji Kun."

To which he just shook his head and turned towards his right at the window, "Yeah, you are quite lucky. There are not many people I hold in high regard."

For some reason I could feel the loneliness in his voice. A distant memory maybe?

"Hey Ayanokouji Kun, are you sure that letting Horikita kneel before Sakayanagi a good decision? She just became so competitive; won't it be a little disheartening for her?" I asked him, but the answer which I received sent shivers down my core.

"I don't have any use for a liability. If it comes to that, then I will be the one to remove her from the class."

With that he left me at the corridors in the building. But why did he call me to help Horikita. Didn't he want to help her?

I... I can't understand that guy at all. What exactly is he thinking, this exam is really going to be pain I guess.

Time Skip

The next day I made my way to the classroom. I checked my phone to find two messages from Hiyori. It seems she wanted the hiyori group to not meet till the exams end. It was honestly relieving to hear. It's hard to say 'No' to hiyori.

As I entered the class, all eyes turned towards me. I just went and sat at my bench. I looked at the last bench of the end row, where Ayanokouji and Horikita were talking. Horikita was back to her serious demeanor. Surprisingly the class was quiet except for two.

Only Ike and Yamacuhi were talking like complete idiots. Ignoring the tension in the class. Sudou was covering his eyes ashamed that he was a member of their group. Well in short something had happened before I came or something was about to happen. I took out my phone and sent a message to a certain someone.

And as if on cue Hirata stood up. The class became dead silent. Ike and Yamauchi also became quiet. Horikita turned to look at them with confusion. Hirata stood in front of Horikita and smiled with determination.

Suddenly he bowed shocking Horikita.

"I'm sorry Horikita San."

Ayanokouji looked at me to which I simply averted my gaze. I told Horikita didn't I, I am going to help her.

I sighed; Hirata has listened to me huh. Now it all depends on how the class takes action, I looked at Karuizawa who was looking at her phone anxiously. I turned back towards Horikita who was now getting over her shock.

"Sorry for what Hirata Kun?" She asked clearing her throat.

Hirata turned to face Horikita and gave a sad smile, "You've been working so hard for the class, but we... we are disappointing you. We are sorry Horikita San."

Horikita looked shocked, it seems she hadn't expected an apology. She straightened her posture and looked at the whole class which were uncomfortable about the situation.

In short the rest of the class didn't feel any sympathy for Horikita. It was more like they didn't care for all the hard work Horikita put. It seems the situation is far worse than I thought. This class has the potential to become the most hopeless class in the world.

Horikita also noticed the gazes and said, "Don't worry hirata Kun. I promised you all, and I wont back down from it."

That determination, truly admirable. I looked at Ayanokouji who slightly nodded at me.

Sorry Horikita, if you hold on to this naïve ideology, then Class D will end up losing everything this exam. I might be a little harsh, but... but I have to do it.

I sent the signal from my phone to the girl who just sighed in frustration and glared at Ayanokouji for a moment. But she quickly stood up and turned towards Horikita, "What promise are you talking about Horikita san?"

Horikita looked at the girl talking to her in surprise. She hadn't expected this.

"What do you mean Karuizawa San? I'm talking about Class D winning against Class A." She said while looking at Karuizawa who just started laughing.

The classroom was filling with sounds of a predatory laugh. All the class was looking at Karuizawa. Some were confused while some were surprised. Koenji was just laughing.

Karuizawa then glared at Horikita, "Tell me Horikita San, why did you even take that bet? If it wasn't for that bet than all this shit would have not happened. Now to cover for your incompetence, we have to work hard? What kind of logic is this Horikita San?"

Horikita stood there stunned to her core. This was starting to become a nightmare for her. Just a day back she had broken down in front of me. But she is going to go through it again.

Horikita must have felt a little hurt but she still hardened her glare on Karuizawa.

"Then what do you want Karuizawa san? That we remain in Class D forever? If that's what you want then please do us a favor and just shut up. Your mouth is running more than it has the right to. I don't remember you scoring even the class average the last test."

I didn't expect that. I looked at Horikita, who even after saying all this was perfectly calm. I had underestimated Horikita. I looked at Karuizawa who was stunned and was cowering under the calm gaze directed at her from the leader of the class.

Hirata immediately played the peacemaker, "Horikita San and Karuizawa you both need to calm down. Arguing isn't going to lead us anywhere."

No, this wasn't right. Horikita has to suffer this blow. She is currently seeing exam only from one perspective. She believes scoring marks is the only way forward in this exam.

I looked at Karuizawa who was led towards her seat by hirata. I glanced at Ayanokouji who was already staring at me, don't tell me that guy knew what I was going to suggest to Karuizawa.

I opened my phone and typed the message,

Anonymous to Karuizawa

Create a scene, make the whole class hate Horikita

_

With that I patiently waited for Karuizawa to sit on her bench. When she sat back and saw the message, I could see the anger on her face. I quickly averted my eyes as to not get spotted and give rise to any troublesome suspicions.

I got a message from her,

From Karuizawa

How am I supposed to do that?

I didn't reply at all wanting her to come to vague conclusions herself. As expected her reply came in few seconds.

From Karuizawa

You, once I know who you are, I will make you regret this.

Karuizawa, I have regretted enough since I joined this school. I don't plan on having any more of those. I kind of understand Ayanokouji Kun, living peaceful life. It's an interesting perspective of high school. All this time I thought he was an idiot for wanting a peaceful life. But I am somewhat same like him, yes I do want to reach Class A, but that is for the sake of expectations I have on my shoulders. From parents, from old peers, this world is too complicated for a 16-year-old like me.

As if on a cue, Karuizawa started weeping. Of course, that were fake tears, but she really did act good.

All the girls gathered around her attempting to comfort her while glaring at Horikita. From my peripheral vision I saw hirata looking at me with a suspicious look but I just looked forward. There was no way he would find out I was the one who was controlling this play.

And even if Hirata did find out that I was the one behind today's fiasco, then I simply don't care.

Horikita looked at Karuizawa with a feeling of guilt. It seems she too had fallen for Karuizawa's crocodile tears.

I could hear the students of Class D talking,

"Just get out of here Horikita san. Seriously you are scolding Karuizawa san for what bet you made. That's pathetic."

"Maybe her brother was right that day. She is just acting to be tough but she is in reality a pathetic human.."

At this Horikita took her bag and just exited the Class. I looked at Horikita who was now calming down. It seems his plan had indeed succeeded its first part. I sat on my desk waiting for all this to be over.

Time Skip

As evening came I made my way to Horikita's dorm room. I knocked twice. As she opened it I could see the tense face she was adoring.

"Did you need me for something Matsushita san?" she asked me.

I simply removed my shoes and walked into her room. She gave an ' What the hell does that mean' look which I simply ignored.

She stood in front of me and asked, "So I believe you must have some reason to visit me?"

I looked at her with an amused look on my face, "You got quite angry at Karuizawa San out there. I was honestly surprised."

She looked down; it seems she was guilty.

"That was disappointing behavior on my part. She wasn't wrong, I am the one who made this bet. I am just forcing the class."

She sat down on the bed with frustration and exhaustion visible in her eyes. I sighed and said, "Then what do you want to do now?"

Horikita said with a defeated tone, "I think we should give up trying to improve the grades of our classmates. Let them study on their own."

Her answer brought a smirk to my face. That's the point Horikita, you need to understand. You may have made the bet but none of this is your responsibility. It may be true that you were arrogant and selfish but the fact that even after you did this blunder you took the responsibility of the class was admirable.

"Horikita San, you have surely changed a lot. But you need to know one thing, you are the leader of a Class." I spoke while standing.

She looked at me, I continued "Your job is to lead the Class, not to breed the useless waste of space in it." I said while smirking. I was sure of it now, me and Ayanokouji Kun were same till some extent.

Like him, I wasn't against the idea of expelling useless people anymore. The difference was I wasn't ready to sacrifice people close to me. But he...he was ready to risk everything if it meant that things end up in his favor.

Horikita looked confused, "What do you mean Matsushita San?"

I shook my head, Horikita was not yet ready to expel people yet.

"Nothing, so how are you going to proceed further into this exam now?" I asked her.

She looked at me and gritted her teeth, "The only way to win is the question paper which we will set for Class A to solve and to get information about the questions they are going to set."

Yeah, this was the only way Class D had any chance. Ayanokouji Kun had something in his mind when he gave me these instructions. Winning the bet was never his goal. I doubt he would care if Horikita had to bow down to someone.

He was up to something entirely different, and by the looks of it,

He definitely didn't give a shit about Class D.

(A.N. FunFact : I somehow find time to spend on Wattpad twice or thrice a week even after exiting from all other social media platforms. And yeah this book is still on hiatus but I will update when I am feeling stressed from studies. Writing is a reliable stressbuster as they say. And my sister is the one who will respond to comments so keep in mind lol)

Chapter 8 - A Can Of Beer

Kamuro sat with her arms crossed in the library with her books scattered on the table. She sighed and rubbed her drowsy eyes, she has been studying since the past 5 hours and was tired, differential equations were annoying as hell.

She put her head down on the table and started wondering about her days since she entered this school. She has grown since that day, when she saw her sister for the last time. She had moved on from her death, but her family still annoyed her. She would be lying if she said she didn't hate her parents. Her parents were the reason she had to choose this school in the first place.

As she wandered through her dreams, she felt at peace. A peaceful state where she was free of all memories of her past. Just as she was dozing off she felt someone shaking her.

She lifted her head up only to be met with a pair of golden ones.

She suddenly sat straight and glared at the boy in front of her.

Ayanokouji just sighed, did Kamuro really hate him this much?

"It's getting late, you should head back to the dorms." He said while looking outside and indeed, it was getting dark.

Kamuro just tched and stood up and started leaving but Ayanokouji held her wrist tightly. Kamuro looked back to see Ayanokouji still staring at her emotionlessly.

"Now what?" Kamuro asked him in an annoyed tone.

He just pointed at the place where she was sitting moments ago and there she saw the phone. More specifically her own phone. As she felt him let go of her wrist Kamuro quickly grabbed the phone and made her way outside leaving him behind. Kamuro wanted to say thank you to him but she doubted he would care.

Maybe it was her fault that there relationship had come to this stage..., but she didn't know what to think of him anymore. If what she had heard wass true and..., if he had really murdered someone, then... could she really accept him?

Because as easy as it looked to others, she couldn't help seeing her previous crush as a murderer.

I shook my head and continued on my way to the dorm. As Kamuro entered the elevator, she checked her phone. Only a day till the examination. It will become clear soon, which Class will win, A class or the D class.

As Kamuro exited the elevator she met with a pair of eyes she never expected to see.

Masayoshi Hashimoto, a boy with long blonde hair that is tied in a ponytail and blue eyes.

She had seen hashimoto many times while working with Sakayanagi but she had never talked to him once. Maybe it was her fault for not making any friends, but still why was he here in the girl's dorm.

"Oi, hello Kamuro." He said while grinning, that's when I noticed the person behind him.

Hayato Kitō. Kamuro didn't know much about him, but she had seen him orbiting Sakayanagi and Hashimoto quite a few times. Hayato has long black hair that reached his shoulders. His posture was a little intimidating to anyone standing in front of him.

"What do you want from me?" Kamuro asked while glaring at them.

Hashimoto just laughed and took out his phone from his pocket In it was a photo of her and Ayanokouji speaking. Kamuro tensed but didn't show the change on her face.

