cold hearted

by powershadow90

idk

Cote: Heartless Masterpiece? [Discontinued]
Hajime

Published: 2021
Source: https/

Part 1

2 years ago

The sound of a whimpering dog and raspy pleas could be hear from the other side of the glass as the boy overcome another trial.

Victim:"P-p-please God plea- *cough cough*" The subject was broken. Completely shattered and all that was left of the 8th Dan karate and black belt Brazilian jiu jistsu fighter, who initially had high self importance and was prided for his unbreakable spirit, was a cowering mess choking on his own blood.

His jaw broken, teeth cracked or missing, eyes swollen along with his face which was also purple due to the severe damage. It was assumed that the man's ribs were also broken due to him vomiting up blood.

Scientist:"As you can see sir he has considerably improved and now seems to be able to inflict the opponent with severe mental trauma."
At this that man's cold sharp eyes began burning with pride. "The results are promising and he still is unchallenged by the tests but has he shown weakness?"
The scientists knew better than to be shocked at that man's behaviour and manner of speaking but still remained in fear of both him and that.
Scientist:"His results are still inhuman and no matter how hard we challenge him he remains the same and his emotions are gone not even anger or fear remain. It seems the only thing that remains is pain but even that doesn't bother him to some degree." As the scientist said that he looked at the thing on the other side of the glass wondering can it lose?

Present

School's are often said to be where your youth prospers and fun easy days are, I often heard stories from Matsou as he reminisced about his school days and the various memories he had made with his friends, teachers and girls-although he always trailed off into those memories as if lost in a trance and when I asked him he would move on leaving me dumbfounded.

Advanced Nurturing High School was going to be where I would make 3 years worth of memories according to Matsou but I don't care about memories I care about freedom and seeing if a broken human can be fixed or should be disposed of.

The bus I was in was full of students in uniform all were first years like me as you have to live on campus for 3 years and while some where chatting together, some where minding their own business. I had rode on a bus 2 times before with Matsou and my opinion was that they where a useful mode of transport but the condensation covered windows and cramped nature made gave a negative impact on me.

I had initially thought of humming or singing a song that a mother and child did on one of my previous bus ride it seemed I would be labelled weird or a freak if I was humming 'the wheels on the bus go round and round' but I would have at least wanted to try and get a song going like that day but I resigned my self to watching the floor.

Office lady:"Hey don't you think you should give your seat to this elderly lady?"

The lady was asking a boy in a rather annoyed but loud tone it seems that while I was wrapped up in self pity an argument had been brewing.

Koenji:"I know my existence is an existence greater than the great wonders of the world but your blocking my light"
Uhh...the boy completely ignoring the Office lady's tone and question was examining himself in a mirror. "Then again my beauty doesn't change based on the lighting or my surroundings"

I was wordless...yes completely dumbstruck at this boy and upon examination of the other passengers so were they. However one girl seemed alienated-no unfazed by this boys attitude and was reading. My gaze was drawn back when another foolish soul tried to reason with this " existence".

Kushida:"I think you should give up your seat too I mean it would help contribute to society and would help you senior~"

Koenji:"Ha my senior. No I am a perfect existence I have no senior and no need to 'contribute to society' as my presence itself is enough"
The boy not only interrupted the girl but he once again came out with some otherworldly logic which cannot be labelled as narcissism as that is too normal of a label for this student.

Kushida:"Well I still think we should help and show our gratitude to our seniors so please can someone give up there seat?"
It seems the girl still had fight but had come to an annoying resolution after being faced with the existence and that was to guilt trip others.

I once again observed the passengers and most were averting their gaze so they would not be bewitched by the girl as she portrayed an innocent pleading yet determined posture with sparkling eyes and innocent smile.
My gaze seemed to find its way back to her who still hadn't shifted in her seat or shown interest in the situation but it seems I stared too long as she noticed my gaze, which was more like a stare or look of intrigue, I reverted back to looking at the floor letting the situation resolve itself.

Finally I am in-front of my school for 3 years all I have to do is take my first step and then my path, my goals, my obstacles and my success will become clear. For me this one small step was like one large leap and so I took my first step.
(A/N: Maybe a bit dramatic with the reference but I'm new to this)

grab* "I said wait!" My left arm had been grabbed by someone telling me to 'wait' but I don't know anyone here so nobody should need me to wait.
When I turned around I saw the long black hair of the girl from the bus. Along with her long black hair she had a clear complexion with beautiful red eyes, her build was also slim but well-endowed. But her stern look ruined her charm.

"What do you need with me?" I asked regretfully I was taking my first steps and she interrupted.

Horikita:"You kept looking at me on the bus why?" Admittedly I did look at her twice but really? Is that important I mean I observed everyone so why didn't they call me out?

"I was just looking around the bus but you seemed unwilling to give up your seat like me" Her face seemed to contort a little as if I had insulted her.

Horikita:"Don't assume we could ever be alike I didn't give up my seat because I chose not to"
Isn't that worse? and who said I was assuming we are similar and the tone in which that was said, does she mean she is like the boy and is a ' unique existence' if so that quite the superiority complex.

"I'm the same I didn't want to endure the trouble of standing"
This was a lie as in all honesty I didn't care but due to that places teaching where only the strong can survive and must survive for themselves I would gladly let the old woman stand and suffer because she was weak and inferior. However age could be a factor in an argument for he weaker physique and need for a seat but in that place I was taught that the new replace the old and that age is just a number and although your body gets weaker you can still be strong if you have enough resolve and willpower.

Horikita:"Like I said we are not the same I didn't do it to avoid trouble I did it because of my own principles but people like you who 'avoid trouble' disgust me"
With that she left taking her superiority complex with her.

Ahh...I have already witnessed 3 troublesome students and haven't even got to the ceremony yet. Hopefully I can avoid them and live freely.

That's all for my first part I don't really know what to title these as I'm new to this and the current title for this fan fic may change based on suggestions but I hope he ain't to OOC but I will be making changes as he will be more willing to sacrifice people
I don't have any ships for this as I don't know how it's going to go but if there is no overwhelming suggestion for a ship then I'm probably going to go for kiyokei
Also uploads may be slow as I have school but any feedback is appreciated

Part-2

"Boring" "Pointless" "Wasteful" "Huh. Oh! Finally it's over"
Those would be the thoughts of the majority of students after that entrance ceremony and I wouldn't blame them even I couldn't take any positives from it.
It was supposed to be my chance to observe some more students because we all had to gather here but the observations I could get were lacklustre.

From what I did see there was a bald tall student who had good attentive posture and gave of a reliable and trust worthy aura.

There was also a large foreign student who seemed heavy in muscle mass and had a sturdy looking frame perhaps due to exercise or martial arts, but that is just a guess with little to no evidence.
Also the she was here but I knew better than to look at her for more than a second but she did seem agitated?

I approached my classroom 1-D where some of my classmates were alarmist sitting either in groups or isolated.

Due to me being the last subject remaining in my generation I didn't have any experience with people my age and along with the isolated and education based nature of that place I was socially inept.

I had made my way around the class and found my seat in the back left near the window. A great position for me to observe social interaction and behaviour, however the camera in the corner above the door had me directly in its line of sight whereas the camera in the corner behind me had me in its blind spot but I was used to being observed and watched so I felt the presence of cameras instantly and didn't react to them. Cameras in class where normal due to the various materials and equipment kept in the classroom. On top of that it was government funded and 'opposed' to bullying so cameras were probably there to help lesson the number of incidents in the classroom.

(A/N: I don't know how many or where the cameras where in the Ln but there are 4 in total each in a corner to cover blind spots so they can record the phone usage and other incidents easier)

It seemed I was the only one who had noticed the cameras or if they did they didn't seem to care. I focused my gaze to the sky and was loosing my self in delusions of freedom.

"How unfortunate" That condescending and annoying tone of voice belonged to her a girl who I had hoped to have little to no interaction with as she was the embodiment of a superiority complex.
"To think I'll have to sit next to you for who knows how long it's painful" (A/N: At this point they didn't know they will stay in the same class for 3 years)
I had decided not to talk but the onslaught kept coming so I decided to use a method of conversation I had read about in a book and picked up from Tv shows

"Are you not going too far?"

"No like I said people like~"

"I mean first it was at the gate then the ceremony and now here" I decided to cut her off to avoid the lecture and continue with my plan.

"Wha~What are you insinuating?" Her piercing red eyes started to burn and her stern face became more rigid and stone like.

"Well it is only the first day and the second conversation we have had but you are following me all over some people may~Oof" Her eyes were burning and glaring at me with the intent to kill, her brow furrowed and her stern face had contracted and hardened. She had also forcefully delivered a knife hand to my right arm and was now ready for another attack.

"You! You, you. What do you think you are implying?" Her rage was seeping out as she could barely get out her words without shouting or attacking me.

However I needed to deliver my final attack in order to complete the method of causing girls to become flustered and speechless, a method I had recently picked up and was now testing for the first time teasing.
"Well I mean you keep following me and can't stop touching me first was at the gate and second was just now" Even for me this was an over exaggerating stretch and completely different from my usual personality but in order to get her to stop talking I had to successfully fluster her through teasing.

"You you. I knew you were just like them, a perverted animal don't think that will ever happen and don't talk or look at me again" She was now shaking and had veins pulsing on her forehead but it seems the teasing was successful. Although I think she now thinks I'm a creep. I hope my days can be peaceful and she won't do something as a result of this.

The door slid open and a tall blond haired student walked in with a confident and important posture and an aura of self confidence. His eyes gave the class a once over and as if he was satisfied he sat at his desk with his feet up and started filing his finger nails. This student was the perfect existence from the bus and he sat down at a desk with the name Koenji wrote on.

It seems as though this class has 2 our of the 3 troublesome students from the bus. One was self obsessed and talking or being near him seemed to bring a lot of attention and the other was a stern cold girl who brought nothing but crippling depression to those who talked to her, which sadly was only me.

Shortly after a woman around he early-mid 30's walked in. She had long brown hair tied in a pony tail with bangs swept to the left, her face was serious and her gaze was sharp similar yet more refined and focused to that of the superiority complexes.
Everyone took their seats and wired for her to talk.

" I am Chabashira Sae I teach Japanese history and will be your home room teacher for 3 years as classes do not change and the people around you will remain the same with some exceptions" Great I have to sit next to her for 3 years who knew freedom was so hard? Also what does she mean "exceptions"
"Here are some written materials about the school and it's special rules. Also their is a guide with a map of the school and the locations of various facilities which are provided and can be explored after home room because there are no lessons for the rest of today"

The forms were handed out and were similar to the ones Matsou had shown me and the rules seemed strict but were reasonable for what was provided.
A brief summary would be; No leaving campus as you will live in dorms which are speared by year group and the girls will have their own floors which the boys cannot go to after 8pm. Contact with the outside world is prohibited but they have compensated for that with facilities like shops, karaoke, cafe's and other recreational facilities.
The gyms had treadmills with oxygen masks and heart rate monitors along with private lockers and delegate showers which were elite high class equipment similar yet slightly inferior to those of that place.

"I will now explain a little about the s-system so listen carefully~" Her tone was indifferent but it seemed as if some of her words had hidden meanings or the word choices/ phrasing its self was hinting at something. "You will each receive your own individual school ID which you will need to compete transactions. Anything at school can be bought with points 1 point is equal to 1 yen and points will be allocated at the start of each month"

It sounds basic and simply with the ID being like a credit or bank card and the points being the equivalent of money. However some words started to nag and prick at my paranoid and suspicious brain " transaction" "anything" those words seemed out of place and added to my growing suspicions.

After taking a short breath she continued, "Points however will be collected at the end of your 3rd year as they have no value outside of this school and threatening or trying to commit fraud in order to get more points is a breach of the school rules. You have been allocated 100,000 points this month."

As if a bomb had dropped the class became ecstatic and noisy with people exclaiming their plans on how to spend their points or on how they were "living the high life". I don't understand what the normal financial situation was for high school students but I knew 100,000 yen was absurd compared to that. My neighbour twitched and squirmed slightly in her chair 'seems she has noticed how weird this is as well'. Sensei was looking at the class with her usual serious face but there was a hint of malice and enjoyment behind that front, was something funny? My suspicions and senses were heightened although I still remained apathetic I was starting to deeply analyse and think about why she was like this.

"Surprised? Well this school evaluates it's students on merit and since you all passed the entrance exam you have been rewarded 100,000 points this month. Use your points how you want without restraint as I have already said they will be recollected at the end of your 3rd year" Her malice and enjoyment grew as if she watched our class. The superiority complex was shocked and speechless but even she could tell something was off if she was able to analyse as deeply as me was yet to be tested.

A conclusion had been drawn in my head from the various words and phrases so far but it was a baseless conclusion which I would not share unless someone arrived at a similar conclusion but the conclusion was this; Students receive points each month and they can be used for transactions but these points are based on merit which suggests they may change because the probability of people getting the same marks from the entrance exam meaning they based on passing but if merit was the evaluating factor then the points may change. Furthermore Sensei said this not next or every it was this and along with her amusement when she revealed the points it suggests that next month the points will change and the results will be interesting.
The use of transaction and anything implied the points will have a wide variety of uses but that is the most far fetched and baseless conclusion I had drawn but I also thought back to when Sensei said exceptions and concluded that the merit will determine who those exceptions are.

"Hmm, no questions well I look forward to seeing you school lives progress" As if mocking us Sensei said that and left the class which was still in disarray over the revelation which had just took place.

"Sorry but may I please have everyone's attention and time for a moment" A male student of average height with non dyed blonde hair and blue eyes stood confidently yet not imposingly at the teachers podium.

His uniform was smart and well kept making him look like a well kept honours student who would be reliable and well respected.

"Sorry for taking your time but I would like for us to do introductions so that we can get to know each other because we will be together for the next 3 years"
The boy spoke and seemed to capture the attention of almost everyone, he had already cemented his position in class so even if his introduction was embarrassing he would be fine.

"I'll go first so that you don't feel pressured. I am Yōsuke Hirata you can call me Yōsuke and I like playing sports mainly football. It's a pleasure to meet you all and I hope we can get along for the next 3 years" Wow. He not only got everyone's attention but he also aced his introduction and captivated the hearts of the girls due to his good looks and selfless nature.

"Oh oh! I'll go next~" The exited and childish voice rang through the classroom as the beige haired girl from the bus was practically bouncing up and down causing a lot of attention to be drawn to her and her *cough* focus I need to learn on how to do an introduction as Matsao said it will be the pillar and driving force of my social status for the next 3 years
but I couldn't help but focus on her~

"My name is Kikyō Kushida and none of my friends from middle school are here so I would like to make new friends with everyone here and in the rest of the school as well I hope we all get along and have fun creating memories together"*flashes innocent smile and changes body posture to seem more innocent and friendly*
Her introduction was popular amongst both boys and girls which was what Hirata lacked but the boys mainly seemed to be interested in her developed body as they had drool or hungry looking eyes. I just hoped she wouldn't try to force me into making memories with her and was also depressed that the 3 troublesome students from the bus had all followed me to this class, ahhh freedom I only hope I can enjoy you without interruption

As I was lost in thought various introductions had take place and one student whose name I forgot lied about being a baseball teams ace in middle school and now a rather eager boy was starting his.

"Hi! my name is Ike and I hate ikemen but love girls but no uggos! I'm looking for a girlfriend so let's get along" If I hadn't spent time outside of that place after it closed for 1 year I would have labelled him a player and would have not noticed the girls were being sarcastic when they called him "good looking" or exchanged giggles with each other but I knew better and knew he had committed social suicide and was being mocked only to later be labelled a pervert. Sadly he didn't come to this realisation and played along with the girls as they mocked him.

A few more introductions passed and then a red haired student kicked his desk *bang* "The fucks with this bullshit you think I'm just going to do these soppy introductions to make friends! Fuck this I didn't come her for friends" The student like his bear was hot headed and left before Hirata could reply and with that others followed him including her.

The introductions resumed with the perfect existence "I am Kōenji Rokusuke and I am the heir to the Koenji conglomerate I am a perfect existence and will not stand ugly things" His final statement put tension and unease in the air but he didn't care as he strolled out of the classroom ignoring Hirata's calls.

"It's your turn" Finally my introduction I had collected and evaluated each introduction and had formulated one of my own so here goes...

"Uh...etto...My name is Kiyotaka Ayanokōji...hmm...I don't have any hobbies...Let's get along" Silence followed by sympathetic claps lead by Hirata. My classmates had faces of pity or awkwardness after my introduction. I failed. No 'I fell at the first hurdle got up and was drop kicked down a flight of stairs' is the best way to explain it. How pitiful and they said I was the master piece .

A small amount of introductions were left-about 4 and then we all separated into groups and left.

Chapter was mainly focused on the introduction of the class and the rules and his options next will be more focused on progressing to the mid terms and the breakdown of the class.
Also he was told by Matsou that teasing girls was fun when he was reminiscing and used internet Sensei and a book on modern conversation and interaction to learn how to do it hopefully wasn't to OOC and next chapter will be out maybe by the weekend I dunno
Thanks for reading.

Part 3 Re-draft

After leaving class I went to the convenience store to buy some essentials and food for my room.

By some horrible and unfortunate coincidence she was here thankfully she looked like she was almost done due to her leaving earlier than me.

I had my basket and started to put the necessities in like deodorant, toothpaste~

"It's like a cruel joke at this point" So she finally noticed me not like I was hiding or anything but I just assumed she would be too self centred and focused on herself to notice me.
Also why does she keep speaking to me when she hates people like me and tells me not to speak to her?
"So not speaking then. Just back to your creepy staring"

It seems I was caught in my thoughts again, it was happening more frequently and was the thing that got me the most grief from this girl.

"Huh~no, no I was just thinking why do you keep talking to me when you say you hate and don't want to be around me?" I continued placing items in my basket moving around the store not caring if she continues talking to me.

"Don't flatter yourself you just seem to be everywhere I go"

"That's it?"

"Yeah that's perfectly~Hey don't ignore me!" My attention had been captured by what was hiding in the corner.

"Free? 3 items per month. What do you think of this?"

Just like her I couldn't help but make conversation but this was merely a test to see if she was capable and could become a useful subject err-I mean friend or not.

"Free hmm. I would say this school is suspicious but quite lenient wouldn't you say?" Hmm she has potential but I want to see more.

"Lenient hmm. I don't know but suspicious what do you mean?" Let's see what I'm working with.

"Well the 100,000 yen-or points per month and the fact we don't have to pay the gas water or electric bills for our apartment doesn't encourage people to develop money skills which is suspicious because you would think a government funded school would encourage those things"

"What else?"

"The free items on top of 100,000 points per months is suspicious" A good deduction but there are flaws which I should point out.

"Hmm yeah the points are suspicious especially with this free stuff but per month?" I stressed the per and hoped she would notice

"Per?" Ahh it seems she noticed but couldn't read between the lines.

Well I did try.

"Never mind" I took 3 items and so did she as we made our way to the counter.

The red haired hot head was holding up the line as he searched his pockets and yelled at the other customers.

"I'm getting it wait up" My opinion of him was already at rock bottom but if he forgot his ID it would reach a new low.

"Here I'll pay just pay me back later your holding up the line and causing a scene" I helped him to which he was grateful but I just wanted to jump the queue and get closer to my bed.

"Thanks man! I'll definitely pay you back just not used to carrying it on me you know? I used to carry money not some card"
Like I thought an ape has more brains. He forgot his ID which was necessary for purchases and tried to make a purchase.

"It's fine and you don't need to pay me back just don't forget it in future" I decided to try and form a relationship with the monkey and hopefully correct his behaviour but it will be a long road.

"Ahh thanks man I'll definitely not forget in future. Ken. Ken Sudõ since I didn't do those shitty introductions that's my name" I told him my name and left to go to my dorm.

Empty.

Something my room and I have in common. I placed my bags on the table and packed everything away

Tomorrow I would go get clothes and other utensils whilst getting a gym locker so I can store spare uniform for when I do daily morning exercise to maintain my physique.

Everything was packed away and now I was alone in my room ready to explore my new bed.

My head hit the pillow and I slept almost instantly.

A few months ago

*Beep*Beep*Beep*

A piercing beeping could be heard as grey smoke filled the room taking all the air out of the room and the boy.

"Master. Master! What is~*cough*~ open the win~*cough*"
The coughing mess of a butler raced towards the windows opening them allowing the thick grey smoke to escape.

Once he recovered his breath he asked "What on earth were you thinking and doing to create this mess"

The boy simply looked at the butler unfazed and emotionless and said in the same monotone voice "I was trying to make a full English but it seems something went wrong"

Something was an understatement as the butler looked at the 2 charcoal slabs of what used to be bread followed by the sight of shrivelled black bacon sausages.
He put the black stuff in the bin but couldn't understand how this child, the child they call the master piece could go this wrong with breakfast

"Yes sir something seems to have gone wrong maybe we should start by learning how to make a fruit salad or maybe going near knives with your cooking skill may result in loss of fingers" The butler mumbled the last part still unable to comprehend the burnt "food" the boy had produced.

The next morning

I woke up at 6am as usual and just like everyday outside that place I began my morning training after getting ready in uniform.

School starts at 8:45am and it's a 10 minute walk from the dorms to the school so I will have to be ready to leave my room at 8:30 leaving 1 hour and 30 minutes to train and 45 minutes to shower and get ready for school.

After planning I did a 15 minute warm up consisting on stretches, squats, sit-ups and press-ups: 2 reps of 30. Then taking my phone I began my hour run, making sure to come back sweaty and fatigued while also making sure not to cause any micro tears, but the 15 minute warmup should cover that.

Finally after a 15 minute cool down composed similar to my warmup except with more emphasis on stretches I began making my breakfast with my limited skills before taking a shower and heading towards school.

Lessons were dull and boring for me but I guess if you were doing this work at the age of 7 you would find it natural unchallenging and boring and so I spent most my time looking out the window to the free cloudy blue sky.

On a more positive note my relationship with her was drastically better however we were far from friends or acquaintances but were different to just classmates or neighbours.
To better explain it we acknowledge the other is there and have formalities like saying "good morning" but other than that we don't look or try to talk to each other further.

Lessons were over and lunch was beginning and I started to make my way out towards the cafeteria to observe some more students, specifically the second and third years to finalise my almost concrete theory.

grab* "Wait!" Deja vu? This time however my hand was grabbed by the angel from the bus.
(A/N:He isn't suspicious as they have had no interactions he just wants to avoid her as she brings unneeded attention and causes jealousy between the boys)
She let go of my hand and showed of her sweet innocent smile.
My defences started to crack and break as she was very close to me and upon closer inspection she would be described as beautiful by many.

Her short beige hair was flowing to one side as she tilted her head cutely and flashed her sparkling eyes, her average heigh and slim but not skinny body was slightly tilted forward and to the left too. At this range I could see she was well developed and that they were rather large but not too large seemingly complementing her figure while also drawing attention.

"Ummm...Ayanokõji-kun I'm sorry to bother you but I was hoping to get your contact and your help" I was snapped from my thoughts about her body
(A/N:Sounds wrong but not like that for now) and remembered her wanting to make friends with everyone and how she started to ask for peoples contacts yesterday.

"Yes sorry, I left early yesterday so you probably didn't get it. Here" I deliberately left yesterday to avoid this but due to onlookers I had to give her my contact or be branded evil or a monster by her social network, but then again I'm probably over exaggerating.

"Thank you Ayanokõji-kun let's get along" She seems satisfied so I started walking away again
*grab* "Sorry but can you please help me with something?"

She grabbed my hand again and started to do something weird with her eyes, once again if I refuse I will attract more attention than I am now and will lose my freedom but I am in the mindset to slam her up against the wall and~

"Are you sure you want my help I mean I am a loner. Hirata would be better" I hope she doesn't persist just please take pity and leave me alone, she is now becoming more troublesome than her and that is hard to do believe me.

"No Hirata-kun can't help you see only you can because it's about Horikita-san"

"Who?"

"Horikita-san your seat mate, you know the girl next to you with black hair?" Why do I have to be the middle man for these conflicting polar opposite personalities's friendship?

"I can't help you with that our relationship doesnt even function so I couldn't persuade her to be friends with you if we barely talk" I hope she will understand I mean I didn't even know her name~not that I cared but still.

That should be enough to let her know we don't get along right?

"Really but you're the only one I and my other friends have seen her talk to so are you sure?" She is persistent but extremely idiotic if she thinks she can make friends with Horikita

"Yes I'm sure I mean I didn't even know her name until you told me so that's our relationship..."
I left a pause so my next advice will sink in, if Sensei does it why can't I?~Although her hints have yet to be figured out.
"Kushida in my honest opinion and from our brief talks I would leave Horikita to her own isolation because no matter what you, me or Sensei try I don't think she will change do you understand that?"
Even if she doesn't I have carefully crafted this argument so that she will leave me be even if she continues to push this friendship.

Kushida was silent and looked to be in deep thought for a few seconds and then steeled her resolve. "I appreciate your advice but I will continue to push for this because this is my goal and thank you for your contact I hope we can make some memories"

We both parted ways and I went to the cafeteria and observed some students while eating the free meal with the free water to save points as my theory was now confirmed.

Our next class was swimming and we would have to go to the indoor pool area but I needed to go early to purchase a locker for 3 months along with a gym membership which grants me access to the machines in the gym at any time before 8pm and after 4am.

The loud and energetic atmosphere of the boys changing room could be heard from even the girls changing room.

"Swimsuits Haruki! I mean girls in swimsuits"

No doubt the girls could hear his bellowing proclamations of excitement but his road to social suicide was set in stone at this point.

"Yeah Kanji I can't wait! I mean Kushida! In a swimsuit"

"Hey Haruki keep your eyes off she's mine! But yeah I mean they are big and will be on full display! Haruki this is it...our youth!"

"Kanji I can't believe it either!~Do you think Hasebe will be in a swimsuit with those!"

I couldn't follow nor wanted to follow their conversation about youth but I wonder what they mean by "they are big" and "those"

Then again they have a troubling way of thinking so I didn't want a part of it even when they tried to approach me to get me to make a bet.

"H-hey cmon why won't you listen to the bet your not that are you?" Ike asked with an air of fear and caution.

Now all eyes were on me but why?

"What do you mean that?" I needed to know my knowledge of the outside world was still minimal and developing each day but it seems that is something which will affect my social standing so I'm intrigued.

"H-hey I mean...you like girls...don't you?" Yamauchi asked me and it all came together.

"Those" and "they are big" refers to their breasts. Although it is a rather bold and disrespectful way of describing a woman's breasts but they are the " perverted duo" as I heard girls call them.
Then the question they asked me meant do I prefer boys over women however that is something I didn't feel like people asked others these days~

"It's okay if you don't...you know? We won't judge much" Sudo who mumbled the last part said to me breaking my chain of thought.

"I do not have an attraction to the male sex and I am confident in my attraction to the opposite sex but I just go about things differently to you guys I guess"

"Well who cares let's go look at the girls" Ike shouted charging out the changing room.

Hirata, me and one other boy who was the person in-front of me in class were left behind.

"I think I should go make sure nothing bad happens" Hirata said with a defeated bitter smile.

Me and the other boy just nodded at each other following Hirata as Ike's cries echoed throughout the pool area.

*Time skip April 30th*

The first month of school was over and tomorrow everything would change.

Some of the smart academically gifted students may have figured out that even if it is a government school 100,000 yen per student per month equates to 576 million yen for all 3 year groups over the duration of 1 academic year assuming there is 40 students per class.

Which is a stupid amount of money for a school

However those calculations are part but not all of the picture because they follow the assumption of 100,000 yen per month which is where those academically gifted fail because nobody had got the hints or they hadn't said they did at least.

Either way I'm looking forward to tomorrow to see the faces they make.

Will they break?

What excuses will they say?

What is Horikita going to say? do? or look like?

These questions flooded my mind and for the first time my life has started to become unpredictable.

I know I said the next will focus on progressing to the mid terms but I needed to lay the ground work for things like Kushida, the working relationship with Horikita and had to open an ally way for Akibro to be introduced.
Next one will be the announcement of the class points and the defectives but I will still save sudo and the others from the mid terms but the reason behind it will be made clear in that chapter
If you wondered Kiyo didn't bother to learn or ask for Horikita's name and she was the same so that's why he only learned it from Kushida.
My consistency with uploading and length may change, although I don't want it to, due to my online lessons, assessment and other school related things so if it does I'm sorry
Also I hope I used the -kun and -san properly

Thanks for reading next chapter may be by the weekend though.
I have just cut some of the paragraphs and stuff to make it less blocky but the story hasn't changed also I will release the next chapter in 2 parts to keep them from being too long.
I'm just trying this out as I'm new to this but yeah thanks again

Part-4 (1)

May 1st

Here it is the big reveal.

The revelation.

Today the curtain will be pulled from under my classmates and they will realise their situation.

I was currently waiting on a bench near the gymnasium after finishing my 2 hour exercise.
I wanted to go to class but...I had to wait.

I mean for a guy like me who usually comes early, but not early as Horikita and some other students, to be there lying in wait in class would be suspicious.

Then again I was said to have no presence so I could have pulled it off but it would raise flags to Horikita.

I started to make my way to class and at this time there would only be 5-8 students out of 40 present in the classroom so my presence wouldn't be out of place.
On my walk I reviewed last month and what I had achieved, to some-if not all students my experience last month would be considered unsatisfactory to them but I learned and achieved a lot so I was happy.

First my peaceful school life was secure in its bubble and the threats; Koenji, Kushida and Horikita just let me be.
Horikita and my relationship was now of neighbours as we exchange greetings and recognise that the other exists. This is a milestone for our relationship and will stop future hostility and problems.

Second I have been able to see through the school and handle my finances securing me 81,391 points, I had bought a locker and gym pass for 3 months and a 3 sets of gym clothes, necessary toiletries and basic nutritional food that will help maintain my physique

Thirdly something in me has changed. At first even I didn't or wouldn't understand it but due to me helping out the monkey-Sudo I was invited to a group chat with Sudo, Ike, Yamauchi and Sotomura-also called the professor. The talks often revolve around girls in our class and their breast sizes but I usually steered clear of those and sometimes found myself talking to the professor.
At first I thought the title was not reflective of its possessor...but I was wrong. Through my talks with him I learned more on teasing~also realised how Horikita was enraged at the start of the year and not flustering because of the teasing~I also learned about how a girl acts when flustered and many a method of reward the "head-pat".
However I realised my social circle was boys so I could not employ this new found wisdom. Ike suggested using it on Horikita but I am no idiot. Also he was only doing it to eliminate the competition going for Kushida.

The change came suddenly when one night I found myself unconsciously participating in a discussion about the female form and girls in our class. When I was participating and thinking about their bodies and bre~*cough* personalities I felt something awakening and rising like a dragon inside me.

"Hirata-kun what's going on? Please tell us what's happening?"..."Hey Ken did you get points yet?"..."M-m-my...wh-what's happening?"

Distraught feeble voices were exiting my classroom, the usual care-free atmosphere was one of fear. Fear that those who are on 0 points will have to live the month on nothing.
The usual colourful and expressionate faces were pale and ghostly.

This is it.

The result I wanted.

The stage was set by the school and I was watching from the audience as my class danced in the schools hands and then the school brought down its fists sparing no one, not even Horikita from the grand reveal.
Koenji the self obsessed existence which even exceeds the self adoration of the most extreme narcissist's was showing a more annoyed expression while still maintaining his self confident demeanour.

I took my seat but instead of looking at the overcast and gloomy sky I was observing my gloomy fractured class.
If I could feel emotions I wonder what would I be feeling right now; joy? excitement? condescension? Or would I feel guilty for not warning my class about what's to come?

"I suppose you have already seen or pieced it together but our points haven't changed and roughly 70% of the class is on 0 points" Horikita was right, after the first week of school the majority of students had spent at least half their points and with the extravagant lifestyle of the girls their points almost vanished instantly.

"Hmmm. The points or 'lack there of' has created quite the wound for our class. We are more disorganised and in greater disarray than usual"
I at least thought half the class was smarter than this but 70% no wonder the class is acting how it is.

The door slid open and what entered was coldness.

Chabashira-Sensei walked to the podium, each time her black heel struck the floor our classmates flinched or contorted.

The air became thick and cold as she stool at the podium her serious face and cold sharp eyes made the class shrink in fear.

"S-s-Sensei! Our points! Wh-what happened to our points?" The usual loud Ike fumbled and muttered as he spoke with desperation in his eyes.

"Ohh...Your points? Well I can tell you they have been allotted are you perhaps... unhappy with them?" Sensei was cruelly mocking us, her cold sharp eyes were shredding the last remaining pieces of hope and her stern face made Ike shrink back in his chair.

This was definitely a change to what usually happened with home room and class and the difference was more than what our class could bare given the circumstances.

"B-but Sensei we haven't been given any points." Even Kushida had lost her usual overbearing positive charm and was sounding defeated.

But this wasn't enough.

In order for her and the whole class to break we needed 1 more push.

"No I can assure you your points were allowed" Sensei was still cold but something was building up with her tone.

"The perfect existence has solved your riddle Sensei"

"What is the riddle then Koenji" Sensei was even mocking Koenji.

"Our points are 0 because we are class D" Satisfied with his conclusion Koenji still yet to take his eyes off his reflection started to slick his hair back.

"You are correct that your points are 0 but the rest was not so accurate." Still to to belittle or mock Koenji Sensei said that and if sensing what will happen turned to Hirata.

"Sensei tell us. Tell us why are points are 0 maybe we can get them back or~" Hirata had stated pleading with Sensei-as expected from the selfless leader of Class-D.

(A/N:Words in bold are like emphasised and said in a harsher and disgusted tone but the words in italics are said in a mocking/belittling/condescending tone)

"Ha!Hahahaha..." Sensei had interrupted Hirata with a cynical and unnerving laugh. The class felt even more depressed as the last bit of pride was being laughed away, even the usually smiling and calm Hirata seemed unnerved and annoyed at Sensei.
"You-you think you Class-D, worthless defective pathetic trash deserve 100,000 points every month. Hahaha! Your pathetic"

That was it the final push.

Instantly all hope of regaining points was gone, hope pride confidence joy even the light from the sun was being devoured by the hole we had dug and Sensei had not only poured gasoline on us but had lit and threw a match at us.

Hirata Kushida Ike Sudo Horikita. I looked at them all. All defeated annoyed hopeless but Horikita looked even more horrified and disgusted as her hand trembled whilst holding her pen.

"Look at you...look at your pathetic shocked faces. You really are ugly defectives" Unrelenting consecutive stabs were being delivered by Sensei as her sharp belittling gaze dominated the class.

Her usual serious face now showed a sadistic cold smile as she mused in the classes pitifulness.

"Do you really think you are worth 100,000 yen a month. Well...? Where is your usual loud ignorant attitude now? Ike where are your pathetic stupid antics?" The attacks were still coming and now she was targeting specific individuals as if the class wasn't crushed enough.

"Sensei I think that's enough" Hirata had a defeated pleading tone but still tried to carry the weight of the class on his back~like Atlas.
"Sensei you also didn't answer our question how did we lose our points maybe we~"

"So you can speak Hmm..." Her attacks were still continuing but Hirata was looking at her for answers barely able to stand on his shaky legs. "You lost the points through your behaviour. 98 instances of being late or absent to class 391 instances of talking or using cell phones, so why should you get 100,000 yen if you behave worse than children"

Sensei had a point and her flawless argument would leave no room to relent but...

"If you told us then we could. No wouldn't do those things" Hirata once again bearing responsibility for the class desperately tried but there is no arguing. We dug this hole, this grave and now we should lie in it.

Why am I saying "we" well that's because I too dug this hole but I did it of my own accord and for this exact purpose.

"You completely lack logic and reason but for amusing me I will ask you this: were you not taught how to behave in a classroom before coming here?"

"..." Hirata couldn't respond. He finally shrunk back and accepted that this is our mess.

*Slam*Sensei slammed a large white sheet on the board and rolled it out. "Your results from the previous pop quiz. Even this shows how pathetic you are because if this was the mid term~" Sensei starred to draw a red line above 7 people's names "~these 7 would be expelled"

The attacks that were thought to have stopped and the surprises that were thought to have all passed came back for one last vicious attack and that was our position in school was now under threat. "The mid terms are coming up so let's see how many of you fail."

"Lastly here are the class point rankings:
Class A-94 0
Class B-650
Class C-490
Class D-0
The 100% employment rate is also limited class-A, you can move up classes if you get more points or use another method but that is all for home room."

Silence. Not dull, awkward or nervous just silence. That was all that could be heard from the carcass of Class-D.
My bags were packed and I was leaving for my dorm as classes were done for the day.

"Ayanokõji Kiyotaka of Class 1-D come to the guidance room"

The hostile glares from my class turned on me like a pack of wild starved carnivorous animals, of course this would be expected after the beat down this morning they didn't want to suffer any more losses and being summoned to the guidance room was something that only happened to trouble makers.

Got some free time so I wrote this.
Will be split in 2 parts as I've got to figure out explanations and read up on this chapter from the novel
Sensei was a tad more aggressive and disrespectful to the class but that will be explained when she threatens Kiyo and tells her story.

Part 4 (2)

I escaped the glares and made my way to the guidance room. *knock* "Come in!" A sweet voice called to me.

Upon entering I found a woman of average height with chest length brown hair and shining purple eyes adjusting her hair in the mirror.

"Is Chabashira-Sensei here?"

"Oooh! Sae-chan! No she just went out but you can wait here for her."
Her attitude and speech was far different to Sensei's~one was cold and ruthless and the other childish and open~but I would rather not stay in this room it would only bring trouble.

"I'll wait outside" I left and rested my back on the wall closing my eyes.

"Say why did Sae-chan call you here?" I didn't even notice her follow me, seems I was too fixated on getting this over with and let my guard down

"Hmm...I don't know" I tried to sound like a dull boring unenthusiastic student but everything I say with this monotone voice sounds the same.
I just hope she leaves me alone.

"Hmm? You don't know...that's weird perhaps...hehehee~"

Finding something funny within her childish mind she giggled but then got closer to me. I opened my eyes and turned my head to face her, the distance was almost non existent so if someone saw us they could get the wrong idea.

"Do you have a girlfriend?" Uhhhh...what?

"No..." I sound pathetic but she found great interest in this and her eyes started to light up.

"Are you popular...or a womaniser...or is it because your too innocent?" I don't have words.

This is like one of those "anime protagonist" things professor told me about but...are teachers really supposed to be like this with their students?

"No I am just...a loner. I don't really have any friends..." It was true and also very pathetic even if it was by choice.

"Well I would be your friend if we were in the same class mr?" She now got closer and her eyes were shining brightly matching her cheeky childish smile

"Ayanokõji Kiyotaka" I said and then she latched onto me interlocking one of my hands fingers with hers and then placing another on my chest.

"My my! Hehehee~your quite strong and sturdy aren't you Kiyotaka- kun"
She was giggling as she caressed my abs and then whispered my name in my ear.

Her warm breath and closeness threw me completely off and a fire had started burning within me.

This was bad if we were seen my peaceful life of being overlooked and ignored by the class would shatter but if we stayed like this then things may take a turn as the fire was starting to get out of control.

The professor had taught me many things but they were all about maintaining and keeping a girls attention and teasing would have the opposite effects here.

I instantly thought about Ike.

What would he do?
I mean he is unrivalled in his ability to repulse girls so what should I do.

I had two conclusions; lick her cheek whilst sliding my free hand around her waist or grab her breast~both were what Ike said he wanted to do so they seemed like the best way to repulse her, but both could either get me expelled or give her the wrong idea...

Smack* "What are you doing to my student?" Sensei was standing there with a fierce glare and had smacked a clipboard on this teachers head

For the first time I was actually thankful to see her

"Oww...your so mean Sae-chan but we were just talking weren't we Kiyotaka-kun" She showed a sweet but defiant smile as her grip on my hand tightened.

"Chie-chan I need to speak with Ayanokõji-kun so let him go...Now follow me Ayanokõji-kun" Sensei turned and walked off after "Chie-chan" let go of me.

"I told Ayanokõji-kun to follow not you" Sensei was now glaring at "Chie-chan" who was quietly following us.

"My don't get defensive, I was just wondering what Sae-chan wanted with Kiyotaka-kun" She said as she grabbed my hand again interlocking our fingers and stood next to me like a couple would pressing her warm soft breasts into my arm.
The fire was raging now and my mind started to wander~

Sae-Sensei had an even more intense glare but their confrontation was ended by a strawberry blonde haired beautiful girl.

"Hoshinomiya-Sensei can we please talk about the student council?" She glanced over to me with her sea-blue eyes and then back to Chie-chan.

(A/N: the "" on Chie-chan ended because before he was using the nickname without knowing what to properly refer to her as but now he knows her name the "" are dropped. Also I'm keeping the -chan because it adds to the nickname even though he doesn't use honorifics)

"Look your needed by your student now go" Sae-Sensei said as she smacked Chie-chan on the butt and dragged me away.

I was dragged away but I couldn't help but look back to the slightly sad Chie-chan and the strawberry blonde beauty that had saved me.
Chie-chan noticed my look and gave a smile and a wink before both us re-focused our attention.

Sae-Sensei dragged me into a room with a desk and door at the back, we went through the door into a mini kitchen.

"Is ice-tea too much to ask for?" My joke to ease the tension just seemed to deepen Sae-Sensei's anger towards me.

"Don't move or make a sound if you do. You will be expelled"

My eyes slightly widened and the darkness flickered but I had to control myself or she would continue to use expulsion as a threat against me.

She left the room and stood staring at the door opposite to the one I am behind with her clipboard in hand.

Possibly as a result of Chie-chan my heart rate was slightly elevated but I soon returned it to normal and the blazing fire had subsided.

What was that?

Knock knock*

"Come in"

The door opened and there stood my stern faced neighbour. Her eyes were no longer hollow and her stern gaze had returned souring her appearance.

"Well Horikita-san why did ask to consult with me?" Ohh~ I'm getting a bad feeling about this.

"Yes I want to know if it was a mistake"

"Mistake? What was a mistake Horikita- san" Sae-Sensei knew why she was here but was dragging this out for some reason.

"My placement in Class-D. I have looked at it and thought about it many times but I can't see any reason for me being with them"

Glad to see she has still maintained her superiority complex.

"Oh...and why would there be a mistake with your placement? Horikita- san" Sensei is once again toying with her but why? I don't see a point in riling Horikita up now.

"Well I know I did considerable well on my entrance exam and should have passed the interview so how is my merit on the level of them"

Horikita you still haven't learned about the tricks of the school yet and your naive way of thinking is blinding you.

"Yes there were no problems with the interview and for the entrance exam you came 3rd in the entire year...I even have your test paper to show how well you did want to see?"

"Seems your well prepared for this but yes show me"

If she has Horikita's exam and she's there for a meeting and I'm eavesdropping then...she has my exam most likely. Hmm...this shouldn't be a problem I am just average.

Perfectly average.

"Very well but it won't change anything" Sensei took out the exam from her clipboard and placed it on the desk but her statement should have rung alarm bells.

"What do you mean won't change anything"

"Who knows?"
Sensei paused before continuing "but who said classes were based on academics alone?"

I heard Horikita shuffle in her seat. Guess she wasn't expecting this.

"But that's just common sense!" Horikita was shocked as she was slowing seeing the schools true face behind its lenient mask.

"Yes and that common sense created the broken Japanese society we live in now. A system where the smart rise to the top and those that can't compete at that level fall behind or are held down by those at the top who aren't confident in maintaining their position just like the current society were social status defines worth. Is this not the common sense you are thinking about?"

It was a well reasoned argument and described the problems without needing much description but now the question is what determines your worth in this school?

"Well...I still don't see how this is relevant to me and my placement in class D"

Wow! Your ego is on the same level as Koenji's~no he is something...something different.

"Well I will explain again the school judges it's students based on merit which defines their and their classes worth. You worth is Class-D and no matter how much you protest it will remain that way"

Merit determines worth? Interesting.

Now I know how I was placed in class-D~not that I care but if we are based on merit then our pasts should be taken into account and for me whose only history is a birth certificate, my level of merit should be unknown.
Then again if we are judged on merit and I have no history to be judged on then why was I admitted?

"No your wrong my evaluation is wrong"

"The evaluation is not wrong. You see our school is merit based however we maintain the ideal of equality of opportunity meaning even if you are in class D C or B you can rise and replace class A although no class-D has accomplished this before..."

Sensei trailed off in thought slightly then returned to question the stubborn student before her.

"Horikita-san what is so wrong with your current evaluation? Being evaluated in Class-A is said to be very stressful and people would gladly be underestimated than put in the higher classes. You know someone like that don't you?"
I feel that was directed at me and because I am listening in I guess I'm not wrong.

"People like that I can't comprehend and despise and if you are hinting towards Koenji then I would say he has yet to show some real contribution or evidence of his perfectness"

She's definitely going to go back to hating me when she finds out but hating is better than using.

"Well unfortunately for you Horikita-san your evaluation will not change"

"Well that's fine thank you for your time but if you won't see it then I will go talk with someone higher up"

"The answer will be the same no matter who you ask or how long you persist. Horikita Suzune is a student of Class 1-D and that is that"

"Well if that is the case I will find out when I ask them but I'm leaving" Horikita's pride is clearly wounded but something won't allow her to let go.
It's like she needs to be in Class-A.

"Before you go do you want to learn about who the student you despise so much is?"

Even if I knew this was coming this is too troublesome but why is she going out of her way to involve me?

"What do you mean Sensei?"

"Ayanokõji-kun come out it's time we talked"

If I remember correctly she said "don't move or you'll be expelled" so~

"Now or you'll be expelled" Guess I'll have to bow to her threats for now.

"Hi"

"Wh-what is the meaning of this?" Horikita was angry but also very confused as to why Sae-Sensei did this.

"This Horikita-san is someone you should pay attention to"

poof* This was the sound as my peaceful lates back life went up in smoke.

"But he's just plain what do you mean Sensei?" That hurts and here I thought we were neighbours.

"Hoh? Hahaha~" Sensei let out a confused noise and chuckled lightly "~plain you say well he certainly is plain but what about when you look at this"

Just like I confirmed earlier she had my entrance exam results but that didn't matter they just show me to be average. Don't they?

"50 marks in every subject and on the most recent pop quiz you got 50 marks to care to explain how you are perfectly average" Sensei had a smug and amused smile but I will make her regret this.

"It's just a coincidence and I'm not perfect just ordinary" There is no escape for this, my results had cornered my and Sensei's way with words have me in the perfect checkmate.
This probably won't end here, I don't know why but I can't help but think this.

"Hmm? Coincidence how interesting... Well Horikita-san what do you think?"

"Ay-ayanokõji-kun what is the meaning of this?"

"Coincidence that's all no need to overthink things or keep this going right?" I have to end this and get back to my room to plan ahead to prevent further misuse of her power

"Coincidences seem to just follow you around don't they" Horikita now knows I'm more than I let on but this isn't even the surface of what I am.

"Well this little meeting as fun as it was is over leave this room, I have a briefing to go to"

We left the room and started to walk off. Horikita knew she could get nothing from me so didn't try to pry at least for now. Maybe she is still digesting the information?

"Oh Horikita-san there is another method of getting to Class-A which is using 20 million points to transfer class but no one has accomplished this...then again your too proud to do this aren't you?" Sensei said this with a smile as a last parting gift and walked off to her briefing.

The walk to the dorms was silent and awkward but both of us knew neither would answer the others questions.

Well this is this done, hope you liked Chie-chan and I made her a bit more childish and unprofessional than usual, also Kiyotaka has been corrupted by Professor and Ike.
I am writing a SS type thing with Chie and Sae-chan which will be shorter than my normal chapters
Next should be study group and Manabu but I might split that into 2 parts to shorten the length I dunno ️

Just Chie-chan being herself

3rd person POV.

Still May the first but in Sae-chan's apartment at night.

A moderately drunk Chie-chan is cuddled up to a tipsy Sae-chan talking on the Sofa while the news is on in the background.

"So Sae-chan's class has 0 points hehe~" Chie said this teasingly as she tried to tickle Sae.

"We do have school tomorrow and yet your in a state like this...and yes this year class D is the worst of the worst" Sae put a little distance between her drunk friend but Chie closed it immediately.

"Hmm but why was *hiccup* Kiyotaka-kun called by you?" Chie was wondering this ever since he was dragged away and now would finally get her answer.

"Internal matters I can't speak them to you"

"Hehe~don't tell me Sae...Hehe~*hiccup*" The drunken child poked Sae' cheek and laughed to her self.

"Wha~No! Unlike someone I am very professional" Sae couldn't believe what her friend was implying.

"Ohh...Hehehe~that's good. Kiyotaka-kun is all mine then" Chie was smiling and laughing to herself but Sae was staring to get protective of her "trump card"

"Did Ayanokõji-kun give you permission to use his first name and why are you so interested?"

"I can call my handsome Kiyotaka-kun whatever I want and why where you interested in him Sae?" Chie had flipped the question and the rivalry between these friends stated to surface again

"Don't call him that and stop acting like he belongs to you it's unprofessional and will get you in trouble" Sae had a stern face as she acted like a bigger sister to this immature child.
"And like I said it was a class matter I was just a mediator"

"Ahhh...Sae-chan I know you telling fibbies but I'll let you of the hook for now" She smiled with a hint of bitterness and poked Sae's face again before giggling to herself.

"Sae-chan are you sure you don't...for Ki-yo-ta-ka-kun?" After each syllable of his name Chie poked Sae's cheek

"Like I have said absolutely not I am mature enough to keep my work and private life separate" Sae was getting annoyed and slapped her friends finger away from her cheek.

"Hmm...well you are mature~hehehee" Chie laughed and poked Sae's stomach this time.
"...But let me tell you Sae-chan your missing out!" This statement was full of enthusiasm and Chie was practically bouncing on the sofa

"Care to explain Chie-san" Sae was now interested to see what her friend saw in this boy who never changed his emotionless face or monotone voice.

" Now now Sae-chan you said you weren't interested in my Kiyotaka-kun...but I will say that he is handsome even if his face doesn't change and his body is strong and well defined...you know Sae-chan he could probably go all night and it would be sooo..."

She trailed off into her thoughts and snuggled into Sae-chan passing out due to the alcohol leaving Sae-chan speechless.

Kiyotaka POV

Today started off so good but Sae-Sensei had to ruin it.

My calling to the guidance room garnered attention from my class and then I met the most odd and childlike teacher.

Chie-san

I was calling her that nickname to remind myself of her immature personality and as a warning to keep my distance.

Horikita was now going to rely and expect things from me which were going to be tiring and if I didn't comply either Horikita or Sae-Sensei could expose me.

All those thoughts stuck in my mind but what kept me from sleeping was the memory of what her.

Her fingers interlocked with mine, the warmth of her hand, the warmth of her breath which tickled my ear, the feeling of her soft warm breasts pressing against my arm.

The fire I felt earlier still hadn't subsided but then I started to think what if I chose one of those options...

If I chose to lick her cheek while sliding my free hand around her waist what would she do?

Well she would either scream and back away and bring it up in a meeting

Or

Would she become flustered and attracted to it and try to do something like biting me ear or pulling me back into the guidance room.

Then there was option 2: grabbing her breast and pushing her against the door frame

This was without a doubt sexual assault~Ike still wanted to do it no matter how many times I told him.

But with her actions she may have been aroused and welcomed because she was touching me.

Hmmm...these were troublesome and unusual thoughts for me but I couldn't help think them...

Is this youth?

Chie-san is a mess but has stated her claim for Kiyo~I don't think I will try and write them ending up together or doing a NTR/one shot type thing but maybe...
Also Hornkoji is starting to come out but I struggle with writing these things so I dunno
I said friend because their relationship in the Ln was friends but there was something between them so I did that to allude to something.
Also do you think Chie tried it on with Manabu and Nagamo or is kiyo just that special?

Next update will be study group and Manabu maybe a cameo from Hiyori but my head hurts from school work so I dunno when the next update will be. ️

Part 5

It has been 1 week since the reveal of how defective Class-D is and the class has made some drastic changes.

Lateness, talking, sleeping and using phones in class are all a thing of the past.

Students are also more focused and participative in lessons but that's probably due to the threat of expulsion in the upcoming mid-term.

Study groups had been formed by the leader Hirata and revision materials were made by Yukimura Teruhiko Hirata and Mei-Yu Wang.

The study group~although only being active for 4 days~sounded very promising and would help raise people above the passing mark of 32.

Me, Horikita~obviously, Koenji and not surprisingly the three idiots-Sudo, Ike and Yamauchi all declined Hirata's invite to the study group.

Lunch had began and just like any other day I would go get the free meal and mix in some sushi and rice I made at home.

As long as it didn't involve cooking it seems I could make food.

However what happened next would affect the rest of my day. If not my run-up to the mid-term.

"Ayanokõji-kun would you like to eat lunch with me?"

"Eh?"

Horikita. The girl who barely speaks to me. The girl who hasn't spoken to me since she learned about my scores~which weren't so average or normal I figured out. Had now invited me out for lunch?

"Well you have no friends and always eat alone with a look of longing for the friends you can't have. So I have taken pity on you and have invited you to have lunch"

She said all that with the same face. This girl really knows how to insult people, and I thought I was the heartless one.

"No" I can see through this scheme and won't help.

stab* "Ow"

I tried to make it sound like it hurt but it sounded weird and even she made a weird face and stabbed me again with her compass.

Wait...she just stabbed me!

Is she insane or does she perhaps have mental problems.
If this is her method of socialising then it will cause problems in the future but for now I'll bend to her will.

"Fine lead the way"

We arrived at the cafeteria, after receiving suspicious glances from our class causing murmurs to break out~I had already been told by Ike that there are rumours of me and Horikita dating.

"Buy whatever you want I will pay"

"You will pay huh?"

Well if that's the case then this is a trap of some sorts but I have already been stabbed twice with a compass but there are forks here so I best not risk anything.

But if she is paying I guess I can indulge myself.

We sat down at an empty table next to each other.
She was looking at me waiting for me to eat.

Yeah...definitely a trap.

"You can eat you know. After all you did buy the most expensive set so it will be a waste of it goes cold" She is still looking at me but my fate was sealed when Sae-Sensei revealed my exam scores so I guess I had been preparing for this moment.

I took a bite and instantly the Devil pounced "Now since you have eaten the food which I kindly paid for you will listen and act upon my request"

sigh* "I never thought you of all people would stoop so low"

It was truly depressing but I kept eating waiting for her to explain.

"Yes well you are an exception for my usual behaviour"

"Why is that?"

"We both know what I mean but also your refusal to help or display your talent is annoying and disappointing to me so I need to force your hand"

She said all that with a slight look of disgust but I was still eating the food she bought.

"What do you need?"

"The three idiots didn't join the study group with Hirata"

"I know it's because they are jealous his fan club"

"What?"

"It's hard to explain" It truly was. Ike and Yamauchi hated Hirata because he was constantly surrounded by girls and Sudo hated them for looking at him and spreading rumours about him being a delinquent.

"Anyways you will round them up and make them join my study group"

"Make?" That sounds awfully forceful.

"Yes here is my contact details call me when it's done"

With that she got up and started to leave but Horikita I'm not done with you yet.

"Horikita there is a problem"

"What?" She instantly stopped and looked at me.

"Well your blackmailing me to help you by using me eating the food you paid for against me correct?"

"What are you getting at?" She was annoyed and suspicious.

"Well haven't I just eaten your evidence?" If I could smirk I would.

"Wh-what? You-you disgust~" I quickly got up and left the raging Devil in the cafeteria because there are forks and knives there and living feels nice.

The hostility I felt during the rest of the day emitting from Horikita was overwhelming but when lessons ended I left the class and walked towards the Keykia mall and lost my sadistic stalker in the crowds.

*Time-skip to 6pm*

I was in the professors room learning about "anime protagonists" in more detail specifically "harems" when I got a call from Sudo

"H-hey Ayanokõji-kun erm..."

"What's wrong Sudo you sound confused?"

"W-well it's just Horikita-san is currently banging on your door and yelling for you to stop hiding"

So the Devil is hurting my poor door. I'm sorry door-chan.

"Just leave her, she has probably found out about the dating rumours and wants to beat me up for being a pervert"

"Hahaha yeah but I mean as if a dull guy like you could get a girlfriend"

That harsh especially from this monkey.

"Yeah well just make sure your there tomorrow or I'll be crucified"

"Yeah yeah I'll be there"

"And the other two"

I stressed that part because if anyone could make sure to get them there on time as well was Sudo

"Sure I'll see you tomorrow then" he cut the call and I just sighed.

I pushed Horikita too far, it seems teasing sends this girl into an uncontrollable rage.

"You have found yourself quite the tsundere Ayanokõji-dono" the professor said as he lightly chuckled.

Yeah you may be laughing but if you had to deal with her well...let's say any sane man would run away, guess that's where I'm different.

But there is one question.

"What's a tsundere?"

"Ahhh... time for your next lesson is upon us Ayanokõji-dono"

With that I spent the night learning about "tsunderes"

The next day I woke up and went to the gym as usual but this time focused on strengthening my arm to brace for the barrage of compass attacks I would get.

In an ideal world I would be there first or could sneak in without being noticed but the Tasmanian Devil became alert of my presence the moment I stood at the door and glared at me.

(A/N: Kiyotaka watched some of the shows he missed as a child with Matsou and looney tunes was one of them)

I sat down in my seat timidly and tried to lessen my torment "The library at 5pm today"

"Hmm?" A look of confusion was splattered on her face.

"The 3 idiots, me and Kushida will be there for 1 and a half hours for the study group"

"But...I thought you weren't going to help" Horikita mumbled this to herself.

"Why is Kushida there?"

"Well she helped get the other two to join and I negotiated with Sudo"

Perhaps negotiating was the wrong term. In order to get Sudo to join I had to train with him for a full week which includes; swimming, running, sparing and basketball as the main highlights.
But if this helped me achieve my aim I was happy to sacrifice my freedom a little.

"Right... Well good job rounding them up"
Was that gratitude from Horikita?

"It's n~" *stab stab stab stab...STAB*

4 consecutive stabs and a fifth which felt like it hit the bone were delivered to my right arm. Droplets of blood and puncture wounds could be seen.

"You know I can get you done for assault right?"

"Other than the needle wounds on your arm you have no evidence or witnesses because you are a nobody who blends into the background"
It was true...but still nobody saw her stab me 5 times?

"Well maybe if you had friends or a friend you could have had a witness for the food trap yesterday and wouldn't have to bang on my poor door like a mad woman"

stab* I had that one coming but it still leaves a mark.

"Why didn't you tell me you were going to do it?"

"I don't know...for fun maybe?"

This was a lie Horikita had called out to me at the first sign of trouble after a glimpse of my abilities, so if I instantly helped her without hesitation she would lean on me in future incidents getting me involved and ruining my peace.

"You nghhh"

" Tsundere" I muttered about the Tasmanian Devil next to me.

*Time-skip to the library*

(A/N:Here we go time for shouting and lots of swearing)

"WHAT DID YOU JUST CALL ME!?"

"A dumb invalid monkey who CAN'T even solve base level equations or keep his voice down in the library"

You could have guessed it would turn like this but 20 minutes into the group. This lasted longer than expected.

"Horikita-san you you can't say that" Kushida who has been trying to keep the peace for 20 minutes cried out but to no avail.

"Why? Why can't I call this useless monkey with no drive or will to learn an invalid who won't even achieve his stupid dream of becoming a pro?"

That one was it.

Sudo leapt over the table grabbing Horikita's collar and readying his fist.

"WHO THE HELL YOU THINK YOUR TALKING TO YOU FUCKING BITCH!"

"You" Horikita replied not understanding the meaning behind his exclamation~not that she cared anyways

"FUCK THIS" *slam crash* Sudo kicked his chair and flipped the table.

My book was being crushed under the weight of the table. It seems all my belonging are facing hardships.

"If you leave now how will you pass?"

"I WILL FIND MY OWN WAY!" With that Sudo left followed by Ike and Yamauchi but not before they said their piece.

"You are just some stuck up bitch who will die alone and sad" Ike said that but from his current social status the professor said "Ike will die alone with his right hand as his best friend" not that I know what that means.

"Yeah you are just stuck up and your dad probably left because of you" Yamauchi said that and Horikita flinched a bit. Even for Ike and Sudo family insults were a no.

"Who are you again?"

"No wait Ike Yamauchi-kun please give Horikita-san one last chance" Kushida was begging but even she was not safe from the firing line.

"Why are you here anyway I didn't invite you or want you near me. You are everything I hate in one person"

...

sob* Kushida ran out of the library in tears after that remark even I hadn't seen it coming or could respond to it.

"Well what do you think?"

"Ermmm...that didn't go to plan"

"Well I don't care if they succeed or fail they are just dead weights anyway"

Well if that was the case then why organise this? I gave up a week of my life to a muscle-head for you and you just don't care?

Horikita. You are someone so headstrong yet contradictory.

"Well it's late so I'm going to go back to sleep but are you sure this was the right choice?"

"..." She didn't reply so I just left to escape any mood swing.

I couldn't sleep so I decided to go get some milk from the vending machine in the lobby to make hot milk to help me sleep.

My eye caught a look at the CCTV in the elevator and saw Horikita still in uniform and looking nervous.

Horikita going somewhere at this time of night Hmm? I hid behind the vending machine and followed her making sure to maintain distance and not make any noise with my footsteps or breathing.

Thankfully there was a slight wind so even if I did make some noise Horikita wouldn't become aware of my presence.

I stood at a corner of an ally watching from the shadows as Horikita called out.

"I have come here to catch you"

Catch is this why...?

"You are as foolish and shortsighted as ever"

"No I can I am going to~"

"No!" A sharp authoritative voice interrupted her but she allowed it.
"You are incapable of catching me, you can't even see your own predicament and short comings"

"Nii-san I will catch you"

Nii-san? So her brother is~

"You are in class-D and have 0 points, you couldn't see past this schools mask unlike the other classes so how will you catch me?"
From the shadows stepped the Student Council President (SCP-for future reference) Horikita Manabu

"I- I will catch you" Horikita's resolve was failing as she stated to mumble the last part.

"You cannot and will not catch me. This school is vicious and has many tricks, tricks that you cannot overcome so leave now"

In her brother's presence the stab happy Horikita shrunk but continued to mumble " I will catch you"

grab* "Perhaps you need it drilled into you"

Manabu had grabbed Horikita and pinned her to the wall and readied his palm.

woosh grab*

I didn't think of saving her and yet here I am grabbing Manabu's arm preventing him from hurting her.

"You were going to drive that in and then slam her to the concrete floor even if it is discipline this is too far for family" Not that I would know I don't have a family.

"It is rude to eavesdrop and I can do what I want she is my sister"

This brought back memories of what that man said.

"Let go"

"That should be my line"

"Ay-ayanokõji-kun please"

I had never heard Horikita sound like that so I let go but he had other ideas.

He sliced the air with a powerful backhand which I stabbed back to dodge but he then followed up with a ferocious kick. The kick was launched at my open ribs and would have broken 3-4 of them. I pivoted to my side to dodge it but his intent was one to kill.

He then sent out his hand faking an attack but his open palm meant if I grabbed it he would throw me to the ground but I'm not your average fighter.

I grabbed his arm pulling him towards me while I propelled my self forward grabbing his throat smashing his head into the wall.

"Nii-san!" Horikita yelled with fear and panic in her eyes.

Our eyes didn't waver as he glared at me but I gave my usual empty expression. His head had been slammed into the wall and my hand was around his throat I also had my knee just a millimetre from hitting his hip near his groin.
He had one arm being grabbed by mine but the other was hovering infront of my kidney.

We both withdrew our attacks and I took a step back adjusting my uniform.

"For you to be able to keep up with me you must know martial arts" He said pushing his glasses up with his index finger.

"No just piano and calligraphy"

"You have made a very interesting friend Suzune" He smirked slightly but didn't shift his gaze from me.

"He-he's not my friend" After I just saved you you are going to say that.

"Once again you have mistaken independence for isolation...Well I look forward to what you can do"

He walked off into the night leaving me those parting words.

Horikita Manabu the SCP you are an interesting existence to me.

Long-ish chapter but I got caught up in reading fanfics a Ln and watching anime but here this is.
Also I have some ideas lined up and a plan for another SS type chapter like the Chie one
But this will come out after I have finished the mid terms chapter
I am also tempted to go back and name all my chapters instead of parts but ️
Anyway next chapter should be sometime in mid week due to school stuffs it will also start off right after this but hoped you liked the change to the fight and just to clarify they both didn't hit each other because they were feeling each other out.

Part 6

After Horikita Manabu had walked off into the night we left the alley to avoid any rumours.

Horikita sat on a bench and I was leaning on a lamp-post next to a vending machine.

"Your very strong and your awareness in a fight is very high, what were you taught?"

"Like I said piano and tea ceremony. If there was a piano I could play Für Elise"

"You said calligraphy before"

"I also did that"

It seems Horikita is still in shock and is starting to pry.

"Yes but for you to be able to keep up and get an advantage over Nii-san like that you must be taught"

"I just acted on instincts"

Her trust in me dwindles with my every answer.

"No it's not instincts Nii-san is 5th Dan in karate and 4th Dan in akido"

Woah the more I learn about him the more interesting he appears but he is not an opponent who I can't beat.

"Also your movements were too smooth and polished for just instincts"

sigh* "Find Horikita I will tell you how I am able to move like that but you mustn't tell anyone" This got her attention but it's a shame I am just teasing her.

"Yes"

"Well alongside piano calligraphy and tea ceremony I did ballet"

She instantly glared at me and crushed the can in her hand. I think I overdid it again.

"If your going to toy and joke with me then fine I'm leaving"

She got up to leave but I need to make one thing clear with her.

"Are you sure about the study group?"

"What?"

"Well you went through all the effort for the study group and yet it disbanded like that. So are you sure?"

Her next answer will define wether I can rely on her to lead the class.

"Yes they are just deadweights to me getting to class-A it is better to let them go now rather than saving them to be let down within the same month"

So she knows that the idiots will cram or not study and most likely fail because Hirata's group seems to be producing results that would raise the class average, therefore raising the passing grade.
But she can't see areas where they may be useful or where we need numbers.

"Yes I do think getting rid of deadweight like Yamauchi will be helpful but Sudo and Ike?"

"What about them they are both incapable idiots"

"Horikita what did you learn when Sae-Sensei told you your evaluation wouldn't change?"

I will need to work on Horikita in order to help her grow into the true leader that will replace Hirata who is more of a support for the leader.

"I learned that the school bases it's judgements on merit and that we were already assigned a class before we took the entrance exams"

"What if I told you your position in the school was already determined before the entrance exam"

"What? So you mean even if someone failed the interview and exam then their class placement and position in the school wouldn't change"

"Yes so what would that tell you about Ike and Sudo?"

"It would mean that the school has another reason for accepting them"

"So maybe just because they lack in academics the school has saw potential in other areas"

"What do you mean by that? How will other areas help you in the mid-term which relies on academics?"

At this rate you will always be looking at your brothers shadow not even being good enough to be in it.

"If there was a physical test who would you say would have the best mark out of the class if not year?"

"...Sudo-kun but that's~"

"What about in a communication based exam who out of me you Ike or sudo would place top?"

"Ike would but that's~"

"No that is exactly the point humans do not excel in every area and it is a fact that humans will come into contact with the areas that they are weak or weakest in during their lifetime and especially in their time in their educational career.
Me and you both have our areas of weakness and our weakest would be communication in which even Sudo outranks us because we have isolated ourselves and in your case have shut down and harshly rejected any and every advancement from our classmates"

I paused to let the first part of the rant sink in. I am too tired for this but I need to get the study group back together for my plan to work.

"Communication isn't necessary I am capable enough on my own"

"Is that why you asked for my help?"

"..." She had shot herself in the foot but now that she is speechless I have to attack.

"In an exam based on communication or physical prowess you are not the king of the hill and will be seen to hold people like Sudo and Kushida back just like they hold you back in academics"

"So your saying I should save them?"

"Think of it as saving or preventing future set back it's up to you"

"What do you mean future set back?"

"Well it's just my assumption or paranoid ramblings but Sae-Sensei said exceptions at the start of the year meaning expulsions have happened before but what happens when a student gets expelled? Demerit to the class that couldn't save them?
Then there is also the thought of what happens if we need all 40 classmates to be classified as class A or for another test or trial down the line?
Also if the government is funding the school and the school want only the best to graduate then the obvious method would be to cut the deadweights in the first year and make the strongest class possible but this school isn't clear of its definition of what a strong class is"

Horikita was wide eyed at my assumptions but even I was shocked that I said so much.

Why am I giving her more reasons to use me?

"You...your mind it's..."

"Like I said paranoid ramblings but I will see you tomorrow and I know better than to bring this night up again"

With that I left the stunned Horikita and went to my dorm and fell on my bed like in the tv shows I watched with Matsou

Maybe I overdid it it tonight

I was restless and then a memory surfaced because of the interaction between the Horikita siblings.

*Sometime 1 years ago*

"Matsou I leave him ok your care but he is to stay here for 1 year and then I will take him back"

"Yes sir, but are you sure you don't want him to go and make friends?"

"He does not need friends but you will teach him communication skills from a perspective outside of the white room"

That man was glaring at the poor old butler but the kind hearted man still couldn't stop himself from protesting.

"Yes sir but are you sure he can't at least make 1 friend?"

"No this boy doesn't need them and I don't need someone like you telling how I should handle my product"

That man snarled as he said this backing the butler into a corner and bringing conversation to a close.

"You will remain here for 1 year until the white room is ready don't disobey my order"

*Last week before the mid-terms*

I walked to school and stared out of the window until lessons were over and I was greeted by the most unexpected of phenomena.

"Are you ready Horikita-san?"

"I'm just waiting on him"

Horikita and Kushida were looking at each other.

No they were also taking to each other, what is happening?

"Oh is Ayanokõji-kun coming too?"

"Coming where?"

"Yes he is now let's go"

I was dragged out by Horikita and was sandwiched between the two polar opposites. . . "You know you both don't have to hold onto me I won't run"
That's a lie I would run. Even that place was better than being between these two.

"Well Horikita-san said to do it, so sorry Ayanokõji-kun" Kushida said holding my arm closer to her.

Kushida is a danger to me. I haven't interacted enough with her yet but something about her is off

Thankfully her sole focus is on Horikita so I don't need to concern my self with her. . . .
We arrived at pallét, a cafe very popular among females so thankfully Ike or my other male classmates won't see me and misread the situation becoming jealous.

Well Hirata was here but he's not considered that type of "guy" by the girls.

"You know Ayanokõji-kun you are popular among the girls"

"...sorry what do you mean by popular?"

My presence was nonexistent so I shouldn't be popular amongst anyone right?

"Oh do you not know?"

"Know what?" I had barely talked to anyone but...my introduction.

"Well the girls made a ranking of ikemen and you were ranked 5th"

The professor~my source of wisdom and authority alongside internet-Sensei~had told me what ikemen are and Ike had expressed his hatred towards them.

But me in 5th?

"I was ranked 5th why?"

"Well you have good looks although you are gloomy and don't smile but also even though your presence was said to be non-existent it was also called mysterious and something of interest for some girls"

Gloomy? Mysterious? I don't understand the mind of girls for ranking me 5th out of the whole year for these.

"Did you seriously not know, that's why some girls throw you glances in class"

I had noticed the glances but couldn't understand until now why I was getting them.

"No I didn't know but thanks for telling me Kushida"

"Well it's no problem but everyone thinks you and Horikita-san are dating"

I knew about this fact already but the demon behind me had just found out...I will get stabbed for this later.

"I would not date him"

"That's encouraging Horikita"

"Sorry if I offended you both but you only speak to each other, well Ayanokõji-kun speaks to Ike and Sudo-kun but he looks uncomfortable so the girls think your dating. Hirata-kun is very supportive as well"

That was because being around Ike when he was screaming about breasts or girls would get me labelled a pervert and Sudo was constantly punching me or trying to cave my back in with his hand because of the 1 week of training we did together.

I have to admit Sudo is athletic and when it comes to basketball he is very serious and thanks to that week we did get closer.

"Yeah well it's just she is my neighbour nothing more nothing less"

"Exactly like he said but I talk to him out of pity because of how pathetic he is"

That was uncalled for but now we got to the main reason for this meeting and Kushida called back the three idiots and we renegotiated the study group to help prepare for the coming mid-terms.

Ok I managed to find some free time and wrote this and a rough draft for the mid terms which I will put into 2 parts.
I didn't reveal Kushida yet because I decided to establish Horikita early and Kiyo wouldn't chase after her in the previous study group because he doesn't care enough about her.

Part 7 (1)

It was 4 days until the mid-terms and all the study groups were going well.

Hirata along with Yukimura and "Mii-chan", a nickname among the girls for Mei-Yu Wang, were showing positive results and had got scores averaging in the 50's with the lowest being 46.

The idiot trio led by Horikita and cheerleader Kushida, were all now able to get mid 30's.

We were at the library with the study group, it was going well but Sudo and Ike were complaining loudly.

"Hey you lot better shut your mouths"

"WHAT YOU SAY" The struggling Sudo flared up to the student.

"Sudo-kun from Class-D?" Sudo is clearly well know throughout our year if not the school for being a hot head...sadly.

"What about it" He managed to restrain himself so we don't get kicked out but it won't last.

"Hey guys over here it's the pathetic trash of Class-D" He beckoned his friends over and they started laughing at us.

"WHO YOU CALLING DEFECTIVE!"

Even Horikita was looking annoyed by them but what they said next would destroy our recovering class.

"We are calling you lot defectives. I mean your not even studying the right stuff" They continued laughing but we were speechless.

"Wh-what do you mean we are studying the wrong thing?" Kushida sounded defeated because if it was true then all this studying was for nothing.

"Here this is what you monkeys should study"

He threw the list of topics on the table and none of them were what we were studying.

If these came up it wouldn't be 7 expulsions it would be half the class.

"Look at their faces! Pathetic right!"

They started laughing and Sudo lunged forward grabbing one but then someone interrupted them.

"Please don't fight here" A girl with mid length silver hair and bright purple eyes politely spoke out while carrying a pile of books. "It's much more fun if we all get along right"

This girl was cute and her radiant smile and bright eyes were calming to look at.

"Keep your head in your books Hiyori" The boy who started the argument pushed past her knocking her and the books over.

"You okay?" I had leapt out of my seat to stop her from falling.

"Yes thank you" she got up and patted down her uniform and introduced herself "I am Hiyori Shiina from Class-C, those are my classmates sorry for their behaviour"

"N-no it's alright we are sorry for troubling you"
Her sweet smile and sincere apology stunned the group and made Sudo talk in a much gentler tone.

Even the loud and perverted Ike stopped himself from ogling Hiyori.

"Your classmates don't look like they are fond of you"

Of course the only one unaffected by Hiyori's innocent nature was Horikita.

But she did have a point.

"That's because I have no friends"

"..."

"..."

"..."

"Oh you all look worried but it's fine I have my books" at this she started to pick up her books with a smile.

We were all stunned at how she could smile while having no friends and preferring books.

"I will help the group is over anyways" I started picking up books as well and the rest packed up and left taking one last look at Hiyori before leaving.

She was sweetly humming a soft melody as I led her to where the books belonged.

She is like an uncorrupted pure gem or an angel.

"Do you like mystery books?" She had stopped humming and must have asked because I knew what genre the books belonged to.

"Yes, I feel they give the best experience because you get engrossed in the plot and the mystery and even if some twists and turns are the same they are still shocking"

"Me too and have you read some of the books by Dashiell Hammett and Raymond Chandler?"
Her eyes lit up even more than before as we talked about books and she became even more innocent and pure.

(A/N: Saying pure because he doesn't feel like she would betray or scheme against him and her intentions are visible)

"I have read some of their books like The Maltese Falcon and The Big Sleep but I am looking for Farewell My Lovely"

"I haven't read The Maltese Falcon yet but..." we had placed the books back and sat at a table with her bag which she was rummaging in "...here" she handed me the book with the smile that could melt even that mans heart in an instant.

Maybe.

"Thanks but are you sure I can read it?"

"Yes! I'm a regular here so I have some privileges so as long as you return it by the end of next week it is ok" She must have spent everyday here like me with the gym to get privileges.

"Thank you and read The Maltese Falcon it is a classic and the main story is very entertaining" .
We talked about book recommendations for hours and left the library at closing time. .
"Thank you Ayanokõji-kun I had so much fun today and will you come by tomorrow to read with me?"
She didn't need puppy dog eyes because no one could say no to this girl.

"Yes here is my contact and please call me Kiyotaka"

"Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Call me Hiyori Kiyotaka-kun" she was bouncing on the spot out of excitement and my usual scheming mind stopped.

"Then that settles it Hiyori. I will come by tomorrow after school"

"Thank you reading buddy!" She skipped away content and with a smile brimming with pure innocent joy. . .
The next day in home room Horikita questioned Sae-Sensei about the discrepancy in revision topics.

"Yes they changed I forgot to tell you" Sensei just shrugged it off and the class sunk back into despair. . Lunch had started and my neighbour hadn't moved yet so I decided to set my plan in motion.

"Have lunch with me"

"Huh?-Wait"

I had already started walking out the class because time was an enemy in this situation.

grab* "What are you up to?" She caught up and was obviously curious to my sudden animation but this is wasting time.

"Walk and talk"

We walked to the cafeteria and then I saw my target and we both ordered a basic meal set.

"I am going to tell everyone about the other night with your brother"

"Wh-what"

Rage overtook the confusion and she started glaring while scrunching up a fist.

This unlucky senpai will have to face this demon, but better him than me.

We sat down, I was next to him so I could grab him without causing a scene if he tried to leave and Horikita was opposite him to intimidate with her stern glare.

"What are you doing?" He was annoyed but not surprised that two kouhai had approached him, this means I was correct.

"The questions from you mid-terms in the first year. I want them"

Aggression and intimidation were essential that's why I brought Horikita but if her stern and cold glare faltered for a moment the plan would fail.

"What are you on about?"

"Like I said I want them, so if you or someone you know has them I want them"

"This is absurd I'm not getting threatened by some kid"

He got up to leave but I grabbed his arm.

"I would sit down if I was you"

"Yeah and what are you and this little girl kouhai going to do"

"Horikita Manabu" His expression stiffened at the mention of the name, that man holds great power and authority in this whole school. I continued while he was stiffened "this is his sister Horikita Suzune"

"Ha! As if I will believe that"

This is where Horikita needs to take over if she wants to rise classes, thinking on her feet and deception is necessary.

"I am Nii-san's sister so I would sit down or I will tell him you have been selling test questions and committing fraud with your kouhai"

"That's absurd! Wh-where is your proof?" He was rattled at the appearance of a second Horikita in this school but this is what I hoped to exploit.

"I don't need proof I am his sister, he trusts me"

Even though it was a lie and would have been torture for Horikita to say. It worked and he was defeated.

"10,000 points for the questions"

"30,000"

"10,000"

"This isn't easy for me to do...

How much you got?"

"20,000"

"Fine 20-no 15,000"

He wasn't stupid when it came to negotiating but we had the upper hand.

"15,000 and throw in the questions of the pop quiz as a bonus and this will all be forgotten and your high school life won't be ruined"

"My life already sucks. I'm in Class D and will remain there for the rest of the year and all my friends have been expelled"

A sad life but it's not my problem.

"You will get half now and half when I get the questions"

The plan had worked successfully and he had crumbled miserably.
I did want to push him for information about the school but it's probably against school rules and would get him expelled. Also I didn't want Horikita to see anymore of my capabilities.

We left the cafeteria and after lessons we both went to a park bench and waited.

"What was that with the senpai at lunch?"

My behaviour had been abnormal and clearly played on Horikita's mind because she kept looking at me in class.

"Insurance for the mid-term"

"No I meant the way you acted. I have never seen you this active or aggressive before, not even the way you acted with Nii-san was like that"

She was right, this was the most active I had been and the most of my true-self I have shown since coming here.

"I needed to be aggressive to get the upper-hand in the negotiation. You executed your role perfectly as well"

"Yes well I don't feel great about using Nii-san to threaten someone"

"It is a necessary evil but you will have to swallow that pride if you want to catch him"

"Tch..." She clicked her tongue and then *ping*

The questions.

"Exactly the same" Horikita was stunned but she was now even more curious of how I thought of this.

"You will give these to the class a day before the mid-term to stop people loosing the motivation to study"

"Yes that's a smart~wait me?"

"Obviously"

"Why?"

"I don't like attention nor do I have connections within the 3rd year"

"But I can't tell them it was Nii-san"

"I don't care as long as you keep me out of it"

This would be the foundation for Horikita's rise to leadership of Class-D.

I walked away content.

All that is left is one simple thing.

*Day of the Mid-term*

I left the elevator and saw Kushida with a familiar strawberry blonde haired girl who I met during the fiasco between Sae-Sensei and Chie-chan.

Kushida turned and greeted me so I raised my hand and tried to continue walking on my own.

"Good morning Ayanokõji-kun!"

I looked around to check if Horikita was near me but she wasn't.

I guess she actually wants to talk to me this time.

"Morning Kushida"

"Did you study what Horikita gave us yesterday?"

After lessons yesterday Horikita had stood at the podium and gave out the question sheets saying she received them from the home-room teacher of class 3-D and that they have similar questions to the test we will sit.

"I forgot"

"Even though you could fail"

"I was tired"

"You seem awfully calm for someone who forgot"

"Am I?"

"Kushida-san is he in your class?"

The strawberry blonde girl had been listening and politely asked Kushida.

Does she remember me?

"Yes he is Ayanokõji Kiyotaka-kun from my class. He is very quiet but he is very responsible"

"Huh?"

I let out a confused noise and both girls looked at me confused.

"What's the matter Ayanokõji-kun?"

"You said I was responsible"

"Well yes, Ayanokõji-kun is responsible. That's why Horikita talks to you is it not?"

Horikita is always on this girls mind and in any conversation about or including me.

Is my presence really that insignificant?

"She just talks to me because we are seat-mates"

"You are very modest aren't you Ayanokõji-kun"

The strawberry blonde girl had took an interest and started smiling at me.

"I'm Ichinose Honami. I'm in Class-B, I remember seeing you in an awkward position with Chie-chan I'm sorry for her behaviour"

So she does technically remember me but only because of her teachers out of line behaviour.
Also it seems Chie-chan is over friendly with everyone because her students call her by the nickname.

"It's ok"

"Your not very talkative are you"

"I'm just tired"

The school was in view so thankfully this dreadful exchange could end because Ichinose and Kushida were two girls that got a lot of spotlight.

Ichinose was even more popular with both male and female students and her aura and smile didn't feel weird like Kushida's but it wasn't as innocent or pure as Hiyori's. .
I sat down in class and everyone looked in high spirits and had confidence written all over their faces.

I just hope Sudo, Ike or Yamauchi do what they are best at for this exam.

"I will hand out the exam papers now you and you will write your name on and start when I say"

"No talking or looking around the class is allowed and cheating will be punished"

Sensei stood at the podium and looked around with a bitter smile "You may begin now"

Finally got onto the mid-terms and the next chapter will be the results but I don't like how I've wrote it so it may take 2-3 days to come out.
I changed the library confrontation to Hiyori because that's her home so it makes sense she is there so why not.
Part 2 won't be as long and will be more of a wrap up of the mid terms.

Part 7 (2)

The sound of Koenji's nail file reverberated through the classroom.

Every student was on edge for the results of the midterms.

The 7 who would have been expelled in the last test were pale and had sweat covering their brow, Sudo was nervously tapping his desk.

Those of average academic ability were confident but still sweating because their scores fluctuate a lot so they can't guarantee their safety.

The high academic ability students were silent out of respect for the students they tutored.

The door slid open revealing Sae-Sensei.

She had a rolled up white sheet in one arm and a red marker pen in her breast blazer pocket.

clack*

Every click of Sensei's heel on the floor sent electric shocks to the class.

"..." Sensei stood at the front not saying anything, just enjoying the pained and worried expression on the students faces.

Is she what the professor calls a "masochist"

"S-sensei?" Ike nervously broke the silence but earned a glare from Sensei.

"Ike" At this Ike shrunk back in his chair becoming even more pale.

She is definitely enjoying our pain.

"I'm impressed"

A brief and small genuine smile was seen on Sensei's face but it faded quickly and her usual serious expression returned.

"These are your midterm results like I say I am impressed"

Something wasn't right and if what I think is correct.

Then my plan worked.

*After the midterms finished*

Sudo slammed his fist on his desk.

"S-sudo-kun?" The class was starteled and started to back away from him but Kushida, being the angel she is, tried to calm the situation.

"I screwed up" Sudo was mumbling this over and over and the class didn't understand.

"What do you mean?" Kushida was now infront of him giving him a warm smile.

Sudo just looked down playing with his fingers and then he glanced at Horikita.

"I-I...I FELL ASLEEP LAST NIGHT BEFORE LOOKING AT THE ENGLISH QUESTIONS"

This was a problem for Sudo because English was his worst subject.

"Tch..." Horikita clicked her tongue and left the class looking annoyed at his incompetence.

*Flash back ends*

"Yessss!"

"Kanji we did it! Look loook!"

Ike and Yamauchi were overjoyed because they managed to get scores higher than 40.

The class breathed a sigh of relief~

But there is no red line

"Yes you two did pass" Sae said with a smile and the class caught onto her words.

"W-wait someone f-failed?" Ike asked

Sensei drew a line above Sudo's English score with the red marker.

"Sudo-kun you mark was 39 but the passing grade was 40 marks. You have failed and I expect you to be packed up and in the staff room by the end of the day"

"No! Sensei, come on that's unfair!"

"How is it unfair Ike?"

"W-well you can't just expel him"

"I am not expelling him the school is because he is incompetent" Sensei started to laugh at Sudo, but he just put his head down.

"Sensei?"

The whole class turned to look at the girl who spoke, life came back into Sudo because this girl was speaking out for him.

"What is it Horikita-san?" Sensei was giving a crooked smile.

"The passing mark for the last test was 32 because you halved the average score correct?"

"Yes"

"Well then following the same method the class average is 79 and so the passing grade should be 39"

"Hahahaha~your wrong"

The class was shocked and Horikita was annoyed at being openly humiliated like this.

"How can I be wrong if the method is the same?"

"Horikita-san your assumption is based on truncation correct"

"Yes"

"We didn't truncate, we rounded" Sensei's grin grew bigger and the class gave up on trying to save Sudo.

"So if you had lowered your score by 2 or 3 more marks Sudo would be saved"

The class looked at Horikita's scores and noticed her English score was 51.

She had anticipated Sudo's low English score and deliberately lowered hers to try and save him.

"Ho-Horikita-san. Wh-why?"

Horikita didn't respond and just looked down at her desk defeated.

"I will see you in the staff room tonight Sudo-kun"

Sensei walked out and Sudo fell to the floor.

"I'm sorry Sudo-kun if I only lowered my score by 2 or 3 more marks then you could be saved"

"N-no you were right I am hopeless and...my dream of becoming a pro...it is stupid for someone like me" Sudo was destroyed and crying.

Nobody but Horikita could help Sudo now but that's not my problem.

I got up to leave but Kushida called out to me.

"Where are you going Ayanokõji-kun"

Why do you need to know?

We only talk about Horikita who is helping Sudo so why bother me?

"Bathroom"

I left hoping to catch Sensei and found her looking out of a window smoking.

"Sensei can I ask you one question?"

"Class will be starting soon so make it quick" she didn't shift her gaze from the window but I still felt she was watching my every move.

"Do you think today's society is fair?"

"And here I thought you were chasing me for Sudo" She chuckled lightly and then turned towards me.

"In my opinion it is not"

"I agree fairness and equality are a lie or a dream for the weak minded"

"Ayanokõji-kun as much as I am appreciating this philosophical discussion I will be leaving"

"Your corrupt"

She spun around instantly and glared at me, the smug smile on her face was gone and replaced with a serious expression.

"Why would you think that?"

"We as Class D have been held back by you giving us half truths or forgetting to tell us critical information which other teaches tell their students"

Sensei walked infront of me and used the extra height from her heels to be slightly taller than me.

"If we go by the previous conversation then my actions are a microcosm or representation of society" her stern glare was meant to intimidate me but it paled compared to that mans.

"That would be the case but only Class D had been treated unfairly"

"What are you saying" her tone was sharp as she spat out those words

"Your actions have driven a student out of this school so I want to confirm if this known to the school"

"Sadly it will be very difficult to overturn the ruling at this time"

Sensei is good at putting double meanings in her words.

"At this time? So there is a way to change the outcome"

"Ayanokõji I hold you in high regard and that is why you should be proud of your achievement. Getting the old questions was an idea very few students can think of and the distribution of the questions just before the test to maintain study motivation and raise the average was a smart plan"

" Horikita got the questions not me"

"Using Horikita as a cover will not work on me"

My actions were discovered but I didn't put much effort into hiding them either.

"However despite getting the questions you made a mistake which was~"

" Mistake?" I interrupted Sensei and her stern and cold glare faultered.

Confusion and surprise was shown on Sensei's face.

"If you think I made a mistake trusting Sudo or the other idiots to study then you are wrong"

"Wrong?"

" It was a gamble"

Sensei grinned brimming with excitement.

"I took a chance with Sudo, Ike and Yamauchi and now it has worked, Sudo did exactly what I had expected from those idiots"

Of course I did think of lowering one of my scores but with the rising class average the risk was too high.

Also why risk my freedom when I have 3 sacrifices lined up.

"My my, this took a twist I did not expect, you have my praise Ayanokõji-kun"

"Yes well I don't care about that I only care about testing my theory so~"

I reached into my pocket and took out my student ID

"Sell me one mark for Sudo's English test"

"..."

Sensei was shocked.

Her earlier assumptions and opinion of me had completely changed and now I was doing this.

"Hahahahahaha~you are a special individual indeed"

She continued laughing loudly but I need her to hurry up or my class will become curious about how long I am on the toilet.

"What makes you think you can do this?"

"On the first day you said points can be used to buy anything at school and the midterm is one thibg in this school so let's make a transaction"

I used her words against her but her expression became wicked.

"Are you sure you have enough?"

"How much is it?"

"Well because you amused and shocked me let's say...100,000 points"

I could abandon him here but I need to make sure this isn't a bluff. So Horikita now would be a good time to step in.

"..."

"Don't have enough hahahaha~"

"I will pay as well"

Took your time.

"Hasn't this turned interesting..."

"Fine I will sell you the mark but I will take 50,000 points from each of you. Tell Sudo he has been saved"

I was done here so I started to walk off but Sensei had other plans.

"Horikita you see him now don't you?"

I stopped and turned back.

This woman is meddling too much with Horikita's opinion of me.

"All I see is a disagreeable student"

"What do you mean disagreeable" Sensei looked like she was taking extreme pleasure from taking my freedom from me.

"He fixed his entrance exam scores and then took action in getting the questions only to give me the credit. And while all this was happening he was counting on one of the three idiots failing so he could test a theory, so he is disgusting"

I knew she was listening to our conversation but how much I didn't know.

"Horikita you have been given a rare opportunity"

"What do you mean by that?"

"No class D had ever been promoted but if you look around your class you will find it is different to all other Class-D's and you may have a chance"

Sensei walked away with those words intended to strip me of my freedom.

"Ayanokõji-kun"

"I'm going back to class"

grab* "Were you serious about what you said to Sensei?"

Horikita you are becoming more and more annoying but for now I will give you one piece of advice because I used you.

"When you look at the class and evaluate it leave me out of it, consider me similar to Koenji"

I walked off ignoring anything else she could say.

*Later that day*

"I understand we are celebrating but why are we in my room?"

The idiot trio, Horikita and Kushida were in my room.

Horikita had been dragged along by Sudo who hadn't stopped praising and thanking her for saving him and Kushida followed her like a shadow.

I had told Sudo that I heard Horikita arguing with Sensei and his expulsion was revoked.

As a result when Horikita returned Sudo shouted that at her and the whole class applauded and thanked her for her contributions in the midterms.

"My room is full of training stuff"

"Mine is a bit messy"

"Mine is the same as Kanji's"

"Then why not Kushida's room?"

Kushida's cheeks became a bit red and surprise could be seen on her face.

"Bastard" Ike lunged at me but I side stepped him.

"Say Ayanokõji-kun your room is very empty"

"Yeah man like it looks like no one lives here"

"It's almost as plain as you"

"Yamauchi-kun that is not a nice thing to say"

"Yeah Haruki watch your mouth"

I sighed and sat down on the floor.

Why am I on the floor in my room?

Horikita was on my bed with Kushida and the others had taken my chairs so I got the floor.

"I just didn't have the points to waste on furniture"

" Minimalist" Horikita mumbled scrutinising my room. . . "What a mess"

The party had ended at 8pm and I had told everyone to leave because I was going to shower and sleep right away.

Wrappers and other junk was littered on my floor so I cleaned it up and changed my bed sheets and throws.

What a troublesome month.

I was lying in bed reading "Farewell MyLovely" to relax from this stressful month.

Hopefully next month is quiet.

The midterms arc is over it was 9 parts overall (not including Chie-chan story thing) which was longer than I expected.

My school is going back to next week so I can't write chapters during online lessons because I won't be having them anymore.

I have ideas for two interim chapters which will be building on or building relationships with characters so I will release them before I start the trial arc.

Book Buddies

This is after the midterms during the week before the start of the month.

I walked into the library after school to return "Farewell My Lovely" which was a really good read and was part of a series which I was now going to read.

A silver haired girl was sitting at a table oblivious to the world around her.

I took out the next book in the series called "The High Window" and stealthily took a seat next to Hiyori. . "Hahhh..." Hiyori let out a happy but tired breath closing her book and standing up.

"Ki-kiyotaka-kun!"

"Hiyori"

"How long have you been there?"

"About 1 hour"

She looked embarrassed and surprised that she didn't notice me sooner.

"Sorry you looked so happy reading your book so I didn't want to interrupt you"

"No it's okay Kiyotaka-kun I am just surprised I didn't hear you sit down" she giggled and sat back down next to me looking at my book.

"You finished Farewell My Lovely already"

"Before coming here all I used to do was exercise play piano and read so I became very efficient at all those things"

"You play piano?"

"Do you want to see me play?"

"Yes! Yes please Kiyotaka-kun"

She jumped out of her chair and skipped towards the music room.

"Your books~she's gone" I shook my head lightly and asked the librarian to reserve our seats and belongings because we would come back.

When I entered the music room the music teacher was playing the piano for Hiyori.

He was playing River Flows In You and Hiyori looked mesmerised by the calm melody. .
"River Flows In You it's a good piece"

"You have a good ear young man, do you play?"

The music teacher had stood up from the piano and now was looking at me eagerly.

"I was going to play for Hiyori but she got excited and ran off before me"

"Sorry I was just so excited to see my book buddy play and I got carried away" Hiyori looked down a-bit.

"It doesn't matter I will play for you now" I had placed my hand on her shoulder.

"Really!" Her eyes were filled with joy and her smile was back on her face as I sat down at the piano.

"Hmm..."

"What's the matter Kiyotaka-kun?"

"Well it's just...Hiyori do you want to hear one of my favourite pieces?"

"Yes! Yes! If my book buddy loves it I want to hear it" She nodded her head with eyes full of excitement.

"Ok then..."

I played Für Elise because it was the piece that he liked the most and I had spent a large amount of time learning it to impress that man. . *sob*

Hiyori was crying along with the music teacher by the time I was finished but she then ran up to me.

"That was beautiful Kiyotaka-kun" Hiyori was hugging me and I couldn't help but feel at ease that she liked it.

"Hiyori you know you don't have to use honorifics with me right?"

"Right. Sorry Kiyotaka"

"Let's go read some more yeah?" I patted her head and we both left the music room. . "Kiyotaka can you come with me tomorrow?"

"Where to?"

"Um...well there's...there's a..." She trailed off.

Hiyori was fiddling with her fingers and mumbling which was cute but I could tell she was nervous about something.

"Hiyori you know we are friends right?" I put my hand on her shoulder and she jolted up in surprise.

"Ffff-friends b-but are you s-sure you want to be my friend?"

Hiyori had shrunk back in her chair and was looking down at the ground.

She really does have no friends and is probably isolated from her class.

"Yeah I'm your friend Hiyori" I patted her head and she looked back up at me with teary eyes.

"A-are you really my friend?"

"Of course I'm your friend. We are friends right?"

"O-of course I am Kiyotaka's friend!" She had shouted that full of energy so I patted her head again and said "That settles it then we are friends, so if you want to ask me anything go ahead"

"Thank you Kiyotaka"

Her smile was back brighter because she had a friend finally.

"Will you go see the film with me?"

"Yes"

"Okay! I will message you what time to arrive at because I want to get some sweets beforehand"

The library closed and we walked to the dorms together and said our farewells for the day. . Kekyia mall was packed with students and the sweet shop we were in was very popular with couples or girls.

"The film will start in 20 minutes you know?"

"Yes but I don't know what to choose"

"Why don't you just pick one today and we will come back and get another when we read together?"

Hiyori tapped her finger on her chin and tilted her head.

"You pick!" She jumped in-front of me and tugged my shirt pointing at the sweets.

"Then you will have those" I picked some apple flavoured gummy sweets.

(A/N: author has no clue on Japanese sweets other than wagashi but I didn't want to choose that for a cinema sweet)

We settled into the cinema and I had popcorn with water and Hiyori had popcorn with her sweets and a peach flavoured drink.

The movie was a special showing of the 1939 version of the Wizard of Oz.

Hiyori wanted to watch this because she had watched it as a child with her parents and when it was said that they will be screening it, she wanted to watch it with a friend. . "What did you think Kiyotaka?"

"I liked it"

"Good! I'm glad my friend liked it"

Hiyori was ecstatic for the rest of the day but I genuinely liked the film and the time I had spent with Hiyori.

My first friend.

I areally like Hiyori as a character and think her and kiyo's relationship is a good one so I did this.
I am probably going to include Hiyori more going forward because I just like her character.

Sorry I took a day off of writing or uploading to just focus on the trial arc and I had a migraine so I just took it easy.

Class D's angel

This is also after the midterms

Ugh!

My life was about to be perfect.

I was about to have a clean slate with new friends and new secrets.

But she's here.

That black haired bitch!

I hate her, her eyes, her stoic and stern face, her stupid ugly long hair.

I hate everything about her.

I even was trying to get people to hate her by interacting with her openly showing everyone how annoying she is.

It was working as well because all she had was that plain boring lifeless guy.

But all of a sudden she started to care for the three idiots.

Sudo the delinquent monkey.

Ike the disgusting vile pervert who grovels and shadows me. I would be tempted to get a boyfriend or go on a date and get caught kissing my date just to watch the life drain from his pathetic perverted face.

Yamauchi is also...there.

Arghh!

Why do they have to be such idiots!

I threw my cup across the room and it shattered against the wall.

But thankfully that stupid ignorant bitch did what she is good at.

She pushed them away with her vile ignorant poisonous comments.

Ooh~how I was overjoyed when Sudo went to hit her.

Sadly he didn't but that bitch was going to be hated and spat on by the class.

I could barely sleep that night as Ike and Yamauchi spread the news about her being a bitch.

slam*

I hit my fist on the table remembering how she didn't care and how she used me to get the group back together.

I was shaking because the bitch.

The cold hearted cow.

The unwanted waste of space of class D.

But.

She became their hero.

I was meant to be their hero, the one they turn to but now that will all change.

All because that butch got the midterm questions that saved our class.

"I hate her!" I kicked my table and started walking, pacing my room pulling on my hair.

The stress I had built up while keeping this mask on was becoming too much.

And it was all her fault.

I swear I will get rid of her.

I will humiliate her.

ping*

I got the message to go out with Karuizawa and her group of sluts.

[On my way] . "I owe Horikita-san for those questions"

"Yeah and she even saved Sudo"

"She is smart"

"She is also reliable. I think if I need help I will ask her for advice"

All these sluts had talked about was how Horikita had saved them and Sudo.

This bitch follows me everywhere.

"It's just a shame about her attitude" Satō said, she had suggested bullying Horikita but now she felt bad.

"Maybe it's because she has to deal with that creep"

Shinohara pointed at a bookstore and inside was Ayanokõji Kiyotaka or as the girls called him "Horikita's shadow"

Looking at him and talking at him turns my stomach.

How can one boy be that boring and plain.

"If I had him stalking me all day I would want to die, I don't know how she puts up with him"

Karuizawa said that but I need her to hate Horikita.

This guy didn't know her name before I told him so their relationship is practically non-existent.

But...she does talk to him in class now.

Maybe I can use him

So this is a really short chapter but this is just some of Kushida's thoughts and views on Horikita because of the midterms.

I am currently deciding on how to manage the trial arc but I thought I may as well upload this so even though it's only 600-ish words.

Next one will be the start of the trial and will be longer.

Part 8

Who am I?

This was a question I had come to this school to answer.

When I think about who I am at the most fundamental level then I am a student in my first year of high school.

I am also a son, a classmate and a friend.

But this question is more of the philosophical kind.

Who am I in society?

This is the true question because in that place I was a subject, a tool for that man's curiosity.

My existence only consisted of two things; success and failure.

When I succeeded I moved onto the next test and the cycle repeats.

But if the day came when I failed.

My purpose and reason for living was lost and I was no longer needed.

As a result of this I made myself focus on breaking the limits on myself so that I would never fail.

Never lose.

But because of this I only walked the path that that man wanted.

I walked the path of the masterpiece.

But now what am I?

That place is no longer my home and for 3 years I am in the care of one of the country's finest high schools The Advanced Nurturing High School.

This school encourages growth and evaluates students on merit.

The schools principles encourage growth through a competitive but nurturing environment.

Things like self preservation and survival of the fittest do factor in but are beliefs that will only hold you back and falter your growth.

So is that why I am in class D?

Despite leaving in search of freedom I have still remained shackled by the principles of that man and that place.

My emotions and evaluation of human life is still the same.

So why save Sudo?

To this question I don't have an answer.

At first I thought it was on a whim but that is not possible for me who thinks of each and every outcome before making a move.

I then thought about if I would do it again and my answer was no.

Saving Sudo involved risking my freedom due to exposure of my actions and showing my capabilities to Chabashira and Horikita. So if offered the choice I would gladly throw him away.

I learned in that place that the weak come in many forms.

My mind remembered all the subjects and instructors who crumbled and became worthless in front of me and I thought of the students in my class and how they almost crumbled when we lost our points.

So what does this mean?

This means that I have a darkness that fills my empty existence and that darkness gives me purpose.

The darkness stops me from losing and stops me from becoming weak or vulnerable.

This darkness is not present in any of my classmates and is something this school cannot explain or answer.

But this school still can answer my questions on freedom, humanity, love, compassion and can the broken be fixed.

My current class of "defectives" is said to be the leftovers of society but if they can rise up and stand at the top then that will answer that final question and maybe give me my freedom.

But so far I have been the one mending and pushing our class up and without my support they would crumble so perhaps this is a naïve idea.

sigh*

What pathetic thoughts.

The elevator arrived in the lobby and as I was walking out I started to think about the weather.

Some people say that the weather changes and influences their moods~

"Yoohoo! Ayanokõji-kun?"

It's said that sunny days refresh you and rainy days make people feel down and gloomy and the snow makes people~

tug*

"Ayanokõji-kun you know it is rude to ignore a beautiful girl right"

The "beautiful" girl was the well developed and curvy Kushida who was at the forefront of most boy's fantasies.

"I didn't"

"N-no I-I was just teasing you" She blushed slightly because I didn't deny her beauty but that's because I don't have a "type".

"Oh"

"You know your no fun" She jokingly punched my arm and then stood shoulder-to-shoulder with me.

"Say Ayanokõji-kun?"

I looked at her and she was smiling but there was something off about it.

"What is your relationship with Horikita-san"

"Sadly I'm her pathetic and pitiful neighbour"

"No your not pitiful. Don't say such hurtful things about yourself" Kushida looked worried and concerned for my well being because that evaluation is one of a person who hates themselves.

"Those are Horikita's words"

"Oh..." she nervously giggled but looked relieved.

"What about Shiina-san?"

"What about her?"

"Are you dating her?"

"No"

Where does this sudden interest in my life come from?

Previously I thought Kushida may have a crush or obsession towards Horikita but now I think there is more and when I think about things they don't add up.

"Oh but your always with her"

"She's my friend"

Kushida dropped the subject and went silent.

Hiyori had gotten closer to me recently and I felt I was constantly being drawn to the library to read with her and spend time with her.

We didn't talk about class problems or situations but Hiyori did say her class was tamed by one person.

This was a person I was interested in.

ping*

Kushida's phone was pinging relentlessly, Kushida was popular but it seemed that she was popular in all the school.

Her social network was larger than Karuizawa's and Hirata's and her list of friends grew everyday with even the reclusive students opening up to her.

Of course her body helped but she must have known this as well.

"Ayanokõji-kun have you checked your points?"

"No"

I pulled out my student ID and checked the balance 3,202 points, if I'm not careful I will be broke very soon.

"They haven't changed"

"This has happened to a lot of first years"

"Only first years?"

This was suspicious but if it was affecting only our year then it would be even more suspicious.

"Yes my friends in the second and third year have received their points"

"Hmm..."

This will no doubt be explained by Sensei so I don't need to formulate an opinion on the matter.

"Kushida-san how are you?"

"I'm fine Ichinose-san"

"Good! Hey Kushida-san?"

"Yes"

"Are you and Ayanokõji-kun dating?"

"W-what?"

Ichinose must be curious because from the distance between us we look close, like a couple and Kushida has walked with me a lot since the midterms.

"No"

I answered on behalf of Kushida and Ichinose gave me a suspicious look before smiling and changing topic.

"How did you find the midterms?"

Kushida carried the conversation on my behalf but the attention that Ichinose and Kushida draw is abnormal for a first year.

I arrived in class and separated from Kushida earning glares from Ike and other boys who have "claimed" Kushida.

"You two looked close"

"I was ambushed"

"Tch" she clicked her tongue and looked back at her book.

My thoughts were about to wander back to the weather when the door slid open.

"Sit down and be quiet"

Like trained dogs the classroom took their seats and remained silently facing forward.

"Firstly there was an issue with the distribution of points to the first years but that is a problem on the schools behalf and you will get your points tomorrow"

A problem on the schools side sounded reasonable but this is a government funded school so things like this shouldn't happen and from the messages Kushida and Ichinose received from our senpais it appears that this hasn't happened before.

"Secondly I have the new clas standings as a result of the midterms"

Sensei started writing on the blackboard showing the fruits of the midterms:

Class A-1004

Class B-663

Class C-492

Class D-87

"You could gain a maximum of 100 points from the midterms and you gained 87, I'm impressed" Sensei showed a warm smile and then changed to her serious face again.

"However class A has surpassed the original 1,000 points mark and in terms of overall rankings class D is not a threat to anyone"

This was true our nearest rival was 405 points ahead and although our growth rate in the mid terms was roughly 43 times theirs we still had a long way to go.

"Now I expect great things from you all after your results from the midterms"

"Yes Sensei" The class answered in unison.

"Sudo-kun I need to see you in the staff office after school"

"I have training"

"I have already notified your club"

"Why?"

"It's about your midterms"

Sudo put his head down and Sensei left. . .
I have started a new hobby of bird watching.

During lessons when I stare out the window I make a note of how many of each bird passes by.

"Ayano~"

"Can't"

"What?"

"Busy"

Horikita was annoyed at my refusal to listen to her but I was meeting Hiyori in the cafeteria.

"How can you be busy?"

"What do you mean?"

"Your so called group of friends has abandoned you and Kushida who you looked close to earlier is eating with Karuizawa so you are left with no one"

"I didn't know you were so interested in my life"

"Don't flatter yourself"

"I'm still busy" .
I approached the ticket machine and saw Hiyori stood in front of it.

She was always indecisive when it came to things like these but she was especially nervous because this was her first time in the cafeteria.

She had wanted to experience eating in the cafeteria with a friend so we were eating hers today.

"Do you need me to decide"

"N-no I can do this!"

I put my hand on her shoulder for encouragement and she picked the basic meal set, which was the same as mine, and we sat down.

"There may see new book orders coming today and the library is being deep cleaned so it is closed for today"

"Hmm...we will have to get there first thing tomorrow then"

"Yes I have a book i ordered to give you"

Hiyori was innocent, sweet and cute but her innocence was not the same as Kushida who had come to the cafeteria and approached us.

"Can I sit with you both?"

"Yes it is no bother to me what about you Kiyotaka?"

"No problem"

Kushida smiled and sat down but unlike her other conversations she was the outsider because me and Hiyori only spoke about our books which Kushida didn't understand. . .
Lessons were over and Horikita again initiated conversation with me.

"Ayanokõji-kun we need to talk"

"About the points or Sudo?"

"Both and class D"

sigh*

I do remember telling her to consider me like Koenji in her evaluation of class D, maybe I should start acting like him?

"I will give you some advice that will both answer and create questions okay"

"Wh~No we need to talk"

"Focus on the problems you can control and change that is how you can help this class as its leader"

With those words I left her confused but those words would become helpful tomorrow. . .
Euphoric bliss.

A cold sensation that lingers and stimulates.

The soft smooth texture.

Internet Sensei once again had educated me about a food that felt like heaven.

Ice-cream.

A soft, sweet frozen food made with milk and cream and typically flavoured with vanilla, fruit, or other ingredients.

This is what Internet Sensei told me to try and I was entranced by its every property.

My mind became numb as I ate it directly from the tub sitting down on my bed.

Silence.

Finally there was no one trying to stab me or hit me or talk to me or pester me.

I was finally at peace...

SLAM*

"YOU GOTTA HELP ME!!"

"..."

Okay so this chapter had a bit of internal monologuing but this is hopefully to explain why he acted the way he did in the midterms when I said he would be more cold.
These questions will also be added at the end.

The reason why " that place" and " that man"
Are in italics will be explained later but it has something to do with the monologue.

Kushida is trying to get closer to him so she can use him but will it work or what will happen...who knows?

Thanks Saransh69 helping with ideas for the trial arc.

Part 9

SLAM*

"YOU GOTTA HELP ME!!"

With a thunderous bang my door had been breached and a large humanoid shadow was charging towards me.

I threw the tub of ice-cream to the floor and propelled myself, like a bullet, from my bed towards the intruder.

My plan was to crash into him using my knee to hit into his ribs, winding him while I grab his head and bring us to the ground with me on top.

crash*

The impact from my knee worked as planned and I was now on top of the intruder with my knee resting on his cracked ribs. I raised my fist and brought it down like a hammer towards the intruder at blistering speed.

My bones were harder due to that place and so my punches and kicks felt like being hit with bricks so I could easily reap someone's consciousness or disfigure their face.

bang*

My fist had been brought down but at the last moment I had shifted my balance so it would hit the floor next to the intruders head.

"Sudo?"

The intruder was Sudo who was now writhing in pain breathless and bleeding slightly from his head being smashed against a wooden floor.

Of course I was holding back because I didn't want to kill the intruder but it appears I need to hold back further to avoid long term damage as well.

I removed my fist from the hole it had created in the floor next to Sudo's head and brought him to my table.

"Here is an ice-pack for the back of your head and some chamomile tea to relax you"

"T-thanks" Sudo was very sheepish, probably because he was already stressed before he got here and almost died a few moments ago.

"Let's not talk of this to anyone" I knew he wouldn't tell anyone because he was too prideful, but I had to make sure

"Y-yeah"

"So why are you here?"

"Well umm...you see I...I um have a problem"

Wait...

...

Door-chan?

I got up from the table and went to inspect the ruins of door-chan, my poor door who was pounded by Horikita and now kicked in by this brute.

"Eh?"

My door was fully intact.

The lock was still there and no signs of forced entry could be seen even though I locked the door after I entered.

I returned back to the kitchen and heard Sudo shouting at me but now isn't the time.

"Hey! Hey! Ayano~"

I left my room and closed the door and pushed on it from the outside but the only way it would open was if I used my keycard.

Then how did he get in?

I walked back in and sat down looking at Sudo.

"HEY IF YOU DON'T STA~"

"How did you get in?"

"What?"

"My door is still intact along with the lock so how did you get in?"

"Oh...with this" Sudo rummaged in his pocket before throwing something on the table

A keycard.

"How do you have this?"

I was inspecting the keycard and it was an exact duplicate of mine.

"We had them cut"

"Why?"

"It was decided that your room is our meeting place you know"

"No"

"Ah...now you do" He scratched his cheek but winced from the pain from the back of his head.

"Who is we?"

"Me~"

clack*

Just as he said that my door opened again

"Sudo-kun?"

A calm and childlike voice called out to Sudo who shouted "In here!" Then held his ribs in pain.

Next time I need to hold back.

"Eeek~Ayanokõji-kun!" Kushida spun around facing a wall and fiddling with her fingers.

"What's wrong?"

"Y-your sh-shirtless!" Kushida's ears turned slightly red as she said this still facing the wall.

I was shirtless, but that was because Internet Sensei told me that sleeping naked could improve my nights sleep.

Obviously I didn't get fully naked because I wasn't too confident in this but I was still shirtless.

Then again this is why you don't enter a boys room unannounced. .
"You can turn around now" I had gotten a top from my drawer and put it on.

Kushida sat down at the table and gave a surprised but worried look at Sudo.

"How did you get those injuries Sudo-kun?"

"Ah well thi~"

"He fell on the stairs"

I don't want Kushida knowing about this or anyone else so a fall in the stairs would have to be the excuse for his injuries.

"Y-yeah"

"You should be more careful Sudo-kun, you need to think about your club" Sudo looked down at this and Kushida noticed but I had more pressing issues.

"Why are you here?"

"Oh well...Sudo-kun phoned me but I couldn't understand what he was saying and then I decided to look for him and came here" Kushida smiled at me and then focused back on Sudo.

"You have a key to my room don't you"

"Yes we all do"

"I want it"

"O-okay" Kushida handed her key over then tilted her head.

"Did you not know about the keys?"

"No"

"Oh then I am very sorry for getting one. I thought you knew you see"

"Who else has keys?"

"Apart from Sudo and me there is Ike and Yamauchi"

So the idiot trio and Kushida.

"I need you to get the key from those two"

"Okay but can we talk about Sudo-kun"

We both turned to look at Sudo who had his head down.

"What happened Sudo-kun?"

"I'm getting suspended"

gasp* Kushida was surprised and then looked at me.

I just shrugged and she returned her gaze to Sudo.

"Sudo-kun when you went to the staff room you didn't beat up Sensei and spit on her did you?" Kushida asked all this while smiling and showing innocent eyes.

"No! I..." Sudo had definitely hit someone but not Sensei.

"It was only a joke Sudo-kun" Kushida giggled but I felt uneasy about her.

"Take it slow and tell us" . . An hour later and the story was finally finished.

"So you got called out by Komiya and Kondō"

"You went to the special building where Ishizaki was also there"

"They mocked and threatened you"

"Kondō told Komiya and Ishizaki to grab you"

"Then you fought them"

"Self-defence"

"And then they reported you to the school"

"And now you could face suspension and removal from the basketball team"

"Yes"

It was perfectly summarised in a matter of seconds by me and Kushida and she could actually keep up with me, a little.

sigh*

"What was that for Ayanokõji-kun"

"Self-defence won't win"

"It's the truth!" Sudo slammed his fist on my table.

Is everything belonging to me a punching bag for people.

"Sudo how did Sensei describe the "victims""

"They were beaten up but that's cause they are weak"

"Were you injured?"

"No..."

Sudo had grasped what I meant and Kushida moved closer to me.

"What are we going to do then?"

"Unless Sudo has anything other than self-defence there is nothing"

"A witness!"

Sudo stood up and began to explain how he felt like he was being watched.

"We need to find this witness then"

"Yes so will you guys help me?"

"Of course"

"Thank you Kushida-san but can you also keep this between us?"

"Of course!"

Kushida made foolish promises to Sudo who left happily after getting her help.

"So are you going to help too?"

"There's not much I can do"

"What do you mean?"

"I'm not good at anything other than relaying information to Horikita"

"No your good at other things!" Kushida had latched onto my arm and have me puppy dog eyes.

"You put yourself down too much" Kushida sounded sad at my self-evaluation but I didn't want to get involved again.

"Kushida let's sit down"

"We sat back down at the table and Kushida looked at me, pleading with her eyes.

"I will help but I need a favour"

"What kind of favour?" Kushida asks and looks at me curiously.

"I will tell you later but not right now"

"Nothing lewd okay!" She pointed her finger at me and then giggled, "let's save Sudo together Ayanokõji-kun"

"Let's"

"Also why is there a hole in your floor?"

"..."

I don't know how to explain that one but I had also been hiding my hand which was cut slightly from the spelks and nails in the floor.

"Goodnight Kushida"

"Huh wha?"

I started to walk Kushida to the door avoiding the hole but she stopped in the doorway.

"You don't hate me do you Ayanokõji-kun right?"

"I don't hate you"

"Then why are you kicking me out?"

"Misunderstanding"

"Huh?"

"It's after 8pm and your a girl and I'm a boy"

"Ohh" Kushida giggled then got up close to me "You know your interesting Ayanokõji-kun" she grinned and then left to the elevator.

sigh*

"What a dreadful night"

The ice-cream had melted leaving a puddle to go with the hole on my floor.

I poured the liquified ice-cream into a cup and drank it. It wasn't nearly as nice as it's frozen counterpart.

"Tomorrow is going to be troublesome"

I resigned myself to sleep preparing for the depression I will feel tomorrow.

*Kushida Pov*

After trying to fluster him and work my way back into his room so we could talk some more I gave up because he doesn't change that pathetic plain expression.

But there was something off about him and Sudo-kun tonight.

The hole in his floor and the injuries Sudo-kun has were not there during school.

Did they fight?

There's no way that boring guy could beat Sudo right?

I also now know that he is smarter than he looks because he was able to analyse Sudo's situation.

I need to use him even more now.

If I can control him then that bitch will have no one to help her and will fail.

But how do I do it?

Will I have to date him?

Or does that creep have other things he likes doing?

*The next day*

"Kiyotaka-kun!"

Kiyotaka?

"Kushida?"

Kushida had called out to me using my first name and was now shoulder-to-shoulder with me.

"It is okay if I use your first name right Kiyotaka-kun?" She was giving me an innocent smile and looking up at me with puppy-dog eyes.

I understood now why many boys had her at the forefront of their fantasies and why Ike drooled over her name.

"Yeah..."

"Oh what's the matter?" She now was grabbing my arm and holding it close to her chest.

"I'm...tired"

What is happening?

Many boys were looking with jealousy and hostility towards me but this attention was annoying.

"Kushida-san!" Ichinose had once again called out to Kushida and walked along with us.

"Ichinose-san Shiranami-san hello!"

We walked together for a bit before Shirinami asked.

"Are you sure you aren't dating?"

"Y-yes we aren't" Kushida shook her hand and let go of my arm thanks to Shiranami's (Chihiro) question.

"Say, did you get your points?"