"Does this ring any bell, Kamuro?" Hashimoto asked while looking at her.

Kamuro shrugged, "Are you perhaps showing me how disgusting you are by spying on me? Anyways, I don't have time for this, please find yourself a job in stalking agency."

With this Kamuro attempted to head towards her door, but was stopped when Hashimoto blocked her path with his arm. Kamuro was internally panicking but still glared at hashimoto, "If anyone knows about what you are doing now, it will be counted under sexual harassment."

Hashimoto just smirked and said, "I'm sorry, Okay, this was just a joke on my dear cute comrade."

Kamuro just scoffed and smacked Hashimoto's hand which was blocking her path and headed to her door. While opening her door she sighed when she felt him follow her, "I think I said you to leave me alone."

Hashimoto just chuckled, "I wanted to talk about some important matters."

Kamuro glared at him and looked back at the door in front of her, "I have no interest in entertaining perverts like you."

With that Kamuro opened the door and got inside. When she was about to close it, Hashimoto asked her, "How is your sister?"

At this kamuro's body froze. The look on her face was terrible. Hashimoto had hit the nail at the right place.

Kamuro tried to say something but nothing came out of her hand. Her mind was filled with doubts and she was about to close the door completely when Kitō stopped it from closing.

Kamuro looked at a grinning Hashimoto and a bored Kitō in front of her.

Hashimoto said, "Now, now Kamuro, you don't want the entire school finding out about your sister, do you?"

Hashimoto didn't know what had happened to her sister, but as long as he could play the card, he was fine with it. But the question was, why she had never told this to anyone since she entered this school? Was her past this terrible?

Kamuro hesitantly opened the door and the two boys entered her dorm room. Kamuro's room was well organized and clean. Hashimoto smirked and sat on her bed. Kitō just stood watching both of them.

Kamuro was nervously panicking, how did he know her sister? Her name was kept secret with respect from the family, so no media coverage was provided after her death.

Kamuro looked at hashimoto with hatred, "What do you know about my sister?"

Hashimoto smirked and said, "Oi, oi why are you getting so worked up."

Kamuro took a step near him and stared with pure malice in her eyes, "Don't mess with me, tell me what you know about my sister."

Hashimoto started laughing covering his eyes with his hands. His laughter was the only sound in the tense room.

He then stopped laughing and asked, "Why don't you clear some of my queries first?"

"Huh, What queries?" Kamuro asked confused.

Hashimoto stood up and moved towards Kamuro, "What exactly is going on behind me and Class A's back."

Kamuro looked at him even more nervous now but tried to play the fool, "What do you mean?"

"What is the connection between class D and you? Who is that boy you are always hanging out with?"

He asked while looking at her, eyes burning a hole on Kamuro's face. Kamuro's nervousness grew but she kept her calm, "I can't understand what you are saying but I can assure you, that me and Ayanokouji Kun are just friends since childhood."

Hashimoto raised his eyebrows, "The world is indeed a small place it seems. Don't you think it is almost a romantic setup, two childhood friends in high school."

"I don't see how that concerns you?" Kamuro said to hashimoto while keeping her calm look plastered.

Hashimoto sighed and looked at Kitō. Kitō on seeing hashimoto just gave a silent nod.

Suddenly Hashimoto pinned Kamuro against the wall. Kamuro grunted in pain at the sudden but hard contact with the wall.

"Stop lying and tell the truth. If you don't want the truth about your sister being revealed to the entire school."

Kamuro's eyes widened and she trembled in his painful grip. Her eyes watered, she had nowhere to go now. But if she told hashimoto about her connection to Ayanokouji, then what will Ayanokouji do to her. Since that day when Ayanokouji told her the people who were part of her childhood. She was scared, she didn't want to be associated with Ayanokouji at all costs. But hashimoto was pressing her to reveal her connection with Ayanokouji.

Hashimoto scoffed at her silence unbothered by her tears.

"Fine, Kitō go search her room." Hashimoto said looking back at the boy. Kamuro's eyes widened and she was about to speak if not for what hashimoto removed from his pocket.

It was a bottle of beer, "Does this ring any bell, Kamuro?"

At this Kamuro froze, how did Hashimoto know this. Did Sakayanagi betray her? No one saw what happened that day.

Kamuro looked at hashimoto who was now grinning widely, "So then Kamuro how does the beer taste. It sure must be very tasty when you steal it right."

Kamuro was being crushed with every word spoken. Her hard front she put was long gone, now only a fragile girl was left who wanted nothing more than to disappear from the world. Hashimoto looked back to check on Kitō.

Hashimoto looked at the pitiful sight of Kamuro, this could be indeed considered as bullying, but he was sure of one thing. Kamuro can't complain. Because he had her key. Both her secrets, she was helpless now.

Hashimoto chuckled and opened the beer can. He looked at Kamuro, "So Kamuro, why not give you a little parting gift?"

Kamuro looked at him with her red eyes, she was in pain. Confronting her past demons had never been her thing, but here she was. Stuck in a vortex, with no chance to escape.

Hashimoto opened the beer can and looked at Kamuro. He started to pour the beer over Kamuro's head.

Kamuro looked at the scene helplessly. Never in her life she had felt so miserable and helpless. She could feel her entire dress get wet with beer. Hashimoto just smirked at Kamuro who had now accepted her fate.

After Hashimoto had poured the entire can on her, he loosened his grip and let Kamuro slide down in defeat. Kamuro just kept crying silently.

Kitō entered and he nodded at hashimoto. Hashimoto smirked and looked at kamuro's helpless form. Her dress, entirely soaking with beer.

With that Hashimoto and Kitō left the room, leaving behind a weeping Kamuro.

Outside hashimoto was smirking while walking with Kitō. He turned towards his companion and asked in joking tone, "So Kitō, how was it to go through a girl's closet?"

Kitō just glared at him, Hashimoto shook his hands in front of him in surrender.

"Sorry, sorry, so did you get the job done?"

Kitō just nodded and walked with the blond. Hashimoto chuckled and asked with curious eyes, "Say Kitō, what exactly is you goal in this class. I mean my goal is to graduate from Class A, so what is yours?"

Kitō just looked ahead but answered, '... I will protect my class with my life... that's it.'

_

Matsushita stood in front of Yamauchi and Ike who were nervously sweating. They were in matsushita's room. Yamauchi was still afraid of Matsushita after what had happened last time. Matsushita wasn't someone he should mess with.

"Now then, unless you wished to die an unfortunate death, I'll advice you to put your entire focus on what I'm going to teach you."

Ike was about to retort but when he saw the sadistic smirk on Matsushita's face and he shivered with fear.

A.N. Two chapters left in this volume.

Chapter 9 - Expulsion

Today was the day, the clash of academics between Class A and Class D. Kamuro woke up from a quite uncomfortable position. She had cried herself to sleep last night. The whole ordeal was too much for her. She was grateful that hashimoto had not pressed even further, because she didn't know what she would have done under that amount of mental stress.

As she looked at the dress she was wearing, she cringed at the odor of beer. She sighed and got up to change her uniform. She looked in the mirror, she looked disastrous and miserable.

She shook her head and made her way to take shower. As drops of water fell from the shower, she just stared lifelessly at the mirror in her bathroom.

After drying her hair, she made her way to the closet. As she opened her wardrobe, she found her clothes to be scattered. It seems her closet was also ransacked by Kitō and Hashimoto. She searched for her other dress, which she found out was still untouched. She sighed and put it on, all while looking at the clock. She had studied enough for the examinations, so she wasn't worried about them at all.

They had submitted the question paper almost a week ago. And Kamuro was positive, that the paper was set on Class A student level. There was no way Class D was getting through them.

As she exited her room she again thought about the ordeal she was caught in. What if Hashimoto asked her about her connection to Ayanokouji?

The day when Kamuro had met Ayanokouji had strictly warned her to stay away from his life. But, she still couldn't get over the fact that she had heard someone describe death so casually. She shook her head from those thoughts, she needed to focus on the other issue.

How did Hashimoto know what happened to her sister? Was he somehow connected to that incident, or was he in her previous school? Many people obviously knew what had happened to her sister. It was not possible to keep it a secret from everyone after all.

As she reached the class she found nearly every Class A student sitting relaxed. It seemed that they had studied quiet well and were confident enough. Kamuro didn't dare look at Hashimoto and made her way to her seat which was just next to Sakayanagi.

She sighed and started to think, did Sakayanagi reveal about the beer she stole. But now that the secret was out should she really follow Sakayanagi?

"Good morning Masumi san."

Sakayanagi's voice broke her line of thoughts. Kamuro didn't bother to look at Sakayanagi and just nodded in acknowledgement. Sakayanagi raised her eyebrows at her strange attitude but didn't comment any further.

Mashima Sensei entered the Class and relayed the instructions to all the students. And soon the papers were distributed and the exams commenced. The paper was very well set by Class D, Kamuro never expected Horikita to be so academically talented.

All the questions revolved around applications, which by no means was easy. As the questions were application based, there was not a single chance of rote learning the questions. So, it took more time than expected for Kamuro to complete her answers. Overall, the paper went very well for her.

But...

Suddenly hashimoto stood up.

"Sensei"

Mashima sensei turned towards the blond boy in confusion.

"What's the matter Masayoshi, I've already collected your Response sheet."

Hashimoto glanced at Kamuro for one split second, his smirk sending shivers down her core. Sakayanagi looked at the scene with her eyebrows furrowed. It seems her own dogs were acting behind her back.

Hashimoto pointed to the seat, front of him. And there he was, sweating nervously a on his seat, Totsuka Yahiko.

Katsuragi immediately sot up on his seat, "What is the meaning of this hashimoto, what are you up to?"

Hashimoto just kept looking at Yahiko and asked his teacher, "Sensei, could you please check his pockets."

Mashima sensei raised his eyebrows in confusion.

"And why would I do that without any valid reason?" He asked crossing his arms.

"Yeah that's right, there is no reason to check." Yahiko said nervously stuttering.

Hashimoto now turned serious, "I saw Yahiko cheating in this Exam."

Yahiko stood up and glared at hashimoto, "You... you set me up."

Hashimoto didn't bother to look at Yahiko, he had all his attention on Mashima Sensei. Mashima Sensei made his way in front of Yahiko's seat.

Yahiko now looked at his teacher with a terrified expression on his face. "Sensei.." He called out in a low voice.

Mashima sensei sighed and said, "Yahiko please stand up and allow me to inspect you."

Yahiko stood up and said, "Sorry sensei, but you can't just accuse me out of thin air. Are you seriously believing him?"

"I believe I'm the teacher here, so the one to make decisions is solely me and not Hashimoto nor you. Take this as a normal check, I don't mind." Mashima Sensei said in a stern tone towering over the boy. Nearly everyone in Class A felt a shiver to their core, they had always taken Mashima Sensei to be the calm and peaceful one.

Yahiko sat down and looked at Katsuragi. Katsuragi was glaring at hashimoto and said, "Hashimoto, don't tell me you set him up."

Hashimoto just chuckled, "On what basis are you making this claim. Does he have any proof that 'I set him up' as he isLevelling Allegations against me?"

That's when Yahiko realized how helpless he really was at the moment. He remembered his meeting with hashimoto last day.

Flashback

Hashimoto stood in front of Yahiko leaning on the wall. Kitō was just behind him. Yahiko was glaring at the boy.

"Why have you called me here?" Yahiko asked the blonde-haired boy.

Hashimoto just chuckled, "Man you and Kamuro are really a pain in the ass, I mean don't you understand the meaning of gentle?"

Yahiko grabbed hashimoto collar, "Why the fuck did you call me here. What is to do with Katsuragi San."

Hashimoto smirked and looked at Kitō. Kitō nodded and took out a paper. Yahiko looked at the scene in confusion. But his eyes widened when he heard hashimoto,

"These are the answers of the question paper Class D has set."

Yahiko moved back in shock, "How... how did you get this."

Hashimoto raised his eyebrows, "I don't see how that is any of you concern. But... I believe Katsuragi is your concern."

"What is Katsuragi San's connection with all this." Yahiko asked while glancing at Kitō who was staring at him with an unreadable expression on his face.

Hashimoto just sighed, "Think about it carefully, do you really think you can still stay in Class A?"

"huh, wh..what do you mean by that ?" Yahiko asked stuttering in confusion.

"Do you even have an idea what is going behind the back of the class? From your idiotic face, I'll guess you are still stuck up in your Katsuragi fetish. I'll let you on a secret, the thing is, Sakayanagi is planning to kick you and Katsuragi from the class."

At this Yahiko's eyes widened and he looked at hashimoto who had a serious expression on his face, "But.."

"Do you really think I am lying. Haven't you seen yourself these last moths since the uninhabited island test? Nearly the whole class has been plotting against you two?" Hashimoto said putting his hand on Yahiko's shoulder. Yahiko was so occupied with his thoughts that he didn't even notice hashimoto's hand, a feeling of fear enveloped his mind.

"But why are you telling me this, you are on her side too aren't you." Yahiko asked the oy to which hashimoto just replied, "I don't believe that expelling you and Katsuragi would do any good to the class. And again, I don't care about Sakayanagi, I only care about graduating from Class A. So, take my advice, Sakayanagi has instructed your exam partner to deliberately lower his score so that you can fail."

At this Yahiko's eyes widened. If his partner decided to betray him then he would have nowhere to go.

"But won't Sanichi Kun also be expelled then?" Yahiko asked him to which hashimoto just laughed.

"Well, that's a bet you have to make. I don't know about that but remember, once you are out of the Class, no one can save Katsuragi."

With that hashimoto put the answers in Yahiko's pockets and left the place with Kitō.

Present

Yahiko looked and allowed Mashima Sensei to check his pockets. And there they were, in his right pocket, the answers to all the questions of the paper set.

Mashima sensei looked at hashimoto and then at Yahiko. He rubbed his forehead in anger, "What is the meaning of this Yahiko?"

Yahiko looked at Mashima sensei and started speaking, "Sir it was hashimoto who tol..."

"Don't you idiots have a will of your own. Stop speaking rubbish, even if he gave you the answer sheet, you made the choice to copy. Learn to accept your mistakes." Mashima sensei yelled at Yahiko. Yahiko looked down, ashamed at himself.

Mashima Sensei then turned towards hashimoto and searched his dress for any signs of cheating material too. Hashimoto just chuckled and let him do it.

Mashima sensei sighed on not finding anything and made his way to the podium,

"This is ridiculous behavior. You children are plotting against each other so early in the competition. Take my advice, this is the first year, your focus should be on increasing the trust on each other. But you idiots think that doing this is too cool. To be honest, I don't think this Class will be able to graduate as Class A."

Hashimoto just smirked with disinterest. Sakayanagi didn't have a smug look on her face, she was serious. Kamuro looked at the scene in horror.

"On the basis of evidences provided, I believe that our class will be losing a student today."

At this the expression on Yahiko's face changed, "No..No...please no."

Mashima Sensei ignored him and said, "Yahiko Totsuka please make your way to the faculty office."

With that Mashima sensei left the Class. The class was silent after he left and looked at Yahiko. Yahiko looked at Katsuragi, "I.. I'm sorry Katsuragi San for disappointing you."

Katsuragi shook his head, "It's not your fault Yahiko, we all know whose fault it is." He said turning and glaring at hashimoto.

Hashimoto just laughed and sat on his bench.

Katsuragi turned towards the entire Class, "Everyone here knows it isn't Yahiko's fault but still they all are quiet. This shows how selfish people you all are. Is this what you wanted Sakayanagi, because if its really what you want then you should be careful. Who knows today it was Yahiko who was removed, tomorrow it might be you on the other side of knife."

Sakayanagi remained quiet, surprising everyone. Yahiko turned away from Sakayanagi and exited the class, leaving behind the Class. Katsuragi was the next to exit the Class.

The next to stand up was Sakayanagi, "Hashimoto Kun, it seems you owe me some explanation."

Hashimoto laughed and stood up, "My pleasure, lead me princess."

Kamuro and Kitō also stood up and the quartet made their way out. On the way no word was spoken. The tension was clearly visible. They soon reached the roof.

Sakayanagi stood holding her cane with Kamuro right next to her. Hashimoto stood in front of them still smirking, while Kitō was on the door, keeping an eye on eavesdroppers.

"Start your pathetic story Hashimoto San."

Hashimoto just laughed and said, "It is as it looks, I eliminated competition for you."

"And who gave you the right to?" Sakayanagi asked the boy with a serious expression.

"The fact that you were doing things behind my back is enough for me to take things in my hand I believe. I had a chat with Kamuro too yesterday but the lady won't budge. Don't lie to me princess, the bet with Class D was intentional. It was as if you wanted to know what Class D would do. You had some kind of expectations from them."

Sakayanagi just remained quiet.

"That's when I came to the conclusion, Class D's victory at the uninhabited island test was not just luck, there was someone behind it all."

Kamuro had a nervous feeling, she didn't like the tension which was building up.

"So, I made a deal with someone from Class D."

At this Kamuro's eyes widened, "Don't tell me.."

Hashimoto just started laughing, "Yeah, I handed over the question paper Class A had to them. And they provided the question paper Class D made to me. And then the plan to expel Yahiko was made."

A cold wind blew, as the tension reached its peak.

"So that's all, so then I'll take my leave."

With that hashimoto started to make his way towards the exit when Sakayanagi spoke.

"Wait"

Hashimoto stopped in his tracks with a blank expression on his face. Sakayanagi said, "You said you met Kamuro san yesterday?"

At this a sinister smirk made it's way on Hashimoto's face.

"Yes princess, is there any problem?"

Sakayanagi turned towards Kamuro who was looking at both of them in confusion.

"Kamuro san, could you please check your pockets."

Kamuro had a nervous feeling and started to check.

And there, she found it.

The answer sheets were in her pocket too. Her face fell and she looked at hashimoto who had his back facing her. Hashimoto started to laugh, "Yes, yes you are right. That person from Class D made a deal with me, in which he made it clear that if I use the sheets to expel someone, then I have to do the same with Kamuro too. That is, today two people were supposed to be expelled from Class A."

Kamuro's knees gave up. She could think of only one person who could do this.

"You might be wondering, why I came to your dorm room yesterday. It was all a setup, Kitō put the answer sheet in your clean dress and I intentionally poured beer on the dress you were wearing. You were just being set up for expulsion."

Now it all made sense, but that did not explain how he knew about her sister and the can of beer. Before she could ask, hashimoto already gave the answer,

"About your sister, I honestly didn't know much. I only knew that something had happened to your sister in your past, that's what I was told from that person who I negotiated with. The can of beer was also told to me by him. In short he was the one who set up the whole plan." Hashimoto said with a shrug.

"But I'm still here in the school then.." Kamuro started to speak but was interrupted.

Hashimoto looked at Kamuro and said, "Oh about that, I betrayed our deal."

At this Kamuro looked at hashimoto in surprise, "But.."

Hashimoto just waved her off, "I'm not a pawn he can use, and I'm not the only one in the wrong."

"Huh what do you mean?" Kamuro asked in confusion.

Hashimoto turned serious, "I know one thing, he expected me to betray him from the start."

Sakayanagi was looking at the scene with seriousness. It seems she had underestimated him. He had managed to manipulate Class A into expelling someone.

Hashimoto sighed and smirked seeing Kamuro, "Kamuro, you better watch out."

Kamuro looked at hashimoto,

"Someone from Class D doesn't want you in the school."

_

Epilogue

I sat on my place looking to my side. Horikita had a sad smile on her face. Well, there was no use in comforting her, Class D had tried it's best yet had failed.

Class A had managed to win against Class D with a narrow gap. It was a very close competition surprisingly; Well, I wasn't that surprised. I looked to the back seat in the first row. Matsushita was checking her phone. It had been a tiring examination.

I had achieved all my primary goals. But it seems I had failed in achieving the final one. Well achieving the second goal had a disappointing probability of 33% approximately so it was to be expected. It had two factors where the plan could fail, the first one being hashimoto being exposed before they can set up the answer sheets. The second being Hashimoto betraying me. Anyways the plan failed and Kamuro is still in the school.

Expelling her is necessary before it gets too late. If she dives any further in my life than she won't be putting just her life in danger, but my entire existence in danger. I have to protect white room from being exposed at any costs, even if it means I have to expel someone from this school.

I remembered how I made contact with hashimoto.

Flash back (4 days before Exam)

I took out my phone and opened the Emails section. The school had its own messaging platform which provided the facility of Anonymous Emails.

It was basically designed for people who were being bullied and wanted to contact the school forum without there identities being compromised. It was a good practice, as some of the bullied people had a privacy anxiety and didn't want their names and identities to be provided as it might compel the bully to take action against the victim to protect his/her identity.

But the students considered this as a loophole as this also allowed the students to send anonymous emails to each other. And well, loopholes are meant to be exploited. So, I gained his school Id from Kushida after some negotiating. Well, his email cost me 90% of my current private points. Now I only have about 3083 private points with me. Kushida is quite expensive.

I messaged him, 'Hashimoto'.

I didn't receive any reply.

Then from the information I had received from Kamuro during the uninhabited island test I messaged him, 'Class A has no chance to graduate from the same class.'.

Then came his reply 'Who are you?'

'Don't you know me? If you are not a fool then you must already know what is happening between Class A and Class D.'

For two minutes I patiently waited, but didn't receive any reply. He had read my email, so he must be in his thoughts.

And then came his reply, 'You are the one behind Class D's victory at the uninhabited Island test, matsushita was just a cover for you, wasn't she?'

I didn't reply and kept away the phone. Whenever you make contact with a person you should have an influence on your opponent. And that's what I was doing, to have an upper hand on hashimoto, I have to intrigue him about a hidden mastermind behind Class D's victory.

If my plan works, then he would definitely overread the situation and that would give rise to doubts. And so as planned the next day I began the negotiations and I relayed my plan to him. He too wanted to eliminate Katsuragi and Yahiko from Class A, so I decided to use it.

Present

The deal was that Class A expels Kamuro and Yahiko and I expel one person from Class D in exchange.

I had already planned to expel yamauchi, but gave up on the idea as I expected Hashimoto to betray me. Even if Hashimoto had expelled Kamuro, it wouldn't take me much time to eliminate Yamauchi from the class.

And in the process I obtained the question sheets Class A had prepared. I sent those to matsushita who used them to teach Ike and Yamauchi. She basically helped them solve and learn the entire paper. The paper had 150 questions, with 30 from each subject. Each question had 4 marks, that made it 600 marks total. With negative marking in the structure of marking scheme, this Exam was quite difficult.

Me and Satō had a respectable total of 834 compared to the overall year average of 809. The passing marks were set at 760 points and everyone managed to pass the exams and avoid expulsion. Well, Yahiko from Class A was expelled, leaving them with only 39 students now.