We both checked and no points had been distributed but from Ichinoses question class B had been given theirs.

"We have a predicament"

"Huh?"

"Kiyotaka!" Kushida didn't understand why I said that but even if I do t say it their teacher will.

"Nevermind"

We entered school and Kushida walked with me to class.

Ike was glaring at me along with other boys but what surprised me even more was that Horikita was glaring at me. .
Sensei entered and looked unimpressed and glared at Sudo.

"I am going to tell you now that there is an incident concerning your class and class C"

"What?" "Is that why we don't have points" "Hirata-kun?"

The mumbling of our classmates could be heard but soon they would turn to complaints.

"Yes Sudo-kun got into a fight with class C and as a result he is at the risk of suspension and losing all the class points you earned from the midterms"

"What!" "Delinquent" "Monkey" "He should be expelled!" "Why did Horikita-san save him?"

Insults were flying towards Sudo and even Ike was annoyed and not defending Sudo.

"What about rising classes?" Yukimura asked that and the class went silent.

"Well there are two ways of doing this"

"Two?" Koenji spoke up and for the first time paid interest in something other than himself.

"Yes you can rise as a class or rise through the usage of 20 million private points"

Our class became depressed at this because earning 100 private points was a dream for them.

"Has anyone done this before?" Horikita knew this method already but became interested in it.

"No"

"What's the closest someone has came" Yukimura was also interested because like Horikita he felt his evaluation was incorrect.

"12 million but that included fraudulent methods but it is possible"

Although no one had accomplished this Sensei was saying there was a way.

Koenji also noticed this and smirked while admiring his "perfection"

"This incident will also be told to the other classes because Sudo-kun said that there was a witness so in order to find them other home room teachers are informing their class about this incident"

Sudo wanted to complain but the glares of the class were on him.

"That is all for home room"

Sensei left and the class turned on Sudo.

"He should be expelled" "why does he have to be in our class?" "I hate him"

"Hey watch your mouths!" Sudo slammed his desk scaring his classmates worsening his image but one particular classmate was amused by Sudo.

"My my red hair-kun you are an ugly existence aren't you"

"What you say!"

"Your ugly presence is going to taint my perfection that the class has been blessed with so you should just leave"

Koenji was stroking his hair while looking in the mirror and Sudo charged at him.

"Sudo-kun this won't help" Hirata jumped between the two.

"Like I care this bastard asked for it?"

"Did I?"

Koenji was deliberately provoking Sudo and just smirked at him.

"Sudo-kun you need to calm down"

Sudo sat back at his seat and received a glare from Horikita.

"I believe in Sudo's innocence and as a classmate I will help him"

"I will help him too" Karuizawa unexpectedly supported Hirata.

Karuizawa has shown the most hatred towards Sudo alongside Shinohara, but she hates every boy, so her helping Sudo was strange.

But with the "power couple" of class D behind Sudo the majority of the girls would help with finding a witness.

"I agree too and if there is a witness please step forward"

Kushida's words held more value than Sensei's for our classmates and the way she used her body to capture the attention of people was very effective. . .
I was staying in class because I had made a bento to practice for when Hiyori and me made them for each other.

After tasting the food in the cafeteria Hiyori had suggested making bentos for each other and we agreed to do it starting in the next semester.

"Horikita-san can I eat with you?"

Hirata had approached Horikita with Karuizawa who gave me a look of disgust.

"That creep is still stalking you? Ah mou, I feel sorry for you"

"Karuizawa-san that is not nice to say to Ayanokõji-kun"

"Kiyotaka-kun you made a bento?"

Kushida had also came over and the other classmates understood that this would be an important discussion but Ike was glaring at me saying "kiyotaka" through gritted teeth.

"Practicing for Hiyori"

"What do you want?" Horikita bluntly asked Hirata.

"What is your plan for Sudo-kun?"

"Nothing"

"What?"

"Why should I help that idiot again Karuizawa-san?"

"For our class points" Karuizawa was unlike Hirata and Kushida and understood Horikita didn't care about her classmates and instead focused on rising classes.

Perhaps she can be useful to me?

"Ayanokõji-kun what do you think?"

Horikita directed the attention towards me, probably to get my opinion but I have a different idea.

"How did the school know how many infractions we committed Horikita?"

"Well that's obvious they probably watched us" Karuizawa said that and then looked around the class.

She understood my hint.

"If only that idiot did it in a classroom"

Horikita looked at Karuizawa and then thought for a few seconds.

So here is another chapter and Karuizawa was introduced.

She was observant and able to understand bits of Kiyo's schemes but I made her a little bit smarter.

Kushida is tying to get closer to Kiyo still and is now even more suspicious about him but how will she control him?

I know that not much in terms of the trail has happened but I am trying to make this arc around 5 parts so the story will pick up in the next 3.

Next chapter will be out in a few days because I'm back in a physical school building~how fun.

Part 10

Freedom.

The dream that I sought to achieve.

The dream that I chased disobeying orders and abandoning that place.

In essence freedom is the only thing that could change my life.

The life that consisted of success until I failed.

The life of the empty masterpiece.

Freedom was my escape.

Freedom was my opportunity to experience a new way of growing.

That place was perfect for growing mentally and physically but with my freedom I would be given a chance to finally explore the things I abandoned for success.

Emotions and Love.

But I have come to learn that freedom is a cruel cold dream.

Freedom sounds and looks so simple.

However it is always too far out of grasp because no matter what you do you are never free until death.

To be truly free is a lie and this lie is what I was seeking.

So I have given up on freedom.

My plan is still a normal and peaceful life but their are strings to that normal life which I cannot ignore.

One of those strings is my class.

I know this because I am currently helping Horikita investigate the special annex for clues pertaining to Sudo's case.

"Horikita why me?"

"Huh?"

"Well you asked me even though I told you to consider me similar to Koenji which means leave me out of class problems so why?"

"You were available"

"That's a lie because Hirata volunteered to help you"

After the lessons Hirata had came over and asked Horikita if she needed help with anything and even tried to give his contact so she can call him whenever but she turned him down.

"I don't trust him"

"So what about me?"

"What?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Yes"

I closed my eyes and put my head against the wall.

So she trusts me huh?

Maybe that is why she is so reliant on me and keeps disturbing my peaceful life.

If so then I guess I just have to destroy her trust in me. . "It's too hot here I can't think straight"

I was complaining to deaf ears hoping she would get annoyed and send me away but it was pointless.

"Stop moaning I am done now"

"We were here for 2 hours"

The sun was scorching and because the special building doesn't have AC the heat was unbearable.

"Let's go"

We started walking out and as we got to a corner I bumped into someone.

"Sorry"

"N-no i-it was m-my fault" The person on the floor was a girl with butt length pink hair in two pigtails. She looked small and timid despite being of average height and the same age as me.

She also seemed very socially awkward or inadequate because her gaze was bouncing around everywhere to avoid mine and Horikita's body or eyes.

"It's fine. Why are you here anyways?"

"I-I was taking photos" She spoke very quietly and looked at her camera.

"What photos do you normally take?"

"Mostly landscapes and some buildings" She enjoyed taking photos but there is something off about her appearance.

"No people?"

She shrieked and got very nervous from that question and started to get to her feet again.

"You are Sakura Airi-san form class D aren't you" Horikita did not try and use a gentler tone or change her stern glare when talking to the very cowardly Sakura.

"Y-yes..."

"You are the witness for Sudo"

"No! No I-I didn't see anything" She muttered the last part and started to back away.

She clearly was the witness but how did Horikita know?

"Sakura you don't have to testify"

"What?" She has stopped at my words but didn't turn around.

"If you don't want to testify I will tell everyone to leave you alone and if you need anything you can ask me"

"B-but I-I didn't see anything"

"You can still ask me for help" She left after this but this was all I wanted to say.

I offered to help her and stuck my neck out because of how pitiful and pathetic she is.

Truly Sakura Airi is trapped in a world of fear but there is something about her that bothers me~

"Why did you tell our only witness that she doesn't have to testify?"

Horikita was clearly mad but could she not see that Sakura is too timid to testify.

"Forcing her to testify would be counterproductive and also-no nevermind" I was getting too involved again but why?

"What was it?"

"My floor has a hole in"

"Tch..." She started leaving again and my peaceful life was about to resume but another student stopped us.

This time the student was standing by the stairs with her strawberry coloured hair and blue eyes, none other than Ichinose Honami.

"Hello Ayanokõji-kun what are you doing here?"

"Being depressed"

"Why?" Her warm smile became concerned as she walked over to us.

"Her" I pointed at Horikita and she glared at me but her main focus was Ichinose.

"I will deal with your snarky comment later" Horikita warned me then turned to Ichinose.

"Why are you here?"

"I want to help"

"Why?"

"Well I don't think class B and D are too different"

"So?"

"I want our classes to work together." Ichinose had United her class through compassion, trust and friendship so it was suspicious for her to say this.

"So what you mean is that because class D is not as much of a threat as class C or not your target, which is class A, you can make an alliance with us"

"Your way of thinking is very cruel Horikita-san we just want a friendship" Ichinose was still smiling but she did not disagree with what Horikita said.

However this also meant that class C tried to attack class B but failed probably because the attack was only a front.

The real purpose for the attack was probably to test the unity of class B so that the leader or dictator of class C would know how to strike in the future.

This leader also knew that class D was the most unorganised and pathetic do he launched this attack specifically targeting Sudo who was notorious for having a short temper to destroy our spirits and prevent our class from becoming a problem in the future.

The more I think and learn about this dictator the more curious I become.

Maybe...

"An alliance with class B will help our unorganised class to see it's flaws and will also give reassurance and so I will agree but I also know that this is a two way deal"

"Yes and I will ask of your help when we need it but do not worry we will not betray this agreement"

They both looked in each other's eyes both showing their strength and determination as they both shook hands.

This is the start of an important alliance with class B.

But how long will it last? . . .
*Slam*

"Why the FUCK has she got to be my witness!" *snap*

Sudo was very angry after learning that Sakura was the witness but was also too scared to testify.

But once again my things were being mistreated by him because he slammed his fist on my desk and snapped one of my pens.

"Hey calm down Ken! Anyway, who did this Sakura girl anyway?"

"She is the big breasted pink haired girl who sits at the back with Ken" As if this is the normal way to describe someone Ike said this and sadly Yamauchi recognized her immediately.

"Oh that plain girl...her breasts are wasted on her"

"Yeah...but Kushida-sans breasts are the best"

"Hey Kanji Kushida-san is mine!"

As this was going on I received a message from Kushida.

[Can I give someone your number]

[Who?]

[Sakura-san]

[Okay]

[Also Kushida I need two favours from you]

[What are they Kiyotaka-kun]

My existence was about or become very interesting and strange to Kushida but I need to do this.

[I need you to get a duplicate keycard for Komiya's room]

[Oh ermm...I don't think I can do that without permission]

[You didn't need my permission did you]

[No] This reply took a little time to come and during this time I tuned back into the conversation with the three idiots.

The three idiots and the Professor came together to get an update on Sudo's case and thankfully the hole in the floor was fixed.

Sudo had paid for it because it was his fault for barging in and as a result we both vowed never to speak of it again.

"Horikita-san has nice breasts..." The misty eyed Sudo said that while looking at the wall.

Everyone was looking at him in silence before Sudo spoke again.

"Do you think I could stand a chance with her?" Sudo had clearly fallen for Horikita after she had saved him in the midterms but this was a really fast and sudden development.

"Nah she's dating that guy" Ike pointed at me and Sudo glared at me slowing getting up while growling.

"She isn't"

"Really!"

"She thinks I am pathetic and talks to me out of pity"

"You are pretty plain and boring" Yamauchi said this but so far he is the one who blended into the background the most.

"So you she is single right?" Sudo was shaking me, looking excited that his crush is still single.

"Yes"

"Say Ayanokõji-dono who do you have a crush on?" The Professor asked and all eyes fell on me.

"The Sukebe-donos are fighting over Kushida-san and Sudo is fawning over Horikita-san so who do you like?"

Ike and Yamauchi were clearly annoyed at being labelled "sukebe" by the Professor but were eagerly waiting for my response.

"Who do I like?" I pretended to think because a rapid response would only have an adverse affect.

"No one"

"Then why did you ask Kanji about where to confess?"

"I was curious about it because I have never been confessed to or thought of confessing to someone but if I did I wanted to know what not to do"

That satisfied them and Ike glared at the end of my response but I once again went back to my conversation with Kushida.

[Tomorrow I will have a duplicate key at lunch]

[At lunch give it to me and I will also now request the second favour]

[Before you do may I ask one question?]

[Yes]

[Who would you choose me or Horikita-san?]

I understood what she was trying to get at but I am smart enough to avoid this trap.

[Hiyori]

[What?]

[You and Horikita are both troublesome and Hiyori isn't and she also shares similar interests to me]

[What do you mean troubling?] This was another delayed response so I guess she was hurt from my comment.

[You attract too much attention which I can't deal with that's all I meant]

[Your like Kokoro-san]

[Anyways after school tomorrow I want you to take Kondō and Komiya out for at least 1 hour]

[Why?]

[Horikita needs to keep them under observation for her plan]

[Ok! Goodnight Kiyotaka-kun]

I didn't reply after that and now everything was set.

Let's see what you will do about this... . . .
I left the elevator and was about to exit the lobby when I was called from behind.

"Ayanokõji-kun!"

"Ichinose do you need anything?" I have grown accustomed to people only talking to me when they need something.

Of course the only exception is Hiyori but she is different to everyone in this school.

"No why do you ask?"

"Just used to being used I guess" I looked up at the clouds in the endless blue sky.

"Is this because of the trial?" Ichinose was also looking into the sky and her blue eyes were a match, if not better than the skies beauty.

"Yeah Horikita has trust issues so she drags me around"

"She does seem very untrusting"

"Yeah..." I sighed thinking about the devil that I called my neighbour.

"Hey what do you think about the vacation?" Ichinose was a talented conversationalist so she could switch topics with ease.

"I'm not sure"

"So you think something is strange about it too?"

"Yes"

This was an easy obvious answer but sadly not all of class D understood that the vacation was probably a front or a trap.

"Say, Ayanokõji-kun do you know how the classes are organised?" Ichinose was looking at me or more like inspecting me trying to judge something.

"Merit"

"I know that but what exactly?"

"Your past and how you have changed or grown from it or how you cope with issues"

"What do you mean by that?"

I have said too much but Ichinose like Hiyori bears no ill will towards anyone and only wants to help people.

"Well everyone in class D has a defect but that doesn't mean the other classes don't have defects it just means that the other classes are aware of their defects and are trying to improve on them or have accepted this and moved ahead despite the defect"

"So you are saying that all classes have defects and the people in class D won't admit this or won't deal with their defects"

"Kushida and Horikita"

"Kushida-san?"

"It's nothing" I didn't want to expose Kushida myself but if I plant the seed of doubt and get the most popular and "beautiful" girl in our year to expose her then I will face no backlash.

We walked a bit more and Ichinose tugged my sleeve to get me to stop.

"After class can you do me a favour?" Ichinose's voice was soft and worried and her usual smile and bright eyes were gone.

"Yes"

"Thank you" She looked back up then took a deep breath moving into the school.

Part 11

"Why ask me?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well there is Hirata and Kushida who are selfless and caring people and yet you chose me"

"Well it's because of your eyes"

My eyes

Earlier that day

Classes had ended and I was waiting for Ichinose to come and collect me.

We didn't have each other's contacts so I knew she would come to my class hoping to catch me before I leave.

Surely enough the door slid open and Ichinose stood there.

The class had been informed by Hirata who had been informed by me, because Horikita didn't trust him and couldn't be bothered to tell everyone about the cooperative relationship with class B.

As a result this visit and her asking for my help wouldn't be suspicious especially because Kushida had introduced us so she would explain our relationship.

"Hirata-kun?"

"Yes Ichinose-san?"

"Is Ayanokõji-kun still here?"

Everyone looked towards me surprised and suspicious, thankfully the three idiots and the majority of the boys had left so there were few jealous gazes.

"Ah there he is!"

She walked towards me and gave a friendly smile to Horikita.

"Are you ready?"

"Yes"

"Let's go then"

We both left and I heard some murmurs before the voices of Kushida and Hirata could be heard.

My peaceful life is still safe. .
.

We were behind the school building when Ichinose finally stopped.

"What's wrong?" She was looking flustered and troubled and her usual charming smile and bright aura had faded.

"Umm...well er...Have you ever been confessed to?"

"No"

"R-really!"

The confusion is surprising because I am just a"plain" "boring" "disgusting" and "depressing" guy according to Karuizawa, Shinohara and other girls.

"I am not popular or well liked"

"Oh..."

"Have you?"

"No"

Really? From walking with Kushida and Ichinose I can say that Ichinose is clearly more popular and is considered a beauty across all the school years.

"So I need your help" She took out a note with pretty decorative love hearts and feminine writing.

"Ichinose is this what I think?" I already understood everything about the note and the meaning behind it but why am I here is what this question really meant.

"I need you to be my boyfriend"

"..." I was completely confused about what is happening and what made things worse is that I am no closer to leaving despite the meeting time of 4pm being now.

"Honami-san!" A shaky voice came from a teary eyed girl standing away from us.

"Chihiro-san"

"W-what is Ayanokõji-kun doing here?"

"Well actually he is~"

"Helping"

I decided to intervene because this is not something I want to be involved in.

"Helping with what?" Ichinose looked confused and Chihiro was obviously suspicious and so the confused look on Ichinose only raised that suspicion.

"I was telling Ichinose that love is a strong emotion and if handled incorrectly it can turn into a deep and dangerous hatred. This hatred would ruin your class which is built on friendship and trust so I told her to be delicate and understand"

With that I left and walked to the railing.

I am no expert in love and have never been shown any love or compassion in my life because it will cause attachment and weakness.

But I know that love is a strong bond that helps hold people together and give them the strength to fight on.

However it is also a double edged sword because if the love is mistreated or poisoned the hatred which will stem from that will be destructive to all parties that get included.

Ichinose has indirectly shown me how her class operates and their weaknesses.

ping*

I received a message from the Professor
[It is done X-dono]

[Good and Kushida did her part well?]

[Yes]

[Also what is X]

[Well every mastermind needs a name or a code name so X]

[Delete our conversations and don't call me that in public]

[As you wish X-dono[

sigh*

Having to work with the Professor is both annoying and educational.

He is able to teach me about things that that place couldn't like "tsundere" "yandere" "masochists" and more but he is also helping me because it is like he is "helping an anime protagonist".

If only Horikita was better.

She would be a good tool if she was able to not demand answers as if she is superior or important, speaking of her superiority complex, that has slowly been diminishing but it is taking too much time and soon I will have to "knock her down a peg" as the saying goes.

Kushida would also be a good asset for me.

She is very popular and trusted, her social network stretches between classes and years and she even understands how to flaunt her body to get what she wants. It's just a shame she hates Horikita so much and is trying to use me.

I will have to correct this behaviour...

As I was thinking about my current issues and ways to correct them two girls walked over.

"Hello Ayanokõji-kun"

"Shiranami"

"Please call me Chihiro-san" Oddly enough she was smiling. It was odd because there was signs of defeat in the smile meaning she was rejected but if that is the case shouldn't she be sad?

"Ok Chihiro how did it go?"

"We decided to be friends and see if the feelings remain or just turn into friendship because it is a bit fast to call them love"

"Yes that was a very mature conclusion you came to" Ichinose had taken my advice and they both came to an understanding.

"Well I am going to go back to my dorm, all those nerves tired me out" She smiled once again with a hi to of sadness and left.

"Thank you Ayanokõji-kun" Ichinose said that in a soft and tired voice.

She really does care for her classmates.

"I didn't do anything"

"No you are wrong. What you said back there not only helped both Chihiro and I to understand more about the implications of these feelings so that we could reach that compromise but you also analysed the impact it would have on our class while telling us what our classes bond is based on"

"It's not that special you are overestimating me"

"No I am not, in fact I fed even more confident because you understood that our class is based on trusts while only having limited interactions with me and Chihiro-san"

I clearly said too much and Ichinose was evaluating me highly because of this but this can all be explained.

"I asked Kushida about your class and also Horikita told me that your class is based on trust and friendship and as for what I said I am just slightly more observant than other people"

"Always modest" She smiled and looked up at the sky which was now glowing orange as the sun started to set.

"It's beautiful"

"Yeah" . We had been watching the sun set and now it was nighttime with the stars shining brightly in the dark and empty sky.

"Say Ayanokõji-kun why are you in class D?" Ichinose turned to me and the reflection of the stars in her eyes was beautiful.

"What do you mean?" My voice was still the same but was a bit quieter to match the calm atmosphere.

"Well this morning you said that everyone has a defect but I can't see yours or imagine one other than your bad social skills so you should at the very least be a class B student"

It is difficult to respond to this without drawing suspicion about either my abilities or past but then again why is Ichinose so interested in me?

"My grades are average and my communication skills are terrible and I also don't like large social situations so maybe due to that the school decided I couldn't contribute to society very well"

"Hmm...it is a shame that they evaluated you poorly because of this but I am also glad that we are in an alliance now"

"So am I and if I was to be evaluated higher I would want to be class B"

"H-Huh?" Ichinose was shocked at this because any student would say class A.

"Well I would be in your class and working with you directly and if I was in class A I would be scared because you are my opponent"

The round of flattery worked and Ichinose started to blush and forgot about her high evaluation of me.

Of course this will come back but I was trying to kill the conversation.

"G-goodnight Ayanokõji-kun"

I waved my hand at her retreating form and looked back at the stars.

Ichinose Honami is a kind caring leader who values her friends and class.

Her drive and passion towards reaching class A rivals that of Horikita and her strong will also helps with her classes unity.

However she is naïve.

An unfit leader for this school.

When the time comes I understand how to destroy her class and her resolve.

ping*

Kushida messaged me whilst I was staring into the darkness of the sky thinking of how I would deal with class B.

[Please can I share your number with someone]

[Who]

[Sakura-san]

[Yes]

Why would Sakura want my number? . .
*ping*

After 3 hours of waiting my phone finally pinged with a message from Sakura.

Honestly this girl is really pathetic when it comes to socialising with people.

[Floor 11 room 6]

(A/N: I'm not sure on the room or the floor number but 11 felt familiar)

[Should I come now?]

[Yes]

Her response was fast and so I decided that I had waited long enough to talk with her but hopefully no one sees me going into a girls room at 9pm.

I walked into the lobby and decided to take the stairs because the lift can be seen by cctv.

knock knock*

The door opened instantly and I walked in taking my shoes off and waiting for the timid girl to tell me where to sit.

"..."

"..."

sigh*

I took a seat on the floor facing the kitchen and she sat on her bed.

To help her awkwardness I was looking straight ahead and not at her.

"..."

"..."

Ultimately it was also up to Sakura to start the conversation because she invited me over but this will take even more time.

"Y-you said...you can help me..." She quietly said that fumbling with her fingers in discomfort.

"I did"

"Wh-what did you mean?"

"Sakura why did you ask me here?"

She froze up as I didn't have time to waste on a pointless discussion.

"Should I testify?" Her voice was barely audible and I was starting to question how someone like her could keep going but people in that place gave up.

"Why do you want to?"

"F-for Sudo-kun a-and for the class"

"Don't"

"Huh!" This was the loudest she had been and she quickly covered her mouth in embarrassment at her own confusion.

"I am saying if you are testifying for someone else's sake don't. Testify for yourself"

These words were probably resonating in her head because the familiar silence returned.

"Thank you"

"What for?"

"For helping me?"

"Can I ask one thing?"

"Y-yeah..."

"Why ask me?"

"W-what do you mean?"

"Well there is Hirata and Kushida who are selfless and caring people and yet you chose me"

"Well it's because of your eyes"

My eyes

Can she see it?

Does she understand it?

"They are not like Kushida-san or Hirata-kuns"

"What do you mean by that?"

"I-I don't k-know b-but your eyes are different"

She lowered her head in embarrassment but I was also disappointed.

"They are also very sad"

"Huh?"

"Your eyes"

So she thought they were sad.

"Can I show you something else?"

"Sure"

She moved to her desk and opened her browser. I stood next to her but not too close because I had started to understand her from the time we had spent together.

"Shizuku?"

"Y-yes..."

This girl she...looks very...~

"This is you"

"Y-yes" Sakura got concerned and fearful and when I looked at the comments on her posts I understood.

I am near you Shizuku

I want to sniff your hair

Almost...I almost touched you, your beautiful face.

Why aren't you answering me? We are meant to be!

This person was like Ike and Yamauchi to an extreme and he clearly was on campus because he said he could see and touch her.

Sakura was obviously sacred and paranoid because whoever this is knows her identity.

"I can help you with this"

"How?"

"Well it will have to be after the trial but I'm sure you know the identity of your stalker don't you?" . . After classes the next day me Horikita Sudo and Airi were waiting outside the faculty room for Chabashira-Sensei.

But I didn't want to be here so I tried hiding behind Sudo but~

"Kiyotaka-kun!"

The woman who I desperately was trying to avoid had somehow found me.

She was hugging me and resting her head on my chest in-front of everyone after shouting my name.

"I knew you would come back for me! Couldn't resist could you ki~yo~taka..." She gave a playful but devilish grin as she separated from me, holding one of my arms in between her breast and stroking my cheek with her fingers.

Her smile and eyes were determined and didn't care about the students surrounding us.

bang*

"Owwwww!" She started rubbing her head, ending her seduction of me.

I was relieved but also conflicted.

Every time she invaded my personal space she would cause a fire to rise in me, but I guess that is just my youth which has been locked away for so long finally starting to break free.

If so I need to avoid her.

"What have I told you about my students, especially Ayanokõji-kun! *bang*" Sae-Sensei slammed her clipboard on Chie-chan's head again with force causing the overgrown child to fall to the floor clutching her head.

"Owww~Kiyotaka-kun save meee!" Sae-Sensei dragged her into the faculty room and dragged us~me specifically away.

She was forcefully gripping my arm as if I was going to stay where she was.

"Ayanokõji-kun the next time that happens I will punish you as well"

"I don't do anything though"

"Yes you neither accept nor reject which is the problem"

"So I should accept?"

bang*

I tried being smart with Sensei, like the Professor had taught me, and it resulted in a ferocious attack from the clipboard.

Chie-chan I now understand your pain.

"Now this trial will begin but the Student Council President will also be present"

At those words Horikita became rigid and the trial begun~

Okay so being back in school physically is actually a lot more draining and time consuming than online lessons .
I may or may not release the next part by the weekend but hopefully I can.
Also I don't know how people write fanfics and read other peoples while doing school or other things because I can't keep up.

Part 12

We were in the student councils room on the 4th floor.

Inside long tables had been arranged in rectangular formation.

The three students from Class C had already arrived and were seated, beside them sat a bespectacled male teacher in his 30's

"Sorry we're late"

"It's before the scheduled start time. There's no need for apologies."

"This is Sakagami-sensei, the homeroom teacher for Class C"

This would be expected since our homeroom teacher was here but his conduct was different to that of Sae and Chie and it fitted his class very well.

I sat down but before I did I grabbed a jug filled with water and a glass and placed them in front of me.

"Now then" Horikita Manabu was sitting there and his presence was dominating the room.

He didn't glance at Horikita or me but I understood that this will be his chance to observe me and his sister.

He was looking at the documents a on his desk and Horikita was even more dejected seeing her brother ignore her.

Are you seriously doing this pity act now?

"I would now like to discuss the violent incident that occurred last Tuesday with the members of the student council, the involved parties, and their homeroom teachers. You may begin Tachibana."

Tachibana was the secretary and looked to be highly devoted to Manabu.

"Of course, considering the magnitude of this dispute, there are times when the student council president will take over however I will be handling the majority"

"Isn't it a bit weird that the President is involving himself so much with this" Sae-Sensei smiled trying to toy with Manabu but he didn't react.

"I am the president that is gives the responsibility to lead this council so my involvement is well founded"

"Today we are here regarding the issue with class 1-C and class 1-D"

"Now there are two contradicting accounts and we would like to derive the truth and deliver punishment to the guilty party"

This is the structure and rules for the trial and so once these were laid out the trial could proceed.

"Komiya-kun and Kondō-kun went to the special building after Sudo-kun called them there. Then Sudo-kun viciously attacked them causing the injuries you see on them now. Is this true?"

"What those guys said was a lie! I was the one that got called over to the special building"

"That day after practice Komiya and Kondō asked me to go to the special building. Honestly, I thought it was kind of annoying, but I also thought it might've been because they were always hostile towards me. So, I went to meet them."

Sudo was speaking freely showing his delinquent behaviour.

However with Horikita in her current state she isn't able to control his words or actions like usual.

Why does she have to be this pitiful near her brother?

Sakagami-sensei stared in wide-eyed amusement at Sudo's antics and the state of class D

"That's a lie! Sudo-kun called us over to the special building."

"Don't fuck with me Komiya! You were the one who called me you jerk!"

thud*

Sudo in an outburst of rage stuck his desk with his first and the room went silent.

"I would suggest you refrain from having violent outbursts Sudo-kun, right now we are just having both sides recount and tell their stories"

Sudo understood and removed his fist from the desk, then Tachibana turned to class C.

Komiya-kun I suggest you also refrain from interrupting the proceedings"

"Both parties have made contradicting accounts on who called who over but the fact that is constant is thet there was a dispute between Sudo-kun Kondō-kun and Komiya-kun, correct?"

"It was not a dispute Sudo-kun is always picking fights with us."

"Picking fights?"

"Sudo is better at basketball than us, so he's always bragging about it. We practice with everything we've got, but it doesn't exactly feel good when he makes fools out of us so we often butt heads."

Sudo was trying to change to impress Horikita so this behaviour is highly unlikely.

"Not one bit of what Komiya said was true, those guys are just jealous of my talent. When I practice, they constantly get in my way!"

"Both sides have given their accounts, but now we have to come to a judgment with the evidence available"

"Sudou-kun beat us senseless. It was a one-sided fight."

Class C seemed intent on focusing the discussion on their injuries.

Their injuries and Sudo's lack thereof is their trump card for this trail.

"That's a lie! They attacked first, it was self-defense!"

Sudo and the others in class C were just shouting back and forth and the trial was going to chaos.

sigh*

Sadly Horikita, your weak and pathetic state is not needed now so I have to wake you up.

"Hyah!?" Horikita let out an unknown squeal and gave me a deathly glare.

Everyone in the room was shocked at my random course of action but Manabu and Sae-Sensei smirked.

Due to Horikita's state I used the water in the jug to put it in her and snap her out of it.

It worked but Horikita was now furious and because she was soaked some of her uniform started to turn see through.

So they are white

"You need to fight"

"Excuse me. May I ask a question?"

"Do you mind, president?"

"I'll allow it. However, please answer more quickly next time."

Horikita stood up her clothes dipping but the determination in her eyes was clear.

"Earlier, you said that Sudo-kun called you over to the special building. But who exactly did Sudo call, and why?"

Komiya and the other Class C students looked confused as to why she was asking this.

"Kondō and I don't know why he called us over. When we'd just finished up for the day and were changing, he said he wanted to talk to us for a minute. Wasn't the reason just that he didn't like us?"

This story had been clearly practiced and rehearsed and the questions were probably anticipated.

"So then, why exactly were you in the special building, Ishizaki-kun? You're not on the basketball team, so you have no connection to this case. I'd think your presence there would be rather odd."

"That's... I came as a precaution. There were rumors that Sudo was violent. He's also in better shape than we are, physically. I had to go, didn't I?"

"So in other words you anticipated that Sudo would get violent?"

"Yeah." They answered in unison showing they had rehearsed their answers.

"I see. So you brought along Ishizaki-kun as your bodyguard, since he was reputed to be a delinquent and a good fighter in middle school"

"Attacks on students' background are not necessary in a trial but isn't Sudo-kun a delinquent?

Sakagami was clearly here to maintain class C's upper hand and deal with Horikita.

"I do have some knowledge of martial arts, if only to a certain extent, so I understand that in a fight against numerous opponents it is nearly impossible to come out unharmed"

"Also the fact that it was Sudo whose only strong point is brute strength and Ishizaki has a background in fighting both parties should be injured"

"We didn't intend to fight."

"Fights are instigated when two parties conflict or oppose each other"

"That way of thinking doesn't apply to Sudo-kun. He's exceptionally violent, even if we were nonviolent, he'd still be mercilessly violent. That's what happened."
He peeled off the gauze that covered his cheek, exposing the scrapes underneath.

No matter how many reasonable arguments Horikita made, his injury gave powerful evidence.

"Are you finished with your claims now, Class D?" said Manabu calmly.

After staying silent while Horikita gave her argument, his words were few and icy.

His look seemed to suggest that he expected more and was disappointed in us.

"Class C started it and our witness can attest to that"

"Well then, Class D—if Class D's witness would please enter?"

Sakura, looking worried and restless, walked into the student council room with her head down.

"1-D, Sakura Airi-san."

"I thought I'd heard something or other about a witness, but you're a Class D student?" Sakagami chuckled cleaning his glasses.

"Is there a problem, Sakagami-sensei?

"No, no, please. Go ahead."

Sakagami-sensei and Chabashira-sensei exchanged looks.

"You may begin your testimony, if you wouldn't mind, Sakura-san."

"Y-yes, okay... Well... I..." She stopped speaking. . A period of silence followed.

Sakura steadily looked further downward, and her face became increasingly pale.

"Sakura-san..." Horikita, unable to take any more, addressed Sakura. Unlike before, the words didn't seem to reach her.

"Apparently she didn't witness anything. More of this would just be a waste of our time."

"Why are you in such a hurry, Sakagami-sensei?"

"I want to speed this along. If we waste time, my students will suffer. These students are the joyful heart of their class, so I've no doubt that their many friends are worried about them. Also, they're striving to improve their basketball skills, and we're depriving them of valuable practice time. As a teacher, I can't overlook this."

"I see. You're probably right about that."

Sae-Sensei, unlike Sakagami, was not the type to defend her class.

"You're certainly right that this is a waste of time, so I suppose we have no choice. You can come down now, Sakura."

Chabashira-sensei ordered Sakura to leave, almost as if she'd lost interest.

I had at least wanted Sakura to testify to build up her courage because she is too pitiful to be ignored.

But then it happened.

"I definitely saw what happened!"

Sakura shouted this and all eyes fell in her but she still continued.

"The students in Class C threw the first punch. There's no mistake about that!"

I was proud that she had mustered the courage to speak up and hope this is the start of her growth.

"Excuse me, but may I say something?" asked Sakagami-sensei, raising his hand.

"Normally, teachers are asked to speak as little as possible, but this situation is just too pitiful. Student council president, do you mind?"

"I'll allow it."

"In regards to what you've said, Sakura-san, I do not necessarily doubt you. However, I have one thing to ask. You've stepped forward to testify as a witness, but you were rather late in doing so. May I ask why?"

Sakagami-sensei was going to destroy the credibility of our witness which was his intention form when he heard she was form class D.

"That's... Well, that's... I didn't want to get involved..."

"Why didn't you want to get involved?"

"Because I'm not very good at talking with other people..."

"I see. I understand that. However, I'd like to say something else. You're not good at talking with others, and yet when the week was nearly out you stepped forward as a witness. Doesn't that seem rather odd? To my mind, it seems Class D secretly put a story together and are having you act as a false witness to give phony testimony."

"That's... I'm just...telling the truth..."

"No matter how poor your communication skills might be, I can see you haven't testified with much confidence. Is that because you're tormented with guilt, because you know what you're saying is actually a lie?"

"N-no, that's not it..." She stopped speaking and looked down again.

Sakagami-sensei gave a hostile grin as he began to sit back down.

"If you want proof... I'll give it to you!"

Sakagami-sensei froze in response to Sakura's words.

"Please, let's not force this situation to continue. If there really was evidence, you would have presented it at an earlier stage~"

slam*

Sakura loudly slammed her hand on the desk, and threw down what looked to be a few small, rectangular pieces of paper.

"What are those?"

Because she'd produced something other than words, Sakagami- sensei's expression stiffened for the first time.

"This is proof that I was in the special building that day!"

Secretary Tachibana walked over to Sakura.

Though she hesitated at first, she then reached for the paper. No, those weren't pieces of paper like I'd thought.

They were photos.

"President."

After looking at the photographs, Secretary Tachibana handed them over to Manabu.

Manabu after looking at the pictures for some time, laid them out on the desk so that we could see.

We saw Sakura in those pictures, but this Sakura wore a lovely expression that looked both similar and dissimilar to the Sakura with us now.

It was the idol, Shizuku.

"I'm...I was looking for places where no one was around so I could take pictures of myself. The pictures also show the date and time, which proves that I was there when I said."

The date on the pictures definitely showed that they'd been taken in the evening one week ago.

That would've been around the time that Sudo and the others finished their club activities for the day.

We began to see changes in the three Class C students, who up until now had been playing the part of victims.

"What did you use to take these photos?" asked Sakagami-sensei.

"A digital...camera."

"You can alter the date rather easily with a digital camera, though. If you manipulated these photos on a computer, you could effectively set them at the time and date of the incident. These are inadequate evidence."

"But Sakagami-sensei, don't you think this photo is different?" Manabu revealed a photo he had kept hidden.

"Th-this?!"

The photo showed the fight itself; clearly there was no need to nitpick the time.

The picture seemed to show what had happened immediately after Sudo hit Ishizaki.

"I think that you'll believe I was there after seeing...this."

"Thank you, Sakura-san."

This picture had absolutely saved Horikita and had given hope to Sudo.

"I see. Well, you do seem to be telling the truth about witnessing the incident. That much I simply must accept. However, I can't ascertain how the situation started from this picture. This doesn't prove that you saw the entire incident."

It was certainly true that this picture made it look like the fight had already ended.

We couldn't call this definitive evidence.

"Say Sakagami what punishment would you like Sudo-kun to receive?"

"Are you conceding Sae-chan" As if mocking Sensei he said this but she just smiled.

Now the show begins.

"Shall we agree on expulsion?"

Sudo Horikita and even the class C's were surprised at this suggestion but Sakgami gave a cruel smile.

"Yes"

Sae-Sensei smiled and Sakagami became wide-eyed as he realised.

He had fallen into her trap.

"Secretary-san I believe this will be useful to the trial"

She handed a USB to Tachibana who plugged it into a computer and two files appeared.

"One is an audio file but I think due to Sakura-san's photos the video will suffice"

The video played and showed Kondō throwing the first punch and then captured the discussion after Sudo left where they said how they had framed him.

Everyone apart from Manabu Sae and I were shocked.

"So Sakagami since expulsion is the punishment let's expel someone from the guilty party" Sae had a cold grin and Sakagami looked defeated trapped by his own words.

"Wh-wait no!"

The class C students started to protest but then Sae offered an alternative.

"Or instead of expulsion let's say a reduction of 50 class points each since these students are the joyful heart of your class so their worth should be 50 class points each correct"

"Tch..." Sakagami was trapped again by his words and had realised how Sae-Sensei had used the flow of the trial to manipulate him and his students.

"1 expulsion shall be the punishment"

All eyes focused on Manabu who had decided the outcome.

"Kondō-kun you are the instigator therefore you are expelled" . .
The trial was over and Sudo with Sakura to rest before coming to my room for a party.

Sakura was thanked for her help and courage but turned down the party because she still is not good in social situations.

Sae-Sensei had left after laughing at Sakagami after the two had a brief exchange.

"You completely manipulate ld me for your own game despite knowing that teachers are not supposed to interfere" Sakagami was enraged at being used and because he was the one who suggested the punishment of expulsion.

"Now now Sakagami I wasn't the one who was constantly interrupting now was I" Sae-Sensei had a condescending and mocking tone as she relished in his annoyance.

"But you~"

"You are starting to sound like one of the defectives in my class. Are we sure class C has been evaluated correctly if you are it's homeroom teacher"

"Yes they have! You are in charge of those pathetic defectives because you are pathetic trash just like them!"

At this point everyone was looking at Sakagami who had lost his composure and was now being exactly like Sudo, one of those pathetic defectives he looked down upon.

"Such a small stupid man" Sensei sighed as she said this and started to walk away.

"I will say one thing"

"What is that?" Sakagami spat almost disgusted by her presence.

"Class C for now" Sensei started laughing as she walked away.

"Tch...Kondō! Get your things and get out of my sight" Sakagami started to walk away, rage still burning deeply in his eyes.

Kondō had broken down on the floor but Komiya and Ishizaki dragged him to go "report to someone".

All that was left in the room was me, Horikita, Manabu and Tachibana.

"I am very impressed with the results Ayanokõji-kun"

Manabu said this while getting up and standing in front of me. Horikita and Tachibana looked confused but Manabu was staring at me intently.

"I don't think I did anything"

"While I may not have physical proof or a trail that connects you to the recording and video I can say that you were not surprised at its existence"

"I don't express myself very well I was very shocked" Perhaps in my monotone voice this sounded sarcastic because Horikita got even more annoyed with me.

"Well I will say this whoever planned this trail was very smart"

"What do you mean by that President?" Tachibana was confused and asked Manabu who hadn't yet shifted his gaze from me.

"The outcome of the trial was decided at the very start with the existence of the video and recording but someone must have told Chabashira-Sensei to hold off on showing it"

"Why?" This time Horikita asked and Manabu looked at her disappointed that she couldn't understand.

"They told her to wait because they knew how she is good at understanding and using other people's words against them. They also knew that Sakagami would defend his students and would get manipulated by Chabashira causing the punishment of expulsion to be suggested"

Manabu was satisfied with the explanation and Horikita and Tachibana finally understood.

"So the trial was fixed from the start and was only used to understand how class C works and what their homeroom teacher is like" Tachibana said this in amazement looking at Manabu for confirmation.

"Yes"

Horikita was confused but also glaring at me because she understood that Manabu was saying that I orchestrated all of this.

"Tachibana what are the open positions on the Council?"

"Well the secretary position is open because the class A student was rejected by you"

"Ayanokõji-kun I am offering you this position"

"Him?" Tachibana was dumbstruck and Horikita gasped shocked at the current turn of events and her brother's high evaluation of me.

"Do you disagree?"

"No"

"I have to decline"

"May I ask why?"

"I just want a peaceful carefree life and that sounds like a lot of responsibility"

"Very well. Let's go"

Manabu along with a very confused and frustrated Tachibana left me with Horikita who was shaking with anger.

The veins on her forehead were violently pulsing and her knuckles were bulging out of her skin because of how tight she had balled up her fist.

"Ayanokõji-kun explain" Through her gritted teeth she said that but I would rather not explain it.

"Horikita I will help you get to class A"

"What?"

"I value my peaceful life but I also told you to consider myself as Koenji who doesn't involve or help the class and yet I have helped again"

"So you are going to cooperate with me"

"No I am still going to have my free life but for now I am going to my room to prepare for this party"

The fact that the party was in my room was annoying but this can't be helped as the idiots' rooms are messy and the girls' are out of bounds.

I started walking away thinking of why I decided to help.

The reason was because I needed an excuse to give to Horikita.

Ichinose showed me her determination and drive that is pushing her towards class A and her classes unity is interesting to me, so I have decided that she will be an interesting foe when I come to face her but I need for her to display more of her observational and leadership skills to determine her worth more accurately.

Through this trail though I was able to get the name and a glimpse of what a battle against the class C dictator Ryūen is capable of.

His underhanded tactics and way of doing things are more dangerous than Ichinose and he is likely someone who will take a lot to beat down because he is able to rule his whole class with an iron fist.

He is also able to read people and predict what will happen to some extent which was shown through their anticipation of Horikita's questions and Sakagami Sensei was probably instructed to intervene by him.

Ryūen you are the most interesting person I have met in this school so far.

I am looking forward to our battles.

(A/N: A smug loli can be heard chuckling somewhere waiting for her grand reveal to come)

As I was walking I also thought about my question.

Who am I?

Now I have the answer.

I am still Ayanokõji Kiyotaka a product of the White Room.

The Masterpiece of the White Room.

I have no emotions or feelings other than pain which is the only reminder of my humanity.

I have no friends or people who I let in and tell about my past or show my darkness to.

My darkness and capabilities go beyond what people can understand and my principles are what many would call cruel.

But I will always sacrifice anyone and thing to protect my freedom and secure my success.

With this realisation that even though I have entered society I still haven't changed my approach and tactics will be different from what I have used so far.

So I will have to deal with Horikita and Kushida.

So this is quite the long one which I could put into two but I think it is better this way.
The trail may seem long winded but that's because it mainly follows the trail in the Ln.
An explanation will be done for how all this went down but now Kiyo has answered his questions and will start acting more like himself.

The island arc is next but this arc took time to write because of research and that one will probably take longer.

The Face of an Angel

Ayanokõji Pov

The party in my room, which I did try to object to but was ignored, was in its middle stages.

Once again Sudo was praising Horikita in front of Kushida Ike Yamauchi and the Professor and me.

"I'm telling ya Kanji if it wasn't for Horikita-san and Sensei I would have been toast" Sudo was worshiping Horikita at this point.

"Like I have said for the 9th time now if it wasn't for your short temper and childish antics I wouldn't have to save you constantly"

Horikita was being cold to Sudo for the full party but I guess she is still trying to figure out how I saved him.

"Yeah Ken it was lucky you had Horikita-san there instead of this loser!" Ike slapped my back and then laughed at me.

The incident with me pouring a jug of water over Horikita was sworn to secrecy after Horikita threatened us, so my actions in the trial was just sitting down and watching Horikita "save" Sudo.

"Yeah Kanji's right! I mean are you even useful?"

"Yamauchi-kun that is not a nice thing to say about Kiyotaka-kun" Kushida who had been silent so far and looked distant spoke up for me.

"Sorry Kushida-san"

"Sukebe-dono you are like a dog aren't you" The Professor who was smiling to himself started to laugh at Yamauchi and everyone looked at him confused.

"Oh yeah Haruki I just remembered something!"

"What is it Kanji?"

"You know Sakura?"

"Yeah the witness"

"She is an idol called Shizuku!"

"Really!" Everyone but Horikita was interested in this and looked at the photos on Ike's phone. . .
The party thankfully came to an end and everyone agreed to leave.

Kushida left first in a hurry. Beads of sweat could be seen slightly on her forehead and her hand was slightly scrunched into a fist.

No-one noticed because once again Horikita was the centre of attention, which seems to be a theme for these celebrations.

I saw a phone on my bed where Kushida was sitting.

Guess now I have a reason to be talking to her.

I left my room and looked towards the elevator and saw Kushida in it.

"Top floor?" I know that Kushida isn't on that floor because Ike had stalked her to find her room and floor number.

So if she doesn't sleep there then she wants...the roof .
.

Kushida Pov

I couldn't bear it!

Those filthy disgusting perverts!

Those pathetic monkeys were grovelling at her feet.

It was torture!

Hearing them praise her and worship her when at the start of the year they hated her.

Arrgh!

I'm so sick of it.

She has come to my school.

Ruin my new start.

Replace me as the trusted reliable saviour of my class.

And why?

That bitch was happily looking down on us.

The "oh so perfect" bitch was happy to look down and spit on all of us at the start of the year.

But then what?

Started caring!

Creating the study group for them revolting repelling rejects.

Using me to make deals with them so they would join and then looking down and attacking me.

I hate her!

thud*

My anger became uncontrollable and burst out as I kicked the railing on the roof.

"Why did she have to save our class?"

"Why did that bitch have to get those midterm questions!"

thud thud thud*

Normally I would throw up or have my hair fall out because of the stress of maintaining my mask infront of unbearable disgusting people but this feeling inside me isn't stress.

It is rage.

A deep uncontrollable hatred towards that bitch who is ruining and stealing my fresh start.

My mask was broken by this and if the party had lasted any longer I would have clawed her face or used a pen to stab that bitch.

"That perfect Horikita-san saving the class in the midterms and then saving the pathetic money Sudo-kun"

"I hate her!"

"I hate her! I hate her! I hate her! I HATE THAT UGLY STUCK UP BALCK HAIRED BITCH! WHY CAN'T SHE JUST DIE!"

I pounded the railing with each shout and my frustrations and rage were bubbling even more.

I could feel my desire to do whatever in order to hurt her.

To ruin her.

"THAT BORING PATHETIC FREAK THAT SHE TALKS TO COULDN'T EVEN HELP ME! THE BORING PLAIN USELESS BASTARD!"

At the start of the year I noticed that she only spoke to Ayanokõji Kiyotaka, the useless shadow or face in a crowd that follows Horikita like a bad smell.

I decided to approach him but he didn't even know her name.

How pathetic!

But no matter how many times he said she hated him I always saw them talking.

Always with each other.

So I decided to once again reach out and try to use him. I tried to tease and flirt with him but the pathetic creep didn't even change that dead emotionless ugly face.

I mean what girl would want to date such a boring guy like that!

I mean there is that air headed bookworm.

But she is another annoying freak with her innocent and childlike behaviour. It makes me sick.

All my efforts to use him were useless and now I am bursting with rage and a feeling of sickness which is all her fault!

"HORIKITA I HATE YOU! DIE! DIE! DIE! YOU UGLY SLUT!"

crash*

"Huh! Who-who's there?"

I have been overheard.

Someone has seen my secret.

I need to protect myself but who has seen me.

"Sorry I just kicked the bucket"

Seriously that guy, and did he really just try to make that joke.

Ayanokõji Pov

My plan to confront Kushida bore more fruit than expected.

I knew she was fake and had an obsession over Horikita when I decided to make a plan to confront her.

She knew Horikita's name despite Horikita not speaking to anyone but me which means they knew each other previously.

Sadly Kushida decided to try and use me.

But this just means I can get a tool.

An unstable tool that I will have to discard or render useless in the future.

But for now she will be useful.

crash*

I decided to kick a bucket that was left there to alert her of my presence.

Fear and aggression will be perfect for subduing her and securing her temporary cooperation.

"Huh! Who-who's there?"

"Sorry I just kicked the bucket" I walked out onto the roof and Kushida gave me a cold icy glare.

So this is the angel who everyone fawns over, I wonder what Ike would think of this side of her.

"You left this" I showed her phone but she just smacked it out of my hand and closed the distance between us.

"How much did you hear?" She spat looking directly into my eyes.

Her duality would scare nearly everyone in our school but I too am hiding something much worse.

"Would you believe me if I said nothing?"

"If you say anything I will make you pay"

"How I haven't done anything wrong?" I am interested in seeing what she thinks of, maybe she will kick me down the stairs or get people to hang up on me and hospitalise me~

"I will tell everyone you tried to rape me" Of course she would resort to using her body.

"That's not true so no one would believe you" This is improbable, Kushida is one of the pillars that is holding out class up.

Her personality and popularity would make her very believable and my reserved reclusive nature would be labelled as a closet or hidden pervert.

As a result even if there was no evidence my peaceful high school life would go up in flames.

However what happened next surprised even me. "What are you doing?" Kushida had brought my hand towards her breast and pushed it into it.

"Here is the evidence I would need. Your fingerprints are in a very telling place" Kushida was still cold and spoke in a low cold and dark tone but she was also slightly pleased with her plan.

"So is this how you became so popular"

slap*

"Disgusting pervert" She slapped me on my face and spat those words at me before letting go and taking a step back.

"If you betray me I will make you pay, understand?"

"Yes"

"And just so you know I now own you"

She smiled and started to walk off of the roof but stopped next to me.

"I hate boring plain lifeless guys like you, if you want you could make me happy and jump" These words were not the usual bubbly and encouraging words of Kushida but her true hidden feelings.

grab*

"Wha-Get off of me!" Just as she was about to leave I grabbed her hand.

I was still looking forward and could feel Kushida trying to release herself from my grip.

"Ahh~ahhh! L-let go!" She cried out in pain as I strengthened my grip pushing her Radius and Ulna together crushing her arm.

thud*

I threw her back towards the railing and moved towards the door.

slam*

I felt Kushida turn tense and heard her clambering to her feet.

"W-what are you doing?" Her voice was still cold and threatening but her legs were shaking.

"I just want a quiet and peaceful life and now you are an obstacle in my way of that" I slowly started to walk towards her and showed some of my darkness.

My tone was still monotone but now was icy dark and deeper than usual.

"Ki~Ayanokõji-kun you can't hurt me!"

"Why not? You hurt me" I showed her my cheek which had reddened from her slap and then sprung forward.

bang*

"Stop y-you can't! V-violence is prohibited" Kushida had jumped to the floor to avoid my hand which had now slammed into the railing.

"There are no cameras here so I can" I moved over to her and grabbed her by the jaw crushing it.

Her legs were kicking under me and her hands were scratching mine, but tears were starting to appear.

I removed my hand and then pressed my foot against her throat and started to crush her windpipe.

This time her legs kicked out violently and her arms were flailing as she struggled to breathe.

Fear would be the greatest weapon to keep Kushida in check and while I was crushing her windpipe I was realising a killing aura.

"Now Kushida I own you" I had removed my foot and Kushida was breathing heavily.

"No...I-I...I will tell the...school" Her voice was croaky and hoarse.

"But I have this" I took out a phone and played a recording "I will tell everyone you tried to rape me"

Her eyes widened but she still hadn't lost her last resort.

"If you do try to tell the school then I will show this and tell them you are making another false accusation and will say that the wounds are self inflicted, as a repair the school will look into out pasts and I think with your history they will believe me"

She flinched when I mentioned her past but then looked down defeated.

"So now you will help me Kikyō"

I left her on the roof in a pitiful and broken state of despair and fear.

Her body was twitching and skating and her tears were flowing.

But she now feared me more than expulsion or anything or anyone else at this school so I didn't need to worry about being exposed.

Kushida Pov

What-what was that?

Ayanokõji Kiyotaka.

The loner and loyal shadow of Horikita-san.

He is...

He is a monster

A terrifying cruel cold monster who wouldn't hesitate to kill or get rid of me.

I need to be careful of him.

I need~

sob*

Tears streamed from my eyes as I lay huddled up twitching and quaking in fear on the cold lonely rooftop.

I will have to go to my room and hide that this beer happened.

I need to protect myself from him.

Well I said he would deal with Kushida and here it is.
A certain simp did give me ideas to make this more violent so I have redrafted it about 4 times.
Also it turns out you can get fingerprints form some fabrics but DNA is the preferred method when fabrics are involved.
Sorry but the resolution with Sakura's issue will come next and then the explanation it's just I'm reading fanfics and watching too much anime so my productivity is dreadful.

Resolution

It was a Sunday morning and I was resting on a wall at the entrance of an alley outside Keykia mall.

Sakura Airi or Shizuku is waiting to confront her stalker and relinquish her chains and anxieties.

And I am here for support for when it goes wrong or she backs out.

While waiting here I decided to think about the trial.

3 days before the Incident

"Hey Aynokõji-kun have you heard this?" Ike was laughing and beckoned me over.

"What is it?"

"Ken is trying to please Horikita-san!"

"N-no! It's not like that...exactly" Sudo said this looking down but his sense of determination was high.

"What do you mean?"

"It's just she saved me so I want to show her that I'm not worthless and show her that in future she won't have to drop her marks for me"

Sure you will suddenly change and become a pillar of our class and even more useful and helpful than Hirata Kushida and me.

"That's good"

"Yeah..."

Sudo was scratching the back of his neck as if something was bothering him.

"What is it?"

"It's just these class C guys, Kondō and Komiya are giving me grief In basketball club"

"Why?"

"I am being considered as a new member on the team and will be able to play in tournaments"

Sudo was good at basketball and I had seen that first hand when I sacrificed a week of my life to train with him for the study group, but for him to be the only first year on the basketball team was something else.

"Getting that would show Horikita how determined you are and the additional points would be helpful to class"

(A/N: If you are wondering how they know about the points them it is because Hirata was told by one of his senpai's and he then told the class)

"Yeah it's just they are troubling you know?"

"Isn't it club today?"

"Oh! Yeah shit! Out of the way!" Sudo raced out of class and pushed passed students.

Hmm~

I can't trust that the class C students won't try to provoke Sudo to take advantage of his short temper and cause an incident.

After all if I was to attack this ununified and unstable class then I would search for a weak link that is easy to topple.

And for class D that weak link is Sudo.

But I have just spent 50,000 points on him so I need to get a return on my investment before I dispose of him. . .
Lunch started and I went to the library to meet up with Hiyori.

Hiyori is the only person I communicate with everyday and I actually feel calm just by being near her.

"Hiyori"

"Kiyotaka have you seen?" She was bouncing on the spot and her usual pure smile was bigger than usual.

"What is it?"

"We can order in new books!"

For Hiyori books are essential in her life and since they are what our friendship started from I think their significance has become even more important to her.

"Can we order some?"

"Yes you two may" The librarian smiled as she said that putting down a form in front of us.

"Thank you! I'm going to get you the most amazing book" Hiyori started humming and writing down a list of books and crossing them out like she was filtering job applications.

I will also pick out a book for Hiyori because I need to borrow some points from her.

"Hiyori?"

"Yes Kiyotaka?"

"I need some points to help someone but I don't have enough so can I borrow some from you?" I didn't want to ask but Sudo has forced my hand.

"Of course you can"

"Thank you, and I will make up for it"

"No I am happy to help my friend" She was starry eyed and her smile made me forget about Sudo and what might happen.

"Then let's go to the cafeteria and you can eat lunch there for the first time"

"Really!"

"Yes" I reached over and patted her head and she smiled at me before we started to read and order a book for each other.

Hiyori hadn't got a chance to eat in the cafeteria because she makes her own bento and she had no friends to go with.

But I will change that. . .
After school I checked my point total which was 34,202 points.

The 50,000 points was a huge setback and given that 20,000 of these points were Hiyori's then I needed to stop spending.

I had arrived at my destination and sighed deeply knowing what is going to happen.

knock knock*

"Have you come for another lesson Ayanokõji-dono?"

"No I need help"

We made our way to the table in his room and I saw his walls had some decorations but he also doubted the pint system and saved some points just in case.

"What help would you require?"

"Professor, you like these anime protagonist things don't you?"

"Why of course I do dono. Who wouldn't?" He was analysing my face to check for a response.

"How about you be like your own anime character"

slam*

"I have dreamed about that over and over what are you saying Ayanokõji-dono?" He slammed his hands onto the table as he stood up in excitement and expectancy.

sigh*

"Help me control and manipulate the class from the shadows"

"I like what you are getting at but how do you know you can trust me?" He was grinning and I knew my next response would finalise this arrangement.

"Because you would be able to raise yourself above everyone in our class and the others"

"Yes...I would be watching our class praise and worship Horikita or Hirata-dono for their success whilst knowing that we are the reason behind it and when other classes attack us I can be safe as just the "weird hentai anime guy" that creeps out even Ike but in reality I am pulling the strings behind the scenes"

The Professor started to laugh and then snapped his head towards me and stuck out his hand.

"I will help you mastermind-dono"

"Well I will transfer you my points and you will buy a camera and two voice recorders"

I transferred over 30,000 private points to cover the costs and then left the room.

sigh*

Why does he have to be the most useful tool at my disposal at the moment.

Anyway I wonder if he is involved.

Professor Pov

This is it.

The moment my life has been building up to.

It is finally here!

I will be operating in the shadows and maneuvering out class to success.

I can barely contain my excitement!

And the person allowing me to do this is mastermind-dono.

Ayanokõji Kiyotaka-dono.

He is like a real life anime protagonist, an MC and I am his right hand that helps him and conceals his identity.

Huhuhuhuhu~this is going to be fun.

(A/N: I tried instead of kukuku and fufufufu which are reserved for two people and instead of the usual hahaha)

"So these are the products you would like?"

"Yes they are"

The man behind the desk started to scan my items and I had bought two voice records and 2 cameras.