The surprising thing was Ike's group came 6th in the overall year rankings. The group consisting of Shinohara and Ike had a total of 1189. And the surprising thing was Ike scored 543 marks in the exams. Matsushita sure did turn him into a 'Smart' from 'Idiot' for this exam. Well, about yamauchi, let's say that he was useless even after being forced to learn by matsushita.

Anyways Class A had won against Class D and we had lost 50 points and they had gained 50 points. But due to cheating they had lost the 50 points they had gained. Which meant that they had gained 0 points.

Class B had won against Class C, meaning Class C had dropped even further now.

The current Class standings were,

1-A 867 Points 0

1-B 812 Points 50

1-C 501 Points -50

1-D 235 Points -50

Class D was slowly losing its place from the competition. Class B was catching to Class A. The gap between Class B and Class A was only 55 points. And the gap between Class A and Class D was 632 points.

There were very less chances for Class D to overtake any other class, at least for this year.

As I was analyzing the Class Ranking, some people entered which caused all the activities in Class D to stop. Chabashira Sensei also raised an eyebrow and stood up, "Why are you all here?"

Sakayanagi had an unreadable expression on her face. Unlike her usual face, this wasn't smug, it was rather a very serious expression.

"I apologize for the sudden intrusion, but me and Class D have some important matters to settle." Sakayanagi said while looking at Horikita. Horikita still looked expressionless.

She looked at the door for some reason, and as if on cue entered the student council president Horikita Manabu. The tension in the Classroom rose suddenly. Everyone knew what was happening, but it was hard to just accept everything. I could feel Kamuro staring at me, but I ignored her.

Horikita stood up and slowly made her way to the front of podium where Sakayanagi and Horikita Manabu were standing.

Sakayanagi and Horikita stared at each other, "Sakayanagi san.." Horikita started in a low voice.

Sakayanagi interrupted her, "The battle was really worth it Horikita San, and I believe that the results were not in Class D's favor."

Horikita was about to speak but was interrupted again by Sakayanagi, "About that deal, I want to cancel it."

When those words came out of Sakayanagi's mouth the entire class was surprised. Even I was surprised. It seems I haven't read her character as perfectly as I thought. I would need to factor them in my future calculations.

The next person to speak was Hashimoto surprising everyone, "Oi, princess, don't ruin the fun now. I mean the student president himself has come here, why not let him enjoy."

Nearly everyone in the class looked at him in disgust. But he didn't care, it seems he wanted Horikita to kneel down to Sakayanagi. What a weird fetish does this guy have.

The president just looked at the scene in disinterest, and said, "I believe that you have perhaps taken my position as a joke. The only reason I'm even here is because the chairman told me to."

At this every eye turned towards Sakayanagi, who still had a serious expression on her face. I was missing her creepy and sadistic grin for some reason.

Sakayanagi was about to speak when another person spoke up. It was none other than matsushita.

"It seems you are quite deluded."

Every eye turned towards matsushita. She was glaring at Sakayanagi without flinching at the looks sent to her by the student council president.

"Class A seems to forget that; Class A was caught cheating. So, it does not count as a fair game as you all talk off."

As this a ray of hope awakened in Class D. They didn't want Horikita to bow after all, they had acknowledged her as the leader.

At this people in the Class A became quiet, Sakayanagi just sighed. It didn't look like she wanted Horikita to bow. Hashimoto also backed down, he for some reason didn't want to talk back to matsushita. Maybe he was making good impression on her, did he have a crush on her. No, his intentions are hard to decode for some reason. I don't know how his behavioral and mental patterns are so I can't predict anything accurate. But then Class D received the biggest shock. No not only Class D, even Horikita manabu and the Class A were surprised.

Horikita POV

My life has been quite normal since birth. The lifestyle can be defined as 'Boring' by any other sane person. Following my brother's footsteps since birth. Wherever he went, I too made my way.

I have been following him since I learned to walk. He never scolded me back then. I was called a duck following her mother, but in that case my brother. Being brought up in a household with strict family, it was difficult to not get influenced by it. Both my parents were working, leaving me to depend on my brother.

I never realized when this turned into an obsession. He stopped talking with me when I reached middle school. He never told me the reason he was like that to me.

I was just a middle schooler, how was I supposed to understand him. This feeling to get better than him, it is just a torture to me.

And then they both came in my life.

The boy I met after some weeks of entering this school, Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. He really changed me huh. He has been always helping the class, maybe his methods might be not which the society can't accept. But still he never gave up on me like my brother.

He made me learn, with every failure a new lesson was learned. But the biggest lesson was that I am not alone. Matsushita San and Ayanokouji Kun, thanks for being my friends.

I have gotten an opportunity, to finally change for once. To leave behind brother and live my own life.

I stood in front of Sakayanagi. Her eyes widened in realization, and I kneeled.

I kneeled in front of her leaving behind all my pride. Because I was not alone this time, I was with my class. Yeah, I was not alone in this race, the entire Class D was there with me.

Third person POV

Everyone was shocked, would be an understatement. Matsushita had a smile on her face and Kiyotaka just looked out of the window.

Manabu looked at his sister and left the classroom, not before giving a slight smile. For the first time Sakayanagi grinned, a smug look on her face. Sakayanagi was really looking forward to another clash with Class D.

A.N. This Chapter was kind of a very badly paced chapter lol, I was focused on the confrontation chapter between Kamuro and Kiyo so this chapter was used purely for statistics of the Class and Horikita kneeling down to Sakayanagi.

Special Chapter - Someone He Can Trust

I made my way, to the place where I realized my feelings for him. The only difference this time, was that we were no longer friends.

He stood there leaning against the wall. He was looking at me, I stared back. Still, I couldn't read his face. The same emotionless look plastered on his face.

It was no longer boring; it was just terrifying. I don't know what else was that plain face hiding. What more dark secrets were hidden behind the mask he wore on his face.

"Ayanokouji Kun.." I called him in a low voice. I just couldn't raise my voice; I was too scared just at the thought of him now.

He looked at me with those golden eyes, devoid of any emotions. I could feel myself sinking in a deep abyss of his mind.

"Kamuro" he called out to me, unaffected by the fact that I was shivering while looking at him.

"You... you betrayed me?" I asked him, with a faint hope. That what I was thinking was not true. It was just another lie my mind has made to cope up with her death.

He just kept quiet and made his way towards me. I instinctively stepped back, making him halt.

He looked at me, "Say Kamuro, why did you step back from me now? Are you perhaps scared of me?"

I didn't know if he was mocking me but, his voice sounded very genuine.

"Why wouldn't I be scared of you.. you are responsible for that person's death." I said remembering the conversation I had eavesdropped.

He just sighed and leaned against the wall, "I heard about your sister."

At this my heart started beating faster. Was this the response of my nervous system? I don't know, but still a single mention of her made my body numb. I had moved on from her but still, my heart was clutching at her mention.

He looked at me and said, "Give me one compelling reason your sister deserved to die."

At this my eyes widened; anger consumed me.

"What do you mean by that, I couldn't have done anything. I don't even know how she died. I was going to celebrate my birthday and I was waiting for her to come home but she never returned. She didn't deserve it."

At this point no tears were left in my eyes. Only pain was visible in them.

The pain of being betrayed by my parents. The pain of being betrayed by Ayanokouji Kun. The pain of being betrayed by my own mind.

I didn't know anymore; I just wanted this pain to end.

"Kamuro, have you ever felt regret that you were born in this world?"

I turned towards him; he was just staring at me. I didn't answer him and looked at him, he moved closer to me.

"I have felt regret only once in my life, when I wasn't able to see the person who cared for me again."

As I heard those words from him, an unknown feeling rose in my heart. I was feeling pity at him for some reason.

He was no longer looking at me and turned away.

"You know Kamuro, you keep saying that I was the reason that I killed Matsuo. I was responsible for his death?"

Kamuro flinched at hearing those words. It was as if she was imagining his death, being burned alive. She shook her head and looked back at Ayanokouji who was now looking at the sky.

"Since birth I have been raised as if I am a devil." He said still looking at the sky.

He looked at me and said, "Kamuro even the kindest and purest of hearts can't stop someone's death, what right do I have to stop someone from their fate as a devil?"

He finally turned to me, "Death is something even I don't have monopoly on, death is part and parcel of life. I couldn't stop matsuo's death even if I wanted to, so I don't feel guilt at all. "

At those words I froze, how could he be so casual about death. Does he even know how I felt? I understand he has not had a bright childhood himself but does that make mine any less significant.

"You... why are you trying to expel me... I told you didn't I. I have no interest in telling your secrets to anyone." I said gritting my teeth.

He turned towards me and said those words, which proved that he never considered me as a friend.

"I don't trust you and probably I never will."

I grabbed his collar; he didn't make any move to stop me.

"You... then all this time we met and talked, was that all a lie?" I asked him the dreading question. If he was to say 'Yes' than I don't think I could move on from this.

I looked at him to which he stared with no emotions and said,

"Yes, I've never trusted you, or anyone else."

My voice broke, so did my hold on his collars. Tears were threatening to fall but I held myself and asked, "Am I just like everyone else, a mere pawn for you?"

To which he just kept silent, I wanted to hear it from him. But he didn't speak at all. I stood up wiping my tears and was about to exit when he spoke in a voice only audible to me,

"I would be lying to myself if I said, you were just a mere pawn for me."

I turned back to look at him, he was no longer looking at me and was busy staring at the setting sun.

"Kamuro, don't let your past define you. I've tried my best to escape from my past, but I can't find the courage to. It has now become a part of me. I'm scared to lose the only thing which defines me."

I looked at him as he said those words. That was a very simple advice, but hearing it from him was different. It was as if he had planned for all this, he knew what to say at which moment.

He walked towards me, and stood in front of me with those cold eyes, "I can't trust you, so I can't let you stay in this school. So, save yourself while you can, or you will lose everything in the process."

With those words he walked away, leaving me looking at the sun which had now almost set.

He was right but, "Ayanokouji Kun..."

His footsteps stopped; he was listening.

"You are right, I should really leave my past, behind shouldn't I?"

I didn't hear any answer, nor I wanted to. I just wanted him to listen.

"Then why can't you?" I asked and turned towards him. His back was still facing me. He kept silent not answering me.

I laughed genuinely in a month; how naïve I was. He was right, why was I still stuck in my past? I have always hated my past, then why was I clinging to it? Why not just let it all go?

And so, I let it all go away, and finally faced Ayanokouji Kun with determined eyes,

"Ayanokouji Kun, you are trapped in a cage, and the key is in your own hands, you just have to grab it and open it. Why are you still hesitating?"

Yes, I've been naïve all this time along. Why was I denying my feelings for Ayanokouji, even after knowing he had no choice in his butler's death yet I still blamed him. Now this won't happen. I will save him from this darkness.

I can't deny it anymore, but I care for him. Even after knowing that he might be responsible for someone's death I still love him. I embraced him, to which he stiffened. But I tightened my embrace on him.

He was about to speak but I cut him, "What if I prove to you, even in this cruel world, there are still people whom you can trust? People who won't betray you?"

At this he turned towards me, making me break our embrace. I chuckled seeing his emotion less demeanour and caressed his cheeks, there was no use lying to myself anymore. I've always loved him, and I will continue to. I don't know what was the reason for her love, but maybe similar situation we both were in.

Trapped in cages built by the world, waiting to escape.

Then why not escape it together?

(A.N. So guys, this was the whole point of this novel, to complete the kamuro's route. Now both Ibuki's and Kamuro's development is over.

Now then who will Ayanokouji choose between Kamuro and Ibuki lol. To be honest I myself haven't decided who is going to end with him from this two, we have to wait for few more volumes.

And don't worry I didn't forget Sato, she does have a crush on him after all. I won't be writing Vol 7 according to the original novel as Ryueen and Ayanokouji Fight has already happened. So thanks for reading.)

Volume 7

"You... mean I was never supposed to be in Class A.. But.. how?" She asked me confused by the revelation. I sighed, it seems she can't believe it,

"Yes Kamuro, you are nothing but just a replacement."

Chapter 1 - Secrets

"So, you are basically suggesting that we give up on expelling Kushida." Matsushita looked at me, hint of confusion in her eyes.

I sighed and stood up from where I was seated, and headed to grab a bottle of water. Matsushita was in my room, on my wish. I wanted her to do a favor for me, well for the class. Kushida was an important piece in the Class competition for Class D and I was not going to expel her now.

Currently only one person was on my to eliminate list, Kamuro Masumi. But I needed more information on her background before I could make any move, considering Sakayanagi was most likely on her guard. She must have most likely figured out my entire plan by now. Kamuro is a valuable piece for her, so I don't think she would let go of her.

I turned towards matsushita after quenching my thirst, "Yeah, if I'm right in my assumptions than she most likely will come after me or you next. But I doubt she would risk to mess with me, after all she has an idea about my strength."

Matsushita nodded and said, "So, her next target would be me."

"Yeah, but we can't be sure, Kushida's behavior is too unpredictable. We don't know what she is thinking right now, so we can only hit the target with blindfold on our eyes."

"But, I don't understand, why do you need me exactly?" She asked confused why I had summoned her.

"I want you to keep your guard up against Kushida, and try to make contact with Sato Maya."

She was surprised by my words as she asked, "Are you really interested in Sato San?"

I turned my head to the balcony, "No, but she has been bothering me quite a lot nowadays, and I want to end her hopes before they progress anymore."

At this matsushita gave an amused look, "So you are going to reject her?"

I just sighed, "Yeah, I want to wind things up before they go any further. I don't want to lead her on and give rise to any false hope."

She chuckled, "Since when did you start to care about other people's feelings."

"I wonder about that too." I replied while throwing a glance at her amused expression.

Both of us stayed silent, letting the chirping of birds dominate the tranquil room. Finally, she stood up, "Well so you want me to convince her to confess to you."

I turned to face her impressed, "You catch on pretty quick."

She just chuckled, "Well that's a high praise coming from you."

"Yeah."

I said my farewell to her as she wore her heels. She just sent a toothy grin to me as she exited my dorm and I was left alone again.

I took refuge on my bed, surfing through my phone. It seems I was quite popular nowadays, considering I was in the list of the 'Ikeman Alert' rankings by boys of our year.

I was on the second rank, first post secured by a boy from A class. Third place belonged to Hirata Yosuke from my class. Now that I think about Hirata, I haven't had much conversations with him.

I'm currently in a strong position in the class, with Horikita and Matsushita in my grasp, I can easily influence any class decisions. I have some leash on Karuizawa too, but I don't think I would be able to hide from her now. She already has suspicions on me and Matsushita. I would let matsushita gladly take over her.

I have no interest in Karuizawa as of now, I'm just sure of one thing. She is faking her relationship with Hirata, I confirmed it during the last exam when I confronted her in front of Hirata, Horikita and Kushida.

I had been using that to make her work for me. But it seems she is slowly catching onto us, but even if she does catch us, it won't matter. I can easily expose her anytime now, and if it is revealed that she is faking her relationship. The damage to her would be ten times more than that to Matsushita.

I won't be surprised if the class completely blacklists her, as most of girls have a crush on Hirata, well according to my assumptions at least.

Time Skip

I made my way to the café, Ibuki wanted to meet me. As I reached there, I saw Karuizawa Kei standing with a bunch of other girls from the class. She spotted me and narrowed her eyes, to which I just ignored and continued on my way.

As I entered the cafeteria, my eyes fell on the person who had summoned me. She was sitting there; I could make out that she was looking nervous. Her face gave it all.

I took a seat on her table. She flinched on my sudden arrival and glared at me, "Ha... You scared me idiot."

"But how else was I supposed to come then?" I asked her to which she just scoffed,

"You could have called my name before just sitting and scaring the shit out of me."

"I see, I will keep in mind to call your name before talking to you next time." I said as I focused on her dress. She was dressed in outdoor clothes, which was my first time seeing her in this attire. Her tomboyish appearance was enough to charm any man. I quickly shifted my attention towards her when I heard her speak, I didn't want to come as a creep by staring at her.

"So Ayanokouji Kun, I just wanted to ask you some things if you don't mind." She asked nervously playing with her fingers.

"Go ahead and ask me anything. No need to feel nervous, it's not as if you are asking me to kiss you."

I attempted to make a joke, but it seems I successfully failed. She glared at me with a blush on her face.

"If you don't shut up, I'm going to kill you." She said gripping the table edge hardly.

Well, I was used to her life threats by now, the chance of getting a threat every time we talked was 98%. It was quite rare we had conversation like ordinary people. Our conversations could be labelled as unique, considering the number of threats, insults and tears involved. After all she had broken down in front of me back in the sports festival.

"So are you going to tell me why you called me.." I started to speak to which she replied quickly, "Let's have some coffee first."

It seems she was too nervous, what was she going to ask me exactly? If she was this nervous, then I was not going to force her.

"So should I order I coffee, or would you like something different?" I asked her.

"Uh... I'll have the coffee only." She said while looking at me.

I nodded and got up and was about to head towards the counter when she grabbed my wrist.

"W-wait, I'll pay for it." She said and got up. I was not the one to deny free treat but I decided to deny it for this time.

"Don't sweat it Ibuki, wait here while I'll be back with a cappuccinos for both of us." I said to which she replied with a worried expression,

"But I was the one who called you here, it would be wrong for me to..."

I just waved my hand and said, "Consider it as a treat from me or a fun date" At this a blush spread on her face.

Teasing her was fun, she was cute when she blushed, and if I'm not wrong then she is going to badmouth me.

She looked at me and folded her hands, "Just get this over with idiot, and stop flirting with me you creep."

Told you, didn't I. I sighed and made my way to the counter, ordering a cappuccino for her and a Frappe for me. As I made my way back she was fiddling with her phone. I sat down, setting down her mug in front of her.

She thanked me in a timid voice and started savoring the coffee. Meanwhile I had to shake my Frappe to create its froth.

"So, any particular reason you called me today." I asked her mentioning the previous topic still shaking my coffee and looking at her.

She kept her coffee down and looked at me with nervousness evident in her eyes.

"Actually, I wanted to ask you something." She started to speak,

But paused.

The froth had been created and my Frappe was ready to be consumed, I took a sip and looked at her expecting her to talk.

"I-I wanted you to j-join me on a m-ovie." She said stuttering.

Now that's surprising, but I also wanted to watch a movie so I wasn't going to deny.

"That's a nice idea, when do you want to go to the movies?" I asked her.

She sighed in relief; it seems she was too nervous to ask me for the movie. A smile spread on her face,

"Why don't we go to watch the movie on 25th December. Wait why not make it a d-date" She said smiling nervously.

I sighed, when did things advance this further. I nodded, "Fine then, we will have our date on 25th December as per your wish."

She slammed her hands on the table in excitement making all eyes in the cafeteria turn towards her. As silence spread and weird looks were directed at us, our introversion kicked into action as we cowered under the weird stares.

I really hated attention, but it seems I was born to seek it. We finished our coffees and exited the cafeteria. We parted our ways, she headed towards the dorms while I had some business to attend to.

I made my way to Keyaki mall. I checked my phone, I was correct. I entered a nearby alley. It was one of the places I knew which didn't have any cameras.

I waited for few seconds before she entered and ran right into me. A look of horror made its way on her face as she looked at my indifferent golden eyes in the setting sun. She attempted to escape but I grabbed her wrist and held tightly.

"Leave me bastard." She attempted to free herself but I just grabbed her other hand and spoke.

"Don't scream if you want to lose everything you have."

She froze and looked at me with fearful expression on her face.

I pulled her and pinned her against the wall.

"Why were you stalking me?" I asked her.

She looked down, not meeting my eyes.

"I think I asked you something Karuizawa Kei." I said in a threatening voice and forcefully lifted her chin to face me. It was a gamble acting like this, but it was a risk I was willing to take to gain control of a pawn like her.

Our face were inches apart, one could comprehend that this was a romantic setup, but it was far from it.

"Y..you and matsushita, what do you want from me." She said while glaring at me.

I just replied in indifference, "You know what I want from you?" I asked her.

I moved closer to her ears and whispered, "I want to know about you, so would you please enlighten me what exactly happened to you. Why are you in a fake relationship? I want you to tell me everything you know. So, what do you say?"

Her expression changed into that of utmost horror as she looked at me. I looked at her with indifference.

She couldn't speak, tears started to form in her eyes but she held them.

I lessened the pressure and was no longer pinning her. She quickly took the chance and escaped. I looked at the setting sun,

It seems some secrets are about to be revealed.

A.N. Hey guys, enjoy reading

Chapter 2-The Cold Eyes

It was a chilly day; I could feel the cold breeze hitting my skin. I got up and stretched a bit before turning towards the calendar hanging on the wall. It was 24th December, I got up and looked at the mirror to find my hair were a bit untidy.

I checked my phone, and there was a notification from none other than Sakayanagi. The message had a specific contact I had negotiated with her. I was surprised that she still wanted to have a battle with me, so I used it to my benefit in the deal we had.

I had agreed to meet up with matsushita, she was going to help me pick up clothes for my date with Ibuki. Hiyori was going to help Ibuki. It was nice having friends.

I got up and made my way to take a shower. I was looking forward to shopping.

Once I was completely ready to go, I messaged Matsushita. She replied that she was waiting for me in the Pallet. It seems we were going to go to the coffee shop first. It was cold today, so I put on a sweater to avoid falling sick. Though I doubt I would fall sick this easily but I would rather take no risks in regards of my health.

As they always say, Better safe than sorry.

I locked the door and entered the elevator. I immediately regretted it when I saw who was there.

"Oh, Hello Ayanokouji Kun, are you heading somewhere."

"Yeah, Matsushita is helping me pick some threads. Where are you headed to Satō?"

She brushed the hair back over her shoulders. She was heavily guarded by the sweater she was wearing.

"I-I was just heading out; I didn't have anything else to do." She replied avoiding to look at me.

I nodded, "But I don't think today is the best day for hanging out you know. It's very cold outside."

"Uhm... I just wanted to visit Keyaki mall to get some clothes."

"What a coincidence, it seems we are headed to the same place. Want to accompany me?" I asked while glancing at her,

Her face visibly lit up at my reply and she nodded. I hummed and we both exited the elevator to be met by the sight of matsushita.

She was sitting on the couch in the lobby, fiddling with her phone. She sensed our presence and stood up, grabbing her purse and walking towards us in her casual winter clothes. She didn't look much surprised on seeing Satō with me. Her and Sato relations were better even after the whole class had blacklisted matsushita. It was all thanks to the study sessions she held for the girls.