The cameras had good quality on medium to close range and was a camera I had been eyeing up for a while.

I can use this now to see how good the recordings are so I can use it later

I finished buying the items and received a message from one of the Sukebe-dono's inviting me to Mastermind-donos room.

I will put this in my dorm first.

Back to the current time with the ally

A man walked into the alley at the scheduled meeting time.

This man looked disgusting.

His posture was one that looked desperate and like a wild animal that would jump at Sakura at any time. His body was out of shape and very poorly kept. Drool could be seen from his mouth which foamed at the sides when he saw Sakura and the ravenous wild desperate look in his eyes added to these warning signs.

No matter his disgusting appearance or existence I am here to help Sakura grow so if there is a need~I won't hesitate.

"Shizuku I am here. Finally we are here" He moved closer to her and when he spoke saliva and escaped his mouth towards Sakura.

"N-no! Sssss-stay back!" Sakura was obviously shaken at this sight and behaviour but desperately tried to hold her ground.

"I-I want t-to talk"

"Okay, we can talk" He licked the corner of his mouth and more droplets of saliva fell to the floor while he breathed heavy.

"I want...I want you to leave me alone" Sakura mumbled this and it wasn't audible to the man who was undressing her with his eyes and probably thinking about disgusting lustrous thoughts as he looked at her.

"What was that?" He once again moved closer but his tone was slimy and rough.

"..."

Sakura was drowning in her own fears but desperately tried kicking against the current of self deprivation and social anxiety to cut the connection with this stalker.

Stalker is also a light word for this disgusting creature.

Obsessed crazed and starved animal was more of an accurate description.

"C'mon you can tell me anything my beautiful princess" He was so close that the droplets of saliva that spewed out every time he spoke now fell onto Sakura along with his breath.

"LEAVE ME ALONE!" Sakura backed away, throwing the letters at him and screaming at him.

The air got thick and the atmosphere in the alley became dark and suffocating.

The store worker looked down at the letters and his arms were shaking as his hands scrunched into fists.

"Ha. Hahahaha. Hahahahahahahaha~You bitch!" He laughed like a patient from a mental institution and when he looked at Sakura all sense of self control was gone.

He pounced towards Sakura laughing and his arms ready to rip her shirt open and slam her into the wall.

thud*

"Arghh! You~"

I had intervened before he could reach Sakura and kicked him in the stomach near his ribs which was unguarded.

I hit him with similar force that I put a hole through my floor resulting in him coughing up blood.

But he needs to suffer more.

My darkness and killing intent dominated the alley and the suffocating atmosphere before turned into a foreboding atmosphere of pain and suffering.

"You that bitches boyfriend?"

I didn't answer the question he shouted as he lunged at me and instead dogged under his arm and punched his stomach.

"Gwuah~" He was sent backward by the impact of my fist and vomited up some of the contents of his stomach along with blood.

I walked over to Sakura who was cowering away from me more than him.

"Show the school the letters and that will override the actions I took because the staff here are not meant or know us from before coming here so if you do that he will be removed and you will be free if you don't you can live in fear for the rest of your school life"

Sakura needs to understand how harsh reality is and that the world would swallow someone like her up whole.

I left the alley and made my way back to my dorm.

sigh*

Glad that is over with.

I took a shower and decided to go to sleep because today was exhausting.

Back to the Auanokõji's room 3 days before the incident.

It was like the usual meet ups in my room where Ike and Yamauchi would talk about their fantasies and Sudo would starfish on my bed.

"Ike where would you confess to Kushida?" I have no interest in confessing or getting confessed to but if I know Ike he has probably put extensive thought into this which could be helpful.

"Huh why do you want to know?"

"Hey why are you asking Kanji about confessing to Kushida-san!" Yamauchi shouted standing up glaring at me.

"Because Hentai-dono you will never get close with Kushida or any other girl" The Professor layed out the harsh truth and Yamauchi went to lunge for him but Sudo pulled him back.

"Kanji where would you do it?"

"Well ermm...I would do it somewhere quiet and where people don't often go"

"Why" Both Sudo and Yamauchi asked but the Professor once again threw an insult.

"So when he is rejected no one can see Sukebe-dono cry"

"Why you BASTARD!"

After a brief scuffle Ike comes down and the discussion resumes.

"Somewhere quiet..." Sudo was muttering and then clicked his fingers "like the special building"

"No no that place is too hot and stuffy there and it is not the right location for a confession"

The special building, a prime location for isolating Sudo and having a confrontation because the likelihood of a witness showing up is highly improbable.

As long as this building has no cameras then I can be certain that this is where it will take place so tomorrow I will have to pay it a visit.

The next day

Classes finished and Sudo started heading towards his club.

grab*

"HEY WHA~Oh Ayanokõji what you want?" Sudo lowered his hand after recognising me and I let go of his arm.

"Horikita told me to walk with you to club"

"Really?"

"Yes. She also wants to know if this bag is the only bag you use for club"

"Yes it is, no need for two when one does fine"

This makes the plan a lot easier.

"Can I take a look at your bag?"

"Why?"

"Horikita wants to make sure the class C guys haven't done anything to it or put anything in it"

He gave me his bag and I placed it on bench.

Saying Horikita really gets Sudo to do what you want no questions asked huh?

"Hey ummm..can I aks you something?"

"Sure" As I was searching his bag and putting the recorder in Sudo started to become nervous.

"Why did Horikita-san save me?"

Hmm~there are two ways to answer this but the way I should choose will be to lie so that his faith and debt to Horikita deepen so that he can be controlled easier.

"She saw something in you"

"What do you mean"

"When you speak about basketball or your dream of becoming pro she said the determination in your eyes is commendable"

This obviously was all a lie and Horikita was actually repulsed by him but he doesn't need to know.

"Commendable..." Sudo became misty eyed and started to mutter to himself.

"But if you don't change she won't respect you"

"Yes I will change I will be someone she can trust"

I closed his bag and handed it to him and he went off to his club.

sigh*

If it was that simple I wouldn't have to do this. . .
"There are no cameras here"

I was in the special building speaking on the phone to the Professor who was enthusiastic as usual.

"Well then shall be set up the trap Mastermind-dono?"

"I want you to stop calling me that"

"Well for now let us sat up the camera"

Following his instructions I placed the camera in a plant pot so that it could be camouflaged but get a good view of the corridor.

I then moved onto the blind spot of that camera and placed down another to guarantee one of them recording the fight.

The Professor oddly enough was the one to suggest two cameras and even put his own points towards them.

"How do they look!"

"Good enough but up close the quality is perfect"

I need to keep these cameras away from him after this is done.

The first day of the month.

Once again at 1am I am sneaking out of the dorms and heading into the special building to take the cameras back to the Professor to change batteries and check the recordings.

However the recordings on the cameras showed the incident occurring.

"What should we do now dono?"

"Make a copy of the recording and we will have to collect the recording from Sudo"

"And we will show the school?"

"No we will wait"

"I understand"

The Professor was grinning but now I had to retrieve the recording from Sudo. . At school that day I saw the Professor root through Sudo's bag and take back the recorder and when Sudo was staring dreamily at Horikita.

He is able to think and act on his own. . . It was the day before the trial and everything was ready.

The video of the fight and the recording form Sudo's bag were prepared on two memory sticks and I told the Professor to put one on Sae-Sensei's desk and write a note explaining what it was.

"But what is she ignores it?"

"She can't"

"How so?"

"She will know or suspect that it was me and she thinks of me highly so she would know that there would be multiple copies. Now she would like to for me to openly do something but she also can't ignore it because a third party, you, is involved so if she was to ignore it and get reported them her job is over"

"You think very far ahead X-dono"

"Yes well thanks to the recording from Komiya's room we now know who class C's dictator is"

"Ryūen-dono"

The Professor had a dark and determined face because he knew that a confrontation with Ryūen is going to be very dangerous if a single mistake is made or weakness is shown.

But he is also looking forward to it, well so am I.

"Good luck with the trail X-dono"

We both went about our normal routines because there was nothing else to be done.

Part 13

The vast glistening blue sea and radiant sun painted the landscape in a tranquil and soothing air.

Regret, paranoia, humiliation and determination were washed away by the waves of the ocean and carried away by a soft refreshing breeze.

All the pent up emotions and tension from the midterms and Sudo's trial felt insignificant in the face of this beautiful view.

"It gets more and more beautiful everyday"

A soft calming voice came from my right.

Hiyori was standing there looking at the ocean, which reflected beautifully in her purple eyes full of awe, and I turned towards her.

"I am glad the school offered us this opportunity" Hiyori turned to face me and the sun shone behind her making her look like an angel.

"Yeah..."

However no matter how beautiful the view is I will not be sucked in and fall victim to it.

This school wouldn't give 159 teenagers a luxury all expense paid cruise for just passing some written exams.

Also the school budget is very impressive because this cruise for 2 weeks would usually cost at least 100,000 yen for 1 person and yet there are 163 people on the cruise so the budget is very impressive.

I looked back to the ocean with Hiyori.

"I made plans with my classmates but I can cancel them if you want"

"It is okay. Actually I have plans with a classmate as well" Hiyori hadn't been able to beach out and make progress with her classmates so she would obviously be ecstatic with this development.

"I hope they can join our reading sessions as well"

"Me too!" She skipped away humming a song.

I don't need to know the name of this classmate because even if it is Ryūen or someone working for him they cannot gain anything from the reading sessions.

But if they use Hiyori to try and gain an advantage over me I will destroy them and the whole class because Hiyori is too pure to understand they are taking advantage of the fact she is isolated. . .
"I'm gonna do it!"

"Good luck soldier!"

"May God be on your side!"

Sudo and Yamauchi saluted Ike and made shouts of encouragement meanwhile~

"I shall record your failure" The Professor was not so encouraging and took out a camera.

I had joined late to this group discussion but from the parts I heard I concluded that Ike has messaged Kushida to meet him and will now ask to say her first name.

I don't understand the concept of saying first names and honorifics but to these three idiots they are something of great significance.

But Kushida and Hiyori call me by my first name and Hiyori doesn't use honorifics and it isn't important to them.

In fact I also call Hiyori her first name without honorifics.

"Is there anything wrong Ike-kun? Is Sudo-kun okay?" Kushida didn't understand the current situation and quizzed Ike.

I know about Kushida's other side so I know she probably wants to vomit every time she sees Ike and so if calling people their first names is significant she will probably allow it but feel violated every time he says it.

"No no n-nothings wrong and Sudo is fine" Ike was becoming nervous and stumbling over his words.

He really is hopeless.

"Hmm? Then what is it?" Kushida put her finger on her chin and tilted her head as she leaned to the side slightly.

"Oh~err...umm well...can-can I call you Kikyō-san?"

"Of course you can Kanji-kun!" Kushida let out a smile and Ike fell to his knee's screaming praises and other incoherent ramblings.

"He did it!"

"It was amazing!"

Yamauchi and Sudo looked amazed at this and the Professor left to go watch the new episode of an anime he was watching.

Kushida also left but not before seeing our group and looking down at the floor after looking at me.

She may be obedient now but she will most likely look for someone more dangerous and threatening than me to free herself.

"What! Where is my hero's welcome!" Ike had returned to us with strides and a posture full of confidence but Sudo and Yamauchi were mumbling to themselves.

"H-hey Ayanokõji-kun you know Horikita-sans first name don't you?" Sudo hesitantly approached me looking desperate.

"No"

"What! You gotta know"

"She never told me"

I knew her first name because her brother said it when we first met but I may as well drag this out.

"Please" Sudo fell to his knees begging and i tilted my head and stared at the sky to feign thinking.

"Suzune"

"Wha~Suzune...so beautiful" His eyes became clouded and he started to repeat "Suzune" over and over.

Yamauchi then also started to repeat "Airi" which is Sakura's first name over and over looking like the store clerk from the alley.

"H-hey let me practice on you"

"No" I started to leave after Sudo said that with eyes of a caveman, I am not becoming something he will project his fantasies onto.

I walked off leaving the energetic trio to fantasise together and saw large gatherings of students at the railings.

"Wooah" "It's so beautiful" "This is amazing!"

Those remarks could be heard from the crowd as they started at the island with unopened eyes or rather they glanced instead of looked.

"It's beautiful isn't it"

"Maybe"

"What do you mean maybe?"

"That island looks no different to other islands"

"Ever so boring" Kushida sighed looking at the island.

"Say Kiyotaka what's your type?"

"Huh?"

"Oh you don't understand what I mean by type" She giggled which turned into a laugh.

Of course I knew what she meant because the Professor told me about "types" but why is she asking?

"Ok how about this is your type Shiina-san or is it more Horikita-san?"

"All students change into their tracksuits and leave any personal belongings in their rooms be ready for departure in 20 minutes"

"Don't think this allows you to dodge the question" She ran off grinning.

sigh*

What would my type be?

"So what's your answer?"

"Karuizawa"

"What?!" She shouted but thankfully very few students had changed as fast as we had.

"B-but she is dating Hirata-kun"

"You said type so I have answered"

"W-why?"

"Well in order to determine my type I decided to isolate a sample and derive an answer from them so I chose the girls in class D. Only 3 girls stand out and they are Horikita Karuizawa and you, so I chose her"

"That's mean to the other girls and why just class D?"

"I do have connections with Hiyori and could be connected with Ichinose but the girls I see day to day are the ones in class D so they are the best to choose from"

"So then why Karuizawa-san!"

"Well Horikita hits me often and is a nuisance for my peaceful life so I would prefer to ignore her. You are two faced and I would be wary of becoming close to you in case you betrayed me and you attract too much attention. Karuizawa however has already stated her disgust and hatred of me so she would reject and then only isolate me more so my peaceful life would be safe"

Kushida frowned and sighed at this logic and then started to shake her head.

"So your type is the girl who gives you a peaceful life"

"To put it best I am indifferent"

"Yeah..."

We concluded the conversation and went to line up with our class and I made my way towards Horikita.

"You look pale"

"No I don't"

"Why have you been cooped up in your room?"

"Reading"

"If you like doing it so much I have a friend who-"

"No need"

sigh*

"Why the deep sigh"

"When I speak to you I get depressed"

"Hey!" She flung her arm out to strike me but I moved away and towards Kushida.

"Kushida can I talk to you?"

"Sure I guess Horikita has you delivering messages huh?"

"Yeah"

Kushida understands what I will do to protect my peaceful life and also understands that all of Horikita's successes have been orchestrated by me.

"So what is it?"

"I am not asking a question so no response is needed but you hate Horikita don't you"

I felt her aura shift and her cold smile grew on her face.

"Good"

"Huh!"

Kushida was obviously surprised because up until now I looked to be Horikita's ally.

"In this exam we will target her so if there are opportunities to put her in a position of responsibility we will take it"

I walked towards the back to group up with the Professor and the idiot trio.

"Hey Ayanokõji-kun where you been?"

"Yeah you just ditched us!"

"He was probably trying to distance himself from the three monkeys who were role playing girls in our class"

"Shut up about that Professor" Sudo gripped his shoulder and glared at him.

"Are you really going to hurt me despite almost being expelled for violence hot head-dono?"

The Professor was clearly provoking and toying with them but Sudo let go remembering the trial.

We left the boat and handed in our phones to our teachers and then waited in our class groups for our instructions.

"Yahoo~Kiyotaka!" A childish voice came from behind me and then someone had jumped onto my back and wrapped their arms around me.

It was Chie-chan.

Her breasts were pushing into my back and the warm sensation of her cheek brushing against mine was comforting.

"Hello Sensei"

"Oh please just call me Chie Ki-yo-ta-ka" She said my name playfully and grinned rubbing her cheek against mine.

Class D, C and A looked shocked confused and jealous~mainly the idiot trio but also some other boys in A and C~ and class B were looking like this was normal behaviour but were still embarrassed.

"Chie what are you doing!" The stern glare and serious voice of Sae-Sensei made Chie tense up slightly before she hugged me tighter.

"Well I won't be able to see my Kiyotaka for a week so I am just making the most of our remaining time"

This woman has no regard for school rules and the guidelines on teacher student relationships.

Also when did I belong to her?

(Smug loli:fufufu is that so Ayanokõji-kun...just wait until you meet me fufufufu)

"Get off of him now and go back to your class you are embarrassing them"

"Jheeeze you three really need to loosen up or I will be everyone's favourite. But Sae-chan you really need to loosen up if you want to be dominated" I could feel her smug and teasing intentions and no doubt her face probably had a huge grin on which is being concealed by me.

"Anyways I guess I will see you in a week~" She kissed my cheek and then whispered in my ear "~good luck"

"Hehee!" She ran off giggling as Sae glared at her.

The biggest threat to my peaceful life is her but surely she can't keep doing things like that in public~

Wait what if she does something worse...

"Silence"

The homeroom teacher stood on a podium with a megaphone overlooking our entire year.

"We will now commence your first special exam"

The students burst in conversations and slight uproar at this.

Sadly my contribution for this exam and future exams will be monitored more closely than before but I am happy with the arrangement so far.

Ichinose and class B.

Your unity is known through the school but I want to explore how strong your class truly is and what Ichinose will do in this exam:

Class A.

You are a mystery to me because you probably are not concerned about the points gap especially because you now have over 1,000 class points but I am interested in this class of elites.

And finally Ryūen.

Your strategy in this exam will be of particular interest to me and your cunning and underhanded tactics will hopefully be entertaining to watch.

This special exam is the start of our class point battle.

Part 14

"Whaaaat!"

"B-but the beach"

"Hirata-kun what about our vacation"

The murmurings broke out in all classes apart from classes B and A who seemed to have had suspicions beforehand.

I looked over to class C and noticed a bit with shoulder length magenta hair who is leaning against a large black student who looks like her could crush my head with one of his hands.

The purple haired boy wasn't shocked by the news and smiled looking towards class A.

This must be Ryūen.

"Now everyone listen up I will tell you the rules once and only once"

Everyone went silent and looked at Sensei attentively.

Our class has come leaps and bounds since the start of the year with our behaviour but we still have very limited unity or a definitive leader.

"You are given 300 points which we shall call...S-points~" the pause to feign thinking fooled most of our class but Koenji me and the Professor~who seems to be a lot smarter than you would expect~understood the name was probably pre-planned.

"These S-points can be used to buy anything in this manual but you will only be given 300 S-points and no more"

So the points can't be manaipulated so they need to be managed and depending on budgeting control we can optimise our point usage, but there is more to it if this is a "special test".

"You will lose 30 points for a person retiring earlier than the finishing time of 1 week. Points will also be lost for pollution and other things stated in the manual"

The manual was given to Hirata but I don't care about that right now because Hirata will let me read it whenever I want if I ask him.

"Now although I said you won't be given more than 300 you can earn points through spot occupation. There are several designated spots on the island and you can occupy these spots with a keycard"

There was more detail on the manual but basically the class would have to appoint someone to hold the keycard~a leader.

And this leader would have the rights to occupy a spot and if a class tried to occupy the same spot as us then they would revive a 50 point penalty and vice versa.

Also possession of spots refreshed every 8 hours and the points received are added to the final total so cannot be spent during the exam.

"Another opportunity is the final day where you will guess the class leaders"

"But our class doesn't have a leader~"

"It's Hirata-kun obviously you idiot!"

"Hey I'm not an idiot uggo!"

Ike and Shinohara started bickering and a vein started pulsing on Sensei's temple.

"SHUT UP!" She glared at Shinohara and Ike and her face was contorted and full of rage.

The other classes on the beach looked over at us and some started to laugh and mock us as class D. Shinohara and Ike put their heads down and Sudo smiled slightly because this time he didn't embarrass the class.

"Now...on the final day the leader, who is the one with the keycard, will have their name guessed by the other classes and if they guess correct you lose 50 points and they gain 50 points. Also in the case you are on 0 they will still gain 50 points but you will not go negative"

So this means that the identity of the keycard holder is the most important.

"Also any points earned through spot possession will be lost if the leaders name is guessed"

"Roll call will be at 8pm and am but from here I will leave you to your own devices"

Sensei detached herself from the herd that was class D but I could feel her watching me.

"30,000 points!"

This was what the majority of our class was focused on but people like Yukimura and Hirata had over queries.

"I think we should discard thoughts about who our leader should be and focus on where we should camp. Should it be here or in the forest?"

"The forest will provide us cover from the sun and rain if it happens but the beach will also allow us access to the sea but the drawbacks outweigh that positive so I think moving into the forest would be better"

The class started to confer with each other but Kushida started to go along with my instructions and openly asked Horikita so the class could hear.

"What should we do Horikita-san?"

All eyes fell on Horikita who had led our class through the midterms and the trial.

"The forest will be better if we are saving points but we really need someone with camping experience because I don't have that" She looked dejected at her lack of expertise in camping but what was concerning was that she was rubbing her arms as if she was cold.

It was concerning because the blazing sun was berrading us with scorching heat making us sweat.

"Then let's move into the forest"

We left the beach last because the other classes were more organised or were just filling their leader.

I was walking beside Sudo and decided to make use of his physical abilities.

"Don't you think Horikita would be happy if you took initiative and found a spot?"

"...your right. And then...then I could call her Suzune!" He raised his fist to his chest and showed a determined pose.

"Aho-dono don't you think Kushida would be impressed if you found a spot too and helped your classmate?"

The Professor caught onto the fact that I was using Sudo's feelings for Horikita to manipulate him and did the same with Ike.

If it wasn't for your obsession with anime I think you could belong to class B and maybe if your physical was better you could reach class A.

"Yeah she totally would and I could make up for embarrassing us earlier"

Ike and Sudo were pumped up and ready to explore and Yamauchi even stepped in.

"I guess I ought to lend you a hand so that Sakura-san can see how strong I am" He started to flex his arms and brush his right right shoulder.

"Besides I can't have you two joining them because the jungle is a dangerous place and kids like you will only get hurt" He placed his hand on mine and the Professor's shoulders and spoke in a condescending tone.

If it wasn't for the fact that I am avoiding going to jail I would gouge his eyes out and force feed him them after breaking each of his fingers and toes after ripping the nails off of them.

Then again this wouldn't be enough to satiate my anger so I would also probably rip out each of his teeth and use them to give him acupuncture before I scalp him.

sigh*

These thoughts aren't helpful at the moment but I will start to plan on how to make your life torture for the next 3 years.

"Sukube-dono it's a forest not a jungle" the Professor said this removing the hand of Yamauchi the same way you would pick up something disgusting like a bag containing dog excrement.

"Yeah well I knew that"

sigh*

"I understand your pain dono. I Understand" The Professor gave a deep sigh as well and we moved away from the trio.

"Listen up everyone I think we should eat here and talk about our plans before moving further"

We had settled down in a clearing in the forest and Hirata brought out the manual and pen to mark things we needed to buy.

"I don't care that we are going to look for a spot so now other class can get it" Sudo said and started to leave but Hirata called out.

"Just come back here once you find one okay?"

"Sure" He took a look at Horikita before disappearing in the forest.

"Now let's discuss some issues"

"Hirata-kun about those issues we need a toilet" Shinohara spoke out and then Sae-Sensei snapped her fingers.

"I almost forgot this is your toilet"

She pulled out a makeshift toilet and tent and demonstrated how it is used much to the girls' disgust.

(Not saying she actually uses it I am saying she told them the theory)

"We aren't using that!"

"Then buy one from the manual" Sae gave a smile predicting the argument that would break out over this.

She really enjoys seeing our class in pain or fighting with each other and yet she is threatening me.

"Yeah let's do that"

"No we need to save our points!" Yukimura objected to this sharply and was thinking only about pint maximisation rather than the well being of the class.

"No we girls can't use that!"

"Why not? If this was the wild or a real deserted island you would have to do it in a bush or a hole"

"Course a barbaric monkey like you would say that. Creep!"

"Well maybe if you had a brain and could stand on your one two feet instead of leaching off of your precious Hirata-kun then you would understand every point counts"

Both sides glared at each other and then Shinohara resorted to asking Karuizawa for backup.

"Karuizawa-san say something to this specky freak!"

"I will grin and bear it"

"Whaaat?"

The majority of the girls were shocked that their leader said this and the majority of the class was also shocked that class D's gryau would use something like that.

"No. No, we can't!"

"But your leader said she can do why can't you"

"Yukimura-kun. Shinohara-san that is enough" Hirata ended their argument and all attention fell on him.

"For the girls mental well being we will but a portable toilet but other purchases will be debated and agreed upon by a vote so for now I suggest we look for a place to camp"

Both Yukimura and Shinohara nodded.

"Who wants to explore the island for places to camp to ease the burden on Sudo-kun and the others?"

Hirata looked around but no one was volunteering.

Class D's physical abilities were worse or on par with its academic ability with only Sudo, Hirata, Miyake and Koenji being the only exceptional ones form the boys side and Horikita and Onodera from the girls side.

"Me! Me! I'll help!" Kushida volunteered knowing that she could encourage others to join and they did.

I also raised my hand but shook my head at the Professor because I need someone here to keep an eye on the camp. . .
Why do I have to be with him?

"This sun is refreshing. Maintaining this beauty in such an ugly class takes a lot of energy"

"Koenji you need to slow down"

"What, you can't match my stamina, Ayanokõji boy? Or do you want to play with the idol in this dirty forest?" Koenji picked up his pace and his laughter could be haters as he raced through the forest.

He is definitely going to retire.

sigh*

"Umm...W-what's wrong Ayanokõji-kun?"

The third person in our group was Sakura and her physical condition is as bad as her confidence.

"We lost him but are you okay!" I asked because her heavy breathing and sweat covered brow and forehead were concerning me.

She really isn't good at anything but taking photos is she?

"Y-yes t-thank you for caring" She blushed slightly and looked down.

"Mmrrrrgh" I placed my hand over her mouth and brought us to behind a tree.

(This is the best representation of muffled screaming I could think of)

In Front of us was a cave I saw from the boat and in front of it stood the bald student I saw in the entrance ceremony.

The student was holding onto a green looking card and was scanning the area.

"We got real lucky securing this spot Katsuragi-kun" A boy emerged from the cave praising the other student.

So this is where class A is making their camp, but judging from the numbers present they must have split off to secure this spot.

"Luck has nothing to do with this"

"Huh, what do you mean?"

"I had scouted out this spot form the boat so our finding it was inevitable, also she careful what you say and stay vigilant of your surroundings because you never know when someone is watching or listening and as leader I have to maintain order"

"Woah! So you knew about this spot before docking?"

"The ship made peculiar actions before docking and which was to circle the island which can only mean we should have observed it to find things on the island"

"I bet no one else even thought of it that way. Your so much better than Sakayanagi!"

"Yahiko!"

Katsuragi started to approach where we were hiding.

The breaking of twigs and crumpling of leaves underneath his heavy feet etched closer and closer.

The breeze whistled through the trees and bushes that concealed Sakura and me and Katsuragi kept moving closer.

whoosh*

"Hmm"

"What is it?" Yahiko shouted and Katsuragi seemed to lose his suspicion and moved away.

"Let's go Yahiko"

A little while after they left the furiously blushing and flustered Sakura had calmed down enough so that her legs could now function despite them trembling.

"I-is this a spot?"

"Yes"

The machine was displaying a timer and the name of the class that occupied the spot:

Class A
07:45:37

"Let's go back to everyone"

We started to walk back but what Yahiko said interested me.

Sakayanagi?

Is class A perhaps divided between two leaders Katsuragi and Sakayanagi?

If that's the case then this exam will be less fruitful than I thought but then again surprised are also entertaining.

So Sakayanagi is the wild-card in this class competition. . .
"Isn't this just amazing!"

Ike who had led us to our new camp was ecstatic.

"We have a river for water and fish and there is lots of space for all our equipment"

"Well done Kanji-kun this is amazing!" Kushida said this and Ike blew stern from his head and fell to his knees praising the heavens.

"Yes if we can secure the river we will have a good water supply"

"Wit Hirata-kun we can't drink from that!" Shinohara once again made a problem for our class.

"You do realise busu-dono we are on an island right?"

"What did you say to me!" Shinohara balled her fist and moved towards the Professor who was laughing but Hirata stepped in between.

"That is not a nice thing to say but Shinohara-san we have already decided to buy water but if we survive of off what's available like the river and berries in the forest then we can maximise our points"

"But Hirata-kun~"

"This water is safe to drink and you can see that form how clear it is but if you are unsatisfied we can always boil it so that it will be face to drink but I can assure you it is safe. Look~"

Ike scooped up water from the river and drank it and then smiled at Shinohara.

"You boys are disgusting" Shinohara looked down on us again and her generalisation angered all the boys in class.

"Shinohara-san please refrain from making hurtful comments but I have a plan devised for water and food already but first I would like us to choose our leader"

The selection is obvious because I told Kushida that she can target Horikita so she will most likely persuade the class to choose Horikita.

"I think we should choose Horikita-san"

"But Karuizawa-san what about Hirata-kun?"

"Shinohara-san, Hirata-kun and Karuizawa-san are too obvious and Horikita-san had helped us with Sudo and the midterms"

"I agree with Kushida-san and in my opinion Horikita is the best option for leader in our class"

"Well then it is decided thank you for your opinions Shinohara-san Karuizawa-san Kushida-san and Yukimura-kun"

My plan is going well so far.

"Now I will explain our budgeting plan"

Everyone was now sat on the floor apart from Sudo and Miyake who went to order supplies and tell Sensei's who our leader is.

"By the end of the week I want to aim for 120 points"

"What!" Ike and Yamauchi were shocked but it seems Yikimura had helped with this as he took over form Hirata.

"In order or make sure this stay isn't too physically and mentally draining so that we avoid retirement we have set aside 180 points for spending"

"This 180 points is going to be spent on more tents the toilet and food and water"

"However the 180 points is a maximum or worst case scenario because we now have a river for fresh and clean water, a waterfall to act as a shower and we are in a forest so foods like berries can be found"

"Therefore this can reduce our spending on food and water making it so that our final points are higher"

Yukimura smugly pushed his glasses up and Hirata gave his usual smile after they finished explaining.

The class didn't seem to object to this but their bugfegting plans didn't take into account one thing~

"KOENJI!!"

Sudo returned to our camp screaming his name and the rage exuding from him filled our surroundings.

"What is wrong Sudo-kun!"

"That LYING useless self obsessed BASTARD said he was ill and retired"

This was a blow to our class and would affect our budgeting plans but this was a Koenji thing to do. . "Ayanokõji-kun please can you gather leaves and dry wood for the fire"

"Sure"

"But please take someone with you to lesson the burden"

I nodded to Hirata and looked at Horikita who sat in a huff next to me.

"What wrong?"

"I could ask the same question"

"Go ahead"

"Fine! What's wrong?" The sarcasm in her tone was clear but I answered normally.

"Nothing"

"But despite your rambling sabout a peaceful and easy high school life you have been exerting yourself"

"I am blending in"

"What?"

"If I allow myself to move where help is needed then I will blend in to onlookers and suspicion of me will be erased however sulking alone is very suspicious"

"Tch!" She chopped my legged and I didn't bother dodging but feigned pain so onlookers wouldn't be suspicious.

"So will you help me?"

"No I am busy leading"

"So your the one who is giving Hirata orders and ideas..."

"There are lots of branches which can be sharpened you know"

"But they can be snapped in half"

I left Horikita who clicked her tongue in frustration and decided to just move through the forests on my own.

"Ayanokõji-kun..."

"Sakura?"

"C-can I help you?"

"Okay"

Refusing her wouldn't be helpful for her growth and maybe this will help strengthen her physical abilities.

"I will come too then. Don't want this little guy to hurt himself" Yamauchi walked over and put his hand in my shoulder squeezing it this time.

"Then let's go" . .
"Hey I thought you weren't interested in anyone and now you are going after Sakura. What the hell!"

"For the tenth time I'm not"

"You better or I might just have to show a plain guy like you what I'm truly capable of"

I grabbed a thick twig from the ground and broke it from my grip.

He seriously wants me to kill him doesn't he.

"Hey Sakura-san let me take some of those from you"

"No I'm fine"

Sakura had been avoiding us because she wasn't used to Yamuachi and probably "saw" something in his eyes.

"Really are you sure?"

"Yes and Ayanokõji-kun is carrying more than me"

"Jheeeze he is! My, my, why are you being so silly? Give me some"

He took some from my pile and I felt that all of his beaches were wet.

"Idiot" I mumbled and he strutted off in high spirits.

"Are you okay?"

"Y-yes"

I am slightly concerned because Yamauchi gives similar vibes to the store clerk and that is a traumatic memory for Sakura.

Yamauchi had stopped and was looking towards a large tree that was in our path.

A girl with short blue hair in a bob was sitting against the large tree and when she saw us she quickly looked away showing the red mark on her cheek.

Someone had clearly hit her but instead of stopping I decided to leave her to fend for herself and get back to class.

She isn't from our class after all so if her health fails and she retires then it won't impact us.

"Hey! Stop"

thud*

Yamauchi had tried to grab my arm in order to stop me but he was so weak that I just dragged him along.

sigh*

"What do you want?"

"Well I want to ask her some stuff and just know I let you do that"

He turned towards the girl who was annoyed at our presence or the fact I was ready to ignore her.

"What happened?"

"Nothing. Leave me alone"

I turned to leave once again but this time I head Sakura's voice~

"Who did this to you?"

"It's nothing but a class dispute. Now just leave me alone"

"Come to our camp"

I looked back to Yamauchi who was now eying up this girl and was probably only doing this to make an impression on her or Sakura.

"Why would you do that I'm a class C which means I am your enemy"

"I think Kushida-san and Hirata-kun would see it different"

"Tch! You guys really won't leave me alone will you"

"No"

"N-no"

"Yes"

Sakura and the girl looked surprised at my words but Yamachi turned towards me glaring.

"Don't mind this but he is just a bad smell that follows people around. If your not careful he might latch onto you like a parasite as well" Yamauchi said this through gritted teeth and then returned his focus to the girl.

"Yamauchi Haruki pleased to meet you"

"...Ibuki"

She got up and accompanied us to our base camp. . .
"So you are the watchdog"

"No I just have a friend in class C so I'm like a bridge" I let out a deep depressed sigh looking at the huddle of classmates that was deciding Ibuki's fate.

"You have a friend in class C?"

"She's a loner but yes"

"Wait your friend isn't an airheaded bookworm are they?"

"Well that's a bit offensive but yes she does enjoy her books"

"So your that guy she drones on about" She mutters this but I could still make it out.

"Well me and Hiyori are friends"

"H-Hiyori!"

"Problem?"

"No it's just...I didn't know you were that close"

She trailed off but it seems that our class has decided what to do and Hirata and Kushida approached us.

"Thanks for doing that Kiyotaka"

"It's fine"

"Ibuki-san we trust you and you can stay here and help out with food collection if you want but just know we are welcoming you in our camp"

"Idiots" She muttered very quietly and then turned her head to face the river.

Is this your tactic Ryūen?

If so I will let it progress and use it for my end goal.

Part 15

The humidity and discomfort in the tent reminded me of when they put us through a similar yet more torturous trial in the white room.

As such I wasn't bothered by the heat and was able to sleep peacefully if it wasn't for Ike calling Kushida's name in his sleep and Yamauchi's whimpering.

It was 5am when I woke up and I left the tent to confirm something.

"A camera"

I had found Ibuki's bag which looked different to ours and looked through it.

Of course if I was caught I would be reprimanded as a pervert and probably hated by all the girls in our year.

But this camera makes Ibuki's situation clearer. . .
After my usual training was complete but this time I went to the beach to run on the sand for an hour and swim in the sea for an hour. I returned to shower and be ready for the day.

These watches are surprisingly durable and waterproof.

"Good morning Ayanokõji-kun heading to the bathroom?"

Hirata greeted me with a warm smile and low voice to be respectful to our sleeping classmates.

"Did I wake you?"

"No. I just find it hard to sleep in this environment you know? No mattress is really hurtful to my back"

"I guess"

The no mattress didn't bother me because I had slept on the cold floor of that facility and my body had been beaten and broken several times.

"If you include Koenji-kun's penalty we spent 100 points yesterday so I guess I'm just anxious that our worst outcome of 120 points may be invalid now"

He sighed and the weight and expectations of our class could be felt from it.

"Must be hard to be the peacemaker"

This concept is a concept that I just couldn't understand, especially in a school where competition and winning is everything.

In my understanding you have to upset someone to make someone else happy and compromise is just that, compromise. It doesn't give reward or loss which ultimately will only hinder or stunt our growth in this school and class competition.

This is why I need Horikita to become the leader and for Hirata and maybe the Professor to be her consultants and helpers.

Horikita is too focused on her brother and is too closed minded to be a suitable leader but in the event that changes then I can see her taking control and leading class D successfully.

However class D is a class which is too unorganised and has many factions and groups which need bridges built between them in order for the class to function effectively.

Hirata is able to build those bridges with the girls with Karuizawa's help and the whole class has respect for him. Horikita will attract those like Yukimura who want to reach higher because she too has that drive and the Professor will help her with scheming and being a background character or pawn that will be overlooked therefore allowing him to execute orders by Horikita without much suspicion.

Of course Kushida would be a big help in gathering the socially awkward and boys like Ike but she can't be trusted and with Sudo's new devotion to Horikita he will drag Ike into supporting Horikita.

"Do you want to get into class A?"

Perhaps seeing me thinking he asked me this question probably out of curiosity or an attempt to understand why I am the way I am.

"Do you?"

"That's a hard question. Getting to class A means forcing everyone so I will have to think on that"

He then turned to face me again and my attempt to dodge the question was negated.

"My true answer to that would be as long as I have a peaceful and trouble free life then I'm not bothered but currently yes I am aiming for class A" I sighed remembering how my freedom lies broken in the faculty room.

"Do you think it is possible?" Hirata probably sensing my sadness tried to change my trail of thought.

"Our losses at the start of the month may have done too much damage that it won't be possible"

"Well after this test maybe we can come together and discuss our future"

He smiled and then started to leave the toilet discreetly so that he didn't disturb our class.

I took out a piece of paper which I had ripped from the manual last night and replicated the map on last night when everyone was sleeping.

Along with reading up and confirming the rules I also marked all the spots.

Class A was in the cave but they were a class I only needed to visit once more but if I am to learn about the existence known as Sakayanagi then I would have to ask elsewhere.

Class C and B's locations were unknown at the moment and finding their base camps would be helpful in finding their leader and maybe learning about class A.

I felt that Hirata was coming back to me and put the paper in my pocket and leaned against a tree.

"Want to come wash your face with me?"

I nodded and we took our bags to the river and while we were walking the noise of plastic objects could be heard from Hirata's bag.

"Gifts from Karuizawa?"

"Yes"

We approached the river and came across an unexpected student.

"Kanzaki-kun why are you here?"

The student was familiar with Hirata and I had saw him with Ichinose sometimes because of the alliance but I had yet to talk to him.

"The first day is over and because of our alliance I came or find your base camp to see if you needed help but your location is great so help doesn't seem necessary"

There was no hidden objective to his actions and I could sense he was telling the truth.

Seeing this only confirmed that it wasn't just Ichinose but her whole class who shared her ideals and behaviour.

"I'm sorry if I startled you so we will be taking our leave now"

"Where is class B camping?"

"There are large broken trees along the path from here to the beach. If you enter the forest to the southwest and walk a bit, you can find our campsite. You shouldn't get lost if you enter by those large trees"

He turned and left and Hirata gave me a confused look.

"Why did you ask him where they were?"

"It would be better to understand how they are doing things because they are the higher and better class and we are in an alliance so if we need help then surely we need to know where to turn to"

"You are very reliable and smart Ayanokõji-kun" He smiled and then washed his face in the river.

Now that I know that I just need of go there and confirm that they are occupying that spot and to see if Ibuki really is a victim. . .
"Hey what are you doing here!" Ike shouted and everyone turned to where he was looking.

It was Komiya and another class C boy where there with smug grins.

They looked over the whole camp and lingered slightly on Ibuki before she moved closer to me hiding behind my classmates that were standing in front of her.

"Komiya and Oda" Ibuki spat there names in disgust.

(So quick little note when I was searching for another class C student to replace the expelled Kondō I found Oda Takumi and because there is no photo or info I have assumed he is a boy with a slight sluggish build but not fat and he has brown hair and is about the same height as Ike)

"Wow, you class D's are really living like the monkeys we thought you are eh? Well I guess you pieces of trash are used to scrounging and surviving on nothing"

They both started laughing and held drinks of soda and potato chips in their hands.

"Looks like you're living it up" Horikita said this to the intruders but Ibuki turned her attention to me.

"Do you know Ryūen?"

"Hiyori is neglected by her class but even still we both don't talk about class stuff but she did mention someone was controlling her class and Ichinose told me about him abit"

"So what do you think of him?"

"He sounds pretty crazy"

"Me he is not "pretty" crazy, that guy is in a different level"

Ibuki's level of hatred towards Ryūen was clear but this only serves to interest me more.

"Those guys are his underlings like most of my class. They are just following out of fear"

"We have a message from Ryūen-kun. If you want to stop living this life of cavemen or animals and have fun, then come to the beach and we will be happy to share our luxuries. Especially the girl who saved Sudo-kun"

Komiya grinned at Horikita before both of them left back to their camp site.

Horikita and Sudo were especially annoyed by their presence which was merely something to annoy us.

"I don't think they were here for me"

"No they were after Horikita most likely"

Ibuki moved away again due to them leaving and received suspicious gazes from Shinohara and Ike.

"What did they mean sharing luxuries?"

"I guess it has already reached the worst case scenario..." Ibuki said looking down and then got up to leave.

"Is Hiyori okay?"

"Huh?" She turned to look at me in confusion over my concern with Hiyori despite being in opposite classes.

"She has no friends in her class other than you and since you are her I don't want her to be bullied"

"You don't have to worry about that in fact she was able to make another friend in her class who will keep her safe"

Ibuki went to sit elsewhere and was approached by Kushdia to help gather food and I started to look for Horikita. . "Horikita?"

I was standing in front of the girls' tent which was now shaking after I called out to it.

"What is it?"

"I want to check in class C, will you come too?"

"What's your motive?"

"What do you mean?"

"You would never do something like this for that purpose" Horikita was now looking at me suspiciously.

"Well it's better than whollowing in a tent"

She glared at my sarcastic remark and we headed towards the beach. . .
Once we were close enough to the beach what we saw surprised us.

Class C wasn't trying to conserve points at all and in fact we're using their points to enjoy their island vacation which was one of the options we were given through the use of points.

"What are they thinking?" Horikita was clearly surprised at their behaviour and how our two classes' approaches are completely opposite.

"Let's ask Ryūen"

We walked onto the beach and saw Ryūen laying back in a chair underneath an umbrella.

Jet-skis and barbecue's along with fancy food and ice boxes with drinks were on display on the beach showing how many points class C had spent.

"I thought I could smell someone sniffing around, then again the your stench is very poignant kukuku"

"Looks like your having quite the party" Horikita was annoying at his carefree attitude but this only seemed to entice Ryūen.

"It is summer vacation" He rested his hands on the back of his head and looked at Ishizaki, who was fanning him, and he left to get a water.

"This is a test. You don't seem to be able to grasp that or the rules"

Ryūen gave a disappointed look to Horikita then placed a hand on his heart "Are you...offering me advice? Kukuku"

His condescending and mocking tone angered Horikita more and her understanding of him worsened.

"If the person at the top is incompetent than those below will suffer" Horikita spat this looking at Ryūen in disgust.

Ishizaki now returned with the water which was placed on the table next to a radio.

"We are just enjoying or vacation, so we are not your enemies"

"I'm trying to want you that your foolishness will cost you and soon we will surpass you"

"Kukuku~foolishness? Who is the fool here me? You?"

He just smiled brushing off Horikita's insult and then looked at her for the first time.

"This is how I do things. If you call it foolish then that is your opinion but clearly my way works better than yours and that is why I am class C and you are class D"

"Your ignorance and way of thinking disgusts me. We are going"

Horikita had most likely concluded that class C wasn't a threat as long as Ryūen was in charge.

"There is one other thing I would like to know however. Do you know Ibuki?"

"Yes she is a classmate. What about her?"

"Her face is swollen, who did that?"

"An iron fist means disobedience and insubordination need to be ironed out" He smiled at this and then put up his index finger as if remembering something.

"There was another boy who defied me, probably inspired by his crush but he is now eating grass like the pathetic animal he is"

Due to Ryūen's attitude I now understood how he gained control over his class and why no attempts to find Ibuki had happened.

"You have used up all your points haven't you"

"Yes"

This meant that retirement and failure to stay end roll call wouldn't impact their class.

A zero point strategy.

While this being something with low risk the reward is also very low with only the maximum number of points available being 150.

However I cannot see Ryūen doing this without an ulterior motive or plan.

"Tell Ibuki if she wants my forgiveness she will have to come grovelling like the worthless little rat she is"

His confidence and mannerism further disgusted Horikita further and her evaluation of class C was finished.

"Let's go Ayanokõji-kun" She started walking away leaving me looking around the beach trying to find Hiyori.

I saw she was reading on a blanket under an umbrella next to the large black student who I saw at the start of the exam and the start of the year.

So this is her other friend.

At least I know she is safe from bullying.

I turned to follow Horikita but Ryūen spoke up again.

"It's a shame you have to go so soon Suzune" He said while grinning and scanning Horikita's body.

Thankfully Sudo isn't here or he would create a scene.

"I don't know how you know that but I don't want the likes of you to use my first name"

Ryūen must have been interested in our class after the trial and investigated, thankfully he ignored me and even if he didn't I still have one more line of defence.

"Well I do like forceful and fiesty women. How about I get a private tent for us and I will make you submit to me" He grinned again, relishing in Horikita's disgust and annoyance.

Horikita left the beach and I followed closely after taking one last look at class C.

"Class C is on a course of self destruction which can only be helpful to us"

"Seems so"

"I just can't see why he would think that is a good plan"

"Well it just means that he has nothing to lose"

"So?"

"Suppose hsi class was to use up all their food and other luxuries what would happen?"

"They would suffer and struggle"

sigh*

"Horikita you don't understand. In this test we can't go negative so when that happens he can just retire, in fact they all can"

"The way he thinks disgusts me. To give up on the trial from the start"

To think of a zero point strategy and be able to pull it off without any opposition shows his power and authority.

Now there is no need to think about class C. . .
Because we had free time and had no obligations to fulfil we decided to visit class B and A's camps to see how they were tackling the exam.

"This is certainly what you would expect of class B" Horikita said this as we looked at their camp.

Their way of living was completely different to ours and he utilised their location to optimise their camp. Their choice of items was different to ours and I was intrigued to see how they worked.

Even the atmosphere and mood was energetic and happy as if they were enjoying this exam like their vacation.

This is truly the power of Ichinose and the unity class B has.

"Horikita-san? Ayanokõji-kun?" Ichinose called out to us.

She was busy trying to tie a knot for a hammock and appeared full of energy. Kanzaki had also noticed us and was watching us.

"Your class is functioning well"

"Yeah. I guess there was some obstacles at first but they worked out, though the list of chores keeps increasing" She smiled and laughed slightly looking around.

"I'm sorry if we're are in the way"

"Oh no it's fine anyway we are in a cooperative relationship after all"

Class B's camp was a huge improvement on ours despite the locations being prime for surging with spending the least points.

They had avoided the issue of rough sleeping with hammocks and the vinyl sheets used for the temporary toilet.

"You are a good leader" Horikita said, sounding sorry for herself and jealous of class B.

"So are you Horikita-san you just need to give it a bit more time" Ichinose tried to comfort Horikita but being given advice from someone you view as superior only feels like they are being arrogant and condescending.

"Anyway you just need someone to bring the class together"

"There is Hirata who is swarmed by our class"

"Ah! Form the soccer club. I know him, he is really popular with the girl's" Ichinose knowing Hirata wasn't surprising but Horikita still didn't trust him.

"Do you know anything about class A?"

"I know there location"

"Where is it?"

"Just after you cut through this area, there's an opening. Turn right and go straight until you see a cave. That's probably where the Class A base camp is I went there myself to investigate, but I don't know for sure. It's because they're so thoroughly defensive...or rather, secretive."

"Secretive? What kind of measures has Class A taken?"

"Honestly, seeing is believing. If you take a look yourselves, you'll understand right away. Since you two are going to check on Class A, does that mean you already understand Class C's situation?"

"Yeah. We just went there earlier. They're doing some unbelievably stupid things."

"They seemingly have no intention of taking this test seriously. There are five days remaining, and they'll run out of points well before the test is over. I can't imagine they'll be able to change their situation even if they enter into 'point-saver mode' right away. They're not even looking for a spot. I can't even begin to understand them."

Ichinose didn't seem able to come up with the answer, either which is slightly disappointing.

"You can't use any sly tricks in this test. Ryuuen has most definitely spent almost all of their points. They might be having fun right now, but they're going to regret it later."

Horikita deliberately didn't tell Ichinose about the potential withdrawal plan I'd discussed earlier.

Horikita had probably determined that Ichinose would come to this conclusion herself.

"Pardon me, Ichinose-san? I'm sorry to interrupt. Do you know where Nakanishi-kun is?" asked a male student in a rather reserved voice.

"I think Nakanishi-kun headed down to the shore. Why do you ask?"

"I thought I'd offer to help. Is that unnecessary?"

"Oh no, not at all. I'm really happy you feel that way, Kaneda-kun. Can you head over and follow Chihiro-chan's group? If you tell them I told you to do so, it'll be okay."

"Okay. Thank you very much!"

Horikita looked a little perplexed after watching that short exchange.

"He sounded incredibly formal for a classmate, didn't he?"

"Ah, he's—"

"A Class C student?"

I spoke before Ichinose could finish answering. She confirmed with a nod.

"Do you know him? It looks like he had some kind of dispute with Class C. He said he'd get by on his own, but I couldn't just leave him. I haven't asked him about his situation yet."

"We also picked up a class C student as well"

Horikita informed Ichinose about Ibuki and our talk with Ryūen on the beach and Ichinose's eyes hardened at his behaviour.

"Let's go before we become a burden Ayanokõji-kun"

We left Ichinose who became surrounded by classmates asking for help and headed towards the cave.

"I hate to admit it but class B is far superior to us in every way"

Horikita said this sounded defeated at the difference in our classes which stretched beyond points.

However we also had something that class B didn't and that was the experience of being the bottom and if Horikita understands that she will keep on pushing forward despite the gap.

We saw the cave which I had discovered form the ship and scouted with Sakura but this time there was a curtain blocking the entrance.

"I can't see inside"

Instead of pondering what to do I kept moving towards the cave.

"H-hey! What are you doing?"

"Taking a look behind the curtain"

She followed me but took the lead as we got closer and as we got closer some class A students saw us.

"Who are you and where are you from?"

This student was the same one who was with Katsuragi on the first day and judging from his attitude he wasn't what I envisioned a class A student to be.

"We came to snoop, problem?" She said in an intimidating and imposing tone as she etched closer to the cave.

"H-hey I said who are you?" He sounded angry at Horikita's attitude and stood up to intimidate Horikita.

"Horikita, class D"

"Yeah I can tell your one of those class D failures"

I can't tell the difference between him and Komiya or Sudo.

Obviously there is a difference with temper progression because Sudo is extremely short fused. Komiya is very short fused and Yahiko is short fused.

"Well then you won't mind if I look around?"

"No, wait!" He moved in front of Horikita blocking her path.

"Problem?"

"This spot is owned by class A so you defective s don't have permission to be here"

I ignored their conversation and looked around at some of the class A students.

None of them seemed to be bothered by the island and seemed to be relaxed and performing the roles they are given.

Some however were looking in disgust or laughing at Yahiko.

Those must be involved with this Sakayanagi person.

"I don't remember inviting guests"

A particularly tall boy passed behind me and continued walking ahead to Horikita. This was definitely...

"Katsuragi-san! These two came to snoop around our camp! They're a bunch of filthy losers!"

"You're exaggerating, it's just vinyl. Show me around a little" Horikita wants fazed by this new arrival and faced Katsuragi head on.

"Well then, it should be fine for you to look inside. However, prepare yourself the moment you touch anything, I will notify the school and report your actions as obstruction toward another class. I can't guarantee what will happen to Class D as a result."

Katsuragi was probably bluffing.

There was a very low chance that we'd be disqualified for touching vinyl. Yet, there seemed to be some genuine danger hidden in his words.

"You're forcefully monopolizing control of the spot. The rules don't protect such actions."

"You're right about that. I cannot argue the point. However, it's something of an unspoken rule. You in Class D have a spot by the river. Class B has a well. You live in and surround the occupied space, so it's halfway monopolized. Have you taken any forceful measures in dealing with trespassers to your area?"

Katsuragi's calm words stopped Horikita in her tracks.

"One class occupies one spot. Then, they continue to protect that spot so they may obtain points until the end of the test. If you violate this unspoken rule, it creates chaos. Naturally, Class A will trespass upon Class D's base in retaliation. We should avoid trouble."

It was possible to ignore what he said, but we couldn't. Like Katsuragi said, the other classes had all unconsciously occupied one area each. If we broke that rule, our troubles would grow.

Horikita turned on her heel and walked away from the cave.

"Well, fine. I look forward to seeing the results, and Class A's abilities."

"We are quite capable. We also expect things from you, Class D. By which I mean your futile struggle"

After that short exchange, Horikita had lost her air of superiority and if it wasn't for Katsuragi she would have been able to go past the curtain.

"Yahiko, don't respond to cheap provocation. Her goal was to force her way in and look around. If you thrust your righteous superiority in their face, the other side will back off."

"S-sorry."

They'd stripped Horikita of all other options except retreat.

Impressive but I still hadn't learned of Sakayanagi so I was unsatisfied with this visit.

"It seems like we have to leave Class A alone. We definitely can't investigate them."

Once they'd claimed the spot, they hid much of it away behind an impregnable wall.

Despite their actions we had learned of something important and also partially understood class A.

As we were walking back I was able to sum up the strategies of each class:

Class A-highly defensive. They are not legions anyone in or communicating with other classes because they were openly hostile to us. As a result their points are unknown and hard to figure out but the only way they should be able to gain more is through spot occupation.

Class B-not participating. They are most likely not going to name any leaders and will just use this as a trust building exercise.

Class C-0 point. This strategy is a wild card type strategy which can either mean Ryūen is bored of this exam and won't participate or is going to gain something from eating points.

Of course I knew things about each class that they wanted kept secret but there are still things I don't yet understand.

Chabashira Sensei just like you told me I will guide our class to victory but this exam offers more than just a one time victory.

Part 16

Class D's atmosphere had stabilised and we now had good cohesion and cooperation.

The arguments that did arise were quelled by Hirata who truly took the role of the bridge or peacemaker between groups.

Ibuki had been accepted and I was assigned to watch or shadow her to appease my classmates who were suspicious of her.

Of course my connection with Hiyori was the main reason for this but I didn't mind because I learned that Ibuki was one of the two new "book buddie" members.

"The what!" Ibuki shouted with a disgusted voice and her face went slightly pale as if she was going to vomit.

"You are shouting"

"Tch...mind your business!" Ibuki's attitude to our class hadn't changed but it was accepted as her personality like Horikita.

She turned back towards me and dragged me over to a tree leaning against it.

"You okay?"

"I just don't want them hearing you say that!" She spat.

"What?"

"That I'm a book buddie" She glared at me and spoke through gritted teeth.

"Hiyori came up with the name"

"So? I'm not being in a group called that!"

"So you are going to say no to Hiyori"

"..."

She stopped speaking and looked confused and flustered trying to find a way out.

"Arrgh!"

thud*

She kicked a tree and then sighed deeply full of regret.

"Why does she have to be like that?"

"I can't tell you either"

"I mean how?"

What Ibuki was complaining about is how Hiyori is so innocent and pure that you can't say no because if you do and her smile fades you feel immense guilt and immediately fold.

"In a school like this I am surprised as well"

"What's that mean?"

"I am in a class called defectives and I have people like them" I pointed towards Yamauchi and Ike and Ibuki's face twisted.

"I agree I mean I have Ryūen and Ishizaki" She mimicked vomiting after Ishizaki's name and I raised an eyebrow.

"Ishizaki?"

"He is disgusting and vile just like Ike but he is also a brainless monkey like Sudo"

I am understanding class C more through Ibuki but what surprises me is that the difference between class D and C isn't as high as I would expect.

In fact classes D and C are near mirror images of each other bar some students like Ryūen but when you compare them it is rather weird:

Ike and Sudo are compared to Ishizaki.

Karuizawa and Horikita are as headstrong and blunt as Ibuki.

Kushida is supposedly a beautiful innocent angel like Hiyori. But of course this one is never a comparison because no one shares Hiyori's innocence and Kushida is two faced but this is an objective outsider view.

"What about the other new friend of Hiyori's?"

"Albert?"

"Yes"

I have been curious about this giant since the entrance ceremony and now he is Hiyori's friend so I get to understand him more through Hiyori.

Albert also allowed me to not worry about Hiyori being bullied because he is an intimidating figure who would deter even second and third years.

"He is Albert"

"That's not helpful"

"You will understand when you speak with him" Her tone rose and a vein on her temple pulsed as she glared at me.

"Ibuki-san!"

We both turned and looked towards Kushida who was giving a bright smile, "Can you come help us pick berries and fruit?"

"Ask someone else"

"But they are all busy"

Ibuki sighed realising she also needed to contribute in order to help ease her stay and achieve her goal so she left with Kushida.

Maybe I will go check on Ryūen's class. . . The 8am roll call had ended and I slipped away from the class and started making my way to the beach using the map which I had drawn.

The salty sea air tickled my nose as the forest opened up and exposed the beach.

The orange sand glowed under the scorching light of the sun and the beautiful sea glistened and sparkled.

But there was a problem with the scenery.

It was silent.

The soft crashing of waves on the sand was the only sound that could be heard.

"So they all retired"

Class C's camp was desolate and all signs of life or signs of occupancy were gone, only the school tent was left here instead of the ice-boxes, parasols, barbecues and jet-skis were gone along with the students.

I felt the presence of two people approaching but due to the familiarity I didn't worry and remained facing the uninhabited beach.

"Wow. I mean...I know he is crazy but..."

"This is bizarre and on another level even for him"

"Yes"

Ichinose and Kanzaki were here and Ichinose was expressing her disbelief.

"Well I guess you were right Kanzaki-kun"

"Yeah...Ayanokõji-kun are you here to spy too?"

It seems Kanzaki was now aware of me so I turned and looked at where they stood in the shade.

"I was looking for food and wound up here and Horikita told me to look out for suspicious behaviour so I got interested in this"

"Are you exploring the forest on your own?" Ichinose voice sounded concerned and her face looked worried.

"Yes"

"You shouldn't do that Ayanokõji-kun. The forest is dangerous and you may hurt yourself and have to retire. Also come stand in the shade the sun is too hot"

Ichinose waved me over and Kanzaki looked amused as I had just been scolded by Ichinose as if she was an older sibling.

What would that be like?

An older brother or sister...

sigh*

"If they have all retired we won't be able to find hints on who their leader is" Ichinose looked disappointed and bamboozled at this tactic.

"Didn't Class C already use up all of their points? Even if we found out who their leader is, doesn't that mean they won't get a penalty?"

"They said that we wouldn't see any negative effects during the second semester, so our points shouldn't be able to go below zero."

They looked back onto the beach both thinking deeply and looking conflicted as to what to do.

"I don't want to compliment a strategy where you use up all your points, but it's pretty amazing."

"No matter how I look at it, it doesn't seem like it's going to work. This test is about stockpiling points so you come out positive. Ryūen lost when he abandoned that idea."

Ichinose and Kanzaki both looked sad as they gazed upon the empty beach probably worried about class C under Ryūen's leadership.