She gave a curt nod to both of us before starting to make her way towards the exit of the dorm building. Me and Satō followed her, Satō entering into casual conversations with me. I took acknowledgeable efforts to contribute to the casual talk she was trying to create. The situation was awkward, we could hear matsushita snickering from ahead.

"You guys are cute; do you know that."

I am cute? What a strange world we live in.

Sato playfully punched matsushita while pouting. It didn't take one to have an eagle like eye sight to notice the blush on her face. Her bangs hanging on the left side, and blue eyes sparkling with happiness gave away the happy go lucky attitude this girl carried with her.

We eventually reached the Keyaki Mall, the awkward atmosphere much improved albeit my unwillingness to talk. We directly headed to men's threads, on our way spotting many other couples like us. There hands interlocked with there partner, enjoying warmth in the freezing winter.

As we reached the outdoor section, we were met by huge variety collections of cotton, nylon and other fabric. Tuxedos were neatly arranged on the shelf, must be for the third-year prom.

The thing was I had only two clothes for casual wear, and those were old fashioned in Matsushita's opinion. So, after an hour we were finally able to find a cloth piece which looked nice on me.

And now I was waiting while the girls went for there own shopping. Really?

I bet matsushita wanted to buy a new dress for herself from my private points so she accompanied me today. I was right when she winked at me and added her dress to my credit.

I sighed and offered Satō, "Why don't you get something for yourself Sato, I want to thank you for accompanying and helping me."

I shrugged when she asked me with a tomato red face, "Are you sure Ayanokouji Kun, I mean you don't have to."

"Go on, inform me when you are done, I'll pay for the expenses."

And so, the shopping gig began and I ended up paying 3837 points for us. We were now sitting having our lunch at the local food court.

"So Ayanokouji Kun, are you um... free tomorrow?" Satō suddenly asked making me turn my attention towards her. Matsushita excused herself at the same moment, "I'll be back, need to use the restroom."

I nodded at her and turned back to Sato to find her blue eyes anxiously gazing at me.

"No, I have an errand to run." I said trying to avoid saying about my date. I don't want people finding out I'm going on a date with someone from Class C.

"Oh... B-But you can definitely make some time right." She said while gently placing her hand over mine on the table.

I didn't show any discomfort, actually had no reason to as she quickly retracted her hand back, "I'm sorry Ayanokouji Kun, If I made you feel uncomfortable."

I just shook my head, "There is no need. I understand."

She then looked down and ask again, "Say Ayanokouji Kun, are you in love with someone?"

I looked at my phone, the message was sent. And as if on a cue matsushita entered, she nodded at me.

"Oh, my Sato San, already asking about Aynaokouji's preferences." Matsushita teased the blue-eyed girl who was getting a blush across her gentle skin.

Sato looked at me to which I sighed, "Matsushita, me and Sato want to talk something in private, could you spare us for sometime."

Matsushita nodded and offered to carry Satō bag for her. To which Satō readily agreed. I stood up offering a hand to Sato. She took my hand and we made our way outside, away from the general crowd. I could feel matsushita and one more person was following me but I ignored them. I had to settle things now.

As we reached an open area where snow covered the area. There had been light snow fall in the morning so it wasn't strange.

And now we stood in front of each other looking at each other eye to eye. She was shaking, maybe from excitement. I had warned matsushita but it seems she had no heeded to my advice. So, it wasn't my fault what all was going to happen now.

"Ayanokouji Kun, um... as I was asking you are you in love with someone?"

I looked at her and took a quick glance at a certain location. If my plan had worked, then she must be here.

"No... at this moment I don't think I'm in love with someone." I replied honestly meeting her eye to eye.

Her eyes showed disappointment and happiness both. Disappointed that I didn't love her and happy that she had a chance with me.

"So would you um... please join me on a date."

She asked out bowing down.

The tension was palpable. My answer would impact both of our future lives. I could get away from this by answering I was unsure about love but that would leave a feeling of guilt in her. I don't want her to be tied down to today, so I knew what I had to do.

"Sorry Sato I can't"

My words sliced her heart like a ruthless blade. I could feel tears forming in her eyes and how desperately she was trying to keep stop them.

She was still in state of denial as she asked, "Oh tomorrow you are not free, then we can go on date the day after tomorrow, or the valentines, when do you want Ayanokouji Kun?"

I stood still, looked at her seriously.

"Sato, I don't think I could ever love you." At this point tears were streaming down her face. She made no attempt to wipe them.

"W-Why, A-At least tell me the reason why." She asked desperation leaking out from her tone conveying her pain.

I blinked back all my thought and faced her, "It's not you Sato, it is me. Due to my upbringing, it is hard for me to fall in love with someone, in simple words, I am in conflict with myself. I don't know, but I have a date with ibuki tomorrow."

At this her pained eyes conveyed shock, she looked down and I could hear her mutter, "B-But matsushita san didn't tell me..."

I continued, "So even if Ibuki had asked me out instead of you, my answer would have been the same. I don't have feelings for her as well as you."

A silence enveloped us, the chilly wind doing its magic.

Sato turned towards me and forced a smile, her glossed eyes gave away her pain and anguish,

"I see, thank you for listening to me Ayanokouji Kun."

She took a step back, then another, and then she sprinted away from there. Tears flowing from her eyes, I turned towards the bushes.

Matsushita emerged and looked a little angry, "There was no need for you to be so straightforward. You could have at least rejected her at a date. Can you even imagine how she felt?"

I blankly stared at her and asked, "What should I have done, just lead her to believe that she has a chance with me?"

She replied, "You really are a sick bastard you know. Did you really care about Sato's feelings, or was it also a joke to you?"

"Her feelings aren't a joke to me though." I said now turning towards her.

She looked at me with her eyebrows raised in confusion as I continued, "But she was useful to me."

At this she looked at me in unease, "What do you mean?"

I pointed towards the tree where on the ground lay a gift wrapped in a floral cover.

She turned towards me fear written on her face, "W-Wait a minute what is going on. Where did that gift come from?"

I moved towards her and stared down at her.

"What do you think has been happening till now Matsushita? Do you think that I actually cared for Sato? You of all people must know the truth, you were there that day weren't you. That day when I showed Ryūen who I truly am. Or did you forget. Well let me remind you again."

She stared at me, her legs trembling at my words.

"That gift lying there, belongs to Ibuki. In simple words Ibuki was hear right now."

At this matsushita's face paled as she looked at me, "T-Then she heard you say that..."

Yeah she heard me say that I had no interest in her.

I simply stared at her, and continued, "You did as I told you to, you did make her ask me out. You and me both knew that I was going to reject Sato. But...this confession was a part of even huger setup orchestrated by me."

Matsushita was now connecting the dots.

I had made contact with ibuki through a friend of mine. Matsushita had did as told and made Sato accompany me and ask me out on a date. So Ibuki had been following me since me, Satō and Matsushita went to pick up clothes.

The reason I did this? Because I knew that Ibuki was going to confess to me, all thanks to the person who helped me setup this plan. And now I don't care if Ibuki loves me or no, she has no use left for me now.

In short, I killed two birds with one stone, I eliminated Ibuki's feelings for me as well as turned down Sato.

I looked at matsushita who now backed away from me, "Y-You played with everyone's emotions like that. Y-You monster."

When I heard those words, it all came back.

There was a reason I was called monster in white room.

I stared at her coldly, "What about you matsushita. Weren't you the one who was going to expel Ibuki in the sports festival? Weren't you filming us? Do you really think I didn't saw through your plan? You are more cunning and smart then you look aren't you Matsushita Chiaki."

At this she flinched and looked down. Her eyes full of guilt.

"You were planning on betraying Ryūen and expelling him and Ibuki that day, didn't you? And for that you were ready to sacrifice me too."

Yes, matsushita was just acting as Ryūen's ally. Ryūen believed her because he never expected her to expel me, a strong asset to the Class D. She planned on betraying him and having all the people on rooftop that day expelled. She was ready to sacrifice me for expelling Ryūen from Class C.

I grabbed her chin with force, her eyes looking at me with a fear.

Yes, feel fear matsushita.

I was never the good guy. I have always been like this and will perhaps never change.

Not until these cold eyes are a part of me.

_

A.N. When people realise why this Fic is called The Cold Eyes lol.

Ship Confirmed

So if you read the previous chapter you must have already guessed who is going to end up with Ayanokouji lol.

If you haven't then...well. Never mind .

It seems people haven't guessed it yet, so I'm not going to spoil you. But I have decided who is going to end up with kiyo finally and it is not going to change.

Chapter 3-The Hiyori Group

"Thank you, without you this plan would have not succeeded." I thanked the person who helped me with my plan.

She just smiled sadly, "But, Kiyotaka, what exactly did you achieve by doing this?"

I sighed, "I told you that day didn't I hiyori, I really didn't want to hurt Ibuki. I am currently not interested in the concept of love; I have much larger problems than that."

Hiyori just nodded at my statement, there was nothing more she could do now.

I turned towards her, I was still curious, "Say Hiyori... Why did you help me in the plan? I mean I thought you didn't agree with my methods."

At this she chuckled, "I...I didn't want Ibuki to be hurt. But more than that, I didn't want you to feel like you are the bad guy."

My eyes widened, don't tell me,

"I am the one responsible for what happened yesterday. If I had not ratted out that Ibuki was going to confess to you... then today would have never happened. So Kiyotaka Kun.. I know what I did is the worst. I don't even deserve to be friend with ibuki san... But please don't feel like you were alone in this.. I'm with you." She said while looking down at her lap.

A tear fell on her lap, which was accompanied by silent sobs. I got up and embraced her, for some reason I couldn't see her in tears.

I would be lying if I said that I completely trusted Hiyori. I never thought that she would see to this plan with me till the end. But... she stood by me.

Till the very end... It seems I need to reevaluate the question 'Should I trust a friend'.

Yeah, I can definitely trust some people. I'm not alone, I have to understand.

I tightened my embrace on Hiyori, as she started to speak in between the sobs,

"I'm sorry... I never wanted to hurt ibuki San... I don't know how to... face her. I... I'm sorry"

I just kept embracing her, she needed someone to lean on to at this moment, and I was ready to be that person.

I gently said, "Shiina, I know... it is difficult. But nothing can be changed now. So... don't regret anything, because... even if you haven't intervened the result would have been the same. But if ibuki would have actually confessed to me... than we would have lost what we had."

She turned to me, tear stains visible on her face,

"I want everyone in Hiyori group to remain friends. Ever since I have come to this school... I wanted to feel normal. And I was finally starting to feel like a normal person when I was with you three. I want you, ibuki and matsushita to stand together, bound by a bond greater than love itself."

Yeah, this was one of the reasons I went through this plan. Call me selfish... But I really wanted to protect the friend circle I had. I wanted the 'Hiyori group' still alive, If I had rejected ibuki, I doubt we would be ever able to have a normal conversation ever. She would still feel discomfort just looking at my face.

But now... everyone was free. Ibuki was no longer tied to me, nor I was bothered by losing them.

I had protected the only set of people I can boast about proudly. At this point I can only trust Hiyori... but I should start to change more.

Today was a day worthy of celebration in my life... I was not alone anymore.

Time skip

"Hey", I called out to her.

She just smiled at me.

"So, are we going to the date?" I asked Ibuki as she stood in front of me.

"There is no reason to cancel it so why ask such stupid question Pervert." She mocked me in a sassy tone.

I sighed, "Then why are there 4 tickets here?"

She laughed and from behind me two people pushed me gently.