"So, trying to find out who their leader is will be incredibly difficult. It's just impossible. Impossible!"

"I think that it would be a good idea to see this test through quietly, and stick to a solid plan."

"Yeah, yeah. Solid strategy is best."

Despite being in an alliance Ichinose and Kanxaki are overly relaxed.

They are stating their strategy to me and even though the alliance stands there is no contractual agreement to force us to comply.

Also the school is a competitive school where information on the organisation and strategy of each class is highly valuable and yet they are openly discussing their strategy.

Class B really are full of naïve people and their position of class B is a one I doubt they can maintain.

Ichinose and Kanzaki gave up on trying to get information on class C so they started to walk away but this is an important opportunity.

"Do you by chance know who Sakayanagi is?"

They both stopped and turned to me and Kanzaki started looking at me suspiciously.

Originally I would have asked Kushida about Sakayanagi and if she didn't know then her vast social network would provide answers.

But who better to ask than Ichinose.

Ichinose has a burning desire to reach class A which is most likely a driving force in her class and one of the many reasons for her being leader.

As a result of this Ichinose would most likely learn all about class A so that she can make tactics for when they compete head to head because they are their closest rival.

"Yes she is one of the two leaders in class A and is the leader of what is called the Sakayanagi faction which opposes the Katsuragi faction"

So Class B and C are the only two unified classes.

Of course one is ruled by fear and the other is held together by friendship and trust but they are both still more united by D and A from the sounds of things.

"Why do you ask?" Kanzaki now sounded curious at my actions.

"Well it's just the other day when Horikita dragged me round to check on your class, and classes B and A someone mentioned Sakayanagi and she told me to try and find out something. She also said that this may give us leverage or a weak spot to attack class A but I think they will unify for this exam"

"Well, rather than coming together, I think Sakayanagi-san is taking it easy during the test. That's why everyone thinks Katsuragi-kun is the leader. Right?"

Ichinose tilted her head, seeking Kanzaki's opinion.

"Katsuragi is a smart and capable leader but even though Sakayanagi is absent there will be some who will put up resistance or try to weaken Katsuragi's faction"

So Sakayanagi is absent and not participating in this exam which means I will have to draw her out later.

But this also means that depending on what happens in future special exams Katsuragi could either; become leader or be replaced.

For class A to be in this sort of situation is surprising but when you think about egos and the fact they are the elite class then it is understandable and wired that there aren't more factions.

"Yeah. That seems like it's true. But wouldn't the students working under Sakayanagi-san be really unhappy? I mean, those two are complete opposite types. I would imagine their opinions would be clearly different, too."

"Complete opposites?"

"Liberal and conservative? Offense and defense? Persecute and protect? Those kinds of things. That's why they always seem to be clashing with each other. It's scary to think about Class A going all out in that situation. If they managed to come together, Class A would really demonstrate their true powers."

"I see. Thank you for that and I will relay it to Horikita but for now I will have to scavenge some food so I don't go back empty handed"

"Yes but please be careful Ayanokõji-kun and next time remember to bring a friend with you when you explore the forest"

I nodded at Ichinose's words and she smiled before we both went our separate ways.

This exam is bearing more fruit than expected. . . As I arrived at the faculty room I saw the Grim Reaper standing in the doorway.

"Come in."

"I don't understand why you called me over."

"We'll talk inside."

sigh*

We walked into the faculty room and Sae-sense gestured for me to sit opposite her.

"You might expect bad things when you're asked to come to the faculty room, but contrary to your expectations, it's a fine place. There aren't eyes all around in here. Many things are better said with some personal privacy."

Almost as if telling me that there are no cameras or other recording devices here she said that and I scanned the room noticing that the camera which was supposed to be in a room like this wasn't.

"So what did you want to talk to me about? I'm busy planning my summer vacation right now."

"But I thought you didn't have any friends?"

"I have 2 but it's quality over quantity"

This sounds very sad and depressing especially because it is the end i of my first semester in school and I had only made two friends.

Of course when I say two friends I am unsure myself if this is accurate because although the Professor does help me with things like Internet Sensei and tech stuff I don't know about I don't know if he is truly someone I can trust.

His obsession with anime and desire to be a real protagonist is one of the reasons I sought his help but if the time comes where I don't want to puppeteer the class will he let me fade into the background?

sigh*

Sensei let out a long and deep sigh which was heavy with despair and regret.

She then raised her head looking at me with a serious face.

"I've called you here today because I wanted to tell you my personal story."

Chabashira-sensei's story?

For my cold and heartless homeroom teacher to come out with something like this which could be called soppy and pathetic is ironic.

"It's something I haven't talked to anyone about since I had become a homeroom teacher. It's silly, but please listen."

"Before that, should we have tea? You must be thirsty," I said.

I stood up from my pipe chair and opened the kitchenette's door.

No one was inside, right?

"Don't tell this story to anyone else. If you can do that, please return to your seat."

"Okay."

I closed the door and returned to sit with Chabashira-sensei.

"How do I appear to you as Class D's homeroom teacher?"

"That's vague so how about I say...you are a sadist?"

Her gaze turned to a one of rage and her bloodlust rose and filled the room.

Guess she doesn't like how the Professor describes her.

"If I was to give a serious answer based on a comparison with the other homeroom teachers I would say that you are cold and don't care for class D"

If I was going into more specific detail using the homeroom teachers I know about which are class B and C's I would say:

Sakagami is willing to go the extra mile and help his students even if they are in the wrong because it will affect the class on a whole and he seems like a reliable homeroom teacher who fits his class.

Chie was constantly crossing the threshold of what's professional and what isn't like the time she made bentos for both of us and had us feed each other instead of letting me go for lunch.

But on a whole her bubbly and approachable personality is befitting of class B and the fact that she fails to act like a teacher only deepens her bond and connection with her students so once again she is a perfect fit for her class.

And so Sae is nothing like these because she is cold and indifferent towards class D and is often holding us back by withholding information or telling us half truths which makes her an unfit pairing for class D who can't figure out the truths.

But maybe she will tell me this is a facade like Kushida but that would mean she is defective like us.

"Am I wrong?"

"No, it's as you say. I won't deny it. However, the truth is different."

Chabashira-sensei paused and looked up to the ceiling, as if she'd just remembered something.

"I was once a student at this school. I was in Class D, just like you."

"You were pathetic worthless defective trash? I wouldn't have thought it"

I used her own description of our class against her and she glared at me.

Maybe my monotone voice made that sound sarcastic?

"Huh... Well, in my time, the class difference wasn't as extreme. You could say that we were in a four-way battle, not a three-way one. Up until we approached graduation in the third semester of our third year, the difference between A and D wasn't even 100 points. It was a close battle, where even one trivial mistake could knock you off balance."

If I judge from this does that mean that the current class A and B are exceptional?

We already have been told that we are the worst class D in the school's history so this isn't a stretch.

But her tone was one heavy with regret.

"I'm guessing someone made a trivial mistake, right?"

"Yes. It happened rather unexpectedly. Class C went to hell because of my mistake. In the end, my goal of reaching Class A and my dreams were shattered."

Her story is a one of incompetence and failure which is boring and unimportant to me other than the fact that she isn't reliable enough to do the most essential or crucial tasks.

But she does regret this and has probably replayed this several times over so she has probably improved her flaws which could be seen in her handling of the trail.

"I have been the homeroom teacher twice in my career here"

I had an incline of where this was going but I will let her conclude the story for me so I can leave more about the school and previous years.

"Your current class is the second. The first was a class D as well because the other staff looked down on a class D graduate like myself saying it would be wrong for me or manage or guide the higher classes"

Her hatred toward herself as a class D graduate was sting but not in the sense of rage but a sense of self self disgust and internal dissatisfaction.

"Although I was in charge of class D which was labelled defective I found an interesting student there. The student was of average height and didn't stand out physically or academically but he had something different about him"

Sae smiled as if remembering the student but her fond smile turned into a bitter one.

"He had an unbeatable and unbreakable will. This will helped him unite his class an push himself to become better academically and physically in order to cover for some of his classmates"

"He was so determined and strong minded that he even managed to close the gap between classes by winning special exams. Of course he hadn't managed to overtake yet but now the gap between him and class A was 500 points and he had one and a half years left to close it"

"However?"

From her bitter smile and tone I could tell that the story wouldn't end happily.

Sae looked down and then backed up at me sighing heavily before she spoke again.

"I received praises for the accomplishments but the headstrong leader fell victim to one of the most dangerous traps"

"Love. He got into a relationship with a girl in another class and at first nothing happened but the girl managed to get information on his class and then used his feelings against her to blind him when the special exam came resulting in his expulsion"

"As a result my class lost the horse which was pulling it and fell behind miserably and once again I got mocked and looked down on as the teacher of the defectives"

It was a sad story but it holds no relevance to today's class battle so I don't understand why I need to know this.

"I don't see why I am being told this"

"Because unlike me you won't make a trivial mistake and unlike him you won't be infatuated or a victim to such a thing as love so your essential for reaching class A"

"What am I supposed to say to that? You're joking, right?"

"A few days ago, a certain man contacted the school directly. He said 'expel Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.'"

Chabashira-sensei made a complete change of topic.

She was getting to the true issue.

"He said to expel me? Well, that's nonsense. I don't know who it was, but you ignored his request and won't have me expelled. Right?"

"Of course. We can't just expel someone on a third party's whim. As long as you are a student at this school, you are protected by the rules. However...if you cause any problems, that's a different story. Smoking, bullying, stealing, cheating... If you cause any scandal, expulsion is unavoidable."

"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to do anything."

"It has nothing to do with your intentions. If I determine that something seems like an issue, it will become reality."

"Are you threatening me?" I sharpened my gaze ready for her next words.

"Here's the deal, Ayanokouji. You are going to aim for Class A for me. I will follow up as extensively as I can in order to protect you. Don't you think that sounds like a good offer?"

They are both like a mirror of each other.

Chabashira Sae and Horikita Suzune.

Both resort to blackmailing and using me. I shook my head at this annoying situation.

"Can I go now? I won't listen to any more of this."

"That's too bad, Ayanokouji. You will be expelled, and once again, Class D won't reach Class A."

Her speech and behavior weren't just for show.

She seriously intended to get me expelled because I wouldn't carry the burden or weight of her pathetic dream.

"Let me ask you once more. Will you aim for Class A? Or be expelled? You choose."

I reached over and grabbed her collar with my left hand pulling her up from her seat and glared at her, yet she wasn't intimidated.

Her eyes had gotten slightly misty.

Her usual cold indifference was gone.

When she grabbed my left arm, my hand still grasping her collar, I saw the forceful determination had returned to her eyes.

"I'd thought you would lead Class D voluntarily, but we don't have any time to waste. You have to decide here and now. Will you help me or not?"

As if she was in a position of absolute power she asked me this and even though the cameras are removed I was powerless.

I let go of her collar and she dropped back onto the sofa and walked to the door.

"You will regret using me"

"Relax my life is already full of regrets" Her self deprecating tone and misty eyes looked to the floor and I left the office.

If that man is involved I will play along especially because my freedom is on the line.

But even though I was going to get slightly involved in the class competition I will now change my approach.

My plan would be to bring down each and every class like dominoes starting with class C.

But I doubt that man would contact her and not the chairman so I don't believe that but how would she know something like that?

"Nnngh~"

I let out a groan and rested my head on the wall thinking how troublesome this situation is and how I would deal with Sensei.

To save my peaceful life from being torn to pieces.

I must discard it and carry her cross.

How ridiculous.

"Yoohoo! Kiyotaka-kun"

As if it couldn't get any worse Chie-chan had saw me and started to race towards me~

"BOYS!"

We all left the tent groggy and half asleep to see a fuming Shinohara standing in front of a crowd of unusually timid and scared girls.

"Shinohara-san what is the issue?"

"Hirata-kun we know this has nothing to do with you so we would like you to stay out of it" Shinohara used a calm and respectful tone to address Hirata but it was also forceful.

"What's this all about?" I had moved to where Ibuki was standing and asked her because she even looked disgusted.

"Some pervert stole Karuizawa's underwear"

"That's not good"

I looked at both sides which were now arguing about letting the girls search their luggage but Shinohara had taken charge and was now being over aggressive and generalising the boys earning their hate.

"Let me search their luggage" Hirata stepped in to offer a compromise and started to lead the boys into the tent.

"Do you think it's me?"

"Huh?"

Ibuki turned to me wide eyed and confused at what I just asked and then hardened her expression.

"If it is I will personally kill you but I don't think it is. Do you think it was me?"

She looked me dead in the eyes but sadly for her I never believed her story of a class dispute and already know about her purpose.

"No"

I left her and went to the boys tent earning glares from Shinohara who I ignored.

Ike and Yamauchi hated it, but couldn't resist being pulled in. The three of us were the last to go.

"Damn, I'm so pissed. Men are always being suspected of stuff. It's way too unreasonable."

"Well, let's prove our innocence." Ike grabbed his bag, but suddenly froze.

"What's wrong?"

"Oh, nothing..."

He turned his back on Hirata and the others, checked the inside of his bag, and frantically closed it back up.

"Kanji?"

Ike's face was pale, his body stiff. He was completely paralyzed. "Hey, come on. Let's hurry and get going."

"What, you're the one that really stole them?"

"Th-that's crazy talk!"

Ike frantically denied it, shaking his head while clutching his bag.

What a blatant overreaction.

"Wait, don't tell me..." Yamauchi said.

"What? You don't believe me?!"

"No, I'm not saying that. Show me what's in your bag."

"Ah, wait!"

Yamauchi snatched Ike's bag to check inside. When he did, he saw...white underwear, definitely not a man's, balled up and hidden.

"Th-that's not mine! Someone put it in my bag or something, somehow!"

"Come on, don't give me that excuse..." Yamauchi looked at Ike with pity.

"I'm telling you, I don't know how it got there! Why would there be underwear in my bag?!"

"This is shameful. Let's go explain things to Hirata and the others."

"Huh?! But if I do that, they'll make me out to be the culprit!" "There was no culprit...right?"

Yamauchi was stupid to think that this would be resolved by talking and Ike the suspect.

Putting aside when and how he stole the underwear, the thief likely wouldn't have hidden the stolen goods in his own bag. It was obvious that in the case of an uproar, a search for the criminal would begin.

If Ike was really guilty, he should've been panicking when he was told to open his luggage. But I hadn't seen the slightest hint of that.

I already know who stole them so I can trust Ike.

"Ayanokouji, you believe me, right? That I didn't steal them?!"

"Well, if I think calmly, no solid evidence suggests you're the culprit, Ike."

"Ayanokouji!"

"It's unlikely that Ike is the culprit. If he were, this would be far too stupid of him."

"Well, that sounds right, but... Wait, what? You mean someone put the underwear in Kanji's bag?"

"We just have to figure out who!" Ike cried.

"Hey, hurry up!" one of the boys by Hirata cried.

"Wh-wh-wh-wh-what am I gonna do? I'm in serious trouble!"

"We have no choice but to hide them. Now."

"Hide them? Where?! We can't hide them!"

It was certainly true that we currently lacked storage options. If the girls saw us hurry to the toilet or into the tents, they'd become suspicious and demand to search that area.

Most importantly, we were spending too much time here. It wouldn't be surprising if we were already under suspicion.

"We have no other choice. You have to put it in your pocket."

There wasn't any time to hide the underwear anyplace else, and we didn't want to draw attention to ourselves.

"I-I can't do it! I-I'm already panicking!"

Still, hiding the underwear was our only option.

"I'll leave it to you, Ayanokouji!"

Ike quickly removed the balled-up underwear and thrust it into my hands.

"Huh?"

"If you think it's better to hide them, you can do it. Right?"

"Well, that's..."

"Hey, hurry up!"

"I'm coming now!"

Ike muttered, "I'm counting on you," and scurried off.

Yamauchi, not wanting to get dragged into it, quickly apologized and hurried away.

"Hey, are you serious?"

The longer I stayed, the worse this would get. If I'd had a minute, I'd have hidden it someplace difficult to find, but there was no time.

Impulsively, I stuffed the underwear into my back pocket, took my bag, and headed back to the others.

"Sorry, sorry. My bag got a little dirty, so I cleaned it off." With that excuse, Ike tossed over his luggage.

"Search it if you gotta. I'm innocent. Right, Yamauchi?"
"Y-yeah."

The two proudly placed their bags down.

Hirata, after lightly declining the duty, inspected the inside of the bags, I also set my bag down and moved away.

After everyone's luggage had been inspected, Ike called over Shinohara, who was waiting with her arms crossed.

"We searched everyone's bags. None of us did it."

"Really?"

"Yeah. There's no doubt. None of the boys are the culprit."

"Wait a moment."

Shinohara drew nearer and checked the inside of the tent. She seemed suspicious, as though we'd hidden something.

Of course, there wasn't anything there.

After inspecting the two tents, Shinohara went back to the girls once again and discussed the situation.

"Hey, Hirata-kun. Could they have hidden it in their pockets? Ike-kun and Yamauchi-kun, and even Ayanokouji-kun were whispering a little earlier. It's got me curious."

"Jeez, enough is enough!" Ike cried.

"Wasn't Ike-kun acting all suspicious earlier? Maybe he is hiding something after all?"

"Huh?! I-I'm not hiding anything! Search me if you gotta!"

He spread his arms wide as he proclaimed his innocence.

Ike don't if you do that then~

"Let's search him. Hirata-kun, can you do it?"

"Okay. If it convinces the girls, fine. However, if I don't find anything, I want you to stop investigating the boys."

This was the worst possible outcome.

While the girls watched Ike, Yamauchi, and me, the pat-down commenced.

Of course, they wouldn't find the underwear on either Ike or Yamauchi.

They kept still throughout Hirata's careful search, and he checked them thoroughly.

Finally, it was my turn.

It was already too late to escape.

Perhaps I should just use violence and force to avoid the search. It wouldn't be hard to cut through the boys and girls in the class and given that we are in a forest the weapons available would ease my troubles.

Hirata searched me but didn't report me and instead assigned me the duty of finding the underwear thief and as a result the boys and girls segregated.

Part 17

"Pulp fiction"

"Fight club"

"Blade runner"

"Godfather"

"Big Trouble in Little China"

"I'm surprised"

"Why?"

"Well normally people who read books tend to stray away from movies because they aren't accurate representations or as good as the book, but you are a bookworm who enjoys films"

"I find both equally interesting I guess"

"You don't have a like or dislike on anything do you"

"Maybe..."

Ibuki was right.

I don't hate, dislike, like or love anything. All my childhood I only focused on learning and constantly moving forward.

I didn't have time to develop preferences or have the luxuries of refusing, anything my father wanted done I did, because likes and dislikes are emotions and in the end~

Emotions are a weakness and a weakness is something the strong can't have.

"Hey that's ours you perversion aren't allowed it!"

"How is it yours?"

"You animals don't deserve it!"

"Yeah well take it from me then!"

"Hirata-kun!!"

"Your class really is hopeless" Ibuki, looking amused by the fight between Shinohara and Ike said that despite being the catalyst to the division in our class.

sigh*

"Yeah..."

Since the underwear theft Shinohara assumed the role of class D girls leader and through her relentless attacks on the boys and refusal to change her attitude had successfully created two hostile camps in our class.

The boys who were branded "barbic perverted animals, who should go die" abandoned the girls and refused to offer them any help with moving their tent, finding food or other tasks.

Also any boy who helped the girls would be ousted so Hirata and myself were ousted by the boys resulting in us sleeping outside.

I was ousted because of Horikita and Ibuki.

Horikita didn't trust Hirata and despite being respected for her contributions in the midterms she didn't have many allies in the girls side, meaning I was dragged into helping her and becoming a grunt or a slave to the girls.

Ibuki now garnered hatred and suspicion from the boys and because of my connection with her I am also being suspected by the boys.

Overall the entire situation is troublesome for me no matter what I do.

sigh*

"Oh, Kiyotaka-kun are you...depressed?"

"Yes"

My long deep sigh which had carried my tiredness and boredom attracted the energetic Kushida who had been glancing at me since she woke up.

"Well then how about you come pick some fruit"

"With who?"

"Me, you, Ibuki-san and Horikita-san"

"Hey! Who said I was going with you?" Ibuji clenched her fist glaring at Kushida.

"We will go"

"Hey! I didn't~"

"Thank you Kiyotaka-kun you have 10 minutes, okay!"

Kushida smiled striking a pose making Ibuki mimic vomiting before she ran away to help the girls.

thud*

"Ow..."

"Shouldn't have volunteered me if it hurts"

sigh*

I really am sighing a lot today, well I am sleeping outside so that might explain it.

"You need to contribute instead of freeload"

"Tch...fine!"

Ibuki knows that the class would easily kick her out than have her stay because it would be one less mouth to feed so by contributing she can secure her time here.

We both left to rest before we would go pick berries and with our conversations and time together I can say that Ibuki trusts and is blinded to my true nature meaning after this exam is complete she will help cover for me.

The human mind is very fickle . . "Why are you hovering around me?"

"Waiting for you to collapse"

"Nngh~think you're funny?"

"Stating the obvious"

The pale and peaky faced Horikita was shivering and her bottom lip trembled trying to stop itself turning blue from the fever.

Her glare was no longer an ominous and threatening glare but a weak and quivering pitiful look that garnered sympathy and pity rather than fear.

But Horikita still continued to fight on despite her body being this weak and frail.

"If you are going to annoy me, go away"

"Actually I need to see the card"

"Wha~here?"

"Ibuki is distracted by Kushida so it's fine"

"H-here" Horikita hesitantly brought out the card monitoring her surroundings.

"Why do you want to see it?"

"Katsuragi had something similar but looking at this they are different"

"Why didn't you tell me before?"

"I tried but you have been festering in the girls tent because you are ill and I don't want to be called da pervert. Sleeping outside is bad enough" I muttered the last part but Horikita took offence to my persistence about her health so~

Splat

Her fist clenched crushing all the berries she held in her hand, sending their juices flying.

"That was helpful"

"Nnnngh~Shut up!"

Horikita brought her hand crashing down ready to pound my head to either give me a concussion or knock me unconscious.

Her bodies failing health meant that in order to make the hit as powerful as she could, all her weight needed to be behind it meaning her balance is off.

Whoosh

crash*

"H-Horikita-san!"

Kushida stifling a laugh and battling against a smile raced over looking concerned but inside she was probably relishing in the image of Horikita being face down in cold water.

"Are you okay? What happened?"

I dodged her sluggish blow and pushed her into the river soaking all her clothes and dropping her body temperature significantly making it harder to fight the fever.

"Kiyotaka-kun where are you going?"

"Toilet"

Kushida, Ibuki, I have learned not to be around Horikita when she is in a state like this so you are my sacrifices. . . "Bastard"

"Ibuki?"

"Cowardly little bastard!"

The looming shadow of Ibuki towered over me and her clenched fists and rough tone meant that Horikita had let out her frustrations on both Ibuki and Kushida.

"Well now you know what I have to deal with"

"Tch"

"The rain finally came"

Our campsite was drenched and the mud was watery and sludgy making navigating the forest a dangerous task.

Both sides had collected all necessities and put them in the tents so that they wouldn't be destroyed by the rain.

We stood under a tree shielded by the leaves above us as we watched the ripples in the river from each droplet.

"Ibuki-san, Kiyotaka-kun I need your help"

"What's wrong Kushida?"

"We didn't get enough berries so I though we could go and collect some"

"I don't think~"

"I will help you"

Without hesitation Ibuki volunteered herself and walked away to get her bag so that we could put the berries in there.

"I will go as well then" .

"Be careful"

"We will Hirata-kun"

"Be back by 6pm okay?"

"Okay!"

We left the camp refusing help from Ike or Sakura and made our way deeper and deeper into the forest, away from the warmth and eyes of our base camp.

"What are you planning to do with the rest of your vacation?"

"Hiyori wants to hold a "book buddie" gathering to introduce everyone and read together but other than that I haven't decided"

"Hmm...sounds like mine"

"Why are you asking me this?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well~never mind"

Ibuki moved away from me mumbling "idiot" multiple times.

"Look, look!"

Kushida had spotted a large berry bush which was checkered with succulent ripe berries that would satisfy our hunger.

"Ibuki-san where are you going?"

"Huh? Tch!" Ibuki dropped her bag but kept her back to us with her head down.

"W-were you betraying us?"

Kushida had approached Ibuki and now grabbed her arm meaning if Ibuki wanted to leave she would have to shake off Kushida.

"Let go of me"

"I can't, you can't betray us, let us help you"

"Idiot!" Ibuki backhanded Kushida, sending her stumbling back a few steps but this was when Kushida dropped her facade.

"Hahahahahahahaha~bitch!"

thud*

"Arrgh!"

Ibuki stumbled back under the force of the blow she had received to the head.

The rock in Kushida's hand dropped blood which came from the cut on Ibuki's head and her sadistic smile and psychotic laugh continued.

"Stupid ugly bitch! How dare you hit my face you dirty pathetic SLUT!"

Kushida charged towards then dazed Ibuki raising the stone above her head so that she could crack Ibuki's head open but Ibuki was exaggerating to lure Kushida in and delivered a powerful sidekick to Kushida's kidney.

"Uuaagh~"

thud*

Another kick this time to Kushida's ribs was sent with ferocious speed by Ibuki knocking Kushida on her back struggling to breath from being winded.

"Ibuki wait"

She took off into the forest using Kushida's torch to guide her path but I don't need a torch to make my way because I know where she is going.

"Ibuki"

Her foot hurled its way towards my head shortly followed by her body but I slipped it and readied a sluggish and street fighter stance against Ibuki.

"Why are you trying to stop me?"

"Horikita will kill me if I let you go"

Ibuki readied her stance then sent a legion of kicks and punches towards me each with enough power to knock someone unconscious.

Her punches were a lot weaker than her kicks but they could still daze but I decided not or dodge and took each one while trying to return one of my own.

thud*

"Ugh"

"Ibuki...stop"

"Hah...I'm surprised you got a hit in but~"

thud*

I let the momentum carry me and crushed into the wet and squelching mud closing my eyes feigning pain from the kick I had just received to my head.

"You should have left me alone"

With those words Ibuki left to probably call Ryūen and make a deal with the photo of the keycard but for 2 minutes I remained in the mud.

My acting skills are poor but thankfully Ibuki isn't much better. . .
"When I said I would help you I didn't mean getting beat up all over again"

"Are you saying you won't help me anymore?"

My dark and empty eyes showed Kushida her muddy and red cheeked reflections making her shiver from fear.

"N-no, no of course I will help you"

"..."

"Kushida-san"

"What happened Kushida-san?"

"Did he try to rape you?"

"Where's Ibuki-san"

Rape?

Our class surrounded Kushida who was holding her ribs and exaggerating her pain while informing the class about Ibuki's betrayal and she "viciously" attacked Kushida.

sigh*

At least they aren't fighting.

"Ayanokõji-kun, we need to talk"

"What is it Horikita?"

"Not here"

"Why?"

"It will ruin your peaceful life if we talk here"

"Fine"

I walked behind Horikita as we both snuck out of camp and walked away far enough so that they wouldn't overhear us easily.

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Why?"

"That's specific"

"Why did you let her go?" Horikita glared at me spitting this through gritted teeth.

"She was too strong"

"Liar"

"She was"

"Liar! You are a liar! Nii-san is far better than her or anyone else and you stood up to him"

"That was just luck"

Horikita wasn't amused by my answers and her angered multiplies each time I spoke.

"I-I though I could trust you~"

Trust?

"I thought you would help me reach class A instead of sabotage me~"

She trusts me?

"I thought we were...f-friends..." Horikita broke down after saying this and her sobs were muffled by the rain but I could tell that if I turned around she would be crying.

"Horikita"

"A-Ayanokõji-kun?"

"I have sabotaged you"

"W-why?"

"Because you have stabbed me, hit me, ordered me around like a dog and threatened my freedom so I have engineered all this so that we could talk like this"

I turned around to see her body trembling and tears streaming from her red eyes.

"Why..."

"So I can do this"

bang*

I had jumped forward and buried my fist in Horikita gut spilling the contents of her stomach all over the floor.

Horikita, not having the strength in her body or air in her lungs to stay on her feet, fell to her knees.

"Anyone who threatens my freedom will be dealt with"

I grabbed her hair and threw her into a tree and then buried another fist in her stomach reaping her consciousness.

"A...Ayano...Ayanokõji.." Horikita slowly opened her eyes and then shot yo remembering what happened.

"Where are we?"

"Why did you think we were friends?"

"Wha-I, I don't know!"

sigh*

"Shame"

I spun around delivering a monstrous kick to Horikita's ribs and sending her tumbling down the hill I dragged us to.

The fall wouldn't kill her but it would give an explanation to her wounds and I had jumped down it several times to guarantee it's safety and that there weren't any stones to smash her head on.

"Now you should become more wary of me and shy away from using me because you will fear or hate me"

This was the only way to protect my peaceful life from Horikita.

If she hates or fears me she will try not to use me because she can't control me or risk me doing something that could harm the class meaning Sae-Sensei is my only problem.

But for now I will retire Horikita.

"Friends"

What an idiotic and stupid thought.

The lifeless Horikita was still trembling and shaking in the warm embrace of my arms as we drew nearer to the beach but that word stuck in my mind.

"Horikita I have never thought of you as a friend. I have never even thought of you as anything other than a tool, a disposable tool for that can easily be replaced or discarded when convenient"

In the end success is the only thing in this world taht matters to me.

The methods used or things sacrificed are all trivial because as long as I succeed I don't care.

As long as I continue to succeed and push forward I will be fine.

You, Hiyori~no, anyone and everyone else are nothing but disposable tools.

I sabotaged you and our class in this exam but if the time comes I will tensed and destroy each and every other class that is an obstacle for my freedom because in this world only the strong can survive and no one is as strong as me. . . . "Finally class D wins with 225 points"

Part 18

"I have sabotaged you...anyone who threatens my freedom...replaced or discarded...a disposable tool..."

"Uuugh"

Pant

Pant

The sharp shooting pain in my ribs brought my back to reality.

My forehead is doused in beads of sweat and neither my breathing or heart rate have calmed down yet.

That dream~

No it wasn't a dream it is a memory, a painful memory that I probably won't be able to forget ever.

That cold dark voice sends shivers down my spine making my body sweat and my breathing to hasten.

"Ayanokõji-kun what are you?"

Sae-Sensei is interested in you and has even warned me to be wary of you but I didn't think of you like that until now...now that I have seen your other side.

The monitor in the room displayed the beach and showed each class lining up ready to hear the results.

The beach

The exam is finally over meaning we can go back to our vacation.

It was a boring exam with not much to learn or do in the grand scheme of things but I have succeeded with my aims.

Firstly Sae will be pleased with the result meaning my time here is safe until the next exam, secondly Horikita will now be cemented as class leader.

"Ryūen?"

"Kukuku, why so surprised Kanzaki?"

"You retired. You and your whole class were supposed to have retired, so why are you here!"

"Katsuragi get your dog in check or he will just humiliate you further" Ryūen smirked looking at Katsuragi out of the corner of his eye.

All of the classes were shocked and confused to see Ryūen here but both Katsuragi and Kanzaki started to show a worried expression.

"What's wrong Kanzaki-kun?"

"T-that bastard!" Kanzaki balled up his fist shouting at Ryūen who stood with his arms crossed smiling at his victory.

"What does this mean Hirata-kun?"

"I don't know"

cough cough* "Congratulations on finishing your fist special exam. We now will announce the results stating from last place"

I found where Sae was standing and focused my gaze on her.

She too returned my gaze, locking them in place while smiling anticipating what is about to happen.

"In last place is Class C with 0 points" Ryūen's face tensed and his smirk washed away leaving a tense and shocked expression.

"Coming in third place with 120 points is Class A and in second with 140 points is Class B which means in first place is class D with 225 points"

Confusion washed over the beach and shouts of confusion and expressions of disbelief painted the beach.

No one could have expected class D to win

Let alone win by such a high margin.

Sae Sensei laughed at the pale faces of Sakagami, Chie and Mashima Senise, enjoying the spectacle class D pulled off.

"Katsuragi-kun explain what this means now!" A blonde haired class A student shouted as class A swarmed the baffled Katsuragi.

"Congratulations on a well deserved victory Hirata-kun"

"Thank you Ichinose-san but it was Horikita-san who is behind our victory"

"Well then send our praise"

Ichinose shook hands with Hirata and despite her class coming second to us they weren't displeased or crying out in rage.

"Ayanokõji-kun if you still have no plans be free to come and talk with me or Kanzaki-kun anytime okay?"

I just nodded my head feeling the stares of my classmates burrowing into my head.

"H-how...no that doesn't matter...kukuku..." Ryūen walked back onto the ship ignoring the taunts of Sudo and Ike.

Hirata also started leading our class back into the ship to thank Horikita for leading us to victory in this exam.

"Professor you know what to do incase she tries to expose me"

"Of course X-dono" The Professor hadn't been of use to me as much in this exam due to his physique but that helps to keep him hidden as a "fat weird otaku"

I slowed down so I was hidden at the back so my escape would be easier and with the Professor here even if Horikita did try to expose me he will take responsibility but Kushida and Hirata are pointing Horikita as the leader so no matter what she says our classmates won't believe her.

"Horikita-san"

"Horikita-san thank you"

"You saved us again"

In no time Horikita was surrounded and allowing me to return to my cabin.

"Ayanokõji-kun I think we need to have a talk"

"Why?"

"Why? Well because of the exam"

"The results are clear are they not?"

Sae just laughed drawing closer with her icy aura and sadistic smile.

"We can talk here then but if someone overhears don't blame me"

sigh*

"Fine, let's go somewhere more private"

I am in no mood for this pointless talk nor her games but as long as she is pulling my strings I can't refuse her.

"I believe her will suffice"

We had walked to the opposite end of the ship and the area was isolated apart from the staff that worked here and the open environment means eavesdroppers can be spotted and identified easily.

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Do you hate me that much?"

"I am indifferent, I wouldn't care if you died or lived happily"

Sae smiled at my cold indifference but she did look slightly dissatisfied that she didn't get a reaction from me.

"You did well on this exam"

"So are you satisfied?"

"For now, but you also this exam is one of the simplest exams so the results are not too admirable"

This is true and in fact all I had to do was retire Horikita and run around in order or identify who the leaders were.

"Given that I held my end of the bargain I want to ask something"

"What would that be?"

"What did my father say to you?"

"He said that one day you will chase your own demise, you, Ayanokõji Kiyotaka will chase your own expulsion burning your wings just like Icarus"

"Thank you" I turned and started to leave after hearing such a ridiculous answer.

I am my own enemy

My freedom from the White Room and my father is something I will give up?

How stupid.

"No more questions?" Her mocking voice called out to me in an amused tone.

"No"

Because you have already confirmed everything I need to know.

You are just bluffing.

Bluffing that you hold all the cards and yet you hold nothing.

However I will continue to participate in the battle between classes for a little longer until I can prevent you expelling me by my own means and then~

I will sabotage the entire class. . .
After leaving Sae I had hoped to return to my cabin and get some sleep but apparently my presence has become valuable because Horikita has sent 120 messages and phoned 43 times.

I agreed to meeting up with her so that she could satisfy her curiosity and leave me alone but ultimately I want to see if she understands our relationship.

"Ayanokõji"

"Horikita?"

"The results explain them"

"So you don't understand them at all?"

"No matter how many times I think about it the conclusion I draw is that we should have lost, so how did we win?"

Horikita is academically gifted but she is narrow minded and can't think outside the box or see the big picture.

"What would you gain from understanding that?"

"I don't follow" Horikita wore a puzzled expression not following my line of thought.

sigh*

"The exam is over so knowing about how we succeeded is pointless is it not?"

Horikita fell silent trying to find a reason other than her own curiosity but there isn't one.

"I will tell you just this once"

"Huh? Why?"

"Because it will be helpful for you to understand future exams, however you will keep this a secret and ask no further questions" My voice was a bit forceful making her shiver probably remembering our altercation.

"The exam wasn't that difficult and didn't have much to it in terms of strategy however the key things were; understanding the additional rules, knowing spot locations and the leaders"

"But knowing all 3 things is extremely difficult because the spot locations were meant to be unknown and the addition rules I barely understood"

"Well the spot locations were actually visible from the boat but because you were hidden in your room because of your fever you didn't see them"

"Then the additional rules were difficult but if you understand the premise that they were made to be broken then you would understand them easily"

Horikita looked shocked at this and the fact that the school would think of such a thing.

"But if they were made to be broken then what was the point in them?"

"It's an exam so they were there to test us and our knowledge of how the school works"

"Now I knew the spot locations as did Katsuragi because like me he saw them from the boat so I manipulated Sudo into looking for spot locations so that Hirata would suggest to look for them in groups allowing me to watch the cave"

"Why the cave?"

"It was the most important spot"

"What? But the river and the well surely are better than a cave because of the availability of water"

"Unlike the river and well the cave is closer to two other spots, the hut and tower, meaning it is the best spot"

Horikita looked shocked at just how much she had missed and not thought of.

"That's when I figured out their leaders identity which was Yahiko"

Explaining this is so unnecessary, why does she need to know about how we won when each exam is different from the last?

"Horikita explaining how our class won is pointless because each exam will be different so I will ask you this, what is the most important thing you can take away form this exam?"

Horikita stopped looking deep in thought carefully deciding on what her answer would be.

"Tactics"

"Yes"

"So, winning in this exam is only secondary in your opinion?"

"Yes and no, as of right now winning this exam was my only choice"

I don't intend to explain my predicament to Horikita but I will hint that I am cooperating to some degree.

"So what are the tactics?"

"Class A is divided into 2 factions so as of right now I can only tell you what is relevant to Katsuragi and not Sakayanagi"

"Katsuragi is a man who prefers defence and conservation above all else, resulting in class A being like an impenetrable fortress, but this also means that he cannot attack or when he does it is very weak, however the reason he lost is because class A is divided so his fortress has traitors in it destroying the castle from the inside"

"So that is Sakayanagi and you know nothing about her?"

"I know a vague description about her personality but nothing reliable"

Sakayanagi right now is like the joker card in the deck of cards.

An unknown wild card that will come into play when Katsuragi falls from power and she will change the tactics of class A completely.

"What about Ryūen and Ichinose?"

"Well Ichinose took a passive route this exam essentially boycotting it but I can say that trust and friendship is her weakness"

"But isn't that what makes her class so strong?"

"Yes but it is also the reason Ryūen found out their leader"

"Speaking of Ryūen he is the biggest threat to you right now"

"Huh? Why?"

"Well he was supposed to win this exam by guessing leaders but you stopped him"

"So that's why you put it all on me" Horikita glared at me understanding that she is being used as a cover or shield for me.

"Yes but this is also to help you reach class A and that is why I will tell you that Ryūen doesn't trust anyone but himself to get the job done meaning if you beta him you beat his class but of course you have to beat his underhanded tactics"

Horikita is very vulnerable to Ryūen and if left to compete against him alone at her current state, she would lose miserably.

"That is all I will tell you other than I will help you"

"What do you mean?" Horikita practically jumped towards me after I said I would help her.

"For now I will help you but I will do things my way and you will do things your way but you will also refrain from using or prying into my life" I said this in a cold and harsh tone meeting Horikita's gaze with my own.

"Deal"

Horikita, this exam has taught you that I will not be pushed around or used but I will not help you and our class forever.

I will stop because I don't care which class I graduate from as long as I have my peaceful life I will transfer to any class that will give me it.

Here is the finale of the island arc and realistically I couldn't be bothered to explain every detail because it is the same as the light novel in terms of what he does except he doesn't break Ibuki's camera and retired Horikita forcefully.

Anyways I will start the Zodiac exam soon but I am trying to wrap my head around the rules and remember them and each outcome but I might make a chapter with the rules just so I can refer to it easily.

Anyways thanks for reading.

Part 19

It had been 3 days since the island exam had ended and now we were all lavashing in the luxuries provided by the cruise ship.

Currently I am by the pool under an umbrella on a sunbathing chair.

I am wearing shorts and a hoodie to cover my upper body because I would rather not show everyone.

The reason I am here doing this is because of Hiyori who is sitting on the chair next to me reading, she isn't wearing a swimsuit or bikini because that is not why we are here.

We, the "book buddies", are here because Hiyori wanted to read by the pool in the sun because it is more fun and relaxing.

I was also introduced to everyone formally after the exam ended.

Flashback

It was the morning after explaining to Horikita and I was just going to use the boats gym and return to my room but Hiyori messaged me:

Kiyotaka please can you come to the restaurant (A/N; don't know names but they are all 5* so it's a french one) in 30 minutes.
Thank you

sigh*

I don't have anything else to do and if I reject Ibuki will berate me, but this is also a chance to learn more about their class and Albert.

Okay

The reply was straightforward and blunt killing the conversation which didn't need to go any farther. . I entered the restaurant which was very luxurious and spacious, given we were on such a large cruise ship it is to be expected, but this restaurant probably took up a third of the floor.

My eyes darted around seeking out the blue hair or boulder like physique, yet my ears found their location first.

"Tch, just shut your mouth already!" Ibuki's voice broke the ambient and esteemed atmosphere and then a familiar voice retorted back.

"Don't tell me what to do you underwear thieving bit~"

"Swear in front of Hiyori and I will kill you" Closing the distance with the person she was shouting at and grabbing her jaw to prevent her sentence from finishing, Ibuki whispered this in the girl's ear.

"Ibuki-san please don't fight?" The concerned voice of Hiyori caused Ibuki to back down and take her seat again but the girl wasn't finished.

"Hey, don't think I'm done with you just because this girl said to stop fighting"

"Shinohara i think you should leave"

The familiar voice I heard, which came from the girl arguing with Ibuki, was Shinohara's.

Shinohara was now glaring at me with bloodlust, despite Hirata clearing up the underwear theft and getting the girls to promise to drop it, Shinohara clearly couldn't let sleeping dogs lie.

"So you're defending the enemy? Huh, traitor"

"This is a meeting for the book buddies and you aren't one of them, also you are hurting my friends feelings" I glanced at Hiyori who smiled at the sight of me but seemed against the fighting.

"Hah! A gloomy guy like you had a friend. Lair! You are betraying the class and that's why you stick to Horikita-san. Psht, you are as vile as that pervert Ike!"

Shinohara barged past me leaving the restaurant raging and shouting on the phone that I'm a traitor.

What have you done for the class?

You were the biggest contributor to the division on the island and you also refused to accept the situation, costing us more points.

A female Yamauchi is my evaluation of Shinohara, but expelling her so soon...

I will have to think on how to deal with her.

Ayanokõji

( is speech in english)

A firm hand grasped my shoulder snapping me out of my thoughts and redirecting my attention.

"Sorry I was just thinking. What's wrong Hiyori?" I tilted my head looking at Hiyori who had tears in her eyes.

"I...I have caused you trouble haven't I?" She looked up at me with her wide tearful eyes.

"No, she is always like that so don't worry okay?"

Hiyori nodded still crying a little but a waiter handed her a tissue and walked away to get us some water.

Shinohara's mouth and attitude is a drawback for our class and unlike Sudo, who is trying to change, she isn't.

Ibuki too was probably having similar, if not more extreme thoughts as her face was scrunched up like her fists and veins pulsed like a heartbeat on her temples.

Albert too looked...

~Actually it was hard to read Albert because he had sunglasses on and like me he held a solid poker face.

"Albert, why are you wearing sunglasses in doors?"

I always wear them

Can you speak Japanese?

Not very well

I nodded now understanding why Ibuki said "Albert is Albert" and truly he is unique.

"Your English is very good Kiyotaka" Hiyori had stopped crying and had her usual smile and joyous aura and began introductions.

Albert is a foreign student from the US and he likes reading but his main passion is flags.

Look

On the table he placed a large book on the table called "Complete Flags of the World"

In said book he had labelled which flag he liked the most and began to explain why and various history and meanings behind each flag.

He shares Hiyori's unending book enthusiasm but he is focused on flags.

Ibuki was reintroduced and we spoke about our time on the island leaving out the part where she beat me up and Ibuki's love for films was brought back up and we discussed classical films.

Then it was my turn and while I felt unusually comfortable sharing my hobbies I don't have a passion for anything like they all do and so I sounded plain.

However Hiyori started to boast about my piano skills and had stars in her eyes which caused a waiter to say there was a piano I could play.

"Please, please, please play it Kiyotaka"

"Just once okay?"

"Yes! Yes!"

I sat down on the stool thinking of what piece to play this time.

Maybe something french?

Because it was night time and the atmosphere of the restaurant was a calm and upstanding one I decided on Clair de Lune by Debussy.

Applause*

It seems my performance was more than adequate to capture the attention of all the guests and clapping sounds praised me as I got up from the piano.

"That was...*sob* beautiful *sob* Kiyotaka" Hiyori wiping tears gave me a big smile as I approached the group.

Beautiful

"That was...not bad"

Even Ibuki and Albert were moved by the performance and we continued to talk and eat until we seperated for sleep, officially starting the Book Buddies.

Flashback ends

"Here you are Albert"

Ibuki shot up from her chair and Albert also stood up at this familiar voice.

"Ryūen"

"Yes Ibuki-san" His smug grin grew and Ibuki's frustrations only increased.

"What do you want?"

"I'm here to collect Albert"

His eyes wandered over it Albert but stopped when they reached me.

"Kukukuku, what do we have here?" Ryūen shifted his sunglasses so he could peer over the top of them and get a good glimpse of me.

"Why are you sniffing around a bunch of class C's? What, being Suzune's shadow not good enough now you're sniffing around Shiina-san?"

"We are friends"

"Kukukukuku"

He burst into laughter as if I had told a funny joke but his laughter continued for a while...

"Seriously? You are even hanging around her after she beat you up, or are you just a good little dog?" He glanced at Ibuki before refocusing on me, smiling as he taunted me.

His taunts work well on Horikita, Sudo and people who let emotions or pride drive them, sadly for Ryūen, I don't fall into that category.

"Kiyotaka is my friend, Ryūen-kun" The sweet and non-imposing voice of Hiyori seemed to make Ryūen believe that we are friends but his suspicions of me didn't dwindle.

"If this is a way of getting information on my class then it won't work"

"We agreed to not talk about classes, only books and trivial topics"

"Just know, the win in the island means nothing but I will find out who did it" He had said this openly so that bystanders or students listening in could hear our conversation.

"If you want the leader then it's Horikita, ask anyone in our class"

"Kukukukuku, I believe you"

Ryūen started to walk away smiling and Albert followed in tow.

"Tch! Wait, I'm coming too"

"Why? Don't you trust me?"

"Course I don't, so to keep you in line I'm coming. Sorry Hiyori-san"

Ryūen turned away with his entourage, leaving me and Hiyori alone by the pool.

"What did Ryūen-kun mean by Ibuki-san beat you up?"

"Nothing"

Hiyori put down her book and looked at me with puppy dog eyes pleading for answers.

"It was part of his strategy and Ibuki got into a fight with me and she won"

"Ohhh...so that is why Ibuki-san acts weird around you recently"

"Maybe"

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine"

Her concern was surprising given I am from a different class and yet it is also completely natural given I am her friend and she cares deeply for her friends.

Shame I don't share the same conviction. . .
After spending the majority of the day with Hiyori by the pool I started to make my way back to my cabin at 4pm.

ping*

[Kiyotaka-kun I need to talk to you]

[Where?]

[Back of the boat]

Kushida gave these orders in fast succession but I had expected this, after all I am making her object of hatred into class leader.

I walked to the back of the boat noticing some glances from some girls in my class, the girls in Karuizawa's group.

sigh*

I guess Shinohara told everyone I'm a traitor.

Maybe I should throw her overboard?

"Kiyotaka-kun"

Whilst lost in thought I had arrived at the back of the boat and there Kushida was waiting for me.

"Kushida?"

"Well umm...it's about Horikita-san"

Kushida still has her warm smile and demeanor but I could tell saying Horikita's name was like swallowing shards of glass.

"Speak freely"

Kushida let out a breath of relief and changed to her cold disgusted expression, "Why her?"

"What about her?"

"Well you made her leader why?"

"My hands are tied"

Kushida frowned, tilting her head at my comment but it really is true.

Sae-Sensei clearly hinted and told Horikita about me so that Horikita would control and use me, but now she has had to step in, however by making Horikita the class leader she can see I'm complying with her will.

Maybe I am overthinking or overestimating her but I believe she set up Horikita to be class leader and a puppet for me from the start.

But~

"Kushida you hate her don't you?"

"Yes" Kushida spat this gritting her teeth.

"I don't care about Horikita"

"Huh? B-What?" Kushida now looked even more lost than before.

"It's like I said I don't care about her but I do care about winning. Right now Horikita is the best person to lead our class or victory but if you can show your worth then I have no qualms putting you in her place"

"..."

Perhaps shocked at my coldness despite experiencing it first hand or thinking about replacing Horikita, Kushida just stared out to sea.

"So if I were to expel her would you be fine?"

"Right now, no"

"But~what? Then how am I meant to replace her?" Kushida clearly didn't understand my relationship with Horikita and looked puzzled on what to do.

"Right now expelling someone might bring consequences which will damage our class, so for now, I want to avoid expulsions. However if you are to outscheme or outshine Horikita then I wouldn't save her and you can win over the class"

"We don't mean anything to you do we?"

"No"

Kushida nodded as if she expected that answer but I guess she understands because she doesn't care about our classmates either.

A special test will begin soon. Please gather in the designated room at the designated time. Anyone who arrives later than ten minutes after start time may be penalized.

Please gather in Room 204 on the second deck by 18:00 today. Because it takes about twenty minutes to reach the area, we ask that you please use the restrooms now if necessary. Either silence your phone or turn it off, and make your way over.

"A special test?"

Another exam like that of the island one but this time there are limitations and expectations for what it can be.

Obviously the ship is large but a physical exam would be unreasonable, especially after the island but working in teams of groups is likely.

This exam was either pre-arranged or rushed but the second is unlikely meaning the higher years have probably had an exam similar or exactly like this.

Maybe I should find one and ask about them?

"Can you show me your phone for a second?"

Kushida, without hesitation, showed me that she'd received the same message, the only difference was the designated time and place.

In her message, the designated time was set at 20:40, but she was also told that it took about twenty minutes to reach the area.

I also noticed that her designated room was just two rooms down from mine.

"I wonder why they called us in such a strange way?"

"I have no idea."

[X-dono my time is 18:00. Ike and Sudo are at 20:40 and Yamauchi is at 18:00]

[I am at 18:00 too so I will talk in person when we get there]

Mine and the Professor's room and meeting time are the same and so is Ike and Sudo's which means that the groupings may not be just male and female but mixed.

"Kushida I will tell you if I need something"

I left Kushida who was still in thought but in my opinion having Kushida or Horikita as leader comes with both pros and cons.

But I don't care because both acts as good covers. .
.

I arrived at my destination about five minutes before the designated time. There were several students wandering the normally deserted level.

Being socially inept I don't recognise many people outside of my class but I could tell that multiple classes had been summoned to this floor.

The Professor wasn't outside meaning he was waiting inside the room so I knocked on the door.

"Enter."

The homeroom teacher for Class A, Mashima-sensei, wearing a well-tailored suit, sat before me in a chair.

My eyes lowered to a small table on which some materials waited. Two male students sat before Mashima-sensei as well.

Both were my classmates from Class D.

"So, one of the remaining two spots belongs to Ayanokouji-dono, I see! Most agreeable!"

The Professor, keeping up the facade, gave me an unusual but familiar greeting.

"This is rather odd, isn't it? Ayanokouji?"

Yukimura, another of my roommates on the ship, sat next to the Professor.

The Professor and Yukimura.

Normally, you wouldn't find the two of them together and them being so close to each other felt weird and wrong.

"What are you doing? Hurry and take a seat." Mashima-sensei spoke without looking at me. I silently took a seat next to Yukimura.

One vacant seat beside me piqued my interest. At first glance, I guessed that we had been put into groups of one teacher and four students, but...why such small groups?

Maybe they are doing small groups into big groups?

"We are still waiting on one more. Please sit quietly."

Unlike the island test this exam feels more serious and important and possibly more challenging but in what way will they challenge us?

Understanding this and the rules will be vital for creating a strategy but my focus in this exam is already set.

Unlike the island exam I have all the information and knowledge I need meaning I can make more important movements and utilise Professor and Kushida more effectively.

Class C, Ryūen, is who I will attack in this exam and when we replace them I can investigate more into Sae, freeing myself before I have to attack class B.

"Pardon the intrusion!"

Start of the Zodiac exam and it's not that hard to understand.

Based on surname and star sign of that group it's the VIP and the outcomes are not too hard to understand.

But I have just one question and that is did Ryūen email the names of class A VIP's or did he get a member of the group to do it?
Like if Kiyo emailed the monkey group VIP despite being in the Rabbit group, would that group end or not?

Sadly the rules and explanations is very meaty for this exam but I will try and summarise it.

Part 20

"Pardon the intrusion"

Snatching me away from my thoughts, bringing my focus back to the room the fourth and final student arrived.

I could have guessed who they were solely by the fact they were late but thankfully it was Karuizawa instead of Shinohara.

"Huh? What's going on? Why are Yukimura-kun and these other guys here?" Her disgust at my and the Professor's presence was visible as she glared at us.

"I believe you were told punctuality was key, and yet you're late. Hurry and take your seat"

"Okay" The sarcasm in her voice showed her lack of respect and distaste for being bossed around but Mashima-Sensei ignored her antics.

She sat down in the chair next to me and after looking over the three of us, she moved her chair away sending me glares probably because of Shinohara.

"Sotomura, Yukimura, Ayanokõji and Karuizawa, from Class D. Without further ado, I will now explain the special test"

We all looked towards Mashima ready to hear the explanation and rules but one of us was unsatisfied with his words~

"W-wait a minute. I don't understand. What do you mean, explain a test? The test was already over, right? Also, what's the deal with these guys? This is really weird"

"I will not answer any questions at this time. Be quiet and listen" Mashima Sensei looked sternly at Karuizawa warning her to be quiet.

"Jeez, all right. Fine, I'll shut up"

"In this special test, all the first-year students will be divided into twelve groups based on the signs of the Zodiac. Everyone will participate within their respective group. The purpose of this examination is to test your thinking"

Twelve groups based on the signs of the Zodiac?

That's the reason why Yamauchi shared our time but isn't in our group and Ike and Sudo have a different time.

They wanted to test our ability to think, and to process information

In layman's terms this tests our ability to think and process information. The island was more of an endurance test and this is a think outside the box test, which means Horikita will be useless.

"What do you mean by 'test our thinking'?" Karuizawa, unable to stay silent, reflexively spoke up with another question.

"I've already told you. I will not be answering any questions"

After another stern warning Karuizawa, looking disgruntled, stared intently at Mashima.

"Society needs three fundamental qualities in order to progress: action, thinking, and teamwork. Those with the necessary qualities will become wonderful adults. The previous exam on the uninhabited island focused heavily on testing your teamwork. However, we shall now test your thinking in four ways: your ability to thoroughly process information, which is an essential component of this test. Your ability to analyze your current situation and clarify the task at hand. The ability to solve the problem after you've clarified the process and identified the task. The ability to utilize your imagination, and the ability to create new values. Those are the qualities you'll need."

This is the trait that this test builds and tests but an explanation of the exam is still yet to be given.

"As I've said, in this test we have divided you all into twelve groups. Are there any questions thus far?"

"Well you haven't explained anything so what questions can we ask?"

The Professor voiced my thoughts and Mashima raised an eyebrow towards his remarks looking ready to continue but Karuizawa thought otherwise~

"I don't get what any of this means. Can you explain it in a way that's easier to understand? I mean, okay, I understand that we're being divided into twelve groups, but why am I together with these guys? What about Hirata- kun? Or the other girls? And I still don't get what we're doing. Tell me. Come on, please?"

"You four gathered here will be in the same group. At this very moment, students in other rooms are receiving the same explanation you are."

So the 4 of us are a group but does this mean that we will compete against other groups and if there are only 12 total groups then surely our little groups will join to make one large one.

"If that's true, then wouldn't it be way faster and easier if you just gathered all of our classmates together in one place and explained? Also, what's the reason for putting me with these three? Why? These guys gross me out. Why am I on a team together with boys? Honestly, I hate it...though being with Hirata-kun would be fine"

Karuizawa continued ranting but Yukimura retorted in anger.

"How about you shut up and try listening? The test is probably going to start soon. If they dock our points because you keep blabbing, are you gonna take responsibility? Even back on the deserted island, you dragged us all down. Can you try not to cause any more problems?"

"Huh? When and how exactly did I cause problems? You're pissing me off"

Karuizawa was a leader but she also hated the boys in our class and had butted heads with Yukimura so our teamwork or group dynamic is shaky.

I glanced at the Professor and then glanced at Karuizawa, he understood and cut into the argument.

"The exam hasn't started yet glasses-dono so there shouldn't be any repercussions but Karuizawa-dono you should also think about who and how you are talking"

Both sides fell silent and Mashima-Sensei rubbed his forehead, probably unused to dealing with such childish behaviour.

"Listen. Your group assignments are a done deal. You cannot change them. To gain a good result on the test, you must get along."

"Ugh, jeez! This sucks! I can't deal with these three! Hirata-kun would have been so much better!"

"But Hirata-dono isn't that praiseworthy either" The Professor sick of Karuizawa's attitude retorted.

"He is a thousand times better than you, some fat specky freak"

"Actually other than athletics Hirata-dono isn't that good I mean Horikita-dono is the one who led our class to victory and all Hirata did was manage points"

"Yeah well you couldn't do it and he also le four camp and organised us"

"Well managing points isn't that hard is it glasses-dono?"

"Actually it's just budgeting which isn't hard and if the girls were more co-operative we could have saved more points" Yukimura, annoyed at being called glasses-dono, also argued against Karuizawa silencing her.

She also had a slight look of doubt or fear when Hirata's worth was proven to be lower than she claimed.

"Now that little spat is over I will continue explaining" Mashima took a deep breathe looking exhausted just from watching our class dynamic and then continued~

"You will be put into the rabbit group. This group is made up of 4 groups from the 4 different classes, each group is receiving the same explanation to ensure fairness"

He passed over a postcard-sized piece of paper. On it were listed fourteen names of people in our group. As Mashima-sensei had told us, apart from us four, all the others were from Classes A, B, and C.

Although Mashima-sensei had said we were in the Rabbit group, the group name was written in Japanese, placed in parentheses next to the Chinese reading.

That made it easier to read, and thus easier to distinguish who was in our group.

CLASS A: Takemoto Shigeru, Machida Kouji, Morishige Takurou

CLASS B: Ichinose Honami, Hamaguchi Tetsuya, Beppu Ryouta

CLASS C: Ibuki Mio, Manabe Shiho, Yabu Nanami, Yamashita Saki

CLASS D: Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, Karuizawa Kei, Sotomura Hideo, Yukimura Teruhiko

The grouping was actually preferable for me because I knew some people on the list like Ibuki and Ichinose.

Having Ichinose in my group means I can observe how she operates and therefore can get a read on her tactics and evaluate her class.

Ibuki will allow for some conversation and because the Book Buddies has officially started maybe she will be less hostile towards me.

However, I quickly glanced out the corner of my eye at Karuizawa. She looked a little perplexed, being placed into the same group as Ibuki was a perverse kind of fate.

"Don't worry. I will answer any questions you have. I believe you will be able to understand everything afterward"

"The point of this test is to ignore the prior fraught relationships between Classes A through D. If you do, you'll have a shortcut"

Karuizawa, although annoyed and probably still unhappy about the group, focused on his words not interrupting.