I turned back to find Hiyori and matsushita, Hiyori smiling at me while matsushita was avoiding contact with me. To be honest... I hadn't expected this.

"What's the matter with matsushita, why that shitty face? It's annoying, wipe that out of your face before I do the honors." Ibuki said with a smirk while looking at matsushita.

Matsushita irked on hearing her and smiled menacingly at her, "Ibuki, do you want to die?"

Ibuki just chuckled, "Triggered huh, well let's head to the movie. I don't want to miss out the opening."

Matsushita scoffed and joined ibuki. Both chatting and entering the theatre. I turned towards hiyori who had a smile on her face, I remembered yesterdays events.

"Kiyotaka Kun, let's go. I don't want to be left behind."

I snapped out of my thoughts and followed her in the theatre.

I was sitting on the bench, at the very same location where yesterday's events transpired. Today, 25th December was the day when she was going to confess to me.

I looked at her to find out she had a sad smile on her face.

I turned my gaze towards the sky, just staring at the birds flying in the sky. The melancholy silence that followed was broken by the sounds of the laughter from the person beside me.

"What's the matter Ibuki?" I asked, genuinely curious at the chuckle she gave out.

"Say Ayanokouji, if my mother was here and watching me, what would she feel about me?" she said staring at the snow which was starting to fall.

I looked at her eyes, which conveyed a plethora of emotions to me. Sadness, disappointment and many other negativities clouded her eyes.

I decided to be honest with her, "I...I honestly don't know."

She chuckled, "Yeah maybe she would be disappointed in me, but either way she is dead now. She is not coming back to me."

I turned away from her and fixed my gaze back at the sky which was gradually becoming dark.

"I don't know what having a mother actually feels like. I wished I had someone in my life who would have told me... that I was not alone."

I knew she was listening to me and I could sense the pity she was feeling bad for me. But I was going to be honest with her today, I was going to be honest with myself.

"I regret never seeing her face. Because unlike you, I don't even know what my mother looks like."

I felt her put her hand on my shoulder, I continued, "But I found out, that day when you told me about your mother. I understood, what if feels to have one. My past doesn't define me, and it never will. So, I have moved on from my regret, but..."

I turned and now completely faced her, "If I was given a chance to trade the entire world for someone, I would gladly give up everything just to be with her."

At this she chuckled sadly and embraced me.

"Ibuki, I'm sorry, but I don't love you." I said while closing my eyes,

"I know, I was here yesterday. I heard it all." She said breaking the embrace and chuckling while scratching the back of her neck.

"I see" we turned our gazes back at the sky.

I removed the bag I had brought with me and handed it to her. She looked at it with confusion, "What is this?"

I just handed it to her, she opened it and gasped at what was inside.

"This..." She was still shocked.

It was the gift she was going to give me today. It was lying on the ground yesterday when she had come to eavesdrop on me and Sato.

"Did you really think I didn't care about the gift you poured all your feelings into. You deserve better than it."

She started laughing, "You are a real woman charmer you know; you are just perfect. Honestly it is not surprising how I fell for you."

She unwrapped her gift and it was Christmas treats. She smiled and handed me half of it. I looked at her, she was already eating hers.

I took the white chocolate and took a bite, it was really sweet, perfect for my sweet tooth.

I hope, these times never end. This is the life I desire.

I may not change my true self in these three years... but I can at least enjoy these three years of freedom.

A.N. This concludes the entire Ibuki Arc. Hope you liked it.

Epilogue

I looked at the contact I had acquired from Sakayanagi a few days back. She wanted a battle with me which I would gladly give her. I don't care if I lose anyways.

I called the person who had answers to every mystery surrounding Kamuro.

"Hello Arisu, fancy getting a call from you."

It seems he thought he is in conversation with his daughter.

"Hello Sakayanagi san."

There was silence on the other line for some time before he finally spoke.

"Ayanokouji? How did you get this contact?" He asked, nervousness could be deduced from his voice.

"Your daughter gave it to me." I answered calmly.

"I see, but calling the school staff is against the school rules you know?" He said still nervous.

"I fail to see how those rules do not apply to your daughter. Or are you perhaps biased towards her, because her admittance to Class A tells me otherwise."

"Her admittance was.. not because of I was the manager."

"That still doesn't explain why she has your contact, when it is clearly mentioned that contact from outer world is prohibited. Or is it some privileges she has been awarded for being the Chairperson's daughter?" I spoke calmly, not exaggerating anything. Just stating plain facts would be enough to him. Sakayanagi had predicted my methods so she didn't complain while giving me her father's contact.

"What do you want?" He finally asked me, his tone relaxed indicating he had gave in.

"I only want to know about her."

I heard him sigh from the other side, "By her you mean Masumi Kamuro don't you?"

I didn't answer, waiting for him to reply.

"I wonder why are you even interested in her in the first place. But regardless I can't give you any personal information about her even if you threaten me."

I simply answered, "And I'm not asking for it, I'm just asking you why was she put in Class A."

I heard him chuckle, "Why, do you think she doesn't deserve to be in Class A. That we were wrong in evaluating the students?"

"No... it is unlikely for this school to make such mistakes. From what I've seen of Kamuro in this school for 9 months, she doesn't qualify for Class A at all. Her worth is that of a Class D student to be honest."

"Those words are quite harsh you know, where did you even get this idea?"

I closed my eyes, remembering all the past events. I opened them and started speaking,

"Her behavioral patterns suggest that she has suffered from extreme mental anxiety. She is used to staying alone, which further suggests that she had intentionally blocked everyone from her life. And... she still wants to help me."

At this he chuckled, "Ayanokouji Kun, I don't really know what is going on between you two and I won't even interfere in between you two. But you need to understand, if you really want to remain in this school. You need allies."

I sighed, allies. Didn't I have many of them last time I checked.

"Ayanokouji, do you really want to know the truth?"

I didn't answer for a minute. Did I really want this? But I couldn't find an answer to it. So, I decided to...

"Yeah"

Time Skip

As the sun set, I glanced at the clock. It has been quite some times since I've been patiently waiting for the hour hand to land at 7.

And at 7:09 PM, I heard a knock. I got up and made my way to escort my guest. As I opened the door, my eyes caught hers. She seemed very relaxed in contrast to her usual self where she would take fun in berating me or any other human.

"Please come in Kamuro." I opened the door inviting her inside. Her purple eyes showed genuine surprise to my behaviour. She took a seat next to the chair on the floor.

Her looks were highly rated in the year, her body proportions perfect enough to arouse any sane person in my opinion. In the boys ranking she was in the top 10 contenders ranking for the 'sexiest' girl spot. Ichinose Honami was on the first place and Kushida occupied the second spot.

"So... Ayanokouji Kun, did you call me?"

I looked at her, to which she tried her best to avoid contact. Was this the right move? Should I reveal everything to her? Should I even trust her in the first place.

"Stop staring at me like that Ayanokouji Kun."

My thoughts interrupted by the purple eyed girl who now had a slight blush on her face. I sighed and got up, making my way to the kitchen. I took two cans from the shelf and made my way back to the living room.

She was checking her phone when her eyes fell on the can of beer I had in my hand and her eyes widened. I didn't give her a chance to speak as I gently threw it at her. She caught the can of beer fumbling in her hands.

I opened my own can and started drinking it, not missing the gaze that was directed on me by Kamuro.

"What is the meaning of this Ayanokouji Kun." She asked while opening her own can.

"An apology."

At this she looked at me in shock.

"Are you out of your mind Ayanokouji Kun?" she asked, her tone portraying her emotions of shock.

"No, I'm sorry for that time. I heard from Sakayanagi what Hashimoto did to you."

"I see, well in that case you are forgiven." She said in a low voice, still shocked by the sudden apology.

"So... did you call me here just to apologise?" She asked me.

I closed my eyes, and remembered my conversation with the school chairman.

"Kamuro what if I tell you something about your admittance in this school."

"Huh? What the fuck are you on about." She asked me confused by my sudden serious voice.

I opened my eyes and stared at her with complete seriousness. She flinched back on seeing my eyes.

"Kamuro, you were never supposed to be a student of Class A. Originally you were supposed to be in Class D."

Her eyes conveyed the disarray of emotions she was going through. She looked at my eyes, and she must have understood I was not joking.

"You... mean I was never supposed to be in Class A. But... how?" She asked me confused by the revelation. I sighed, it seems she can't believe it,

"Yes Kamuro, you are nothing but just a replacement."

"Huh, replacement? What are you on about? Didn't I earn my spot in Class A. W-What the heck are you on to Ayanokouji Kun. Is this another one of your tricks."

I grabbed her shoulders firmly; it seems she wasn't accepting the situation. And I couldn't blame her, her parents were to blame for her current state.

"Someone else was supposed to be in Class A in place of you."

Yes, she was supposed to be in Class D. And someone else was a part of Class A. But when Chairman Sakayanagi noticed my admission request, he decided to cancel the acceptance of the Class A student and assign me to Class D. Kamuro was shifted to Class A.

She looked at me still shocked. I remembered my conversation with the chairman.

Flashback

"After her sister's death, her parents stopped acknowledging her presence. They were too much traumatized that they couldn't look at Kamuro San the same anymore." As he said it, everything became clear.

"Then the reason Kamuro joined this school..."

"Yeah, according to my data sources, she wants to graduate from Class A more than anyone else. Because... she wants her parents to finally see her as a family. Her sister was known to be a perfect ideal to everyone. Kamuro San thinks that if she excels in everything... that if she can be perfect like her deceased sister, her parents would finally love her."

I closed my eyes; this situation couldn't get any more difficult.

"Ayanokouji, so now that you know it what you are going to do?"

I just cut the call and opened my eyes, thinking about a way out of here.

_

"I see... then I am still useless, aren't I?" she started to speak.

I just kept quiet, while looking as her eyes became lifeless.

"I wish... I was the one who had died that day, instead of my sister."

She started laughing, but one could easily spot the pain in that laugh.

"I... Its so funny Ayanokouji Kun... all those 6 years... all that studying... all those cutting connections with my friends... and all that discipline... has led me to this shit."

By now the tears were falling from her eyes. Her eyes were red with anger, she wanted to vent it all out.

"The fuck has this life given me... everyone pushes me aside when I attempt to get closer to them. I lost my sister... when I looked up to her. My parents... they fucking hate me... and even you want me out of your life." she said while glaring at me.

She started punching my chest. The punches were light, an act due to her anger, so it felt more like thumping rather than punching.

"Tell me Ayanokouji Kun... what should I even do... should I just give up on my life?"

She looked at me, wanting an answer. Her eyes showed how tired she was of living. She sobbed harder when I embraced her tightly.

"Kamuro... don't worry. I am not leaving you anytime soon."

Yes Hiyori, I am going to use up on your advice. I want to find out for myself... how does love work? I might not have any kind of romantic feelings for Kamuro right now. But till then... I am not going to abandon the first person I met in this outside world. She sobbed harder and hugged me back.

"As someone who cares about you... I will never abandon you. That's my promise to you."

This was definitely not sympathy towards her... but I was happy. That I was not alone... there was someone who could relate with me. And I was definitely not going to lose someone who made me feel that I wasn't alone.

I don't know whether I will be still in the outside world after three years... but till then. I would definitely find someone who I care about more than myself.

That's a challenge to myself. I will protect Kamuro till I'm a part of her life.

(A.N. Thanks for reading. This is one of the most important chapter in the series, try not to forget it. You will understand what I am saying in the second year.)

Volume 8

"I don't like involving myself in situations which have nothing to do with me, and don't expect me to pity her. I don't care enough about her to save her"

Chapter 1 - Something Special

"So have you heard about the rumors?" Horikita asked me after closing the book she was reading.

The winter holidays had finally concluded along with the new year. January 8th began as normal as I would like it to be. But as soon as I reached the class, Horikita didn't spare me from a new pointless ordeal.

"What rumors are you taking about?" I asked confused.

"Some interesting rumors have been circulating these past days."

Now that sparked my interest. Rumors never failed to entertain me considering how stupid they could be. Some might be true, but most of them were low effort figments of imagination of some edgy human. Well, I'm not the one to judge as I myself have been responsible for spreading the rumor about Chabashira Sensei's incompetency in teaching, back when I started high school.

"And who is in center of this all?" I asked her while glancing at the book she was reading. 'Crime and punishment' a classic by the Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky.

"Ichinose Honami" I raised my eyebrows on the name of the person mentioned. It seems I was wrong about Ichinose too.

"And what kind of rumors?" I asked now giving my entire attention to the Black-haired beauty.

"It was something along the lines of engagement in theft and robbery. And another rumor surfaced said that she also had a noted history of drug usage."

Ichinose doing drug abuse, well that was definitely unexpected. But since it is a rumor, it is nothing more than a suspicion. And I find it hard to believe that she would be even associated with drugs.

"I see."

I turned away and she to proceeded to continue reading her book. The previous exam looked as if it was a disaster to Class D but in reality, Class A had suffered some critical blows.

First of all, Yahiko was expelled, a perfect scapegoat to understand the repercussions of expulsion on a class. Hashimoto was keeping a close eye on matsushita, he was under impression that she was behind Class D's success. I had successfully stepped down from the spotlight and put matsushita on the frontlines. The situation with Karuizawa was definitely not the best, she had suspicions about me. And after the stunt I pulled that day I knew I was skating on thin ice.

As with Satō, she was just avoiding me to best of her ability. Well, I don't blame her. She was sucked up in the plan all because I had to reject Ibuki.

One might ask, why didn't I want to answer Ibuki face to face. Some might say I didn't have guts to do it but that was totally not the case. I didn't want things between us to be awkward. It was better to not give her false hopes and crush them. Many might say that I did a bad move, but now that the damage was done there was no turning back for everyone involved.

Everyone in the Hiyori group had been a part of this conflict. I was glad it ended on a pleasant note. Kamuro and I have been on good terms since that day. She was breaking from her shell and she looked more beautiful. I was glad I managed to wipe that serious look from her face. She had feelings for me, but I wasn't ready for relationship at the moment. I was more concerned for what moves that man will take. It was unlike him to be this slow, there was a storm brewing in the shadows and I have to prepare myself when it hits me.

Mashima Sensei entered the class and proceeded to teach us physics, I paid attention for some time but gave up and rested my head on the desk. The class continued and I wondered what was going on with my life.

What was I exactly aiming for now? My earlier goal had been to live a peaceful life. But... Is it possible now? If I really wanted a peaceful life I would have eliminated Kamuro a long time ago.

But it seems I'm changing. Is this what Hiyori meant that day by '"Every face deserves to smile Kiyotaka, and I would return your smile to you. That's a promise."

At least now... I can feel something. I'm glad... I chose to come to this school.

The classes had ended and I was sitting with the rest of the Hiyori group.

"So, what are your plans for Valentines?" Ibuki asked out of the blue while intentionally avoiding eye contact with me. The confession was still fresh in our memory.

"I am discussing class affairs with Horikita, she is treating me for a lunch after wards." Matsushita said while playing with Hiyori's hair.

"Uh? That Horikita girl is giving you treat? I thought she had no interest in you idiots, seems I was wrong."

"Who the hell did you call an idiot?" Matsushita glared at Ibuki to which she just smirked.

"I called you an idiot, why, you got any problem?" Ibuki glared back to the brown-haired girl. The deathly stares were broken by Hiyori,

"Mio and Kiyotaka Kun, why don't you accompany me to the library. Ah only if you are free on Valentine's day though. So, what do you say?"

"I'm free on Valentines, I would love to join you." I replied with a nod. I turned to look and Ibuki who had a thoughtful expression on her face.

At last, she nodded while saying, "Library is not my thing, but I also have nothing to do on 14th. And moreover, I don't have any fans apart from you idiots."

Hiyori clapped her hands in delight with a cheerful expression on her face. "Thank you, Ibuki San and Kiyotaka Kun, let's try to enjoy our time."

We continued to read books for some time before parting ways, me and matsushita heading over to our dorms. As we were talking about random things a voice behind us interrupted,

"Hello Ayanokouji Kun and Matsushita San could you spare a moment?"

Matsushita had a look of horror on her face. The voice was Sato Maya's. I turned back to see that Sato had an angry look on her face. Behind her were Karuizawa and Shinohara with confused look on their face. It seems they had no idea about Sato's confession to me.

Matsushita turned back, her head down avoiding to make contact with Sato.

Sato laughed, pain escaping from it.

"So... All this time you were in love with him. Y..You knew he will reject me yet you... lead me on false hope. I..I thought I could trust you. But y..you really are a traitor Matsushita San.."

At this tears were forming in her eyes. Did I go too far with my rejection? But she needed to know the reality.

The next thing she did shocked everyone present there. Even some passerby's looked at us.

Sato slapped matsushita so hard that she fell to the ground from the impact, her eyes showing nothing but anger for the brown-haired girl. Karuizawa and Shinohara immediately came and stopped Sato from slapping Matsushita again. Sato was struggling in their hold, her rage murderous.

I kneeled down to check matsushita who had a horrified look on her face. There were no tears, just guilt was present in her eyes. Her cheek was red, more than the impact Kushida had slapped her with during the sports festival. A crowd was starting to form there, I helped her get up and lead her out of there.

I turned back and saw shinohara comforting Sato while Karuizawa was glaring at us. We found ourselves seated on a bench. No one was around, might be because it was getting dark. I guided matsushita to take a seat at the bench, her weeping sounds filling my surroundings. I thought of embracing her but decided against it. I had no interest in giving her sympathy for her own mess up.

So, I headed towards the vending machine and paid for two cans of juice. I grabbed it and headed towards matsushita who was now looking down. I offered her one to which she didn't respond.

I sighed, "Matsushita, I know this is hard... But this is the reality."

She didn't respond but took the beer from my hand. She asked me in a low voice, "Where did I go wrong?"

I raised my eyebrows at her question and asked, "What do you mean by that question?"

She finally looked at me, her red eyes showing desperation.

"I...I thought that you were like me. You like me wanted a normal life... but only you are getting it. You even hurt Ibuki but I was the one who suffered. You were the one who was going...to betray Class D... and I get blacklisted for trying to save the class. It is as if...I am just a pawn to you."

I sighed, "Weren't you the one who said you were ready to be my pawn after the uninhabited island test? Now why so surprised?" I asked while taking a seat next to her.

Her eyes widened in realization but couldn't answer.

I still remembered the words she had said back then

"I expect you continue contributing to the class Ayanokouji Kun. I don't mind being your tool. Because that's what you have done this exam. I was just a tool for you to remove the suspicions that you were a traitor. Now everyone believes that I was the one who saved those Class C people. I think you are good at manipulation so that's why I'm saying."

"I see... that's when I dug my own grave it seems." She said when the realization hit her. She was my pawn since I initiated contact with her.

"Yeah, you were always being used, I won't deny it. I was thinking about expelling you when you tried to expel me but gave up on that idea." I told her looking at her.

She chuckled and said, "Of course you won't expel me, I'm the best disposable pawn for you to have control over Class D."

"No, that's not the reason I gave up on expelling you" I told her. She was surprised but I continued,

"I frankly don't care what happens to Class D. If I really cared about it, I would have already taken down Class C by now."

She was even more surprised and asked, "Then why were you helping us?"

"I guess I wanted to taste what it feels to help someone." I replied honestly looking at the moon and the countless stars above us.

At this she chuckled, "That's a typical Ayanokouji answer I would expect."

I nodded and stood up.

"Well, matsushita, I want you to know... You are not alone anymore."

"Chiaki San are you alright" matsushita was enveloped in a hug by a concerned Hiyori. It seems the news about Sato slapping matsushita had reached the entire school. The passers-by must have recorded the entire confrontation.

Matsushita surprised by the sudden appearance of Hiyori hugged her back while smiling nervously.

"Seriously take me to that Sato bitch, tell her I am the one she should face not this weak ass." Ibuki appeared angry.

Matsushita immediately stood up on Ibuki's appearance, "Ibuki San... I... I'm sorry."

Ibuki glanced at matsushita from corner of her eye and scoffed saying, "Get the fuck over it already, I don't hold stupid grudges."

"B.. But I was partially responsible for... the Re..." Matsushita was about to say but couldn't continue as Ibuki headbutted her lightly.

"Fuck off girl let's head home now. I still am slapping that Sato bitch for touching you" Ibuki said turning to the dorms.

"Violence doesn't solve anything Ibuki." I said throwing the drink I had in the trash can.

Ibuki glared at me, "And who the hell is advising me about nonviolence?"

Hiyori chimed in, "Okay you all, let's just head home before anymore fight breaks."

"Yeah, I really wanted to kick this idiot's ass but I'm tired so that can wait." Ibuki said glaring at me.

"Is that a threat, I'm so scared." I said putting my hands back in my pockets.

"You still dare mock me; I will kill you." Ibuki was about to pounce on me but thankfully Hiyori stopped her.

"Okay let's just go home" Hiyori said grabbing both our arms.

And so, we started to make our way to the dorms. After some steps we realized matsushita was not following us, we looked back to find her staring at us.

"Are you going to keep us waiting huh?" Ibuki yelled loudly which snapped matsushita out of the daze she was in. She smiled wiping the tear stains on her face and ran towards us.

So, this is what it feels to have a family huh?

Hiyori group has become a part of my life, just like White room.

It... was just something very special for me.

So...

It has been a long time since I updated and I understand...
But sadly the time has come for this fic to be added to the COTE Hall of discontinued works.
It's about time I save myself from cringing at my previous chapters and save you from bad writing.
It's about time I give ya'll some closure before I make a new start and a new fic(Of course another COTE fic).
Sorry to those people whom I promised updates and thanks to those who f* up my comment sections with Ship wars.
It is about time 'Classroom of the Elite Cold Eyes' is discontinued.
Maybe one day I might rewrite this book, but such hopes could be crushed faster than kiyo leaving ANHS.
So guys, it has been a nice time with you. I will write a new book instead of this one.
The COTE fanfic community has grown a lot and many new and talented are joining. It's sad chloe had to delete the historic and cursed Classroom of the Elite Reactions.
But still, have a nice time.
LOL I bet you didn't expect a notification from me. My other books aren't discontinued. They have less chapters and still can be saved by reediting parts in it.
Edit : Ah yes let me spoil you the ending. This fic was going to be Ayanokouji x Kamuro Fic. I had planned for some crazy expulsions and an OC character. In the end Ayanokouji was still going to end up in the white room. Throughout the chapters I was going to show how ayanokouji was changing and near the end of this series I bet most of the readers would have been convinced that he had changed.
But in the end he never really changed, and with another reference to the cold eyes the series would come to an end. But everyone else in the fic (Horikita, Ryueen and everyone else) would end up changing into better versions.
It was fun being part of the 100k club.