"From this point on, you are no longer acting as members of Class D, but rather as members of the Rabbit group. Whether you pass or fail this test depends on each group"

Well with Ichinose conversations shouldn't be difficult despite having Ibuki and me in the group and I can also manipulate the group through the Professor, putting me in a good position but there was something missing.

"There are four possible outcomes that can be achieved in this special test. No exceptions. We have also prepared handouts with the grade items so that you may better understand them. However, you are prohibited from taking these handouts, taking photographs of them, or anything or the sort. You should verify the contents here and now"

(Okay so I am not explaining the rules because you can google them or re-read/read the Ln.
Also Karuizawa just listens in to the rules without much input and so does the rest with Mashima clearing up the explanation)

After the outcomes and rules were explained I walked away with the Professor in tow and once we were in a secluded area I turned to him.

"We are in the same group so shouldn't this be easier dono?"

"Yes and no but for now why did you confront Karuizawa?"

I asked this because the Professor usually laughed off or ignored the girls but for some reason he attacked Karuizawa.

"To side with glasses-dono"

"Well done, I will message you when I have instructions but just act normal even if you are or aren't the VIP"

"What do you plan to do in this exam?"

"Attack class C"

The Professor grinned before walking away to watch his anime.

12 groups mixed with each class, 1 VIP and 4 outcomes.

Outcomes 1, 2 and 3 are the most preferable outcomes and 4 is the one everyone will want to avoid.

Outcome 1 relies on mutual trust which given the alliance with classes B and D could be plausible but because class C is led by Ryūen outcome 1 is void.

This means the only 2 outcomes that are possible are outcomes 2 and 3 but outcome 2 is just a matter of running down the clock and not acting suspicious.

Whereas outcome 3 is the one with the most reward for the class competition and relies on figuring out the VIP and turning traitor before others can. Obviously this outcome is selfish because it ignores the classes without a VIP and attacks the class with the VIP.

Ultimately outcome 3 is the outcome I am aiming for but I am only targeting class C meaning I need to know everyone in every group.

sigh*

Although this isn't the most strenuous thing I have done because of Sae-Sensei I am losing my first vacation. . .
At 08:00 the VIP's would be revealed and currently it is 06:00 and I am working out in the gym.

I arrived at the gym at 05:00 and bumped into Albert who was weightlifting, his sweat showed he hadn't been there long so we decided to work out together.

I held back so as to not show Albert what I could do but I still put in a considerable effort to maintain my physique.

We both left to shower and change and I made my way to meet Horikita at Blue Ocean café at 07:55.

Obviously after the island exam I offered my help but this was only a means to gather more information easier and to manipulate Horikita into covering and doing what I want.

"Your late"

sigh*

The black haired devil sat there glaring at me with a teacup in hand and I took a seat facing the entrance of the restaurant diagonally next to her.

(————————Kiyo———————-

Chair [A]—————Table—————Horikita

————————Chair [B]———————)

"What was your explanation?"

I told he about my explanation and she told me hers was exactly the same bar some minor details which are because of the teacher explaining it and don't have an effect on the exam itself.

"Whose in your group?" Despite already knowing this because Kushida had collected and informed me of the members of every group I still asked.

"The list is honestly surprising. It's biased to the point where I can't imagine it's a coincidence"

Horikita handed over a slip of paper, looking a little depressed, although it is understandable.

CLASS A: Katsuragi Kouhei, Nishikawa Ryouko, Matoba Shinji, Yano Koharu
CLASS B: Andou Saya, Kanzaki Ryuuji, Tsube Hitomi
CLASS C: Oda Takumi, Suzuki Hidetoshi, Sonoda Masashi, Ryuuen Kakeru
CLASS D: Kushida Kikyou, Hirata Yousuke, Horikita Suzune

With Kushida being in this group along with Horikita I would be able to get information about the leaders strategies but I am leaving it to Horikita and Kushida.

"This group seems almost hand picked but something is weird"

"You mean Ichinose not being in this group?"

"Yes"

From the looks of this group, the Dragon group is the group with the class leaders; Katsuragi, Ryūen, Horikita, Kanzaki and Hirata but Ichinose is not included.

"Do you have an idea on how the groups are formed?"

"No and I don't necessarily think the formation is important but for your case I would be wary"

Horikita isn't on the level of Katsuragi or Ryūen and if she tries to go head to head with either she will lose, especially where Ryūen is concerned.

"I know I have to be wary but I think knowing how the groups are formed might help us figure out who the VIP is"

"Maybe"

I don't want to give anything away to Horikita but I also don't have anything because the VIP's have yet to be chosen so figuring out how they would be chosen would be a waste.

"It's time"

ping*

Both of our phones pinged and we both opened the message and showed each other

"After thorough consideration, you have not been chosen to be the VIP. Please remember to be a team player as your group tackles the challenges of this test. The exam begins today, and will be held over a period of three days. Members of the Dragon group should gather in the Dragon room located on the second deck"

My message was the same apart from the name and when I turned my phone around both Kushida and the Professor messaged me.

"Looks like neither of us are chosen"

"Yes well I don't know if this makes it more or less difficult" Horikita was right because being the VIP means you can control the outcomes but you also bear the brunt of the risk.

"Now that the VIP's are revealed do you have a plan to find them?"

"No"

"Is there a way"

"Maybe"

Horikita unimpressed by my answers sulked while sipping on tea looking even more menacing.

Kushida is VIP meaning the Dragon group is class D's group but from our talk yesterday I understand that Kushida will try to win so she can replace Horikita.

Of course how she wins is not my concern but given that she is in a group with Ryūen hopefully my plans can progress faster.

Also knowing that the Professor isn't a VIP along with myself means that if the VIP is in my group it is a 50:50 between Karuizawa and Yukimura.

For now I will wait to learn more names of VIP's before figuring out the logic behind the assignment of VIP's.

"There you are Suzune, I have been trying to find you"

An all too familiar voice called out to Horikita who showed a look of disgust and anger to the new arrival.

"I have told you, people like yourself aren't allowed to use my name, and it's surprising you show your face when you are a lying traitor"

Horikita addressing both Ryūen and Ibuki, refusing to back down and instead returning Ryūens provocation.

Ryūen smiled at her attitude and took a seat at the table (Chair B). "You should have received your message so are you the VIP?"

"Why don't you show me your message first then I will consider showing mine"

The hostile and tense atmosphere only increased as the two conversed, completely ignoring me and Ibuki who stood awkwardly.

"Then how about you tell me who was behind the island exam because I know you couldn't pull that off"

"Your opinion and fruitless thoughts don't matter to me but maybe you just can't comprehend that you were beat by class D"

Horikita elegantly sipped her tea as Ryūen's smirk turned into a bitter and sour smile.

"I have no problems losing but losing to some coward who hides behind his retard classmates and some smug pretentious bitch, this is a person I will crush"

Firing back with a barrage of insults covering Horikita and our classmates Ryūen showed his desire to bury the mastermind.

"So Suzune let me ask again because even Katsuragi doesn't believe you could deliver those results. Who really won that exam"

"This is just sad"

Horikita sighed placing her teacup down before continuing in a depressed tone, "Both you and Katsuragi lost due to your own foolishly and now you are desperately searching for excuses"

"Kukukuku, so that's how you want to play it? Fine"

Ryūen stood up turning his back on us leaving but he stopped at the entrance to the café and declared to us.

"After I have finished crushing Katsuragi and luring out that smug cripple, I will destroy you defective maggots"

The café went silent with a thick cold atmosphere because Ryūen had effective just declared war against class D and A.

However seeing his interest and hatred towards the mastermind, me, I expect he will give quite the chase.

Horikita looked pleased about the turn of events but for her this exam would be very difficult~

Katsuragi and Ryūen will be breathing down her knock watching her every move confirming their suspicions about the island exam.

For me, my group was actually appeasing.

Ichinose will carry conversation and Yukimura will represent class D meaning I can sit and do nothing for most of the exam.

"I am going to go take a nap"

"You will do something this exam, right?"

"..."

So I didn't explain the outcomes because in the Ln most groups either for outcome 2 or 3 with 1 being thought of as impossible because it relied on trust and only the Dragon group got outcome 1 cause Kushida is a snitch.

Next chapter out soon~ish be cause I'm busy with the other fic

Part 21

Leaving the unusually chirpy Horikita behind I headed towards my cabin to feel the warm comforting embrace of sleep.

Thankfully I managed to avoid Chie, Sae or Shinohara who are all sources of attention, depression and headaches.

I entered my cabin which is shared between me, Hirata, Kouenji and Yukimura~

(I think that's all there was but if not oops)

Thankfully Kouenji wasn't here, he is probably in a speedo by the pool showing his "perfection", but to my surprise a very exasperated Hirata is here.

Hirata is normally always surrounded by Karuizawa and her entourage who drag Hirata along with them wherever they go, this is why Ike and other boys in our class hate him but being around Shinohara 16 hours a day must be torture so I don't understand their jealousy.

"Ayanokõji-kun"

"Hirata, you look tired"

"Ah, well you know the girls aren't too happy about this exam so I have been helping to explain and calm them down"

Despite it sounding like such an arduous task, especially after Karuizawa's reluctance yesterday, he still looked happy to do it.

"Also I am sorry this is late but thank you for your help on the island with the incident"

"I didn't do anything it was all Horikita"

"I see, but still thank you"

Flashing his trademark smile Hirata still thanked me even though "Horikita was behind everything".

"..."

"..."

An uncomfortable silence ensued with Hirata glancing at me then back to his hands and...

"Ayanokõji-kun can you do a favour for me?"

"Maybe"

"Well then can you...can you look out for Karu~no, no never mind, sorry I bothered you get some sleep Aynokõji-kun"

Bowing quickly before escaping the uncomfortable atmosphere inside the room Hirata left but what he was going to ask is interesting.

Judging from the what he was saying I am supposed to look out for Karuizawa, but this can be for two reasons~

Ibuki is in our group and it may be uncomfortable for them or there may be bad blood between them

Or

It is because of the personal attacks from the Professor and Yukimura yesterday.

However based on his tone and the way he cut himself off there is something more to Karuizawa and Hirata. . .
Once again Karuizawa is the last of class D to show up but this time it is the first meeting so that stakes are slightly higher.

But instead of sitting with us and acting as a united front Karuizawa, just like Ibuki, distanced herself a little, isolating herself from the group.

"Hmmm"

"What is it Ayanokõji?"

"Sorry it's nothing"

Yukimura went back to watching Ichinose and class A but I just glanced between Ibuki and Karuizawa.

Initially I thought they would confront each other, especially Karuizawa, but that didn't happen~

"The first group discussion will now commence"

Silence ensued, awkward tense silence.

Thankfully Ichinose had been waiting for this and instantly stood up to start the discussion~

In some circumstances where groups are required to communicate with each other normally the one who speaks first is the leader, or someone who gains the authority and trust of the group.

Of course this isn't the case in everything, like if Ike were to speak first but say something perverted or stupid then that would result in him being outcasted or held at the bottom of the group.

But in this scenario this rule applies, especially to Ichinose whose communication skills are rivalled closely by none.

"Listen up please! Many of us probably aren't acquainted so why don't we introduce ourselves?"

"Do we need to? Go ahead if you want but we don't specifically need to, do we?"

"Well, if that's how you feel, Machida-kun, I can't force you to do anything. However, a microphone might have been installed somewhere in the room to record everything we're saying, don't you think? If that's true, it may not be an issue for just the people who don't introduce themselves. The entire group might end up shouldering the blame"

Here is the second problem of working in a group, conflict.

Machida is mostly likely going to be the representative of class A, meaning he will speak for the other members as well, but his personality means Ichinose will likely run into conflict with him.

So as of right now the group has 2 leaders; Ichinose, primary, and Machida, class A.

"Now that we've finished, how do you think we should proceed? Please tell me if anyone disagrees with my taking the lead"

Ichinose appeared ready for someone else to volunteer as leader.

This will not happen however because Ichinose is a natural group leader and is infact one of the class leaders so her status will hold firm

"There's something I'd like to talk to you all about. I'd like you all to assume that no one here is the VIP, and I'd like for us all to work together and clear this exam. In other words, I want to know if you think our best option is to pursue Outcome 1"

"What the heck are you talking about? Isn't that obvious?" snapped Karuizawa.

Karuizawa didn't understand, but with that simple question, the hierarchy solidified and took place.

Yukimura and a girl from Class C named Manabe followed suit, They agreed with Karuizawa and said they obviously wanted to cooperate.

If everyone wished for it, we'd all pass the test with Outcome 1.

An idealist thing to say~very like Ichinose.

"I agree, of course. We're a group, and it's only natural for us to cooperate" Tetsuya, a class B student, enthusiastically agreed, making this an obviously a set up.

However this had been a good way to start things off. If Ichinose's question sounded obvious to someone, that meant they weren't the VIP.

The VIP would be forced to lie, while checking to see if they shared the group's feelings.

If someone fell for it, then we could start narrowing down the list.

But It would be dangerous to assume anything based on this one question alone; Ichinose had spoken first, and Karuizawa had agreed first, Yukimura and Manabe had followed her closely, Then came Hamaguchi from Class B.

It wouldn't be surprising if one of them was the VIP.

After all, we can lie.

"I agree, too. We're a group, like you said, and we could all use some private points. If it's possible, I'd like us to work together. What do you say, Professor?"

"I agree dono, whatever the majority decides"

Before all went well, Machida spoke up probably voicing the thoughts of his sceptical classmates.

"Ichinose, that question was unfair, wouldn't you say? If you say something like, 'assume that no one here's the VIP,' aren't you subtly calling the VIP a villain? Besides, no normal person would announce that they're going to betray anyone"

"Isn't that a perfectly valid question, though? Ichinose-san didn't threaten us. She didn't order us to answer. If you don't want to, you don't have to respond"

"That's most certainly true. In that case, I think all of us from Class A will remain silent."

Unsurprisingly class A is on the defensive but the decision to remain silent seems to be predetermined.

"Maybe that question was too harsh?" Smiling bitterly Ichinose looked around at our expressions.

"No, I think that your question was valid, Ichinose-san. Their wariness is extreme. I'd like to ask you something, Machida-kun. What question do you think would be appropriate? I don't think discussing our favorite foods or hobbies would be relevant to the exam. If you simply refuse to engage, then I'm unconvinced you can offer anything of value"

Hamaguchi intent on carrying on his war of words with Machida fired back but nothing will come of this.

"Nothing to offer? That's not true at all"

"Then would you mind enlightening us?"

"Outcome 2"

Upon saying this everyone understood what he was getting at and finally class A's strategy has been revealed.

Most likely after losing on the island Katsuragi realised his power is slipping so he focused more on the rules and layout of the test and devised this plan~which is actually smart and efficient, only if someone doesn't figure out the names of the VIP's by themselves.

"So we don't discuss things and just let the VIP's be? Isn't that unfair?"

"Actually it's isn't. Outcome 1 may be the most appealing and financially beneficial but Outcome 2 and 3 are the most realistic. Of course Outcome 3 relieves on a traitor and goes hand in hand with outcome 4 but by avoiding the witch hunt for the VIP we can achieve Outcome 2 and avoid penalties"

This perfectly explained the strategy and appealed to those with less confidence in their abilities or group dynamic.

"This is Katsuragi-kun's plan isn't it?"

Machida just nodded before Hamaguchi challenged him again.

"I do see what you're saying. But if we don't know which class the VIP belongs to, the point gap between classes could be widened further. What if the VIP's identity is extremely biased, and all VIPs are only chosen from one or two classes? That class would get millions of points. Although our class points won't be affected, I'm sure everyone understands the importance of private points,"

Private points in some cases are actually with more than class points so of course unfairness with the VIP's is a concern.

Unluckily for Hamaguchi Katsuragi had probably suggested this because he understood the trick with the VIP's.

"If the test was biased this would be an issue but if you think about it, you realise it isn't. The school has stressed and emphasises fairness meaning for the 12 groups there are 3 VIP's for each of the 4 classes"

Katsuragi, just like Ichinose with the island exam, had seen an exploit in the structure of the exam where he could boycott or take a pacifistic approach to the exam.

Not only this there is also financial incentive~equal financial incentive, for each class.

"So what your saying is that if we don't talk we can make it so the school is the only loser?"

"Exactly"

A rather well thought out and perfect strategy but this doesn't account for the case where an external party figures out the VIP without discussion.

"However, it's going to be unexpectedly difficult. It might even be more difficult than solving the test through discussion. If you don't doubt your partner, you won't betray him or her. All the first-year students would have to adhere to that. Because the school guarantees the VIP's anonymity, you're asking for trust amongst your classmates. It'd be great if the VIP stepped forward and the points were shared equally with the class, but couldn't the VIP just monopolize all of those points?"

"We in Class A have established complete trust amongst ourselves. We're not at all worried about that. Private issues ought to be solved by that private group"

Ichinose looking around started to notice that Machida, more like Katsuragi, actually had a plan that the group was willing to go along with.

"What about the competition?"

"Huh?"

Both Ichinose and Machida looked at the Professor who voiced such a question but Ichinose seemed to be thinking of a similar rebuttal.

"Yes, the class competition. Specifically the lead which class A has and the fact that these exams are the best and fastest way of closing such a gap"

"So?"

Manabe did not understand the situation and was still in favour of Kasturagi's plan, although Ryūen would most likely collect all the points.

"Well we don't know how many more of these exams we will have so in order to increase our chances of graduating from class A we should use every chance we get"

Everyone who wasn't a class A now probably sided with Ichinose.

"So you run the risk of getting outcome 4 for outcome 3 or 1?"

"Ideally outcome 1 is most preferably but I also cannot miss an opportunity for class points"

"But can classes D or C spare the points?"

Machida had successfully countered or rebutted each of Ichinose's points but right now it looked like Ichinose would lead everyone but class A in the discussions.

"Well like I said class A will not participate in this exam so you can discuss whatever you wish"

Right now this discussion is a one where I can't stand out so I have to sit bored listening to the constant rebuttals.

But I also have to achieve outcome 3 in my group and when Kushida gives me the names of the other VIP's I can start to formulate a system to work out the VIP's of the other classes.

Obviously using only 3 of the 12 VIP's will be difficult but if I determine a system based on the 37 people who aren't "qualified" for being the VIP and then applying the same system to the 3 VIP's then I will be able to use it on the other classes.

For now I don't need to think about this because I also need to figure out Ichinose's purpose.

"Hey you're Karuizawa right?"

Not expecting this development Karuizawa looked up from her phone, "What?"

"I might be mistaken, but...did you have a fight with Rika earlier in the summer?"

"Huh? What are you talking about? Who's Rika?"

"She's a girl from our class who wears glasses. She has her hair up in a bun, like a dango. Remember her?"

"I don't know her. Maybe you're thinking of someone else"

Karuizawa lowered her eyes back to her phone, as if deciding this conversation had nothing to do with her.

However, the next words out of Manabe's mouth changed things.

"Isn't that strange, though? I'm sure we heard about it. We heard that Rika was bullied by a Class D girl named Karuizawa. Rika told us you cut in line and pushed her aside when she was waiting at the café"

"I don't know what you're talking about. Like, do you have some kind of problem with me?"

"No, not really. I'm just checking to see if it's true. If it is true, though, I'd like you to apologize. Rika is the kind of girl to bottle everything up and stay quiet, so it's up to us to help her deal with situations like this"

Apparently Karuizawa had a reputation as a troublemaker outside our class as well.

Class C was hard to deal with as a whole, so this made for big trouble ahead. Karuizawa decided to ignore Manabe.

Manabe, looking frustrated, turned her phone's camera toward Karuizawa.

"You won't mind if we check with Rika then, will you? I mean, if it wasn't you, Karuizawa-san, then there won't be any problem, right?"

Karuizawa knocked the phone out of her hand, rather forcefully, sending it crashing to the floor.

"What the hell?!"

"That's what I should be saying! Don't just take pictures of me without permission. I already told you that you had the wrong person"

The whole group just watched this unfold with Ichinose trying to determine who is in the right and the Professor chuckling to himself.

"What'll you do if my phone's broken?"

"I don't know! Just ask the school for a new one"

"I have some really precious photos stored on that phone, though"

After hurriedly picking up her phone, Manabe glared at Karuizawa with resentment.

Two of the other Class C students, who'd been watching the situation unfold, came to help Manabe stare Karuizawa down.

"What? Are you saying I'm the bad guy here?"

"If it wasn't you, you wouldn't get all angry and deny it like that, right?

Let us take your picture"

"But I don't want you to"

The whole altercation is childish and stupid but Manabe and her other class C counterparts seems to enjoy it and continued trying to take Karuizawa's photo.

"Stupid"

"'Stupid'? What? This has nothing to do with you, Ibuki-san. You're not friends with Rika, after all"

"That's right. This absolutely has nothing to do with me. So I said what I thought as an outsider"

Manabe, not wanting to or not able to, decided to redirect her hostility back to Karuizawa continuing the petty squabble.

"Machida-kun tell her to stop I have done nothing wrong"

"What of course you have you bu~"

"That's enough. Leave Karuizawa-san alone Manabe-san you are annoying her and are in the wrong"

Not able to contend with Machida probably because of his status within the group Manabe backed down defeated and when the time came for the group to end Karuizawa bolted off.

Sorry for lack of updates my free time has been stolen by decorating and helping move~also fanfics.

Also exercise hurts

"A good chess player thinks 5 moves ahead however a great chess player thinks 1 move ahead but it's always the right one"

Just like the quote and the series it's from

I am dead inside

Part 22

"That was a waste of time"

"Maybe"

"Maybe? What's "maybe" meant to mean?"

"Perhaps"

thud*

"Ughf"

"Freak"

My acting skills still have yet to be perfected especially when it comes to pain or maybe it's because Ibuki doesn't hit hard~

Anyways after the group had ended Ibuki called out to me and we decided to walk to le restaurant de l'étiquette~

So this is the restaurant from the first Book Buddie group meeting~one with Albert-chan~and I just used google translate because I was kicked out of my french class and can't be bothered to write the french restaurant constantly.

~to book a table and get permission to use the piano later.

"There he is! The blank faced pervert bastard!"

Simultaneously Ibuki and I released long depressed sighs full of exasperated exhaustion due to the disruptive presence.

Like a hurricane Shinohara stormed into the esteemed restaurant with her loud booming and ill mannered voice and insults.

"Look, look, he is even with the disgusting underwear thief! Ugly cow"

( Moooooooooo~why do we exist?)

"Tch!"

grab*

"Huh-what? What are you~"

I had grabbed Ibuki's forearm holding it firmly to stop her from bashing the last of Shinohara's brains out but mainly because if we were to escalate to violence first then we would be barred from the restaurant ruining our plans.

So sadly, for now, Shinohara remains unharmed and untouched.

"Look at you both. Ugh, you make me sick you are both disgusting freaks!"

"Nnrr"

Ibuki's anger had mostly likely risen to her head but thankfully the waiters moved in to quell the situation.

"Madame, you are being very loud and obnoxious and because this is the second time your attitude has disturbed the calm atmosphere you and your group are barred from this establishment"

"What?! B-but t-they are~"

"Out!"

The waiter escorted them out while Ibuki stuck her tongue out at them, smiling as Shinohara's face became sour.

"I hate bitches like her"

"Is That why you don't get along with Manabe?"

"Yeah but at least she knows not to run her stupid mouth"

It is true.

Shinohara has no filter between her thoughts and her mouth or a way to stop her mouth.

ping*

"Sakura?"

[Can you meet me on the top deck?]

"Sorry Ibuki I have to go somewhere"

"Whatever get lost"

Leaving me with her usual unconcerned and harsh words Hori~Ibuki left while I started to make my way towards Sakura.

I wonder what she wants me for?

( In all honesty I forgot about her and because he talks to her I am just including it because I don't feel bad about her I just need more words) . .
"A...A-Ay...Ayanokõji...kun...w-will y-you...d-da~"

"Sakura"

"Eeeeekkk!"

Practically jumping out of her skin and almost overboard, Sakura~who is very pale and flustered~shied away from me mumbling something.

"Mnshbfjfbdj" = incoherent ramblings.

"Sakura?"

"D-d-did y-you hear A-Ayanokõji-kun?"

"Yes"

"W-wha"

Now becoming even more started and worried Sakura began trembling while falling to the floor sapped of all life.

"Now spread your legs"

"Hear what?"

"N-nothing!"

Lies are things that normally always come back to bite or haunt you but given that Sakura has developed feelings for me and if I, the person she has feelings for, revealed I heard her, well then a very awkward situation would unfold.

Either I accept her feelings despite having no feelings for her and no chance of ever developing feelings for her

Or

I reject her and shatter her trust or faith in the outside world and socialising and she becomes even more severely antisocial or develops ASPD.

( AntiSocial Personality Disorder)

So until I am free of my duty to help class D rise I won't crush her spirit and mind.

( Even though she doesn't contribute to the class he would rather not have her drop out so soon)

"So what did you want to talk about?"

"Umm...w-well...I-I need help"

She handed me the list with the names of all her group, which is the cow group.

And out of all the members of class D she could have been lumped in with Sakura got very unlucky

Class D: Kanji Ike, Airi Sakura, Ken Sudō, Chiaki Matsushita

Thankfully Yamauchi is not in this group but Ike and Sudo both are too loud and boisterous for Sakura and Matsushita is one of Karuizawa's friends so I assume her attitude is brash and harsh.

"You aren't the VIP though are you?"

"N-no"

Hushing our voices to avoid being overheard we clarified this but Sakura's behavior could actually become a useful tool.

"Sakura just keep to yourself and do what class A is doing and not speak. Also we are friends with class B so you can talk to them about trivial things if necessary"

Sakura is a very slow blossoming flower, in metaphorical terms, because although she does have the body and experience as an idol to boost her popularity, her fear of people weigh her down.

But she is also too insignificant in the class so helping or influencing her is meaningless but she is also too pitiful to be left alone.

"T-thank y-you A-Ayanokõji-kun"

"I had nothing to do anyways"

"Y-yeah..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"G-goodbye"

"Yes"

"..."

"..."

Turning in opposite directions and speedily walking away from the awkward silence due to our incapability in keeping a conversation and our naturally awkward vibes we both left.

Ironically talking to Sakura is more tiring than expected but my life seems to be full of tiresome people.

( Why do I wanna do a KiyoxSakura and give her development?)

Speaking of tiresome people~

"Hey Ayanokõji, why the Hell!"

"Huh?"

"You're making moves when she is mine! What you got a thing for other people's girls huh?"

sigh*

"Yamauchi she called me"

"YOU HAVE HER NUMBER!?!"

"Yes"

His teeth started grinding against each other and he emitted a noise of a run down engine whilst balling up a fist.

thud*

"Aaaaaaaaaaahhh! What the Hell? Why did you move!"

"Umm..."

Yamauchi, in his rage, had tried to strike me but his lazy and flimsy technique would just hurt him if he hit me but I would rather not give him a free hit so I dodged and he hit the wall.

"B-bastard!"

He had fallen to the floor holding his wrist while screaming in pain despite it being a weak punch.

"This is your fault"

"How?"

"You dodged!"

"Oh"

Side note while Yamauchi is composing himself, why do people keep hitting me?

Sudo, Ibuki and Horikita are all people who are frequently hitting me and unless I give off a "masochist" vibe I don't understand it.

"Give me her number!"

Instantly after the pain has subsided he went back to his creepy and perverted ways demanding her number with a hungry look in his eyes.

"I can't"

"Why not?"

"Not my number"

"I knew it! You are trying to steal her you plain bastard!"

Closing the distance between us letting his rotten breath burn my nose and his eyes full of perverted passion stare straight into mine, Yamauchi carried on speaking.

"Sakura is mine, Ok? I have her Kanji has Kushida and Ken has Horikita and you have no one because no one would want to date...well...you"

My emotionless heart actually stung from the declaration but he didn't relent.

"I mean you can't even compare to someone like me but I suppose you can't know that because I don't even try and still I am levels above you"

sigh*

He has the ego of Kouenji but unlike Kouenji these are delusions, of course "the perfect human" is a delusion but it is also the delusion which describes me.

"Ah! I have it, I have it!"

"Huh?"

"I will pretend to be like you because Sakura is intimidated by someone like me and takes pity on your pathetic self so if I be like you then she will get close to me like you"

His logic, if it even is logic, has so many flaws and nonsensical opinions that it is not surprising he came up with it.

Sakura is only around me because I saved her and "my eyes" so even if he acts like me he will fail.

While I mulled over his plan he had left allowing me to return to my cabin for rest before the next meeting and tonight's arrangement. . . Ichinose.

A beautiful girl who is fawned over by all 3 year groups because of her warm good willed personality and well proportioned figure.

Her people skills out class Kushida's as she is even able to reach anti-social people or lead naturally without causing much of any conflict.

But is she a good leader?

Certainly if you compare her with Horikita then academically and personality wise she is better but athletically she is lacking, though this isn't essential for a leader.

However the most crucial and critical defect of Ichinose is also her most redeeming quality .

( After those thicc thighs)

Her goodwill.

Unlike Hiyori who is just pure and innocent Ichinose has the conviction or natural reflex where she will give help if needed and always support you, enemy or not.

Now on its own this isn't a problem but this group has exposed the perfect strategy to deal with her and class B in one swoop.

Expulsion.

Not of Ichinose but someone else close to her and prominent in the class like Kanzaki or Shibata.

Why?

Because of their cohesion and unity they all work together as one organism, which is also very dangerous, with Ichinose as the main "leader" but this also means if you expel someone then they will all feel the damage and because Ichinose failed to prevent it she will blame herself.

Her guilt would stop her from functioning effectively and it would also send ripples through class B making them dead in the water ripe for an attack.

So when the time comes not only will I target Ichinose but I will expel someone from her class, most desirable is Kanzaki, and then crush them or let Ryūen do it for me.

"Creep"

"Huh?" I tilted my head to look at Ibuki who was scowling at me.

"You have been ogling Ichinose for 20 minutes, pervert"

It appears while I was developing the theory for destroying Ichinose and class B I had started to stare at her.

I instantly shifted my gaze but I could feel the damage was down, Ichinose would have noticed my lingering gaze and now probably feels creeped out by me.

sigh*

"You dare do that to Hiyori and I will kill you"

"Yeah..."

Looking around class A was keeping to their word of not participating with Machida occasionally trying to stir the pot but the majority were talking with Ichinose who was focusing on trivial topics to build relationships or some level of communication instead of focusing on pursuing the VIP.

In total there were 3 groups: Ichinose's group, Class A and me and Ibuki.

I had unintentionally isolated myself by reading a book and procrastinating about class B.

The book is a gift from Hiyori and is Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep.

The Big Sleep, while a book about a detective and classified as a mystery novel, focuses slightly more on the action or physical side than the physiological but it is still an interesting novel nonetheless.

"The final meeting for today has now concluded, you may now leave"

Straight after the announcement class A immediately left with others in tow.

Ichinose gave a heavy tired sigh watching their body's become silhouettes before turning her focus to me.

"Quite the difficult group"

"I suppose"

Ichinose's placement in this group baffles me but I feel as though one of my theories may be the truth.

"Well it doesn't matter how hard it gets, let's work hard and push on together!"

Her declaration full of determination resonated with me, although ineffective, I could feel the passion and understand why people have so much faith in her.

"Sadly though I feel like these discussions won't go anywhere especially because Katsuragi-kun has such a flawless plan without many drawbacks"

Despite the odds being against her and only of the classes participating, Ichinose looked fearless and set for victory.

Shame she is in my group and her victory is counterproductive for me.

Her classmates approached her and they left as a group but I feel as though Ichinose is also trying to figure out why she is in this group.

Or maybe she knows and is trying her best to hide it from me.

This can wait because Manabe and her group started leaving and I doubt another chance would present itself like this.

"Hey, do you have a minute?"

Manabe looked wary of my presence probably because of my relationship with Ibuki and my position in class D. Her friends also looked on guard as if I would attack.

"I overheard you saying Karuizawa pushed someone in the cafeteria and I just want to know why you are asking about it?"

"She hurt our friend Rika"

Liar.

Well not exactly, Karuizawa probably hurt Rika but it could have been Shinohara, Onodera or someone else in Karuizawa's group.

But the blame falls on Karuizawa ultimately because Manabe hates her and so even if it was someone else Rika would identify Karuizawa because she doesn't want to lose her place in Manabe's group.

"This may not be complete accurate but I did see her push someone in the cafeteria"

Manabe's eyes lit up at those words and now the plan was in motion.

Karuizawa will now be targeted by Manabe and I will be able to learn why her behaviour has changed and why Hirata was worried about her.

Maybe I can even gain a new pawn.

You know when you realise you are exercising to get healthy but are doing a lot of unhealthy stuff everyday?
Yeah?
Pain it sucks.

Anyways my free time and motivation is all over the place ao updates will be few and far I think, unless motivation and free time hits me like a truck.

Writing the Hiyori torture chapter was fun, I'm a sadist, my brain is dying and my marbles are lost

Part 23

We, the Book Buddies, once again gathered at le restaurant de l'étiquette for our second get together.

All of us looked drained from our meetings all for similar reasons, the main being grouped up with strangers and trying to develop trust or deceive the other classes.

Thankfully Hiyori and Albert both got grouped together so if she finishes her book or feels uncomfortable she has Albert to rely on, but this is also a double edged sword.

Albert naturally attracts attention because of his stature, sunglasses, and presence.

So when he is looking after Hiyori other classes can become suspicious that Hiyori is the VIP and he is protecting her identity.

Of course Hiyori could be the VIP because my algorithm for how the VIP's still lacks reliable evidence.

The other thing that exhausted us was the dynamics, especially the confrontational dynamic between Manabe and Karuizawa in my group and then class A's refusal to participate.

"Are you going to play another piece again today?"

Perhaps seeing me lost in thought or just wanting to start an actual conversation, Hiyori inquired.

"Why don't you play as well?"

"Wait what? You can play the piano?"

Both Ibuki and Albert sounded surprised, one more than the other but I think his voice is like my face and scarcely changes, making Hiyori wave her hands in front of her.

"N-no, well...not as good as Kiyotaka can but he has been giving me lessons since I first heard him play"

"Have you learnt how to play anything?"

Hiyori Pov

When Ibuki-san asked me I remembered the time we had spent learning Debussy's Rêverie, a dream-like piece which compared to Clare de Lune but still a classic and difficult piece for a beginner.

Flashback

Once again we arrived at the music room after 3 hours of reading to begin my lessons.

Kiyotaka agreed to teach me if I would perform to him one day to which I agreed because I would love to perform for my best friend.

He sat down next to me and placed his hands over my own to guide them across the keys.

( No this is not the lewd and sensual act of handholding because he is merely guiding her as a handicap~none of that yet)

At first his hands were rough and hard as if he had been a craftsman or had constantly used his hands to lift heavy things or do tough jobs~

( It's from his training, conditioning and the constant fighting but Hiyori wouldn't really think of these things so we go with this)

But soon his hands became soft as they brushed against my own guiding my fingers to the keys.

¥ /~/

"You played beautifully Shiina-san"

Along with applause the music teacher congratulated me with a warm proud smile.

"Yes you did very well and you didn't need my help at all"

Kiyotaka too gave me praise while patting my head lightly.

"Thank you! Thank you!"

I hugged both Kiyotaka and the music teacher with tears escaping my eyes as I jumped on the spot.

"Kiyotaka please can you play? Please?"

"Okay"

"Thank you!"

"I always look forward to listening to you play Ayanokõji-kun"

Still sitting next to me Kiyotaka pondered about what to play before he started to play Listzt Consolation No 3.

But as he played he...

He looked sad...

/

When he finished playing I couldn't help but hug Kiyotaka with tears in my eyes.

"Hiyori?"

His soft hands gently patted my head and held onto me as I sobbed into his chest wetting psyche dog his shirt with my tears.

"Y...you *sob* looked sad *sob*..."

"Did I?"

He mumbled to himself still holding me and patting my head calming me down~

Flashback ends

"Hey, hey! Hiyori!"

Apparently I spaced out mid way through speaking and now Ibuki-san brought me back but as she did I felt my face go all hot at the memory.

Kiyo Pov

Hiyori had spaced out mid way through talking about her piano skills and when she came to her face went all red and she hid behind her hands.

"Eeeeek!"

Hiyori let out a cute squeak as I placed my plan against her forehead to check for a fever causing her to get even more flustered making her look even more cute and innocent.

"Hey what are you doing?"

"Checking if she has a fever, why?"

"Tch idiot"

"T-thank you K-Kiyotaka"

After that we spent the rest of our time in the restaurant talking about how we would use up the last week of our holiday before we go back to school and that maybe next time Albert and Ibuki could come to the music room to listen to Hiyori play.

••• ••• •••

It was nearing midnight so we decided to end our meet up so that we could be fresh and not sleep deprived tomorrow.

When I got back I expected to be the only one awake but it seems both Hirata and Yukimura were waiting for me.

Kouenji also wasn't asleep and was doing three finger push ups while his exposed upper body dripped with sweat.

Objectively speaking Kouenji's body befitted his "perfect human" description with his body being muscular to a degree that fitted his build while not making him bulky.

His body also wasn't for show or something achieved through steroids or other enhancements because he persevered despite sweating so much and being on his 86th press-up.

"Good work today Ayanokõji-kun and please, if you're not too tired, can I talk with you?"

I assumed he would want to talk about today's meetings and the overall affairs of class D and that is also why Yukimura looks anxious.

"Yeah that's fine, what is it you want to talk about?"

"I have just finished talking with Yukimura-kun and we think it is best to share information"

"I did say that it was pointless to include you, Ayanokõji boy"

Kouenji brushed over my presence like I am a bug on a windshield but he was not wrong.

Infact everything Hirata knows I know because of Kushida and because of my deductions I also know considerably more so it is pointless.

"I would've been glad if Kouenji-kun participated, but he unfortunately declined"

Well getting Kouenji to do anything is a remarkable achievement.

But maybe if there was enough incentive like a challenge to his perfect existence then he may actually become invested.

"Although it may seem trivial to you Hirata boy my efforts are invested in the pursuit of ultimate physical beauty. Of course none of you could hope to achieve this"

His sheer narcissism, ego and confidence continue to surpass my expectations and from the looks of it Yukimura and Hirata's too.

But given that it is Kouenji he would rather relax than attend compulsory meetings but if he were to end his group by turning traitor he most likely wouldn't vote randomly and instead vote for the actual VIP.

Meaning if he becomes inconvenienced by the exam he would end it whilst obtaining option 3.

So all I need to do is simply manipulate the conversation to get him to withdraw.

"Is Kouenji participating in this exam?"

"Yes, because it is compulsory he must"

"Unlike the island where he just pretended to be sick"

Yukimura holds clear disdain towards Kouenji especially after costing us points in the island exam.

"That filthy island tainted my beauty and the thought of living like some primitive creature repulsed me"

Kouenji's attitude aggravated Yukimura more, making the veins on his temple pulse.

"At least he can't get out of this test so easily"

"And he will be forced to participate"

Yukimura followed up my comment and Kouenji stopped doing his press-ups taking a towel and his phone as he stood up.

"Well if this test is going to turn out to be so bothersome then I should just end it here after all finding a liar is a simple child's game"

After typing in something on his phone he threw it over to his bed.

Soon after, all four of us, including Kouenji, received a notification from the school on our phones.

"What did you just do, Kouenji?!"

Yukimura shouted at Kouenji who just smugly smile brushing back his hair while me and Hirata looked at the email:

The test has now ended for the Monkey group.
Those in the Monkey group are no longer required to participate any further.
Please do not disturb the other students.

"Monkey Group? Hey, that's your group, Kouenji!"

"Of course, like I said this test is bothersome so I have ended it for my group"

Stepping into the bathroom with his smug smile Kouenji had just thrown a spanner in the works.

All students would receive the same email and confusion would naturally spread along with slight panic because of how fast and unexpected Kouenji's actions were.

Hirata's phone started to beep with all our classmates confused about what happened and probably asking for advice or information.

Ichinose, Ryūen and Katsuragi would all naturally be taken aback by this after all turning traitor so soon is practically suicide.

Horikita would also no doubt be surprised about this and would most likely blame me or give me an earful.

[I am going to give you a call in 5 minutes I don't understand what just happened]

[X-dono do you know what has just happened? Is it part of your plan?]

[Ayanokõji-kun did you do this? Ichinose has messaged me asking about what happened and apparently Ryūen is also asking around]

Horikita, Professor and Kushida all messaged me and it seems that Kushida can help verify my theory.

[Try to find out which class or who the VIP is]

"Damn it. Thanks to that narcissist things have escalated"

"I need to step out for a bit"

Leaving behind a very annoyed Yukimura behind I started walking around the ship.

Naturally Kouenji's actions do look to be more of a hindrance than anything but I already have a theory and he has given me the perfect testing grounds.

Class B should be the class the VIP belongs to and if it is then I can confidently use Kushida or if something develops with Karuizawa I can use her to attack class C.

Obviously making Karuizawa my tool is more beneficial than giving the names to Kushida because she is currently battling Horikita for the position of class leader so giving her the names would be a significant boost.

Also if I am right she is currently working with Ryūen to try and get rid of Horikita and then free herself from my control.

Given his reputation Ryūen is the perfect person to send after me.

But if I can't turn Karuizawa into a pawn then I will have to use Kushida instead.

Kushida Pov

Plain gloomy bastard!

Telling me to find out who of which class the VIP is from after he gave all the credit of the island to that butch Horikita!

Is he going to give all the credit to her again this time?

Not that it matters because if I do or say anything he will just threaten me again like the cruel cold bastard he is.

Although I do already know the name of the VIP already...

The VIP for the Monkey group is class B's Amikura Mako.

I know this because I was with her when she got the email and her face changed when reading it and when I asked her and said we were in a cooperative relationship and I would also show her my email she told me she was the VIP.

Of course now she asked me if I exposed her but I told her that I didn't and Kouenji must have noticed something or got bored and picked her at random.

Stupid narcissistic perfectionist batstard, blonde haired stupid bastard!

"Kushida"

Once again he had managed to sneak up in me making no noise or giving off any sign of his presence.

"A-Ayanokõji-kun you scared me"

"Do you have it?"

"Yes"

I dropped my act disgusted and fearful of his bored face and monotone voice which still sent shivers down my spine.

"Who is it?"

"Amikura Mako of class B"

( Yes I know this practically couldn't be possible and after trying to find a logical escape by using Kanji and names of students I realised I didn't have 40 from each class so plot convenience is going to be used to explain this and the other VIP's~ I'm sorry but technically it's not my fault ).

He just nodded, turning to look out at the sea while the stars reflected in those dark bottomless eyes of his.

"Why do you need to know it?"

"Is it to figure out who other VIP's are?"

"I was just curious"

Liar.

You clearly are trying to do something like Ryūen but...if that is right then you two really do think the same.

No!

That doesn't matter as long as Ryūen is right in his belief that he is more of a monster than Ayanokõji then it doesn't matter.

My life will once again be mine again and I will take out that whore Horikita alongside Ayanokõji and Ryūen eliminating any threats or existence that knows about my other side.

Kiyo Pov

Once again Kushida came through with useful information and now I am 100% certain that class C's VIPs are:

Kaneda Satoru from the Tiger group.
Yamashita Saki from the Snake group.
And Yoshimoto Kousetsu from the Sheep group.

Naturally I could find out the VIP's of class A and B but class A is being targeted by Ryūen and our alliance with class B is beneficial so for now I am focusing on promotion.

While thinking I had started to wander the boat and accidentally came across quite the gathering.

Mashima-Sensei, Chabahsira and Hoshinomiya-Sensei all relaxed on a sofa.

Although this area isn't an out of bounds or off limit area I could be here but given that bars were not open to us this is a very unpopular route.

But I was just aimlessly walking and stumbled across such an opportunity.

"You know, it's been a long time since the three of us all got together"

"It is what it is. Fate. After bouncing around from one thing to the next, we all chose the teacher's life"

"Enough. There's no point talking about that"

"Ah, that reminds me. You were on a date the other day, weren't you? You've got a new girlfriend, huh? Mashima-kun, you're quite the playboy. And here I'd thought you were the quiet, unsociable type."

"Chie, what happened to the man you were with?"

"Ah ha ha! We broke up two weeks ago. I'm the type of girl who breaks it off once the relationship starts getting serious. It's just like, see ya later!"

Given her childish behaviour and attitude I am not surprised by this but neither were the others.

"That's what you'd usually hear from the guy"

"Ah, but I'd never do that to you, Mashima-kun. You're my best friend, after all. I'd hate to ruin our friendship"

"Relax. I'm not worried about that"

This time Sae-Sensei decided to start a discussion glaring slightly at Chie-Sensei.

"What are you planning, Chie?"

"Huh? What are you talking about? What'd I do?"

"It's customary to place all of the class representatives into the Dragon group, isn't it?"

"I'm not screwing around or anything. It's certainly true that as far as grades and attitude are concerned, Ichinose-san is number one. However, someone's true place in society cannot be measured by numbers alone. I determined that she needed a challenge. And besides, rabbits are just so cute, aren't they? The way they hop around. Doesn't that suit Ichinose-san?"

"I hope you're right."

"I think what you're saying makes sense, Hoshinomiya, but what are you getting at?"

"We wouldn't want you to base your judgment on personal grudges."

"Oh, are you still talking about what happened ten years ago? I thought that was all water under the bridge"

"I wonder. I mean, you can't seem to stop yourself from running your mouth. You're not satisfied unless you're one move ahead. That's why you put Ichinose in the Rabbit group, isn't it?"

"I genuinely thought that Ichinose needed to learn a lesson, so I removed her from the Dragon group. You know? By the way, Sae-chan, I couldn't help but notice you've been focusing on Ayanokouji-kun. Anyway, it's just a coincidence. Coincidence, coincidence. When the island test ended and Ayanokouji-kun became a kind of leader, you weren't surprised at all, were you?"

"I see."

Mashima-sensei nodded convinced with something Chie said but he made a strict expression as he addressed Chie.

"There's no rule against this, but I want to be clear. Stop spying on other colleagues' classes"

"Agh, it's like you don't trust me at all. Well, I'm not the only one to blame. Sakagami-sensei is part of the problem, too. If we evaluated the class C students properly, another student should've been placed into Dragon. But they threw Ryūen in there"

"That's certainly true. This isn't your average year. The students seem rather special"

So not only do all these three teachers know each other but they were in the same year and now all have a class in the same year.

The reason for Sae's pressuring of me is for redemption against the people who beat her before.

Not only that but the reason for Ichinose's placement has finally been confirmed, although she probably already knows, but this scrutiny just means I have to be more conspicuous or deal with Ichinose and class B if they start to show signs of being a threat.

Either way the class competition is a competition between students and teachers.

I wrote the flashback thing because even if he doesn't show emotions surely when playing the piano and remembering his time in the WR subconsciously he would show some.

How much did Ryūen get from the contract with class A?

Are you more optimistic or pessimistic?

Thanks for reading~sorry I am busy with webinars tests and other demotivating stuff.

Part 24

"You still let him do it"

"We didn't know he was going to do something like that and even if we did it's not Kouenji listens to reason or anyone but himself"

"You still let him do it"

sigh*

Kouenji's antics had caused quite the stir, sending ripples across all groups and classes and the demonic compass wielding tsundere, as Sotomura calls her, is currently blaming me.

"You are supposed to be working for me so that we can rise to class A and yet you can't even control your roommate"

"Horikita"

My cold monotone voice completely changed the atmosphere around us and my eyes devoid of light and emotion sliced through Horikita even sending shivers down the deck crew as they walked past.

Horikita dropped her superior attitude, refusing to face me head on, while beads of sweat appeared on her forehead.

"My role is not to control the class for you and I also have no obligation to help you"

"Although I said I would help I never promised meaning I am not bound by my word"

Horikita finally raised her head with determination showing in her eyes but her body still trembled slightly.

"Then why did you say you would help me if you are actually going to do nothing?"

"I said it so that you wouldn't try to force my hand or expose me for masterminding the island exam"

It was also so that if Chabashira asked Horikita she would say that I "vowed" to help.

"So you were lying!"

Perhaps feeling betrayed by me, Horikita's voice became shaky and she clenched her fists.

"No I am helping push the class but I am also protecting my peaceful life and own interests"

"And what if I got in the way of your peaceful life and own interests as a result of not doing what I say and helping class D reach class A?"

"I would remove something from the equation"

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Either I expel you or I transfer"

Horikita Pov

"And what if I got in the way of your peaceful life and own interests as a result of not doing what I say and helping class D reach class A?"

His obsession with a peaceful ordinary life is beyond reason but if that is the only thing he cares for then I will use that to threaten him.

Obviously I am superior to him but he still has his uses and is useful for rising classes so I need him.

"I would remove something from the equation"

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Either I expel you or I transfer"

I felt my eyes widen as he so naturally threatens to expel me or move classes as if it were easy.

B-but could he actually expel me?

No!

I would never do anything that could get me expelled and unlike Sudo I am not fickle enough to be manipulated so he couldn't expel me~

But transfer?

"I would never let someone like you expel me and I sincerely doubt anyone would pay 20 million points just to transfer you to their class"

Yes that's right, although he has helped on the island and midterms he didn't take credit for it meaning to the other classes he is just an average gloomy antisocial nuisance.

Also the only classes that could save up 20 million are classes A and B but class A wouldn't take in someone from class D and class B are in an alliance with us so I doubt they would.

Furthermore both classes are full meaning there is no room for him to transfer into.

"Really?"

"Yes. Class A wouldn't want to waste 20 million on a class D student like you and class B has no reason to transfer you"

"Actually I would transfer into class C"

"Huh?"

I couldn't help letting out my surprise but he just continued without changing his expression once.

"I already have connections in class C due to the Book Buddies meaning in the event of a transfer Hiyori, Albert and Ibuki would all vouch for me and help raise points"

"On top of that I would easily be able to transfer because of the vacancy left by Kondō"

Kiyo Pov

Horikita's face paled realising the flaw in her logic but naturally class C would be overlooked because they can't raise as many points as class A and B.

However I have thought of this ever since Chabashira took interest in me and Horikita had only just thought about the possibilities of transferring class.

Of course class A is the ideal choice for the majority of students but not for me:

Class A would require me to raise my scores and participate or pay attention to class while also bringing a lot of attention to me because I transferred to class A destroying my peaceful life.

However I wouldn't have to think about strategies for the special exams because Katsuragi or the mysterious Sakayanagi can do that.

Class B is also unfavourable but not as much as class A because:

Class B is held together by bonds of trust and friendship meaning I would have to be more social and involved with each and everyone of my classmates which goes against my self preservation mindset and on the special exams I may have to help Ichinose because I doubt she can see through the schemes of Ryūen.

Of course class B would be more welcoming and Ichinose could vouch for me making the transfer easier.

This then left class C.

Class C is not very different in terms of academics and behaviour meaning I can continue to aimlessly look out of the window ignoring the class.

Also I would be in the same class as Hiyori making other Book Buddie meetings easier and if anyone asked why I transferred I could start dating Hiyori as a cover or I would tell them about the Book Buddie's to avert attention and suspicion.

I would also be able to relax during the special exams as Ryūen is capable of creating strategies to deal with them.

However this means dealing with Ryūen who acts as a tyrant and has also taken interest in me since the island.

This is all if I need to transfer and depending on the situation I would either transfer it class A or C but obviously there are two obstacles to this and they are~

Chabashira Sae and Horikita Suzune.

"So if you keep up this attitude towards me I will transfer classes especially since I am now able to strengthen my relationship with Ichinose because I am in the same group as her"

This was the final nail in the coffin and I closed my eyes and leaned back in my chair letting the tense atmosphere disperse.

Originally I planned to consult Horikita about Karuizawa but it seems that opportunity has been forfeited.

"Fancy seeing you here Suzune, want to let me in on your little chat?"

Just as I was about to leave Ryūen approached with a smirk, clearly he knew something important that we didn't or at least that's what he thinks.

"No, someone like you would only make me want to vomit or give me a headache"

"Still keeping that harsh attitude of yours? Well only makes it more satisfying when I crush you"

Horikita had bounced back from before and now glared at Ryūen while he simply smirked meeting her glare.

"How are your plans to find the VIP's going?"

"Why would I discuss something like that with you, the enemy?"

"So I take that as you have found something?"

Horikita just clicked her tongue, already tired of Ryūen who became more smug with each second.

"Kukuku, well it doesn't matter after all I have already started to discover the VIP's identity"

It seems everything is progressing accordingly but it is still impressive that Ryūen has figured it out but I suppose having 5 VIP's is easier than 3.

"Do you have proof otherwise I will just take this as a bluff or trick"

"Why would I tell you how I figured them out? In fact if you were behind the spectacle on the island then surely you will be able to figure it out, Suzune"

"I have told you to stop using my first name!"

"Kukukuku, class C will win this exam and then I will crush you and force that cowardly mastermind out of hiding"

With that he left, leaving Horikita deep in thought puzzling over his words.

"I am going to head back"

"..."

I left Horikita before she could say anything and stared heading back to my room.

If Ryūen is not lying about what he said then he is wasting time or plotting something instead of just ending the exam early.

Either way this is Horikita and Kushida's problem not mine.

# * ¥ *

There are many different types of people in this world but if I were to generalise everyone and sort them into 3 categories them I would sperperate them as:

The strong.

Those pretending to be strong.

The weak.

All 3 are essentially different to each other and contain many different people's opinions and fundamentals.

For example Ryūen and Kouenji can be categorised as the strong.

Ryūen is a tyrannical dictator who rules his class through fear and violence because he is strong and able to use his authority and power against them.

However Kouenji is completely infatuated by his perfection that he disassociates from others and from the rumours he only goes after attractive senpai's so they can fawn over him.

An example of those pretending to be strong is Horikita.

She acts all superior and intelligent despite being my puppet.

She constantly flaunts her authority and power although that power was given to her by me and ultimately if left to her own devices Ryūen, the other class leaders or the school, would beat her.

Then there is the weak and the best example of this is Sakura.

So what category does Karuizawa Kei fall into?

Previously I would have said the strong because she easily commands the girls in our class and with her demeanor and attitude she is a natural leader.

However after the underwear theft and her behaviour in the meetings my evaluation of her has fallen to the second category.

Which is perfect for my goal of making her my tool.

Coincidentally Karuizawa is sitting in the meeting room talking on her phone after recoiling in disgust at the sight of me but I can't stop thinking about how I will break and rebuild her.

"Creep"

"Huh?" I tilted my head much to Karuizawa's annoyance oblivious to why she insulted me.

"I said you are a creep for just staring at me while I'm busy on the phone"

Oh.

My bad habit of looking at the person who I am thinking about has once again caused trouble but at least she is talking to me.

"That reminds me, are you the VIP? I mean if Yukimura and that Soto-thing aren't then is it you?"

"I'm not"

"Hmm...okay"

She was about to call someone else when I spoke up, continuing the conversation, "You believe me?"

"Huh? You said you weren't"

"What if I am lying to hoard points for myself or like Shinohara thinks maybe I am going to betray the class by telling Ibuki I am the VIP"

"Ugh! I didn't think you could get any lower but then you go and say that. Well if you did betray the class everyone would know it's you and you would be bullied for it"

"It's good that I'm not the VIP then"

"Tch"

My relationship with Karuizawa has just taken another nose dive and at this point saving it is impossible.

A few moments later and everyone had arrived with Karuizawa once again seeking protection from Machida and Manabe glaring at her.

"Now then. I'm sure we all discussed this amongst ourselves last night, but I think we should try and find the VIPs after all"

Ichinose took the floor again pushing for finding the VIP in the limited time we have left but today's meeting will have a twist.

"This again? Don't you get that some people here won't go along with it? If we don't all participate, there's no way you'll find the VIP"

"I don't think that's true, though. It's a problem of trust. That's why today, I'd like us all to play cards together. Of course, I won't force anyone to participate. Only jump in if you want to"

She brought out a deck of cards, all while smiling.

"Ha ha ha ha! Building trust through playing cards? That's so stupid!"

"Why so? Are you so afraid of playing a simple card game?"

To everyone's surprise the Professor has spoken up but this time instead of ranting about anime and protagonists he was on the attack.

"Ha! As if some defective could read me"

"Maybe not read you but trip you up. You are already going against your game plan, are you not dono?"

Ichinose, Machida and everyone else were completely surprised at his total change of attitude and demeanor while he started to pick apart class A.

"He was just laughing at how stupid the suggestion was"

"Well maybe but you have also participated or interrupted the group several times when you said you weren't going to participate so do you not have faith in Katsuragi or are you trying to hide the fact that the VIP is in your class?"

Machida glared at Sotomura who just flashed a smug smile probably thinking how he is just like a protagonist picking off some side character.

"I only interrupted to stop your stupid and childish ideas not because I am hiding the VIP or don't have faith in Katsuragi-kun"

"Can you prove it?"

"I don't have to prove anything to you, besides what if you are the VIP and are trying to control the group?"

"But I am just a defective I couldn't do something so smart could I playboy-dono"

The tension between Machida and Sotomura practically choked everyone in the room with each glaring at the other.

"Umm...minna let's just calm down...Sotomura-kun let's not throw accusations and Machida-kun let's also not throw accusations"

Ichinose broke the tension and Sotomura returned to his usual Otaku demeanor while Machida focused on his phone, sending glares at Sotomura every now and then.

However finding the VIP will be even more difficult.

Everyone's opinion of Sotomura will have changed slightly with their suspicion of him being the VIP increasing while also remaining vigilant of class A.

Ichinose, although sent to try and observe me, has also now met the smokescreen of Sotomura while I have remained neutral and active.

Bit wordy but that's because I wrote it in two half's.

Also this May and June are going to be really busy for me despite it being my last "free" year May and June is where I have to do lots of tests, webinars and other experience building stuff so I am going to keep both books on hiatus for the time being.

Part 25

Kiyo Pov

At this point our group meetings have devolved into playing cards for an hour, under the watchful gaze of Ichinose, while Karuizawa manipulates Machida and Manabe glares holes into her skull.

(For some reason and I don't know why, I just really dislike Machida)

Scoff* "At this rate the VIP will just escape and we can't do a thing about it other than play cards"

"Well spectacle-dono you can never be sure"

"What's that supposed to mean? Actually, nevermind you just spout nonsense anyway"

While Yukimura and Soromura bickered Karuizawa had walked past on her phone followed by Manabe and her friends whose threatening auras and expressions made them look like a pack of wolves hunting their prey.

"...You don't think?"

"We should make sure"

Yukimura took the lead following Manabe while Sotomura has a cataclysmic world ending emergency to attend to, more like he wants to watch anime rather than listen to Karuizawa and Manabe's childish bickering.

"You did push Rika didn't you?"

"I keep telling you it wasn't me so can you just get lost"

The three girls surrounded Karuizawa blocking off any escape route and the fact that they had the numbers advantage Karuizawa's hope of escape is just hope.

But they really are pathetic humans.

Inside their class hierarchy they are just "loyal brainless dogs" according to Ibuki and yet now that they have reprieve from Ryūens control, they are acting out.

"W-wait!"

"Why should we? Or are you going to open your slutty mouth and admit it?"

One of Manabe's friends looked to have her phone out ready to call Rika but their hostility towards Karuizawa started leaking.

"I remember now. I-I did bump into that girl but she is a complete airhead so it's not my fault"

sigh*

Although apologising probably wouldn't have eased their hatred for Karuizawa, refusing to apologise whilst passing blame to the "victim" is in no way a smart move.

"Ugh! You are really pissing me off! What think you're better than everyone because you are dating Hirata?"

"Hey Shiho-san why don't we make her feel how Rika did? Maybe then this bitch will apologise"

Manabe just smirked at the idea and then pushed Karuizawa's shoulder forcefully, knocking her against the wall.

grab*

" Huh! What are you doing? Let's stop them!"

" Wait they haven't done anything yet"

Yukimura shook his arm free from my grasp giving me a dubious look as we watched the scene unfold.

pant*

pant*

Clutching her hair shrinking in size as her breathing got even more irregular and shallow, Karuizawa Kei's facade is starting to fall.

"Acting like a little girl won't help you. You deserve much worse than a gentle push"

"Aaah!" Yanked up by her hair Karuizawa's desperate face didn't invoke pity, instead it only incited hatred for Manabe and her friends.

"I have always hated you and your disgusting face, ugly slutty face"

"Let's cut her face so Machida-kun and Hirata-kun see how ugly she really is!"

"What are you doing!"

Unable to let the last slightly extreme sadistic [ ( ゞ] suggestion, Yukimutra burst through the door like a bull in a China Shop and shouted at the girls.

Shame, a little more time and Karuizawa would have cracked...

Though this has given me an idea.

"Nothing, we are just messing around and talking to Karuizawa aren't we girls? Karuizawa?"

"Yukimura-kun! Thank god you're here, these freaks just abducted me and started getting all violent and in my face like a bunch of annoying idiots"

Manabe and her friends gritted their teeth looking at Karuizawa with even more hatred than before which they then turned on Yukimura.

"We are just talking about Rika and how she slammed into her"

"Isn't that just childish though? Why can't you just let her go?"

"Shut it specky this has nothing to do with you! Why don't you just stick your nose in your books like a good nerd"

(Seriously what am I writing, these fuckers are giving Ike and Shinobitch a run for their money)

"..."

Well...

That was embarrassing.

Bursting through the door and then shouting at Manabe only to lose your voice when they turn their hostility towards him.

Karuizawa just glared at Yukimura probably thinking similar thoughts but the opportunity is lost.

sigh*

"There was a teacher here only a few seconds ago so it would be better to leave before we all get in trouble"

Manabe and her friends know better than to get into trouble and have to explain themselves to Ryūen so they left us saying their last threats to Karuizawa before leaving.

Karuizawa left after shouting at Yukimura for backing down against Manabe, but her behaviour...

• •

Hirata finally decided to make his move carefully shuffling about the cabin so that he doesn't wake anyone while leaving to go meet Karuizawa.

I had been waiting for him to start moving and once we both made eye-contact he gave a nod suggesting we will pick this up outside.

"Hirata?"

"I'm sorry if I woke you Ayanokouji-kun it's just~"

"You have to meet Karuizawa?"

"Yes, how did you know?"

"I'm in her group and saw what happened"

"Also Horikita asked me to look into it in case it damages the class"

Using Hirata's desire to form a relationship with Horikita to unify the class I can avoid explaining myself and get his cooperation.

"I see...So what does Horikita-san want to know?"

"Everything about Karuizawa and what you talked about"

"I am not sure I am in a position to tell you those things, but if Karuizawa-san allows it then I will tell you"

Hirata started waking, probably to where Karuizawa is, while I followed behind arriving at a vending machine where Karuizawa sat waiting in her jersey.

"What is he doing here!?" Instantly upon seeing me Karuizawa's face turned to one of disgust then anger as she shouted at me.

"I asked him to come"

"Huh? Why? I told you I wanted to talk alone"

"Yes but after what we talked about and given that Ayanokouji-kun knows and saw everything I thought it best he came, sorry for not telling you before hand"

"..." Karuizawa went silent, probably wary of my presence, which is understandable.

I am a relatively reserved classmate who has been seen with the Idiot Trio and Sotomura while also being good friends with our closest rival class, class C. Also one of my close friends from that class stole her underwear so her wariness of me is not misplaced.

"On the phone you told me about a fight with Manabe-san and some other girls from class C, is it true?"

"..." Her voice was probably stuck in her throat so she just looked at the ground playing with her fingers.

"It is"

Both of them turned their heads in my direction, while I leaned on the wall looking between them.

"So you know about the fight Ayanokouji-kun?"

"The basics"

"So did you see them take Karuizawa into a secluded place and get aggressive with her?"

"Yes, along with Yukimura"

"Hmm..."

In a situation like this what will Hirata do?

As a boyfriend he should stand up and be ready to fight for Karuizawa meaning he will likely try to intimidate or warn off Manabe, at least according to Internet-Sensei.

However this is Hirata whose main principle is that he wants everyone to be happy meaning compromise, but how can you have compromise when both sides are willing to admit error or put aside their hatred.

After all, "sorry" is just a word.

"If they did get violent then I will have to do something, after all I absolutely cannot allow violence but I will not take revenge"

Revenge?

"But your girlfriend is suffering and is practically being assaulted so you should want to help me right?"

"Yes I do but I do not believe in an eye for an eye"

And this is where Hirata becomes useless to Karuizawa.

In popularity and as a method of boosting social status Hirata is a perfect boyfriend to have, but in the case of a fight or conflict between his girlfriend and someone else, Hirata will act neutral and always choose a peaceful resolution.

Meaning Karuizawa will not gain her revenge through Hirata.

"Let's think this through. If possible, let's find a way to get along with Manabe-san and her friends"

"That's impossible, isn't it? I mean, they absolutely hate me for practically no reason. Please, you have to understand!"

"No reason? Didn't this start because you had an issue with Morofuji-san, Karuizawa?"

"But that's... I didn't have any choice! Shinohara and the others were there, and—"

"Of course she was there"

"You shut your mouth!"

"Listen Hirata-kun please, you said you would protect me. So please"

"I know but I can't harm someone else to do that"

"Liar! You said you would protect me but you just lied!"

"Liar? You have known I would act like this fork the beginning" Not angered by her calling him a liar he stood up and revealed the truth behind the "power couple of class D".

"After all we aren't boyfriend and girlfriend, I will pretend for you but I will not start fights because of you"

"Wh-what are you saying?"

"I am saying we need to think of a new plan, a different approach"

"Are you saying I should get violent with them?"

"That would be a repeat of Sudo" I spoke up before Hirata much to Karuizawa's annoyance but this is becoming boring.

"I told you to shut up!"

"Ayanokouji-kun is just trying to help and he is right. Violence will only cause more problems so I think you should~"

"I'm not apologising" Karuizawa cut Hirata off refusing to take accountability.

"Then I can't help you"

"Ayanokouji do you have any~" Hirata had turned to me, seemingly trying to get me involved just like he did on the island.

"Fine! If you are just going to ignore me then I don't need you! We are done!"

Her voice echoed through the hallway as she stormed away leaving me and Hirata alone.

He didn't chase after her because after all they aren't dating and he must know he can't help her.

sigh* "Please understand Ayanokouji-kun I have my limits. Sadly I am unable to do everything"

My eyes focused on him as he stood in front of me.

Hirata Yōsuke.

Depending on what he is used for and how I use him he can be useless.

"You want to help everyone and be their ally which means in the end you don't get anything done and just compromise"

"If you think of it as that way then yes but I really am everyone's ally it's just I am not as capable as you"

"I just follow orders"

"Actually I think you are more capable than you let on or want people to think" Hirata praised me but really this evaluation sounds troublesome.

"So what about your fake relationship with Karuizawa?"

"You don't sound surprised?"

"I am by no means an expert on love or relationships but I'm the 4 months you have dated Karuizawa your progress has been non-existent. Of course you both may be taking a slow pace but you aren't close or call each other first names"

The mental and physical distance was there on full display and if you looked close enough you could see that the relationship was fake but obviously few people would suspect such a thing so they don't look.

"When you say it like that it sounds obvious but yes we never really dated. We just made it look as if we were"

"For her popularity, right? So Karuizawa could gain a standing in the class, after all her popularity spiked after dating you"

Now it fits.

Hirata.

Machida.

It wasn't all for popularity or influence it is for~

"It's for protection"

Hirata smiled hearing my answer and nodded his head, "So you understand"

"You already know I agreed to date her to protect her because she told me how she was viciously bullied through elementary and junior high"

So her breathing problems were because of past trauma bubbling back up to the surface.

"The Karuizawa Kei people know isn't her real self. I believe she just acts tough to protect herself"

The weak pretending to be strong.

"Why did you agree?"

"She wasn't being bullied, which is enough for me"

"I understand your motives and mindset enough to know that but is that all? Is there no deeper underlying reason?"

I have gone past the point where "Horikita told me to ask" or "I'm just ordinary" can be used with Hirata but if I can get an understanding of why he acts like he does then it won't matter.

He stood up and got us two drinks from the vending machine before resting against the wall opposite to me.

"I used to have a friend. He was my friend since elementary Sugimura-kun, but when we got into junior high we hung out less and less"

So far this story doesn't explain why he has such principles or behaves the way he does, like he is trying to save everyone.

sigh* "However when I was making new friends he was being bullied" Hirata's face became dark as he looked to the floor, "Sugimura-kun sent me SOSs over and over. He'd show up with cuts on his face, or with bruises. But I cared more about hanging out with my friends, and never took him seriously"

"Sugimura-kun was always headstrong, quick to get into fights. I didn't think too deeply about what was happening. But when we entered our second year, we reunited. By then, Sugimura-kun's spirit had shattered. His bright, cheerful personality was gone. That was only natural after being beaten down so much. He'd been punched and kicked so many times. They hounded him so much that he couldn't even go the bathroom; he ended up having accidents during class."

"So you saw that, and..."

"Yeah. I didn't do anything. I couldn't. I was afraid I'd become their next target. I was afraid that my new, fun life would be destroyed. So I pretended not to see Sugimura-kun, my oldest friend. I came up with convenient excuses for myself. I thought someday the bullies would just stop. Maybe once Sugimura-kun stopped going to school, they'd leave him alone. Or maybe someone else would step in to help him."

"So, what happened to Sugimura?"

"That day's burned into my memory, even now. After morning soccer practice, I returned to the classroom. When I got near the room, I saw that Sugimura-kun was already there, his face swollen. I decided to wait a bit before going in. To be honest, I felt uncomfortable. We'd been friends who played together ever since we were little, but right then, it felt like were complete strangers. I thought, 'If I get involved with him, I'll get bullied, too.' Perhaps Sugimura-kun saw how ugly my heart was. He didn't say a word, but it was almost like he was sending out a plea for help. That day, he jumped out of the classroom window"

"He jumped? Did he die?"

"He was declared brain dead. But even now, Sugimura-kun's parents believe he'll recover. They're waiting for him. That day was so surreal, I still wonder if it was a hallucination. I couldn't believe it. When Sugimura-kun jumped, I realized something. By selfishly focusing so much on my own desires, I helped drive a treasured friend to his death."

This is why Hirata became who he is.

Why he desperately clings to the idea that he can save everyone.

"I don't think Sugimura-kun can be saved, but I wanted to atone. I figure the only way for me to do that is to save others"

"You know life isn't as simple as that"

"I know...but it is my penance"

"This story...I never thought I would share it with anyone in this school. So please, Ayanokouji could you please keep it a secret"

"Yes, I don't see a reason why anyone else needs to know"

"Thank you" Hirata's smile was weighed down by the weight of the story and guilt but now he would most likely come to me for help.

Meaning I will have complete control and influence over the class.

"Hirata I need one more thing"

I handed him a note with writing on and his eyes widened as he read it:

I need Manabe's email or contact info.
Also Karuizawa is the VIP

Sorry I originally had this and lower level as one but it was like 6000 words so this is easier to read I think.

Part 26

I am weak.

No matter how hard I try to convince myself or others it won't change the fact that behind the facade of the strong headed leader of the class D girls Karuizawa Kei, is a weak pathetic girl.

A victim.

That is what reflected in those endless dark eyes, the eyes which tore past the facade and exposed the weak girl cowering behind it.

Who would have thought someone like him could turn into a monster like this...

¥

I had made my way down to the lowest level of the ship ready to watch the event take place as predicted, like dominoes falling into place.

[ I have promised to meet Karuizawa-san at 4pm but I really don't want to make her sad]

Well if all goes my way, which it will, I have betrayed your trust and expectations.

Then again this will only be a problem if he finds out and has proof.

Using the anonymous account that I use to message Sotomura for strategies, I had sent messages to Manabe convincing her to follow my plan for revenge.

And now I am waiting for Karuizawa and Manabe to arrive.

Karuizawa turned up 10 minutes early and now Manabe and her friends entered with a meek looking girl, who is practically class C's Sakura except she isn't an idol, most likely Rika.

"Wh-what are you doing here?!" Karuizawa noticed the new arrivals and trembled slightly.

This spot is perfect for the plan because the passageway is narrow meaning escape routes are limited and adding onto that the fact Manabe can't do anything without an entourage then Karuizawa is cornered.

"I just happened to see you come in here, anyways this is the perfect opportunity for me to introduce you. This is Rika, do you remember her?"

Manabe pulled Rika so she stood in front of Manabe and judging from the fact Karuizawa averted her gaze, she definitely remembered her.

"Hey Rika, Karuizawa was the one who pushed you, right?"

"Yes"

"Apologise to her"

"H-huh, why I am the one apologising I haven't done anything"

"Big talk for a victim"

"Wh-what?!" Fear flooded Karuizawa's face as her past was about to be exposed.

"You were a victim of bullying"

"No you're wrong!"

It doesn't matter how convincing Karuizawa tries to be I have already told Manabe about her being bullied so nothing will change her mind.

"If you beg on your knees like the grovelling defective slut you are I will let you go"

Karuizawa tried to slip past Manabe but Manabe grabbed her hair, throwing her back and into the wall.

Of course I had only told Manabe that she would "meet" Karuizawa and nothing about violence but even Yamauchi could tell that if Manabe was alone with Karuizawa she would turn violent.

Maybe not if Manabe was by herself but definitely when her friends are around Manabe would resort to violence.

I have no need to step in now.

However maybe I should get Sudo to "accidentally" bump into Manabe or Rika knocking them to the floor and he can shout at them or something.

Or maybe I will out one of them as a mole and let Ryūen deal extra punishment to them.

Then again why should I overexert myself?

"Agh!"

"Wow, Shiho don't you think your hitting her too much?"

Manabe continued to sloppily and sluggishly drive her knee into Karuizawa's stomach and from the looks of her inexperience, Karuizawa may be able to win a 1 against 1 but life is cruel.

Naturally I also can see why Ryūen doesn't evaluate her highly and why she is also afraid of Ibuki.

"Come on Rika give it a try too"

"N-no I-I can't"

"Cmon we are doing this for your sake right?" Manabe again invited Rika with her pathetic and hypocritical reasoning.

"O-okay"

slap*

"L-like that?"

"No, no you have to put more force into it like this"

Slap*

(It was forceful but I am reserving all caps a bit later because the difference in strength)

(Also when writing this I just want to write gouge out Manabe's eyes and fucking stomp her to death and then pulverise Rika~but that's just my sadism leaking)

Rika then followed after with her slaps becoming more forceful and then Karuizawa pleaded for forgiveness only to have the whole group kick, slap, punch and stomp on her.

o( ﹏ )o

After confirming Manabe and her entourage left I started waking up to Karuizawa who lay on the floor whimpering after her beating.

In all honesty watching it was both disappointing, because of their sloppy technique and the fact that they are just petty jealous humans and satisfying to see Karuizawa's actions come back to bite-or kick her.

Thankfully they had followed my advice on hitting her in spots which can be covered by her uniform although her face has reddened from the slaps.

"Karuizawa"

"W...why...why you..."

Karuizawa is too scared right now so I just waited, biding my time until she calms down.

The enclosed space and poor lighting helped to reduce the psychological distance between us, after she already hated me and people naturally come closer in these conditions.

"Have you calmed down?"

"A little"

"Where's Hirata-kun?"

"He got called out by a teacher but he told me you were meeting here so I came in his place"

Step 1 was breaking her down completely so that she could be remade which is what Manabe has just done for me.

Step 2 is calming her down and shortening the distance between us.

"Why are you crying?"

"Manabe and her band of freaks, I won't let them get away with that. If you tell anyone I will also never forgive you"

Her desperation to keep her past hidden is the same thing that landed her in this situation but telling people is of no benefit now.

"You know...you could get back at Manabe and the others"

"Maybe, but why would I? They haven't done anything to me and if I did there will be a trial and investigations...which you wouldn't want would you?"

"But they will continue doing this to me..."

Karuizawa has no way to stop Manabe and her friends in the event they want to do this again and avoiding them will only create more questions and suspicions.

Now she is desperate.

So now I move onto step 3.

Replacing her fear of being bullied and Manabe with feelings of horror and terror towards me.

"It would be terrible if the cycle continues wouldn't it?"

"What do you mean continues?"

"It would be a shame if all your work and effort to become the strong leader of the class D girls was to be wasted and for them to turn on you, the pathetic little victim"

"W-who do you think you are talking about!"

"You, Karuizawa Kei, the pathetic disgusting bully victim" My cold voice sliced through Karuizawa sending shivers down her spine, choking the air out of the passageway.

"H-hey! Why are you do~" I had grabbed her arm and dragged her up, pinning it against the wall.

"Manabe and her friends tormented you. They stomped, spat kicked and punched you along with pulling your hair and slapping your face leaving you a weeping pathetic mess snivelling on the floor"

Karuizawa went to speak but her words stuck in her throat as our eyes overlapped.

My vast hollow eyes containing all the darkness I locked away during the White Room looked into her teary lifeless eyes.

"You have been the victim ever since you were little, bullied throughout junior high and elementary and then you got a clean break here where you could pretend you were strong instead of admitting how weak you actually are"

"D-d-did you hear this from Hirata-kun?"

"Hirata is a pathetic idiot whose flawed ideology gets nothing done. Being everyone's ally. How's that meant to help a parasite like you face situations like this"

Although academically Karuizawa isn't smart she is actually very smart when it comes to social situations and manipulation.

She understood that in the Rabbit group Hirata's neutrality would hinder her so she has been reserved but like all those who act strong she overdid it and started trouble with Rika.

"Why?"

"Why? You know why, it's because you need to understand your situation~"

BANG*

I slammed my fist into the wall next to her head sending a thunderous bang around the enclosed passageway while Karuizawa tensed in fear whimpering a bit more squirming in my grasp.

"I'm the one who is here. Not Hirata. Not Machida.~"

BANG*

"Me" I moved in so our faces were nearly touching, feeling her fast trembling breathing and seeing each tear trickle down from her eye to her chin.

"Your life is in my hands and if you don't do what I say. What Manabe did will be nothing" I moved my fist from the wall grabbing her chin forcing her to meet my gaze.

"Y-you! You sick freak, what do you want with me? You're just going to use me for my body aren't you!" Karuizawa still had a little fight in her as met my gaze and shouted in my face.

But the threat of rape...

Now that will shatter her resolve.

thud*

"Ughff!"

"Stop!"

I had thrown Karuizawa to the floor and then pinned her arms above her head with one hand while moving my other hand's fingers along her incredibly smooth and alluring thigh.

The feel was obviously different to mine but I couldn't help but get slightly lost in the smoothness as my fingers gilded elegantly across her thighs.

"N-no! Stop please!"

Karuizawa, just like Kushida and Horikita, is most likely shocked by the duality in my personality compared to what she had seen in school but she is completely broken.

"Resist and I will tell everyone about your past and then you will once again become that little girl you are so desperately trying to forget"

Her mind must be overwhelmed by negative thoughts and terror especially because I am on top her.

(Hehehe, finally I get to write the line)

"Spread your legs"

Karuizawa slowly stopped resisting and spread her legs, tears streamed down her face as the thought of being violated coursed through her mind.

I rattled my belt buckle but she didn't try to escape and just accepted it.

Karuizawa Kei is now the perfect tool.

The most obedient tool.

And possibly my most powerful tool.

Of course revealing myself like this is extremely risky especially because I have no way to explain throwing her to the floor and then jumping on her but she is too afraid of me and her past being revealed to report me.

"I won't bow to you. You want to mess with me, you think you can do what you want to me!"

Karuizawa's rage which lay dormant deep down inside burst out as she shouted up at me.

"You think this is the first time someone has used force against me?" She looked up at me, her eyes full of an intense darkness reminding me of my own.

The things I hate the most.

"After a while I just gave up. I just became the victim. Resisting was pointless so I just accepted it, all of it"

As if submitting fully she freed one of her hands and instead of hitting me she lifted her skirt and touched her panties.

"What did they do to you?" I grabbed her arm and lifted her up and back against the wall.

"Tacks in my shoes, getting splashed with dirty water in the bathroom, "whore" on my uniform, physical abuse. Overall they bullied me in every possible way"

"I really am pathetic aren't I? C'mon you can laugh, laugh at the bullies little loser"

After suffering all that for that long she still clambered back to her feet and managed to get away but...

"What are you hiding?"

Her eyes contained darkness that I have only seen in the White Room from the failures whose lives are discarded like trash.

"Eh? What?" Karuizawa looked down to her left side for a split second but it was already to late.

"N-no! Stop!"

I pulled up her uniform and right there on her beautiful unblemished skin lay an ugly scar.

A deep scar you would get from a sharp blade.

"This is...your darkness?"

"U-ugh!"

This scar goes beyond simple bullying, this is an attack with the intent to cause serious harm or death. Yet she still stood back up.

"Life is a cruel and wicked game and you know this better than anyone don't you?"

Her dark eyes clashed with mine once again but my darkness has roots that lie much deeper than Karuizawa's so I drowned out her darkness with my own.

"What~"

"What are you?"

"The most defective horrible monster to ever live"

Karuizawa does know life can be cruel but she has only dipped her toe in life's cruel waters.

"From now on I will protect you. I think you will find me much more reliable than Machida or Hirata so let's deal with Manabe first"

I took out my phone showing Karuizawa a photo of her being bullied in the emergency stairway, "If I send this they will back off and I'd they don't I will use Ibuki to stop them"

Realistically Manabe should be satisfied and the thought of trying again will be negated by the thought of crossing Ryūen.

"Why are you doing all of this?"

I removed my hand from her, moving back to fix her clothing and because the need to be threatening is over.

"I just want people to cooperate with me and you will be a very good tool for me in the future"

"Tool? What do you mean by tool?"

"You will unite the girls for me giving me full control and influence over class D making it easier to achieve my goal"

"What goal?"

"Right now we need to focus on this exam and you will help me lead both our group and class to victory"

Kukukukukuku

It is nearing 11pm and me, Hirata, Karuizawa, Horikita and for some reason Sudo we're all gathered ready to hear the results.

"The emails we received are quite worrying"

"Yes I am still trying to understand that myself"

Horikita and Hirata were both talking about the chain of emails announcing the end for several groups: Rat, Horse, Rooster, Pig, Snake, Sheep and tiger groups.

"A lot of traitors"

"Indeed"

From what I can tell these are both class A and C's groups which means Ryūen targeted class A and my attack in class C worked as well.

I told Karuizawa the names of the VIP's and she used her position to tell the girls who to vote for under the guise of "Horikita-san figured it out"

Horikita sadly has no idea about how the VIP's were arranged so when Ryūen comes to confront her she can't retort.

"Here you are"

As if summoned by my thinking his name Ryūen emerged from the crowd exuding an angry threatening aura.

"So which one of the shitty defective bastards did it, huh?" Ryūen grabbed a chair and started to glare at each of us, ignoring Sudo.

"What do you mean Ryūen-kun?"

"I mean which one of you shitty bastards figured out the test and targeted my class"

Horikita made a noise as if she has caught on while Hirata looked worried at how angry Ryūen is.

"What happened to all that confidence you had a few days ago?"

"You shut your mouth! You are just a useless puppet being used by the real mastermind, you are just a defective playing leader"

"Hey!" Sudo stood up pointing his fist at Ryūen sick of his onslaught.

"Horikita-san is our leader and not some puppet, stop making excuses because you are useless compared to her!"

In terms of behaviour Sudo hasn't changed much but one thing that is clear, his devotion to Horikita has definitely increased.

"A stupid monkey like you could never understand it but you understand don't you Hirata?"

"I don't know what you are getting at Ryūen-kun"

thud* "Fine!" Ryūen slammed his fist on the table and then pointed at Horikita.

"All I have to do is get rid of you and then they will have to show their self and that's when I will have them begging at my feet along with you and your class of defectives"

Everyone in the café heard this declaration and some became tense while others questioned what is happening.

But one major change has happened.

Rat: Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Cow: Outcome #4. The traitor answered incorrectly.
Tiger : Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Rabbit: Outcome #4. The traitor answered incorrectly.
Dragon: Outcome #1. The entire group answered correctly at the end of the test.
Snake : Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Horse: Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Sheep : Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Monkey: Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Rooster: Outcome #3. The traitor answered correctly.
Dog: Outcome #2. The VIP's identity was not discovered.
Pig: Outcome 3. #The traitor answered correctly.

Based on those results, the increase or decrease in class and private points are as follows.
"Cl" and "Pr" are used to denote "class points" and "private points," respectively.

Class A: Minus 200 cl; Plus 2 Million pr

Class B: No Change cl; Plus 2.5 Million pr

Class C: No Change cl; Plus 4 Million pr

Class D: Plus 200 cl; Plus 4.5 Million pr

"Class D came out on top?"

Murmurs broke out amongst everyone and all of us but me, Horikita and Ryūen looked confused or shocked.

"This is just one victory but remember I haven't been targeting you yet and now I am coming to destroy you with everything I have so that coward finally takes centre stage"

Leaving us after declaring war again, Ryūen walked away.

Kushida Pov

Making a deal with this two faced backstabbing dog is the same as running into a burning building.

You are guaranteed to get burnt~

But he could also be my salvation.

My freedom from the noose clutching my throat.

So as long as he isn't all talk and can crush Horikita and force that bastard into a corner.

Then I will fight fire with fire.

Ryūen Kakeru.

Just like him I will use you as a tool, and have my freedom.

And victory.

Writing the beating up of Kei scene was just sad I am a sadist but it just made me sad~Kei best girl~

I didn't want to write the SIM card/final meeting so sorry.

Also next chapter will be him talking with Sae and if you can do maths you will have realised something.

No longer a dream

Once again once the exam was over I was called out for a late night meeting with Chabashira-Sensei.

"You have performed even better than expected" She tried to look stern but the smug smile broke through her serious dimeanor.

"But you still aren't satisfied?"

"How could I be? You may have become class C but you also gained 425 points in 2 exams which is far greater than anyone in your year. So my faith in your abilities has only increased tenfold" Sae laughed triumphantly.

But she is not wrong.

Our defective class has managed to outperform each and every class in our year and climb to class C by winning two consecutive special exams.

I would not be surprised if we were the first class D or class in general to perform so well and make such gains.

However this is only going to increase the pressure and attention meaning I may have to expose some of my tools to remain hidden.

sigh* "So I am still under your thumb"

"Hahaha, it's okay Ayanokouji-kun. You can admit you are having fun beating each and every class or you wouldn't have overexerted yourself"

Overexerted?

So far the only challenges I have faced are down to my class and lack of social connections.

Both of which I have found perfect solutions for while also winning the exams.

"Private points are one of the biggest weapons or tools we have as students and that was proven when I bought the points for Sudo's test but I wonder what is the extent of their power?"

Sae smirked and looked at me telling me to carry on interested in where I would go.

"So what are the exceptions? Where is the line drawn?"

"There are many exceptions but to give an example then the purchasing of a teacher or students life would be one of them"

Well so far I haven't needed points for that so I don't think that's an issue.

"But what is the largest amount of points someone has spent in the past?"

"Well I can only speak from my experiences, so that would be when a student requested to change the school rules, with restrictions of course"

I just nodded at this information which only confirms that private points are an important weapon.

"I will be going now" As I said this a very drunk and troublesome presence emerged.

"Ne, Kiyo~kun why are you *hic* going so swoon?" Chie-Sensei clung to my arm and flicked my lip with her finger.

(I don't know how to write drunk people)

A very poignant smell, which I can only assume is alcohol, escaped her mouth carried by her warm breath towards my neck.

"Chie, get off him now!"

I tried shaking my arm but she only clung on harder, sandwiching it between her breasts while she laughed and called me "Kiyo~kun".

"Ne,ne Sae-Chan *hic* don't twell me you're *hic* making your move on my Ki~yo~kun"

After giving up on shaking her off she got bored of clinging to my arm and now pulled my cheeks, playing with my face.

grab* "I told you to stop harassing my students, especially Ayanokouji-kun!" Sae-Sensei scolded Chie like her older sister or a disappointed mother in a film.

(I'm using Sae and Chie because their names are long)

"B-but if I don't *hic* he will be snatched away by that cute book girl" Chie pouted pretending to wipe tears out of her eyes but is she saying Hiyori will snatch me away?

"If he wants to date her then he can date her but you should not get involved in student business"

"Then what were you doing?"

"I was taking to Ayanokouji-kun about his sea sickness"

What?

"Really..." Chie looked at me so I just nodded but for some reason this caused her eyes to light up.

"If that's the case then you can come sleep with me!"

She had sprinted towards me at a speed she shouldn't be able to, given she is drunk and because the passageways are narrow I couldn't dodge.

"What!" Sae looked completely shocked and unable to move or speak for a few seconds.

"If my Ki~yo~kun is sea sick then he can sleep with me and I can cure his sea sickness. Right, Ki~yo~ kun" Leaning into my ear and whispering the last part in my ear I pushed her away, tired of her antics.

"Awwww, why so mean"

Sae grabbed her by her collar and dragged her away ending my suffering.

sigh*

The warmth in my arm which had been sandwiched between her breasts faded and fatigue hit me.

"She really is the most troublesome existence"

Sae Pov

The results he has yielded are far greater than I expected.

Well the Chairman did say he is exceptional but for him to win both exams without exposing his involvement is just unimaginable.

I knew he could carry the weight of those defectives but seeing it is something else.

Going from 0 points.

The laughing stock of teachers and students.

A class more defective than any other defective class.

To a class whose progress outshines any other classes across all 3 year groups.

Class D or to be more precise class C will continue to reap the benefits of Ayanokouji's efforts and I will finally reach class A.

I am going to do the pool scene~not anime~and then move onto the sports festival for plot reasons.

(0)(0)

Youth is a fatal flaw

Degenerate

"Yo"

"Sorry for making you-yo?" Tilting her head and raising an eyebrow, Karuizawa approached me.

"Yes, yo. What's wrong with it?" When I said "yo" again she cringed slightly.

"N-nothing it's just...well your voice just makes you sound even more dull and it's kinda weird coming from you" She scratched the back of her neck before sitting next to me.

"You were saying?"

"Yes, sorry I'm late I was a bit busy"

"Well tradiness has never been one of your virtues"

"Hey!" She went to hit my arm but when she realized what she was about to do, Karuizawa flinched, lowering her hand.

sigh* "Anyways I need your assistance with some business Ike and the others have involved me in"

"Well if it's Ike that can only mean it's something perverted right?" Karuizawa's face filled with disgust and hate at the thought of this.

"The pool has been opened to everyone, correct?"

"Yeah, a few of my friends invited me but I don't like swimming that much"

"Hmm...well I am going to need you to join us" Karuizawa doesn't want to go because of her scar but I can't afford for this plan to succeed after all—

"Huh? Why me, I mean can't you just ask Horikita instead?"

"I need someone who will definitely get the job done and that is you. So you will join us"

Karuizawa flinched as my tone flickered to the one that probably haunts her in her dreams, the voice I used on the cruise ship.

"O-okay" She stuttered, refusing to look at me and then she realized something.

"Does this mean I am more useful than Horikita-san?"

"In some areas yes and because this requires discretion and someone I can trust it means Horikita can't be used"

"Y-you trust me?" Perplexed at my statement she just looked at me.

"Horikita has her own mind and often puts up resistance clinging to her superiority although I have reduced the extent and also proved I am superior she is now wary of me"

Sadly with each victory Horikita will only become more wary of me and try to figure me out meaning instead of flaunting her superiority she will instead become more invested in my life.

"So I don't trust her, also unlike you I don't hold her life in my hands, figuratively speaking...or maybe literally speaking" Letting my cold voice and eyes attack Karuizawa she shuddered, backing away from me.

"Also we share an understanding, our darkness. A darkness which Horikita has only caught a glimpse of whereas you have experienced a much greater amount"

"Y-yeah..." Her eyes looked cloudy as the memories of the ship came flooding back.

"Anyways here is everything you need to know about" I handed her a note but before she opened it she looked back up at me ready to speak.

"What are you?"

"Huh?"

"W-well it's just, you are like two totally different people. I don't even think split personalities can explain it"

"How so?"

"In class you are just a face in the background or a fly on the wall. Your presence is so insignificant that if you dropped out no one would notice"

"That's harsh"

"Yet here you are now and your presence is practically suffocating me and instead of being a sheep you are ordering me around and playing king"

"People act differently around those they share different levels of intimacy with do they not?"

"So you act like this around your reading friends and that silver haired girl people say you are dating?"

"Hiyori? No I don't..."

"See?"

"I have no need to act like this with her because she isn't part of our class or the class competition"

But she does have a point.

I have gotten significantly close with Hiyori to the point where I actually enjoy her company and feel calm around her and as if I can forget about my shackles.

So do I trust her?

Maybe I should show her the darkness inside of me, opening her eyes to the real me.

Hmm...

"Anyways this is the task I am giving you so let's set some things up in advance"

Brushing the dirt off her skirt Karuizawa follows behind me dissatisfied by my orders.

¥

Summer vacation was coming to a close and it was the day before my meeting with Karuizawa when Ike announced his plan for the final part of our summer.

Previously I had gone to see a fortune teller with Ibuki and Hiyori and also had a picnic where Albert prepared our picnic food and to my surprise it was amazing.

Although picnic food is basic he had also prepared bentos which looked like they took lots of time and effort presentation wise.

And taste wise, I haven't had anything like it.

[Are you sure you are happy with laying down, letting your youth evade your clutches] Ike actually sounded semi-intelligent but sadly this can only mean bad things.

[You know what, I am not happy!] Yamauchi chimed in with his unhappiness being reasonable given he just recently got humiliated.

[Yes I want to make the most of my youth too] Even Sudo chimed in.

sigh* This won't go well.

[Then how about we invite the fine gorgeous women who dance in our dreams and blow our minds in our fantasies to the pool which is open to everyone? I have Kikyou-chan. Ken has Horikita-san and Haruki has Sakura-san]

Ike listed the names reopening Yamauchi's wounds.

Recently Yamauchi involved me in his plan to confess to Sakura and at first I tried to warn him his constant belittling quickly put a stop to that.

So he confessed and got rejected and Sotomura was there with me at the time and mocked him:

" Pwa, ha, ha, ha! Y...you got, hahaha, Sukube-dono just got rejected! Hahaha" Laughing and shouting while holding his belly, Sotomura humiliated Yamauchi.

Sakura felt bad but I reassured her telling her it is the right choice.

Anyways beaks to the conversation Sudo and Yamauchi agreed but now there was a problem.

[Are you sure Suzune will go?]

[Leave that to Ayanokouji Senise. After all he will be bringing his girlfriend along too right?]

[What?] Ike's assumption about me having a girlfriend confused me more than how to get Horikita to join but who is he talking about?

[Ayanokouji has a girlfriend?]

[YOU BASTARD!!!!]

Sudo and Yamauchi were both shocked or here the news but so am I.

[Yeah the book girl he hangs around with]

[Hiyori is not my girlfriend]

[Really then why do you always hang around with her and call her by her first name and why were you at the couples fortune telling thing?]

Ah it appears my time with the Book Buddies has been misinterpreted as dates with Hiyori, but we are close.

[We are just friends anyways Horikita can come but Sakura has already been]

[WHAAAAAT!] Yamauchi spammed this over and over not allowing me time to explain but it is true.

Sakura actually invited me to go with her but because that was the same day as the picnic I had to decline but apparently she went with her new friend.

It is actually nice knowing Sakura is expanding her friends list and trying to get comfortable around people.

(I'm pretty sure you all know who her friend is but you don't I will show it in the sports festival)

¥

Now it is finally the day for going to the pool and I ended up inviting Hiyori because she wants to get to know some of my classmates and it would feel weird not too.

I have practically spent the majority of my time with her, reading or just spending time together and well this just feels like another of those times.

Other than the perverted scheme going on behind the scenes.

"You just barely made it, huh?" Horikita spoke out to me, the only person she is willing to converse with.

"There is still ten seconds before the scheduled time and the elevator is very hectic"

"Maybe you should have planned ahead. Also where is your "Book Buddie", I half expected her to be coming today" Horikita's dislike towards Hiyori started after I brought up transferring class.

"She is coming, probably just disgraced by her books"

"Hmph" Horikita just looked away annoyed by my connection to Hiyori.

Speaking of Hiyori, "Ah, sorry Kiyotaka. I got distracted by a wonderful book called The Moonstone and then the elevator is so busy, sorry"

"It's fine, we are actually waiting on someone else and if you were late I would have waited for you" I placed my hand on her shoulder comforting her as she smiled up at me.

"Do you want to know about the book or have you already read it?"

And so our exclusive book discussion started with Horikita sending the occasional observational glance over at us.

"Oh, I didn't expect this. Yahallo Horikita-san, everyone" Ichinose arrived to the excitement of Ike.

"Are you all going to the pool?"

"Yes we are"

"Let's go together!"

"Of course!" Ike practically screamed this, unable to contain his excitement at his luck.

Time skip

I was the first one out and changed from both sides and looking out to the pool the school really did provide luxury.

Food stalls and snack stations were everywhere and lots of students from all years had gathered here.

"Quite the turnout isn't it? I mean look at the crowds" Ichinose was the first to emerge from the girls side and I felt many gazes turn in her direction.

"Yo" Her figure and proportions were finely displayed by her swimsuit so I just looked forward to focusing on the students in the pool.

"Are the other boys still changing? I thought they changed fast?"

"No they're still changing we are just the fast ones"

"Well that is one of my strong points" Ichinose smiled, attracting even more gazes with some hostile ones also hitting me.

poke* "Ne, Ayanokouji-kun, why did you buy a rash-guard?" Ichinose asked while poking me.

"I don't like showing my skin, I guess" *poke*

"Hmm, but you're pretty hard~

•••

Hornykouji: "Keep poking and I will be"

Ecchinose: "O-oh sorry Ayanokouji-kun" Blushing and moving her hand away flustered she then felt her thicc thigh get poked.

Ecchinose: "A-Ayanokouji-ki what are you~mngh~doing?" Ayanokouji now poked her monstrous breasts pushing in her ripe nipple.

Hornykouji: "Why don't we go into the toilets and I can poke you with something harder"

Ecchinose took his hand and ran into the toilets with her face burning red while a glistening substance ran down her thicc thighs

I am on a caffeine high right now
•••

"Hmm, but you're pretty hard and your slender not bulky" She kept poking my arms, stomach and shoulders while squeezing my arms.

"Do you work out?" Examining my body head it toe she asked me unaware of the glares I am receiving.

"No it's probably just good genes and the material anyway I beta go check on them"

I had to escape from the glares and Ichinose, who has spent too much time with Chie-Sensei recently.

Thankfully she isn't at the pool but I wouldn't be surprised if she accidentally comes to the pool just to tease me.

"Okay how about we all get moving to a spot over there?" Ichinose took the lead with Sudo waking next to Horikita and Ike and Yamauchi watching the girls from behind drooling.

"Thank you for inviting me out to play with all your friends Kiyotaka"

Hiyori looked amazing in her swimsuit and although her sizes are overshadowed by Ichinose her shyness makes her look even cuter.

"It's only fair, after all you introduced me to Ibuki and Albert"

"Still...thank you" She stopped walking as smiled up at me, making my hand instinctively move to lay her head making her smile even brighter.

Some female students made noises looking at the two of us and called Hiyori cute, making her blush and shy away only making her look even cuter.

We both just awkwardly continued walking looking at the ground before catching up with the group.

Time skip
(I will reference Nagumo in the sports festival)

After spending all day there until closing time we started heading into the changing rooms.

Ichinose had challenged us to volleyball and Ichinose ended up paying for our food after losing and then everyone did their own thing with Hiyori splashing me with water starting a water fight.

One of the reasons for bringing Hiyori was to test what Karuizawa said.

Hiyori is the person whom I have spent the most time with and have the deepest relationship with outside of my "tools".

So today was about finding out why or if I really trust her and the answer is that I find her presence comfortable.

Internet-Sensei said that trust is like a two way street.
If you don't open yourself up then you can't expect trust.

So that is what I will do.

And if she rejects me then I will adjust my plans.

"How did it go?" I asked feeling Karuizawa coming towards me.

"How did you—nevermind. Anyways it was like you said, those vile disgusting bastards" Karuizawa placed something in my hand looking disgusted.

"Yeah, it is a shame they have to be that extreme with their perverted desires"

"What? Are you saying you understand them?"

"I am saying that a less extreme approach would have been better"

"Why did you do this?"

"Hmm?"

"Why did you stop them, I mean you could have not told anyone and enjoyed it all to yourself" Ah we are talking about that.

"Well it would have fractured the class and I can't afford for that to happen and Hiyori would be on it and I can't allow that"

"For just a friend you sure are protective"

"I am doing a similar if not the same thing for you am I not?"

"Well...yes but you haven't acted like you would rape her have you?" Karuizawa retorted, leaving me no rebuttal.

(Do I make this a one shot?)

I started moving along the side of the pool with Karuizawa in tow watching the ripples in the water.

"I want your opinion on something. Your complete honest unbiased opinion"

"What is it?" Aware of my methods Karuizawa asked with caution in her voice.

"I want to perform a little trick in our next exam whatever it may be"

"You definitely don't mean magic trick and knowing you it can't be something good so what is it?"

"Expelling someone"

"Huh?"

Karuizawa stopped following me, taken back from what I just said.

"W-wait what? Expelling someone! You know how insane that is?"

"I believe it is perfectly reasonable after all I have already got Kondō expelled and reducing the number of our enemies is a strategic move. Also there is Manabe, Rika or one of the other girls who can be expelled"

"W-what if it doesn't work?"

"Well then I will have it get rid of some deadweight in our own class"

"Is that what..."

Depending on the situation, what I have in my hand right now could very well expel some pathetic defective from our class" I cut Karuizawa off but my words only made me look even colder in her eyes.

"But then why would you save Sudo if you are just going to expel him?"

"No I wouldn't get rid of Sudo, he is the most physically gifted student our class has" Aside from Kouenji.

"But what about our class points? You worked so hard and then you are going to risk them in the event of an expulsion?"

"Actually Kondō was just expelled and his class didn't suffer any losses in class points so I have reason to believe that our class standing wouldn't be affected. Also the expulsion would only serve as motivation for the weak"

It is true that the expulsion would spark fear in people like Shinohara and Ike and cause them to work harder because fear is a powerful motivator along with pain.

"But I would prefer someone from a different class preferably class B"

"Class B? But we are in an alliance with them. Why would you go for them instead of class A or D?" Karuizawa is unable to see the big picture because she doesn't have all the facts but if I lay it out she will be more cooperative in future.

"As it turns out it is very beneficial for me if our class rises to class A. So in order to do that we need to surpass class B and with our current state the best way to do that is weaken their class or in this case destroy them completely"

"Meaning expelling someone like Kanzaki is critical because it removes a strong opponent, support for Ichinose and also destroys their morale, after all class B is bound by friendship so losing a friend is fatal to them"

"And Ichinose would break down so the chances of a counter attack or them being able to rise up again is zero"

" Is this why you called yourself a monster" Karuizawa muttered to herself before raising her head to speak again, "Why don't you speak to this with Hirata-kun?"

"I can't trust him"

"Eh? Why?"

"His story doesn't add up"

"The story about his friend?"

"Yes. The school shouldn't have labelled him a defective for just letting his friend be bullied especially given his grades, athletics and attitude. In fact at most he should have been evaluated as class C so why is he defective? What did he not tell us that the school knows?"

"You are horrible you know that" Her cold tone made the insult harsher but I guess she is the only one who can really say that.

"Is there anyone you trust without having to almost rape them or have their deepest darkest secrets in your hands?"

"Fair point" However I may be able to add an exception to this.

"Not going to head back?"

"For someone so smart you can be a complete idiot at times" Karuizawa just motioned to her scar.

"Why not wear the school swimsuit?"

Ugh, swim with one of those on? No way. I already hate having to wear one during lessons"

Keeping up her gyaru persona sounds rough, like the simplest fashion mistake could damage her popularity.

"Do you like swimming?"

"Huh? Well, I don't hate it"

"How about taking a little swim now? There aren't any students around. The only people here are lifeguards, and they look busy cleaning up"

"I'm okay"

"Why not? No one will see you so it's fine"

"That's not the problem. Why do I have to show you my swimsuit?" Perhaps I am not being clear.

"That's an order" Karuizawa glared at me.

"I hate you" Her voice trembled a bit but she started removing her rash guard.

Her back was towards me so I couldn't see the full thing but her scar keeps holding her back.

"Wh-what are you—?!" I shoved her into the pool making a loud crashing sound sending water everywhere.

I had wanted to do it with Hiyori but I might have hurt her so I decided to take my chances with Karuizawa.

"We're closed! Please leave right now!" A life guard shouted at us as Karuizawa emerged from the water.

"Pwah! What'd you do that for?!"

"I felt like it, here" Stretching my hand for her to take Karuizawa then used it to pull me into the water.

After seeing this in films or tv series' I have wanted to try it so if offered no resistance creating a bigger splash annoying the life guards while Karuizawa just laughed.

When I tried to surface, she held my head down and pushed me deeper underwater.

Even though it was childish, I have never actually experienced anything like it before so I really enjoyed it.

Making today a brilliant success.

If I want I can now expel someone in the next exam using the memory card or if I decide to go with my other plan it can be used to devastatingly great effect.

Next is the sports festival where someone else will become a tool along with the smug loli entering the stage.

After reading the pool scene I want to do a fic which would focus on Kiyox— and have childish and other moments in.

Or maybe a KiyoxKei staring from the cruise ship.

Who knows I can barely manage 1 with the limited free time I currently have.

Finally I may need a little time to plan it out given the teams are now switched and I don't understand the point gains or losses so I may not upload for 2-3 days and I also have lots of work experience and university stuff this week.

Part 27

"I still can't believe that we won both exams and are now class C and it is all thanks to you and Ayanokouji-kun, Horikita-san" Bowing slightly Hirata's smile beamed at Horikita.

"Yeah if you hadn't figured out the trick behind the exam we would still be class D" Even Karuizawa praised Horikita, however unlike Hirata Karuizawa knows it was actually me who figured it out.

Normally Horikita wouldn't get along with Karuizawa but her behaviour has changed and the presence of Hirata smoothes everything over.

"Well we are only class C so I can't be completely happy with things" Horikita performs her role of taking my credit perfectly while setting out her ambition to reach class A.

After the exam I had told Horikita how the VIP's were distributed helping corroborate Karuizawa's story.

"Yes but what Ryūen-kun said bothers me"

We all just nodded remembering his declaration to destroy Horikita.

"Well for now I think we should take a moment to cement this relationship and focus on our class's unity" Moving away from the somber topic Hirata brought up our class's biggest weakness.

Our unity.

"Yes after all we never know when another zodiac-type special exam will come up so prioritising our unity will make us stronger"

"That's why I think inviting Kushida-san to join us will help the unity"

"No"

"Why not?" Hirata looked towards Horikita confused at her rapid objection while Karuizawa sent me occasional glances, probably curious in my opinion.

"She may be able to bring together Ike and Yamauchi or other like them but we can manage without her"

Whether that is true or not depends on Horikita's awareness because if she uses Sudo she will easily gain control over Ike and Yamauchi meaning Kushida won't be necessary.

But does she understand how useful he is?

Also Kushida could be the biggest threat to our class, after all she holds many people's secrets...

¥

"Welcome back everyone and before I make an announcement I have to say something else—"

Sae-Sensei paused and then did something which stunned the class making us unable to speak.

Sae-Sensei smiled.

But this time, this smile isn't her sadistic smile but a soft gentle genuine smile.

"Congratulations on reaching class C, I expect you all to rise higher but I must say congratulations" Sae's gaze washed over all of us, lingering on me for a split second longer, before her usual stern face returned.

"Now starting from September and ending in early October the school will hold more physical education classes in preparation for the upcoming sports festival"

Taking out a stack of papers and manuals Sae places them on the front row so they could be passed back.

"These are the new time tables and manuals for the sports festival"

"Sensei, is this another special exam?" Hirata asked the question on everyone's mind because up until now she hasn't called it a special exam once.

"If you interpret as that then that is your interpretation"

I glanced over at Horikita to gauge her response to Sae's vagueness but she is frozen in place staring at the manual.

Flipping to the page she is looking at I understood why she is frozen.

"Some people have already noticed but this is an universal festival including all 3 year groups. Your will form two teams Red and White with classes B and C making up the White team while A and D make up the Red team"

Horikita would not only come into contact with her brother but technically she is directly competing with him.

Saldy the overall outcome has been decided already and that is the Red team's victory.

After all they have the amazing Student Council President who is unrivalled across all year groups and his successor who is also accomplished Nagumo Miyabe the Vice President.

Nagumo was at the pool and I managed it see his performance in volleyball and he is talented, also Hirata told me he is an ex-football club member who occasionally swings by to play and when he does he easily controls the game.

So if these two formidable opponents are on a team together and both lead their respective year groups I doubt White team will win.

Sae-Sensei explained the exam but to summarise it I would say that the negatives outweigh the positives.

Overall if your team wins you gain nothing, so if White team wins we gain 0cp.

But if you take first place to third place will either receive private points or points, marks, which can be applied to written exams.

Also the reward for the MVP is 100,000 private points.

Each year will have their classes ranked in terms of points and as a result the class with the most points will gain 50cp.

All in all the gains from this exam are meaningless in terms of class points but the private points are okay.

However the negatives are far greater.

The losing team, Red or White, will have 100cp deducted from each class in that team.

Each placement below 5th place loses private points or marks on the next test and we can lose a further 100 class points if our class places bottom in our year group.

So we can either gain 50cp overall or lose 200cp overall.

"Also you will need to fill out this participation table and hand it to me so I can submit it on your behalf"

"So the school is even allowing us to decide who we organise and structure ourselves? How much freedom are we allowed?"

"The school is giving you free reign over how you structure yourselves but if you do not submit the table before the deadline the school will pick randomly"

"What about our attendance? What id we can't make up the numbers be it via injury, health or attendance reasons?"

"Well in the individual events you will be disqualified and automatically take last place but for the group events you can use your private points to arrange substitutes"

"Along with the freedom to choose our participation order, is the school also giving us the freedom to determine whether we can continue or not?"

"Students should know their own limitations and when to pass the torch to someone else so the decision to withdraw is in their hands however if the injury or fall in health is severe a forced drop out will be used"

"Thank you, I only have one question left which is how much are substitutions?"

"100,000 private points"

Depending on the demand for substitutions we can afford this so this isn't a large concern especially after the Zodiac exam.

"If that is all the questions I will leave this here but your next session will be spent in gymnasium 1. You may talk amongst yourselves until that time"

We broke into groups with Sudo volunteering to enter all events but decided the order for the festival will be done later.

• •

The next period is in the gym and roughly 400 students are jammed in the gym with classes B and C on the left and D and A on the right.

Horikita's eyes scanned over the second and third years scouring for her brother but even if she did see him I doubt she will approach him.

"Hey! Hey! Where do you think you are going kouhai?!" A third year senpai shouted at a red eyed silver haired second year senpai gaining the attention of our side.

"Im leaving"

"What?!" The third year senpai and another senpai who looks to be a second year, along with the majority of students said this in unison.

"You are all boring people and have bored me so I am leaving to go find something interesting to do" Her nonchalant attitude annoyed Horikita and the two senpais who started shouting at her.

"Who do you think you are just leaving? We have to discuss how we will compete against the Red team and how to organise our classes" Shouted the third year Senpai.

"I won't just let you skip out on another exam just because you are bored Kiryuuin!" The second year Senpai shouted and from the sounds of things she is his classmate.

"Fufufufu, Kiriyama, Senpai, why would I need to discuss that? It's obvious that the Red team will win overall and I will win the events I participate in so I can't see why a discussion is necessary"

Her declaration of the overall outcome put sour expressions on everyone's faces and annoyance on Horikita but this was already obvious.

However her confidence and way of speaking as though she is superior to everyone seemed to peak a certain narcissist's interest.

Kouenji started laughing taking the attention from Kiryuuin and having it focus on him, *click* "It is just like you have said Senpai-girl. Puppet-girl I will take my leave now"

"Great! She just had to set of that narcissist"

"Narcissistic bastard"

"Is he calling Horikita-san puppet girl?"

Murmurs broke out with the majority calling Kouenji a narcissist, surprisingly even the senpais knew about his narcissistic tendencies.

"Kouenji-k—" before Horikita, puppet-girl, could finish Kiriyama cut her off.

"Stop! Both of you are being foolish" Both Kouenji and Kiryuuin broke into condescending laughter but the third year senpai had enough of their superior act.

"Enough Kiriyama, leave them they wouldn't be of any help anyways"

With Kouenji and Kiryuuin gone it looked as though our team leader was about to announce themselves but another commotion broke out.

"Shut your mouth you crippled loli" Ryūen's annoyed voice rung out bringing eyes to the Red team this time.

"Fufufu, indeed I am. Very observant defective-kun" A girl with lilac coloured hair laughed and smiled smugly, not intimidated by Ryūen and instead radiated her own pressure.

"What did you call me, cripple?" Ryūen spat but still the girl just smiled.

"I just commented about how you were beaten by a bunch of defective trash becoming the new defective trash"

"I was focused on destroying baldy over there but I can guarantee that they won't stay class C for long"

"Katsuragi-kun doesn't need to be destroyed by you, after all his failure in the most recent exams is most embarrassing, fufufu" Katsuragi's face contorted along with the members of his faction but one person couldn't sit quietly.

"What have you done? Huh? You haven't helped us in any exam and blame the everything on Katsuragi-kun" Yahiko shouted at Sakayanagi who hasn't raised her voice once.

"Katsuragi-kun I think you need to keep a tighter leash on your mutt. It's starting to sound like a defective and I have no room for defectives in my class" Her tone shifted at the end to a cold threatening tone and the silent pressure she released overwhelmed many second and third years.

"Who is that loli chick?"

"Is that Sakayanagi-san?"

"Kukuku, just you wait loli I will destroy class D and then I will bury you along with your dogs"

"Ryūen-kun please don't say such embarrassing things with confidence, it makes me want to pity you fufufu"

Both of them exchanged glares before Ryūen took his class and left, lifting a huge weight from the air.

"She is even more formidable than I thought..." Horikita looked at Sakayanagi analysing her.

"Sakayanagi-san really is something huh?" A bright cheerful voice spoke out next to me.

"Ichinose"

"Ayanokouji-kun. I'm happy we get to work together again and compete again, this time I will win" Giving a bright smile and showing her fighting spirit Ichinose's confidence is admirable.

"It's good to work together with you again but please go easy on me"

"Hmm...nope!" She stuck her tongue out and giggled but she is actually serious.

"Why not?"

"Ayanokouji-kun has an amazing body so he must be very athletic so I can't go easy on you, sorry" The moment she said I had an amazing body I felt an immense blood lust and countless cold glares become aimed at me.

"Eh? Ichinose-san, what do you mean he has an amazing body? Is he your boyfriend hmmmm?" One of Ichinose's classmates said this teasingly but Ichinose turned red immediately.

"M...Mako-chan! I-I just felt it at the p-pool!" Covering her bright red face Ichinose responded but her classmates continued to tease her.

"*sigh* Kanzaki, could we talk about the combined events later?"

"Yes, sorry about that Ayanokouji-kun"

"It's fine your teacher is the more troublesome one"

"Agreed" Kanzaki showed a look of horror as if remember something to do with Chie.

"You are getting along well with Ichinose-san, what will you tell Shiina-san?" Horikita's words had hidden venom in them but I will ignore it for now.

"Hiyori won't mind and we are just friends anyways"

"Hmph, well not that I care about your personal life as long as you don't transfer classes I will be fine with it but for now we should focus on this test and winning"

"I agree with Kiryuuin-senpai"

"Huh? What? What exactly do you agree with?"

"No matter what we do the Red team will win so I suggest we should focus on our own year instead did beating your brother and half of the student body"

"It is true that I can't imagine the Red team not coming out on top because they do have Nii-san, I'm just...I wanted to beat him just once" Horikita's tone grew sad but I would rather her work towards Class C's success rather than White teams.

"It is better to work within our capabilities and focus on outcomes we can control"

"Well then have you figured out the trick to this exam?" Horikita looked at me expecting a well thought out answer but sadly I won't give one.

"In my opinion we shouldn't focus on tricks and should spend our time planning and improving after all even if we do have a trick this test is solely focused on physical ability alone so the better out ability the better our result"

"I agree with you that physical ability is paramount but I also believe that like the special exams before this one there is a pathway to definite success"

"Which is?"

"Luck or should I say definite luck" Her plan baffled me.

Horikita, the rational critical thinker, has just suggested we rely on luck?

Of course I understand what she means by this but I never expected her to try and think this way.

"We shouldn't rely on that"

"That is why I said definite luck because we would be able to control the outcomes" Horikita looked set on this plan but she isn't the type of person who is capable of such a feat.

"In order to do this we need the participation tables for the other classes which we can't get so your plan falls there"

"Then what? We should just solely focus on ability alone and prepare no plans or tricks?"

"What advantage do we currently hold?" She looked confused at first and then slowly pondered before replying.

"Classes A and D aren't cooperating with each other"

"You could say that or you could say that we have the backing of class B which is very compatible with our class meaning group events will be easier but what I will say is that you should be careful"

"I know that. You have given me quite the target on my back"

I wasn't just talking about Ryūen.

My gaze fixed on Judas before flicking my back to Horikita who hasn't understood the true situation of the class.

School has drained me so sorry for the lateness.

I am currently trying to think of a way to expel someone from class B.

I mean they are all good people so fighting won't work and planting the SD card in one of their rooms won't fit their personality.
So I am currently trying to figure out some kind of trap or trick to get them expelled.
Also someone like Kanzaki won't be easily fooled so it would have to be someone like Chihiro or someone of lower intelligence.

They don't have to be expelled in this exam but maybe setting something up in preparation of Ichinose vs Arisu.

Also it is the debut of Arisu and Fuka in this fic and I hope I wrote them well, I am not confident on writing them so I hope they are good.

Part 28

"I'm guessing your break of routine isn't because you have joined a club is it?"

"We both know clubs require too much time and effort but if that is a subtle threat then my hands are tied" My monotone voice actually helped make this sound even more sarcastic much to the annoyance of Sae.

•••

Hornykouji: "Then again I can always tie you up and dominate you"

Sae: "A-Ayanokouji. W-what are you say-aahhh!"

I grabbed the hose and directed the water at Sae, dowsing her in the cold water which seeped through her top making it transparent.

Hornykouji: "Black? I wouldn't have expected anything less"

Sae blushed profusely trying to cover her exposed lacy black bra but the fact her thighs rubs together I could tell she is a Masochist behind that sadistic smile

I don't know
I guess T-Rex kun devours her
•••

After lessons were over I decided to stay back and wait for the school to become less populated so I could 'discuss' my proceedings in this "festival".

"What do you want?" Sae spat wearing a fake smile but unlike Kushida hers is easy to see through.

"This festival. After my performance during our vacation I assume you expect me to maintain that momentum, yes?" Her eyes fixed on me encouraging me to continue.

"Well if I do keep the momentum up it will mean I will have to expose myself to an extent meaning my movements in the shadows will be hindered also hindering our momentum and progression to class A"

Stressing "expose" and "hindering" was only a way to make her focus and break down the meaning of my words which is:

I will not help in this festival because if I do we may never reach class A.

Course this only relies on her letting me have a normal and attention-less life but I feel like my efforts are satisfactory enough and anything more is greed.

"Very well I will not expect the White Team or Class C to win both overall and in your year group. I also don't expect you to be the MVP so that we can continue rising"

"Thank you" Despite knowing there is a catch to her cooperation I turned around and started to walk away.

"But you will be successful on the next exam and class C will come second in this exam" Sae's firm voice full of her resolve dictated these terms leaving practically no room for negotiation.

"*sigh* That's an impossible task" With my back facing her I continued, "You know as well as I do that our class' physical ability is poor along with our academic ability"

"Even if we have a month to train that won't change much if at all but that isn't taking into account Kouenji who will find a way to retire or sit out early or how we are being targeted by Ryūen"

I turned around lifting my face so our gazes met, her stern face started to dissolve into a cracked stern mask hiding her regret and fear, her hands trembled causing the hose to flick water everywhere.

"Don't lose yourself to greed or become overconfident" My voice, cold and rough, shocked her, causing her pupils to dilate.

Leaving the frozen Sae behind, her hands and knees trembling, my phone pinged.

Karuizawa's suffering has finally bore fruit with Manabe sending an audio file which will come in handy later.

ping*

[I don't know why you need this but here ] Kushdia sent me a message this time.

sigh*

At this rate my victory will be set in stone after this exam.

̿̿'̿ ' \̵͇̿̿ \=( •̪ )= /̵͇̿̿ / '̿̿ ̿ ᕙ ( ‸ ‶ ) ᕗ

"I think we should decide on who will enter what recommended event and the order we take part in before we train" Hirata voiced his opinion.

It is the day after the announcement and we are using our two our homeroom to organise and then exercise.

Sae stood behind me in the corner just watching but after yesterday I feel she is worried about losing control.

"How will we "decide" and on what?" Miyamoto, who the author forgot existed until he read a fanfic, voiced his concern but Hirata is prepared.

Hirata took a piece of chalk and wrote, "Raise Hand" and "Ability" on the board before addressing the class.

"We can decide based on these two things. Raise hand is if you feel like you would do well or want to do that event but ability would prioritise the more able students"

"Both are the most basic approaches I can think of and both have their pros and cons with "ability" prioritising victory at the cost of our classmates and the "raise hand" sacrifices the guarantee of victory for enjoyment"

These are the only two systems for organising ourselves so I glanced at Kouenji who remains uninterested.

No doubt he will drop out.

"We should choose "ability" shouldn't we?" Sudo questioned looking at Horikita for answers before he continued, "If I participate in them all then I will win so our class will win and we get more points"

Mine and Kouenji's refusal to participate seriously means that Sudo is our "ace" for the festival.

"I hate to say this but I have to agree with... him" Nene Mori (I don't know which is first name) pointed at Sudo disgusted.

"If Sudo participates we have a better chance" Miyamoto mumbled to Sotomura who agreed.

"Then that's that right? I will participate in all the recommended events"

"If everyone is okay with that then—"

"Wait! I have an alternative" Horikita cut off Hirata stopping Sudo achieving his goal but now our class turned to face her.

"Ability is definitely the smartest and most logical choice between the categories but relying solely on Sudo-kun is foolish"

"H-Hey I—" Sudo trying to regain his pride tried to rebut Horikita but her fierce glare made him sit back down.

"Good Sudog, here's a treat" I heard Soromura say this while throwing a paper bone cut out at Sudo.

"I agree that the most athletically gifted should take part in the recommended events to maximise points but even for the all participants we should prioritise victory"

"What does that mean?" Shinohara asked with the majority of our classmates shrugging their shoulders.

"It means that we will organise ourselves so that the strong have a higher guarantee of winning" Horikita's plan is smart if not for—

"So you're saying that the unathletic people can just be left to rot? What about the private points or test points?"

Shinohara responded first, backed by many unathletic and even moderately athletic students.

"The rewards can be shared out at the end and if you just study ahead of time your grades wouldn't be as embarrassing. Not only that but it is highly unlikely that you could come close to winning given your ability"

"Not everyone is as smart or athletic as you Tsundere-dono" Soromura also sided with Shinohara.

"Maybe if you exercise and studied you wouldn't be as pathetic"

Horikita still believes in her superiority, not over me, and her attitude only displayed this naivety.

"Quite Shinohara. If we lose because of you will you take responsibility, huh?" Sudo spoke up brimming with confidence now that it is his time to shine and Shinohara looked defeated.

"Like you can talk about taking responsibility after almost getting expelled twice and losing our class points because you can't control your temper" Karuizawa spat at the smug Sudo making him lose control.

thud* "Hey you be—" Slamming his balled up fits on his table, Sudo shouted at Shinohara.

"Sudo!" However at Horikita's voice he sat back down realising he lost control.

"Horikita-san I disagree with you. You are just hanging the unathletic out or dry just because you are superior but why can't we come together like the last two exams and find a better way?" Now glaring at Horikita, Karuizawa became a representative of the unathletic.

"Do you not understand my logic?"

"No, no I don't. What do you think Kushida-san?"

Kushida has been quiet throughout the whole discussion and Karuizawa's question startled her slightly.

"Umm...I want to win but I also want to have fun with everyone...so maybe if there is a middle ground? A different better strategy"

With Kushida not liking either, more mutterings broke out hindering our progress but Horikita just smirked.

"I thought of that too and those who place in the top that don't need the test points will use private points to boost the scores of those lower down"

"That's just points, what about the bigger prize?" Karuizawa fired back much to Horikita's annoyance.

"If Karuizawa objects, so do I" Like dominos, the girls in her group supported her.

"Your thought process is preposterous. Objecting because she objected, throwing away winning as a class just for selfish gains. This is why we lost all our pints in the first place"

Sae let out a laugh probably at Horikita and my classmates but she pretended it was just a cough and looked out the window.

"You also didn't say anything about the point system in the first month or were you just keeping it to yourself? I bet you didn't even figure it out so you can't blame it all on us after you are also in the wrong" Karuizawa fired back silencing Horikita as we were all blindsided by the S-System.

"Also I don't like your plan and neither do they. So you need to think of another" Karuizawa spat still glaring at Horikita.

"Karuizawa-san let's calm down and let's all have a vote" Hirata intervened, diminishing the tension.

"I agree with Yousuke-kun" Karuizawa agreed, looking away from Horikita.

"Fine, I have offered my opinion which is correct but let's just hope you make the right choice"

"I don't understand how people like her can exist" Addressing me directly this time Horikita's tone was harsh and full of hate.

"She feels the same about you, probably"

"Still she needs to shut up"

Looking over at Kushida our gazes met causing her to look away instantly but the glimpse I got showed Kushida glaring at Horikita with eyes burning bright with hate.

"Now then we have Karuizawa-san who is in favour of the individual or Horikita-san who is in favour of ability. You can abstain from voting if you want"

Resting my right cheek on my right hand I gazed aimlessly out of the window.

After all this of no concern to me either way.

"So it's decided, my plan is what we will go with" Horikita's smug tone must be like scraping your nails against a blackboard for Karuizawa's group.

"Regarding the number of participants for the recommended events, who is willing?" Hirata asked, moving on.

"I will participate in every event and if you have a problem with that you can say it to my face outside!" Sudo growled threatening our class.

"How sad" Kouenji chuckled, filing his shiny nails.

"What you say!" Sudo shouted at him but Kouenji isn't the type to be intimidated so easily.

"*sigh* Your vile pitiful existence is only giving me a headache, redhair-kun" The girls started muttering but Sudo stood up approaching Kouenji.

"You wanna say that again, huh?!" Sudo towered over Kouenji who still remained unbothered.

"*click* Puppet-girl control your dog, his pathetic behaviour is unsightly" Not even acknowledging or looking at Sudo, Kouneji continued filing his nails.

"Sudo, stop he isn't worth it" Hearing Horikita's order, Sudo sat down glaring at Kouenji.

-(ΘLΘ)- 〜 ( 〜）（〜 ) 〜

Class ended and I signalled to Karuizawa that I want to talk to her but she instead left with two friends so I just made my way back to the dorms.

"Wait" Karuizawa called after me standing alone at the main entrance.

"I thought you left"

"But you signalled that you need to talk right?"

"I suppose"

"Can you not just say yes?" Karuizawa mumbled sighing.

"Anyways I also want to ask you something"

"What is it?"

"Your message, why did you send it other than just stating the obvious" Showing the message in her phone Karuizawa showed my instructions.

[Rebut Sudo and object to Horikita's plan no matter how great and then ask for Kushdia's opinion]

"I have to admit you performed admirably with all these tasks. Shutting down Sudo by bringing up the midterms and trail was a smart move and then your agrume the against Horikita was also well thought out"

"Well Sudo had it coming mouthing off just because he is good at athletics and is actually useful for once" Pausing to prevent a rant Karuizawa let out a breath and continued.

"But I actually agree with Horikita and getting Kushida's opinion was like getting Yamauchi's opinion, pointless and a waste of time. What exactly was the point of it?"

"Worrying over every detail significant or insignificant will only make your head hurt"

"My head hurts just talking to you" Her words are like razor blades.

"That's no way for a dog to talk to their owner"

"H-Huh?" Taken aback by the sudden change Karuizawa looked like she regretted her words.

"What did you vote?" Returning to her usual demeanor Karuizawa asked me another question.

"I don't care, it didn't matter and it's subjective to the individual"

"What are you god?" Sighing and asking mockingly she asked.

"What?"

"Um, well, you know...ugh! You are always cryptic and never give straight answers and it's like everyone dances to your tune. Like you manipulate everyone to your will"

She shuddered but I guess she does have a point just not on such a large scale and it's not like I can make everyone dance in my palm.

"You're exaggerating. I'm just ordinary"

"Ordinary? Hmph, liar" Turning her face away from me pouting Karuizawa's childlike side appeared once again.

"Horikita will get humbled during or at the end of the sports festival"

"Huh? Wait what?" Her face snapped back immediately looking at mine in shock.

"Someone will betray our class and leak our table causing Horikita to lose humbling both her and Sudo"

"But what about the class?"

"I have a plan"

"Good, good. Well I have to go if we are seen together bad rumours might spread and you are you" Leaving me with such harsh words Karuizawa left.

She has become a useful tool for me and being able to come up with arguments on the spot is impressive.

ლ (́ ౪ ‵ლ ) щ( ಠ 益 ಠ щ)
Ryūen Pov

Trailing my fingertips across her smooth silky skin feeling her every breath I looked into her eyes.

Her eyes practically pleaded with me, begging me to do it.

To satisfy her.

So I tightened my grip around her throat choking her satisfying her fettish of being choked.

My other hand trailed down—

I have no excuses.
Gomen

After dismissing those maggots Ibuki, Ishizaki and Albert all joined me in going to Pallet for a coffee because I have to discuss an important job with Albert.

However when I was about to start discussing some blonde bastard came over with his cronies.

"Kouhai-kun I would like to have a talk with you" He signalled to one of his group to find him a chair but before they could leave I spoke up.

"I'm busy so piss off"

"W-what?"

"How dare you!"

"Who do you think you are"

His goons started whining but he just smirked raising a hand to silence them.

"I just want to talk to you Kouhai-kun. Do you know who I am?"

"No. Don't care. Don't want to know. Now, Fuck. Off" Once again my attitude and tone angered his flock but this time even he showed anger at my refusal to listen to him.

"I am the Vice President of the Student Council. The one who will replace Ho-what are you? Argh!"

Cutting off his speech about who he is, my hand slipped the ping hot coffee over him, staining his blond hair.

"How dare you—" *thud* Lunging at me he tried grabbing my collar but Albert pinned one arm against his back and then slammed him into the table knocking more drinks over him.

The group with him didn't know how to react but Ibuki and Ishizaki also stood up ready to fight.

"Next time piss off when I tell you"

Signalling for Albert to let him go he instantly swung for me but instead of dodging I took it head on.

"Boss!" Ishizaki the dumb cockroach shouted his mouth off but-

"Kukukukuku. Is, is that it? Kukukuku, pathetic" His face contorted even more with his anger bubbling but I am done with him.

"Let's go talk elsewhere" Albert, Ibuki and Ishizaki followed after me leaving blondie shouting after us.

"What was that about, Ryūen?!"

"Yeah boss, why did you do that?"

Why?

"Kuku, didn't you hear? He is the Vice President and I bet with the video you have of him hitting me Ishizaki we can get some points or blackmail him when he becomes president"

All three stopped waking and just looked bewildered at my methods, well Albert just looked like Albert.

"What if he reports you?" Ibuki ever the skeptic, except when it comes to fortune tellers, asked.

"I will say he hit first and show the video and have you three along with some maggots from our class also agree saying they were there even if they weren't"

"I hate you"

"Boss is so smart right Albert?"

Smart

Kukuku, now let's see what my spy in class C can do and then I can finally make you grovel at my feet X.

Nagumo approached Ryūen because he walked out the other day and he wants full cooperation but instead he got humiliated.

Do I show Hiyori Kiyo's darkness this festival?

About the -(ΘLΘ)- 〜 ( 〜）（〜 ) 〜 they are just instead of writing them skip.
(And they look nice)

Kouenji is fun to write.

Part 29

Two days have passed since the Sports Festival was announced and our class is progressing relatively smoothly.

Our strategy and method of participation have both been decided so now all that is left is finding out who has ability.

Hirata had asked for a grip strength machine because the boys' events will require power and now we are lining up to take our measurements.

"Let's line up and measure the strength of our dominant hand" Handing the two devices to Hondou and Yamauchi Hirata took out his pen and pad.

"Let's start with me! Show what we should be aiming for" Snatching away Yamauchi's device Sudo puffed out his chest.

His desire to impress Horikita or competitiveness may be troublesome in this festival.

"Well then...let's have Sotomura-kun do his next to you..." Hirata gave a wry smile replying to Sudo.

"Yeah, yeah. Hey Ayanokouji, watch this! This is a real man" Roaring as his hand tightened around the machine Sudo easily surpassed 30,40,60 and ended with a score of 82.4kg.

"My 42 looks measly now...stupid Sudog-dono" Sotomura disheartedly commented.

"Woah! Man you are strong! Like too strong" Ike exclaimed but this opinion was shared by my classmates.

But why did he single out me?

Normally he always calls out Ike or Yamauchi when displaying his strength, so why me?

"Hey, Kouenji! Come give this a try"

"Ignore me. Being in this disgusting sweaty place is punishment enough" Filing his nails Kouenji still didn't rise to Sudo's provocation.

"Heh, worried you couldn't even beat or get close to me? Understandable" After poking and getting no results Sudo pushed the device into my hands.

"I will do it later"

"Don't mess with me we gotta do it in order"

"Don't worry Ayanokouji-san I will be going at the same time as you so no one will care about your measly score" Preparing to grip his machine Yamauchi called out to me flexing his biceps.

"Shut up Haruki, you probably won't be able to get 20"

"Hey not fair Ken! I have been holding back this whole time, I can even beat you if I—" Sudo put him in a headlock making Yamauchi beg and plead for forgiveness.

But now I have a problem.

I have use these machines hundreds of times in the past but I have no idea what the average is for my age.

The world record is 205 which is a record I can envision myself beating when I am in my physical prime being around 25 years old.

But what is the average for my age?

Not only that but during his trial I pinned Sudo to the floor and put my fist through it.

So do I score higher than him because I have done that and garner vast amounts of attention or do I fake it and say it was adrenaline that helped my strength that time?

I have decided, taking my stance I gripped the machine angling it so I can read my score.

Grip strength wasn't simply proportional to your arm's thickness, though of course, it wasn't completely unrelated, either.

A bunch of muscles known as the "flexor carpi radialis" and the "brachioradialis" in your forearm were most important. The forearm muscles contracted, pulling on the tendons, and thus bending the fingers.

The idea was to improve grip strength by training those muscles.

If you had a certain amount of muscle mass, depending on your degree of training, you could exceed a grip strength of 100 kilograms.

Of course, you would need to spend a lot of time training to achieve that.

Gradually applying force my reading passed the 40's and 50's stopping around 67.4kg a score decided so that my adrenaline excuse works and because 72.6 is the average for a male.

Albeit a grown male but 60's should be an average score for our age range...

"Woah! What the—"

"Damn I knew you were strong after you did that and when you trained with me but still you can't compare" Cutting off Yamauchi Sudo patted my head like a dog.

"*cough* Yeah well I was just holding back. Y'know don't want to steal Horikita from yo-aagck!" Once again Sudo headlocked Yamauchi.

"I got 67.4 as my score"

"Your really strong Ayanokouji-kun" Hirata beamed as I reported.

Huh?

"No, isn't that just the average?"

"No the average is somewhere around 45, maybe 50?"

sigh* Maybe if this is class A or C with Albert a score of 67 would be average but this was class D.

"Thanks"

"Hirataaa, please. Please can you give me some bonus points! I got 42.6 but can you just make it up to 50 so I can impress Kikyou-chan, please!"

Hirata smiled, writing down 42.6 for Ike but looking at his notebook my score definitely isn't average.

In fact, without Kouenji I am currently second in the rankings meaning Sae will have her wish of me semi-participating in this festival.

Once the scores were collected I indeed did place second with Hirata getting 57.9kg placing third overall.

"Now that we have this it means that for the four way tug of war we can go with Sudo-kun, Ayanokouji-kun, me and Miyake-kun"

"What the heck is four tug of war anyways?" Sudo asked and his confusion was shared among my classmates who also didn't know.

"I haven't heard of it before, either, so I looked into it. It's pretty much exactly what its name says. It's a tug-of-war competition in which four people are chosen from each of the four classes, for a total of sixteen people. It sounds like it's a tug-of-war contest where those sixteen people pull simultaneously" Hirata said.

I see so unlike in a normal game of tug-of-war, where you could just rely on your strength, some tactics would be necessary.

Hirata wrote down the four- way tug-of-war participants in his notebook ready to move on.

"Hey, Hirata, are we not getting any more chances to enter events?"

"Oh no, it's not like that. It's just, well, I think that competitions like the scavenger hunt are based more on luck than athleticism"

"Luck? So, how are we going to decide that?"

"Simplicity is best. How about we go with rock-paper-scissors?"

Once again fate showed me it's cruel and wicked ways and I ended up winning along with Yukimura, Sotomura, Mori and Maezono.

"All right that's the line up all done. Please keep this a secret only remembering your roles and don't take any photos" Hirata passed around the notebook while Horikita came over to me.

"You even more depressed than usual"

"The universe is against me"

"You have spent too much time with Sotomura-kun" Horikita looked annoyed but there is no point crying over spilt milk now.

sigh* "I thought I could have a break"

( づ｡ ‿‿ ｡ ) づ

"Sakura?" Looking down at the shy red faced girl who called me out here I decided to take a seat and wait for her to calm down.

We are currently sitting on a bench which looks out to the sea in an area unfrequented by students.

I know this because I often run past this in the mornings.

Sakura had messaged me calling me here after gym class because she needs to ask me something but due to her friend Sakura is now a tomato unable to form words let alone a sentence.

"Ayanopon! No that doesn't sound right...Koujipon? Ayapon! Hmm..." A girl with waist-length blue hair and a mole below her left eye called out to me with various combinations of my name she calls "nicknames".

She is Hasebe Haruka and she is Sakura's as well as my new friend.

We met before the pool incident in the summer and my stomach still turns in fear when I see her. The spice eating demon.

Flashback
Ｏ ( ) Ｏ

[Ayanokouji-kun please can you come to Kekyia mall at 10am tomorrow? Please if it's okay with you]

[That's fine I have no plans I will see you there] Responding to Sakura's message I continued to eat the wonderful bento Albert had made for me, falling victim to the taste. . "Sakura, how have you been doing lately?" I called out to Sakura who wasn't alone.

"I-I have been d-doing fine. D-did you wait l-long?" She still has her stutter even around me but it is slowly fading and soon she may speak to me without stuttering.

"Only 10 minutes and I had something to buy anyways but who is your friend?" At this the girl looked up at me giving a difficult expression.

"S-she is H-Hasebe Haruka San from our class" After saying this I remember hearing her name saldy not in the context she would be comfortable with but either way I remember her.

"Hello I am Ayanokouji Kiyotaka. Nice to meet you Hasebe" Extending my hand for a handshake Hasebe also extended hers.

"Nice to meet you Ayanokouji-kun Airi-chan has told me lots about you" She grew a cheeky grin saying this which made Sakura blush furiously and get flustered.

"H-Hase—" Cutting Sakura off with a soft playful chop to the head Hasebe spoke up teasingly.

"Didn't I tell you to call me my first name? Or if you want...you can call me onee-san" Pushing away the laughing Hasebe Sakura buried her face in her hands with steam coming off her head.

"Awww, c'mon don't be like that or are you shy because Ayanonon is here?" Poking Sakura's side giggling Hasebe teased the lifeless idol showing their closeness or strong friendship.

"S-s-stop! H-Haruka-san" Meekly Sakura said this but Hasebe wanted something more now.

"Call me onee-san, Airi-chan"

" O...o-onee...san" Sakura's barely audible voice slowly formed the word onee-san satisfying Hasebe as she jumped onSakura hugging her in her breasts.

"Hey Ayanopon-Ayanopon! That's it!" She exclaimed, pointing her finger at me triumphantly.

"That's what?" I asked, tilting my head.

"Your nickname! Ayanopon"

"Do I have a choice?"

"You don't like it. Hmm...I will have to think of a better one but for now, you are Ayanopon!"

sigh* Where did the shy Sakura-like girl from moments before go?

"Let's go get some food" She suggested, causing Sakura's head to shoot up.

"A-actually I-I'm not hungry" Slowly backing away trying to get out of Hasebe's range Sakura declined but Hasebe lunged at her pulling her arm cutting her escape short.

"What are you saying Airi-chan! This is your chance to eat with Ayanonpon, like a date" I didn't hear the end of the sentence but whatever it was caused Sakura to go pale and almost faint.

"I will let you go eat then" Turning around to escape what my intuition and stomach sensed is a dangerous situation I started to leave.

"Where are you going? We are all going to eat together!" Pulling my arm and dragging us away Hasebe then put my stomach taste-buds and mouth through the blazing inferno that is spicy food.

Not just the normal spicy food, Hasebe is a connoisseur of extremely spicy food.

Back to the present
ಠ 益 ಠ

"Kiyopon! Yes Kiyopon!" Finally deciding on the perfect nickname for me Hasebe or Haruka as she asked me to call her, smiled victoriously.

"What did you call me for Sakura?"

"U-umm...c-can you help me...?" Her timid nature returned as she couldn't even make eye contact or be audible enough for me to hear.

"Sorry I didn't catch that. Can you repeat it?"

"..."

"Cmon Airi-chan, you made up your mind earlier and Kiyopon is nice and won't reject you" Haruka patted Sakura's back boosting her confidence.

But why does it sound like a confession?

"C...C-can..." Sakura stopped looking down at her hands, slumping her shoulders like she had given up.

Here I thought she had made progress.

"Can you help me!?" Suddenly Sakura stood up shouting at the top of her lungs.

Instantly though she realized what she did and bowed apologising but if she is asking for help hopefully this might mean...

"Help with what?"

"W-well back at Sudo's trial you said I should do it for myself and n-not the class...but then on the i-island y-you had to wait for me because I am weak" Tear droplets started falling from her eyes but I watched as Sakura kept talking.

"A-and then on the *sob* c-cruise ship I-I was also *sob* useless so...so I don't *sob* I-I don't want to hold the class back any more"

Speaking between sobs Sakura's plea for help along with her acknowledgement at how weak she is...

It is impressive.

For everyone else this isn't what you can call growth or rather monumental growth but for Sakura this is a revelation and now if she can act on it then it will be better.

This doesn't mean she should expose her past as an idol or try to befriend everyone, it just means slowly expanding her friendship group and slowly growing her presence in class.

"So what do you need me to do?" This is the part I am still confused with.

"Well we saw how you got second on the grip strength so we thought you could help train us. Also some girls still talk about your body during swim classes so you must exercise so we thought you could train us. Please?" Haruka spoke this time and both looked at me with tearful and determined eyes.

"Couldn't you ask Hirata or Miyake?"

"N-no"

"Well I can't get close to Hirata because of Karuizawa and her group and it would bring too much attention, also he is busy and I don't know Miyake-kun too well" It looks like the way of the loner is hard for anyone not just me or Sakura.

"Fine but I am only doing it for you two and no one else. I also want you both to study and not be dragged down if you don't win"

"Yes Sensei!" Laughing to herself, Haruka stood up puffing her chest trying to look serious.

"Y-yes"

"We will train in the mornings and during school, meaning twice a day every day but a Sunday. I will text you the remaining details later but this must be kept secret from the others"

"Why?"

"I don't like attention" Saying this phrase which is like a shared motto among us three both of them nodded agreeing to keep it silent.

Although it is trouble taking them on to train, I can't help but see if this helps Sakura grow and what she becomes.

~( ω )

"Ahh!" Finally raising her head from her book Hiyori let out a cute shriek startled by my presence.

Remembering she is in a library Hiyori bowed flustered and apologising for her cute outburst.

"Sorry for startling you"

"N-no sorry I was just really interested in this book and forgot about everything else. How long have you been here?"

"About 5 minutes ago, I didn't want to disturb you because you looked happy reading the book" With this a pink blush crept through her cheeks as she smiled at me.

"Oh! Here, it's a book I really liked as a child and is the reason I started reading mystery novels" She slid the book over and it is Agatha Christie's ABC murders.

"Thank you if you want we could read it now, together"

"Yes that would be fun and I want to see how my best friend reacts to it!" Her pure smile of enjoyment relaxed me so we put the book in the middle and read it together.

Unconsciously both of us had closed the distance with our shoulders brushing against each other and heads both leaned in to read the book finding solitude in each other's silent company.

Looking ahead I hope to keep these moments or have even more of them with Hiyori.

Is this trust?

Can she fix me? Will I be able to show emotion to her and smile?

"How did you..."

Hiyori spoke up as I closed the book. Both are finished and I have to say it was satisfying but right now our faces are practically touching.

"Sorry!" Moving her head away, covering it with her hands and facing away from me, Hiyori let out another squeak.

"It's alright I enjoyed the book"

"Y-Yeah...thank you..." Her flustered red face and ears looked cute and hiding behind her hands fidgeting in her chair made me feel a warmth inside.

"I am going to go. Thank you, it is a brilliant book" Leaving Hiyori and the now awkward atmosphere behind, I made my way to the dorms.

But why did I feel warm inside?

With Kiyo and Hiyori I'm thinking of having them start to get closer after the sports festival and then Christmas have the confession and then wholesomeness after that.

I just struggle with the writing/developing of their feelings which can be seen with the final part.

Also I have a plan for the Sakura backstory but I don't know if I should do it now or in the Kiyo group.

Part 30

"Hey who are you looking at!?" Ike shouted at the spectators from classes B and A who lined up at the windows watching us.

I felt two or three gazes linger on me for a few seconds from class B's side but other than that the reconnaissance was to be expected.

"Hey aren't they from class B?"

"Hey Kanji look over there as well it's class A!" Pointing out the spectators Ike and Yamauchi complained loud enough to be heard because of the windows being open but the spectators showed no signs of moving.

"They started fast" Coming to my side, Horikita looked at the spectators.

"No one from class C, huh?" As expected she too noticed the missing presence of class C only raising her suspicions.

"I guess he has better things to do" Focusing on Haruka and Sakura doing their stretches and light warm up.

As agreed I will start training them from today, we will meet up at 5am for a two hour session primarily focused on cardio and then we will meet again at 7pm for another two hour session of cardio.

Getting six and a half hours sleep, at minimum, from 10pm till 4:30am they will be well rested and not sleep in class. Also using their points effectively to change their diets in order to garner better results I have given them a pretty harsh regime.

However given their current ability this is necessary.

From first hand experience I know Sakura has terrible cardio and athletic prowess and assuming that Haruka is similar, if not slightly better, then they both are at the bottom or near it for our class.

With having only a month to prepare I don't expect them to grow by leaps and bounds but if Sakura really wants to spread her wings and fly then this will show her how hard a task that actually is.

"If you know something maybe you could inform me instead of staring at Sakura-san and Hasebe-san" Poking my arm Horikita prodded me for information.

"I don't know anything about his plans other than he has them"

"Well I know that but I wanted to get an idea of what it is. I mean he must have great confidence in his plan otherwise he would be spying and knowing that is unsettling"

"Maybe, maybe not" Sticking to my cryptic ways Horikita just shook her head.

"Suzune. Hey, Suzune, you got a minute?" Snapping Horikita out of her thoughts, Sudo approached, though Horikita's stern grim expression didn't look reassuring.

"Haven't I told you not to use my first name so casually if at all" Glaring down the confident Sudo Horikita gave a firm warning.

"W-what's wrong with me using it? Does it really bother you that much?"

"Yes. My first name is for people whom I am close to and not just anyone and everyone. If you continue using it so casually after this I will make sure you regret it" Poor Sudo.

Misunderstanding his intentions and feelings Horikita forcefully shut him down with a threat.

The sharp glint of a compass crossed my mind making the small puncture wounds in my arm tingle.

Definitely poor Sudo.

"W-well then how about if I beat everyone in our class proving to you that I'm no longer the useless idiot you saved twice anymore, then can you let me?"

"I don't understand why my first name is so important to you but if you want to prove yourself then get the best out of our whole year and then I will allow it"

Horikita surprisingly extended an olive branch to Sudo and although he will have a tough time achieving this goal he doesn't look to be backing down.

"Deal!"

"Just remember failure means never being able to call me my first name ever" Back to her usual stern rigid ways Horikita spoke to Sudo.

"Y-yeah..."

Leaving me and Horikita alone again Sudo raced off to help with training, Horikita too looked to be leaving but I have one more topic of discussion.

"Horikita one last question" Looking at me to continue, Horikita stopped moving.

"What do you think of Sakayanagi?"

"It's rather hard to comment on her let alone form an opinion given that she hasn't been active in any of our exams so far and will likely not be too involved in this one"

Pausing to think Horikita started to give her opinion, "She is obviously one of the most recognisable students in our year along with Yamada, Katsuragi and Ichinose"

"Her disability and cane do make her stand out...did you say Ichinose?" Glaring at me Horikita swiftly responded.

"Other people's opinions and form what I have heard she is even noted among second and third years that's all I meant"

( 4.5 pool scene Horikita was jealous of Ichinose's proportions)

"Besides stating the obvious I think she is dangerous"

"How so?"

"Rumour has it that she is the smartest in our academic year and can even compete with some senpais, not only that but her placement in class A and the fact she is a leader means she must be dangerous"

"Thanks that's all I wanted to ask" Walking away feeling her gaze linger before moving on Horikita was rather insightful.

Ichinose told me she is the complete opposite of Katsuragi on the island and this will most likely be the last time Katsuragi stands as class leader. I needed to make sure Horikita was wary of her or at least considered Sakayanagi a potential threat.

Whether this is true or not will be revealed in the next special exam but for now she is the wild card in this competition.

For now my focus is on the completely red faced flustered Sakura and smirking Haruka.

"Haruka, Sakura. You have done your stretches as instructed and a warm up jog right?" Sakura nodded, unable to speak while Haruka turned to me brimming with energy.

"Yes Sensei!" Saluting me shouting slightly Haruka joked.

"Please don't call me Sensei"

"Yes coach!"

sigh* What a troublesome girl...

"Ten press-ups"

"Eh!? C-cmon Kiyopon I'm just having some fun okay?" A puppy eyed Haruka joined her hands in front of her looking for me to let her off the hook.

"Fifteen" Saldy I won't.

Abuse of power? Not really I am just getting revenge for the spicy food she made me eat.

"But my arms already hurt from all the press-ups you made me do this morning"

"I can up it to twenty"

"Grr, I'm going to make you the spiciest food you have ever tasted, Kiyopon!" Muttering something under her breath, Haruka started doing the press-ups.

"Sakura it is time for the race and I know you are tired from running this morning but remember to pace yourself and it's okay to come last" Sending her off with words of encouragement me and Haruka, after she finished the press-ups, watched Sakura's race.

pant* "How...*pant* How did I do...*pant*" Face red from exhaustion panting raggedly, Sakura finished last.

"You did good Airi-chan! After Kiyopon has trained us you will do a lot better!" Handing a bottle of water to Sakura, Haruka praised her effort.

"I could see you were tired from this morning but you did focus on your own pace and not others around you and just like Haruka said if we train like we plan and you learn the breathing techniques you could beat the likes of Shinohara"

Not that Shinohara is gifted or anything but she is a good target for Sakura to aim for.

"Now you're up Haruka"

"Hai!"

٩(͡๏̯͡๏ ) ۶

Two weeks until the sports festival and our class has become slightly stronger.

Sudo has been appointed as our leader or representative for the festival only boosting his ego and confidence but he really has committed to showing Horikita he had grown, his temper is still there but not as bad.

Hirata acts as a substitute or vice captain mostly dealing with the girls while Sakura and Haruka are left in my care.

Both of them have really committed to the training. At first they complained about the pain or how hard it was but now they are complaining less.

Sakura can now finish it in sixteen seconds which is the average for a seventeen year old but before our training she was far below the average standard for our age.

Haruka could run it in fourteen seconds which is impressive and above average for our age.

These times meant they wouldn't place last depending on the competition, around fifth place.

Horikita has a problem with her being unable to match her partner's pace in the three legged race.

Other than that we are looking in the best possible shape we could be.

Right now I am hunting or to be precise collecting another spy.

The sound of panting accompanied by plodding footsteps signalled they were here on the cameraless third floor of the hot stuffy special annex.

"Hah? I thought they would be waiting for me" Wiping the sweat off their brow a message from Karuizawa signalled it was safe to go ahead.

"Ugph!" Falling to their knees from my well placed liver shot pain painted their expression.

thud* "Arrrghh!" Slamming their head to the floor preventing my face from being seen as I drove my knee into their spine.

"Totsuka Yahiko" Tensing up at the sound of his name Yahiko (first name) tried harder to break free.

"You bastard who are you! I bet Sakayanagi or that thug Ryuuen put you up to it but—aaah!" Digging my knee deeper into his spine as I pushed down harder on his head Yahiko screamed in pain.

"Shout or scream again and I will break your legs"

Yahiko acts superior and looks down at the lower classes but he becomes petrified when confronted so when I said this all resistance stopped.

Placing the phone in my hand so that he can see it I pressed play on a video.

The video.

"The SD card containing the rest of this video is in your room" On display after the video ended were pictures of his room. "If you don't do as I ask I will report you to the school and have you expelled"

"Wha! Y-you bastard! How did you get in-arrgh!" Silencing him once more I pushed his head harder against the floor.

"Do you not understand your situation? Your life is in my hands, your future in this school can vanish with a push of a button"

"Katsuragi-kun—"

"Katsuragi what? How can he protect you from this? This shows a clip from an SD card which captures Ichinose, Horikita, Kushida, Hiyori and many other girls changing. Their naked bodies on full display without them even knowing"

Keeping the SD card could have been a big mistake because if caught I couldn't explain it but it is also a great weapon.

"You may not be a pervert but I bet Sakayanagi and her faction would paint you as one if they knew about this to get you expelled and damage Katsuragi's reputation"

Katsuragi is Yahiko's idol and using the fact that he despises Sakayanagi this threat plays a crucial role in getting my way.

Sakayanagi may not do this but if it was me I certainly would paint Yahiko in a bad light to damage Katsuragi and given she has been sabotaging him constantly this sounds plausible.

"Then again Sakayanagi probably won't have to do anything because you have Ichinose and Kushida on the video who are popular among the second and third years so logic and a trail would be thrown out of the window. Not only the senpais but Ryuuen would kill you because you have Shiina Hiyori getting naked on video and he is very protective"

His situation is dire and impossible to get out of especially under the conditions he is in right now.

Hot stuffy annex making it harder to think.

Being violently threatened and not giving any room to compromise.

Yahiko can only do one thing and that is—

"Fine! Fine! What do you want? If I help you please don't upload that video" Good.

"I want class A's participation table"

"Huh? No, no I—"

"Then I will send it"

"No, no, no, no, no, no, I will get it!"

"If you warn Katsuragi or try to change it in any way then I will upload this after the festival and end your time here"

"I-I got it, I got it" Relesign him, masking my presence and darting off into one of the corridors I started messaging Karuizawa.

[Done]

[Finally! Nobody walked past and his shouting and scremino the wasn't too loud. But you really are cruel]

[Fear and pain go hand in hand. You should know that very well by now]

[Bastard]

[He's gone and I'm leaving] Ending our conversation Karuizawa had her usual attitude and I sent a message to Yahiko using an anonymous email.

[Message me the table here or the video goes public]

The clip I had shown was selected by Karuizawa because watching the video would raise issues in the future but it only showed Ichinose lifting up her top revealing a little bit of her bra before cutting off but this id enough to know what happens next.

Kushida had given me his number so I could track his movements and I had swapped phones with Sotomura in case anyone is tracking mine allowing me to move freely and send messages from his phone making sure nothing leads back to me.

I also had Sotomura get a duplicate card and take pictures of Yahiko's room while placing notes in hidden places so that when he roots around for the SD card he will find them instead making it more believable that the card is actually in his room.

Deleting the video I left the annex heading for the dorms to shower and then train Haruka and Sakura but this table will help us a lot.

Sakayanagi will realize it has been leaked after or during the festival and Yahiko's behaviour will only allow her to crush Katsuragi faster bringing her to the stage.

Now all I have to do is receive the table and manipulate class B and we should be able to beat class A in this festival.

Beating class B is highly unlikely and class C will be an interesting battle but Horikita will be in charge of fighting that battle.

( ΓД)Γ

After classes finished the next day Hirata and Horikita and I headed off to our meeting with Ichinose and Kanzaki.

I felt Kushida's gaze on me, probably wondering about Yahiko or maybe worried about me saving Horikita but I will talk to her tonight.

"Hasebe-san and Sakura-san are now a lot better thanks to you Ayanokouji-kun" Hirata said beaming at me.

"Thanks Hirata but it's a lot easier training two people than a whole class like you" Returning the compliment Hirata smiled, shaking his head.

"Yes but Sakura-san is very shy and won't even talk or approach me. You are helping her and pushing her to work harder. Hasebe-san is also very happy around you and being helped by you just like Sakura-san"

"Thanks" Awkwardly accepting his praise because I didn't know what else to do and he didn't look like he would back down.

"You are also doing good Horikita-san" Probably feeling her gaze on us Hirata complimented Horikita.

"If only my partners were more competent for the three legged race I wouldn't have any worries" Hirata looked to speak about that but I just grabbed his arm shaking my head.

Horikita will crash and fail in front of her brother all because of her own stubborn superior attitude and then Ryuuen will strike and it will all be her fault.

Of course I can put a stop to it or nudge her towards the correct path but I think doing it this way will kill two birds with one stone.

"Good afternoon Ichinose-san, Kanzaki-kun" Hirata greeted them on behalf of me and Horikita as we took our seats.

"Afternoon Hirata-kun, Ayanokouji-kun, Horikita-san"

"Afternoon" Ichinose and Kanzaki greeted us and a waiter came over to take our orders.

Kanzaki ordered an espresso, Ichinose ordered a strawberry frappuccino, Horikita ordered tea, Hirata ordered a latte while I had black coffee.

"While we wait, how about we talk about how our preparations have been going?" Like a natural Ichinose started a conversation.

"We are doing as well as we can do, I will not give anything away but I think we will do okay in this festival" Hirata gave a general outline not giving away anything.

"That's perfect because it's the same for us! We are really looking forward to going head to head with everyone and trying our hardest for victory while having fun"

"So are we"

"Then let's have fun doing our best together and against each other" Ichinose and Hirata talked between themselves because Kanzaki, Horikita and myself aren't big conversationalists.

"Here are your orders"

""Thank you""

Now our orders were here Horikita could broach the main topic for discussion.

"I have been able to get a hold of class A's complete participation table and because we are in an alliance and on the same team I thought I should share it" Unfolding a piece of paper with the table written on Ichinose and Kanzaki looked surprised.

"How did you get your hands on this?" Kanzaki inspected Horikita's expression.

"I won't reveal my source but this is the table for class A. I can tell you that with 100% certainty"

"B-but this is something which should be highly guarded and for you to have it..." Trailing off in thought, Ichinose inspected the paper before pushing it back to Horikita.

"We won't be using this" Kanzaki nodded in approval but Horikita looked dumbfounded.

"What!? Why wouldn't you?"

"Because we want to fight fair and this would be unfair on class A. I won't tell them you have it or it's been leaked but I would rather not use things like this to win"

As predicted.

"Very well" Taking back the paper Horikita still looked confused.

We finished the group event line up and table before leaving and Horikita followed me to a place where we could talk.

"Why would she refuse it?"

"Ichinose and her class are honourable honest students who want to have fun and fight using all their strength not relying on underhanded tactics like knowing the other classes participation table"

"If you knew that then why have me show her?"

sigh* "You have a lot to learn" Horikita's current focus was on Ichinose but the person I actually wanted to see the table was Kanzaki.

"Showing the table to Ichinose wasn't the goal. Showing it to Kanzaki was"

"Why? He agreed to not use it like Ichinose"

"Kanzaki along with a few people in class B are like you and have pride in their ability, meaning even if he refuses to use the whole table he will most likely target the bets of class A to show he can beat them. He will also probably tell others in class B about it or influence the table making itself"

"So you showed him it so that they would indirectly target class A"

"Yes"

And no. I showed it because the chances of them targeting the weaker members of class A would be reduced meaning we could pit our stronger students against the weak of class A and avoid class B's strongest helping to maximise point gains.

However this all depends on Kanzaki's pride and the pride of Ichinose's classmates.

"I won't ask how you got it because I know better but I thought you weren't going to help in this exam?" Horikita looked at me curious about my motives.

"Who knows what I am doing"

"Tch" Clicking her tongue and walking away, Horikita left me.

ping*

[Can we talk?] As expected Kushida messaged me and perfectly on time.

[I am not in my dorm right now so give me 5 minutes and then you can come by] Left on read I headed to my dorm waiting for Kushida.

Knock Knock

Click "Come in"

Taking her shoes off and entering quickly avoiding being seen, Kushdia looked serious.

"Kiyotaka-kun I—"

"Put your phone on the table and empty your pockets" Cutting Kushida off with my cold voice, she looked at me surprised.

"W-why?"

"To prevent being recorded"

"Fine!" Using her own dark "other Kushida" voice she emptied her pockets and placed her phone in the table.

I don't trust Kushida.

Unlike Horikita Kushida is actively trying to expel me whereas Horikita wanted, probably still wants, to put me off work in order to reach class A.

For Kushida I am the person she fears most like Karuizawa but unlike with Karuizawa I am the person Kushida hates the most because I know her secret which she desperately tries to hide and wants to bury.

Having her life in my hands isn't acceptable for Kushida and probably tortures her everyday and time she sees me.

Especially now that she is conspiring against Horikita I need to take countermeasures myself.

"Do you want tea?"

"Umm, what do you have?" As if nothing had happened and the heavy tense atmosphere which had just existed hadn't happened I moved to my kitchen to prepare the tea.

Hornykouji: "Green, green, blue and yellow makes green and green tea"

"Ice, green, black and barley"

"Umm then...green please!"

Making two green teas because it's simpler I handed one cup to Kushdia who sat at my table accepting it with a smile.

"So what did you want to speak about?" Taking a sip of her piping hot tea Kushida looked at me suspiciously.

"I have no voice recorders and my phone is on my bed and if you don't believe me then you can leave"

"It's about the sports festival or more like it's about her" Not wanting to leave Kushdia spoke barely able to stop her hatred and disgust leaking when she said "her"

"What about her?"

"I need to know if you are serious about what you said during the cruise. That you won't interfere if I replace Horikita as the leader" She doesn't trust me.

Not that I blame her, I did choke her and almost crush her wrist on the roof along with constantly using her and not revealing why.

Luckily for her I didn't threaten to rape her like I did with Karuizawa.

"Whether it is you or Horikita I do not care as long as you don't become a threat to me" Peering over the rim of my cup looking at her I threatened her.

"I-I won't"

"Good because if you do I show everyone what you really are"

Silence descended as we both took sips of our tea glancing at each other from time to time wary of each other.

ლ (́ ౪ ‵ლ )

"Kukuku, fancy seeing you here"

Who will win?

To clear up the big elephant—

Ichinose refused the gavel because she wants to fight fair and with her full strength which is a shared belief in their class but she won't completely ignore it.

Her memory is good and Kanzaki also saw and memorised important names meaning they will tweak their order slightly so they can compete with the best of class A, because Shibata and Kanzaki are confident in their ability.

Ichinose thinks using it would be unfair and not winning using their own strength but pinning their best against class A's best isn't cheating or underhanded.

If I haven't already said this I have exams next week and am currently doing work experience so my schedule is pretty full so sorry for the lack of uploads but you will have to bear with for another week.

My Book Buddie

The Sports Festival will be here shortly but with my lacking physical ability I can't help but feel like I am letting down the class.

Ryuuen-kun has a plan and reassures me that I won't be holding us back but I still can't help feeling bad.

Because of the Sports Festival Kiyotaka has been busy so I haven't been able to see him. Albert, just like me, misses spending time with him talking about flags or what it was like where he used to live.

Maybe after the Festival is over we can all have another picnic together.

click* "Shiina?" * click* "Shiina!" Shaken from my thoughts and greeted by the loud voice of my newest friend, Nishino-san, I looked around the room.

The room in question was obviously my room because of the books neatly lined up on the bookshelf in series order along with the classical piano notes book that Kiyotaka got me.

"Ah! Sorry Nishino-san...what were you saying?"

After class had ended I remember inviting Nishino-san and Mio-san back to my room for some tea and a talk since Nishino-san had something important to ask.

"Oh well umm...I was thinking of waiting until Tsundere-chan gets back from flirting with Ryuuen, but I guess I can just talk about it now" Nishino-san placed her mug back on the table giving me a serious look.

"Some girls in our class are spreading rumours that you and some brown haired student from class C are dating" Listening to her say this my body froze up.

Me and Kiyotaka dating!?

He is my first and closest friend and I must admit that he is—that being with him feels different than when I am with Albert or Daichi-kun...it feels better somehow. Like when I am reading with him, just the two of us together reading or when I listen to him play the piano, I feel like I am floating.

Floating on a cloud as something warms me up from the inside.

But us...dating!!!

My cheeks flooded with warmth at the thought of us dating.

"Wait...why are you blushing!? You're not actually dating him are you!" Shouting at the top of her lungs, Nishino-san made me become even more flustered.

"N-No! W-we aren't dating..." A high pitched squeaky voice escaped my mouth as I hid my furiously blushing flustered face behind my hands.

"Then why are you blushing? Don't tell me you like him!" An angry disappointed voice came from Nishino-san as I continued hiding my face.

"...yes I like him..." Muttering just loud enough for her to hear Nishino-san's brow furrowed.

"How can Ibuki-san allow this?" Folding her arms huffing, Nishino-san held hatred towards Kiyotaka.

Why does she hate him?

"Allow what?"

"Shiina-san has fallen for some brown haired and brown eyed guy from class C!" Standing up and closing the distance between herself and Mio-san, Nishino shouted.

"..." Looking at me Mio-san looked back at the fuming Nishino-san, "I admit he is gloomy but if Hiyori and he doesn't try anything I'm fine with it" Smiling at her words I thanked her in my head.

"But of course he's going to try something! He's a PERVERT for crying out loud!!"

Sorry Kiyo...

"Huh?" Letting out noises of confusion, me and Mio-san looked wide eyed with confusion at Nishino-san.

"What makes you say that?"

"The girls in his class said it"

"No! Kiyotaka is not like that!" Unable to listen to Nishino-san falsely accuse my best friend, I shouted at the top of my lungs.

"Kiyotaka!?" A very confused looking Nishino-san questioned.

"Tch! You stupid idiot!" Kicking Nishino-san in the gut winding her, Mio-san shouted. "The person who Hiyori likes is Ayanokouji . You were talking about Ike, who is a disgusting pervert but Ayanokouji is just a gloomy idiot"

"Oh...sorry Shiina-chan...Tsundere-chan"

Sorry Kiyo but because Nishino isn't familiar with either of them and just knows about the brown hair then she would have saw Ike and assumed that's who they were taking about.

Nishino-san had mistook Kiyotaka for someone else in class C who has a bad reputation and sought to protect me from making any mistakes or getting hurt but Kiyotaka would never hurt me.

"So...Ayanokouji hmmm?" Cutting through the awkward tense silence, Nishino-san turned to me grinning.

"Y-yes..."

"What's he like? Is he smart? Funny? Athletic? Hot?" Bombarded with questions flustering me as I thought of answers to all of them, Mio-san pulled back Nishino-san.

"So was that the urgent thing you called us here for?"

"Well...yes, but you can understand why I was worried because girls in our class are spreading rumours that our cute little Shiina-san is dating a pervert"

"Who's doing what?" Mio-san asked with a heavy cold voice causing Nishino-san to squeal and hide behind me.

"M-Manabe and her group"

"Tch! Stupid bitch...Hiyori I will talk to you later" Exiting my room Mio-sans eyes glowed, burning with anger.

"So are you going to date him?"

"Nishino-san!" Squeaking as I covered my face Nishino-san laughed at my antics.

But should I?

I mean I like him and when we read together the other day we got really close to each other.

"How about asking him to spend time with you after the festival on a totally not a date, date"

Procrastination and writers bloc is killing me.

Exams are done just waiting on results.

The spoilers for Vol 4.5 look good, have to read vol 4 first, but I am looking forward to it and when Ryuuen finds the culprit.

ヾ (@ @)

Part 31

"Kukuku, fancy seeing you here" Standing in the lane to my right Ryuuen called out to me.

Ignoring Ryuuen for now I turned to my left to speak to Albert, Good luck Albert and let's celebrate with Hiyori when this is over

Mhm, good luck Nodding his head before readying his stance, Albert looked down the lane at the finish line.

"Ignoring me or do you not have your own voice and have to get that bitch Suzune to speak up for you"

"Neither. I am just not good at conversing with people and my classmates might think I am betraying them. You know talking to the leader of class D" His face twitched at my mention of class D, but Ryuuen didn't respond to my provocation either.

"Soon you defectives will be bowing to me. Especially after I expose Suzune" Mumbling to himself Ryuuen readied his stance.

Should I take first?

Bang!

Earlier

The Sports Festival finally descended upon the school and after another boring opening ceremony the team leaders stepped up to give a team talk to their respective teams.

Spirits were relatively high as the army of students, all wearing the school's jerseys, marched towards the stands.

Facilities like water stations, temporary medical cottages with air-conditioning and a camera situated above the finish were all in place to ensure the Festival runs smoothly and there are no close calls.

During the time we were given to train our class made slim marginal improvements across the board, nothing special enough to guarantee victory, but enough to unify us more and make us a little bit stronger overall.

Sakura and Haruka's growth is different because the method and level of training was different, but if they continue with an easier routine then by the next annual festival they very well could be one of our strongest competitors, from the girls' side.

However there are also those in our class whose improvement was non-existent and the chances of them placing higher than 8th is zero.

( Not fat shaming or shaming people who are bad at athletics)

Ijūin, Sotomura and Hondou are all examples of this and their glum mood and uncomfortable expressions reflected their bad athletic abilities.

"All right, I showed off on the island a bit but now is the time to really show off and impress Kikyou-chan!" Ironically Ike's confidence and spirit wasn't crushed or affected by his poor physical ability.

Looking over to Kushida to check her reaction, I saw her face twitch before returning to her usual smile.

"The first event will be the first year boys 100 meter dash. We will begin in 10 minutes so be prepared" A man, who looked to be in his 60's, announced.

Ping!

Please can you come meet me now.
I am near water station 1.
Thanks Hiyori.

As usual, meeting members from the other team is not advised or not allowed, so once again I will not be able to meet up or talk with Hiyori.

I wonder what she wants to talk about? I thought as I made my way to the meeting point.

"Hiyori?" Arriving at the meeting point I was greeted by a lone Hiyori, though someone was watching our interaction, who looked nervous as she fiddled with her fingers, darting her eyes to and fro.

"K-Kiyotaka!" Jumping a little as I called her name, snapping her from her trance, Hiyori's actions looked cute.

"Sorry I was just thinking"

"Normally you only do that when reading" Hiyori's smile brightened at my attempt at a joke, but something was definitely troubling her.

"Umm...Kiyotaka a-after the Sports Festival do you want to go watch a movie together"

"Like we did after we first met?" I still remember watching that movie with Hiyori and how happy she looked watching it.

She also looked cute.

"You still remember?"

"Of course, I would never forget a movie I watched with my best friend" At this point I believe that this is true because our relationship is that of best friends, for now, so I am not lying.

Hiyori is Hiyori.

There isn't another face to her or another persona or any of that.

She also doesn't get involved in class conflicts and has never tried to manipulate or use me as a tool for her class so I can trust her.

Also if I was to transfer into her class, dating Hiyori would be the closest thing to a peaceful life I could get because of her caring and kind personality.

"Thank you!" Jumping into my arms Hiyori buried her face in my chest hugging me tightly.

"It's okay. Besides, I wanted to spend time with you anyways" Patting her head, I spoke my true thoughts, receiving a bright smile from Hiyori.

Hiyori or Ibuki are my two options for learning about love, so I have chosen Hiyori.

¥

The first group's participants took to the track lining up in their lanes.

Eight lanes and eight runners with only the first four getting points meaning each race was a battle for the top 4.

Class D's atmosphere became nervous as Sudo, our ace and strongest competitor, took to his lane with Makida taking the lane next to him.

This race would greatly impact our morale and confidence so Sudo's performance here is crucial.

"Sudo's good to win this easily! Look at all those fatties and twigs" Ike shouted.

Though he wasn't wrong.

None of the other racers would give Sudo any competition and the same could be said for Makida meaning our class would take first and second place with ease, putting us off to a great start.

Bang!

The pistol fired and Sudo shot off like a bullet completely destroying his competition, leaving everyone behind him as he stormed to the finish followed by Makida.

""Yeah!!""

""Wooo!""

After watching Sudo's landslide our class cheered in support.

"Just as we expected from Sudo-kun" Hirata said, praising Sudo's performance.

"Yeah, it looks like the other classes are also dumbstruck"

The second group's race finished with Miyake taking first place and Kikuchi taking fourth, beaten by a class A and B student.

So now the third group was taking to the line and it looked like a monstrous group.

Kanzaki, Katsuragi, Komiya and Tokitō all took to the line.

(Tokitō is the new character from the 4.5 spoilers, one of the three second years which are coming out of the woodwork. There isn't anything about him so I am assuming he is athletic. Also class C and A don't have much info on them)

"Oy! Look, it's Baldy! I mean Katsuragi!" Pointing out the obvious yet again, Ike's observation skills had yet to fail so far.

"I'm glad I'm not part of that group" Hirata said grimly beside me.

"Me too"

Sadly someone had to be in that group and Horikita had decided to sacrifice Sotomura and Ijūin, guaranteeing 7th and 8th place.

Bang!

Once again the pistol sounded but this time Kanzaki dashed to the finish outclassing Katsuragi who finished fourth due to Komiya.

The rest of the groups went by with Kouenji skipping out in the fourth group costing us points, apparently he had found a way to skip out again and now was 'resting' in the medical cottage.

Hirata came second in the sixth group losing to Shibata and now it was time for my group, the seventh group to take to the line.

"Good luck Kiyopon!"

"G-good luck" Haruka and Sakura both wished me luck as I headed out with Haruka's shouting attracting me more attention than necessary.

I will make her do some press-ups after this.

Hornykouji: Why not burpees?

sigh* I couldn't help but let out a sigh after standing in my lane, what he had done was extremely obvious and slightly tedious.

"Kukuku, fancy seeing you here" Standing in the lane to my right Ryuuen called out to me.

Ignoring Ryuuen for now I turned to my left to speak to Albert, Good luck Albert and let's celebrate with Hiyori when this is over

Mhm, good luck Nodding his head before readying his stance, Albert looked down the lane at the finish line.

"Ignoring me or do you not have your own voice and have to get that bitch Suzune to speak up for you"

"Neither. I am just not good at conversing with people and my classmates might think I am betraying them. You know talking to the leader of class D" His face twitched at my mention of class D, but Ryuuen didn't respond to my provocation either.

"Soon you defectives will be bowing to me. Especially after I expose Suzune" Mumbling to himself Ryuuen readied his stance.

Should I take first?

Bang!

Pushing off the line I felt the wind brush against my face as I sprinted towards the finish.

The sound of Haruka and my classmates cheering, Ryuuen and Albert's feet pushing off the ground as they desperately chased after me and the whistling of the wind all changed into background noise as I barrelled towards the finish.

11.46 seconds.

Not bad considering I was holding back but still far above average for a person my age.

Ryuuen and Albert took second and third place and after congratulating Albert I walked away to the spectator stands.

"Kiyopon! You were so fast!!!" Full of energy Haruka congratulated me and her sentiment was shared by my classmates.

"Congratulations Ayanokouji-kun"

"Thanks Sakura, Haruka. Just remember to do well in your races okay" Giving them a bit of encouragement I walked away to talk to Hirata.

"You were amazing Ayanokouji-kun" Hirata complimented me, flashing a bright smile as I approached.

"Thanks..." Awkwardly scratching the back of my neck I sat down watching the rest of the races.

( *ﾟｪﾟ * )

Not long after my race the girls races had started and Haruka was among the first group to step up.

"Where is Sudo?"

"Who cares! I have way more important things to focus on than him and so should you, I mean look at those jiggling boobs! Hasebe's big jig—" Glaring at Ike cutting his sentence short, I looked over to the cottage.

"That isn't good"

"Let's stop them" Hirata said, coming with me.

As we got nearer we saw Sudo confronting Kouenji with his hand already balled up into a fist.

"Oy! What do you think is the big idea, huh?! Just skipping out on this, you jerk!"

Kouenji however, just continued to act as if none of us were there and continued admiring his reflection.

"Looks like you won't understand until I beat it into you!" Sudo spat, clenching his fist.

"Sudo-kun isn't a good idea. Remember what happened last time? If a teacher sees—" Trying to get through to Sudo, Hirata reasoned only for Sudo to cut him off.

"I don't care! Besides this is a class problem so it won't matter how much sense I knock into this arrogant bastard. Just as long as he doesn't go crawling to the teachers it will be fine!" Sudo snapped and approached Kouenji.

"My, my, I came here out of ill health only to have you give me a headache. *sigh* I tried to avoid being a burden like you but I guess your small mind can't see that Red-hair-kun" Poking the already annoyed bear, Koeunji didn't seem to be afraid of Sudo's threatening aura.

"Don't!" Before he could intervene, Sudo had already thrown a punch aimed for Kouenji's face.

Slap!

"Stop it. Your feeble attempts will not stop me" Catching Sudo's fist in his palm, Kouenji spoke calmly.

"I'll show you feeble!" Sudo hadn't held back with that blow but the fact that Kouenji caught it didn't seem to bother him.

"Both you and puppet girl both think I am unreliable," Kouenji said, shifting Sudo's attention.

"Who? Who is 'puppet girl'?"

"The same girl who you are so devoted to"

"Horikita?"

"In any case, leave now. I'm not feeling well"

"You jerk!"

To prevent a second punch from flying, Hirata stepped between Sudou and Kouenji. "Let's all just calm down a little. Kouenji-kun's attitude is a problem, but if he says he's not feeling well, then he has the right to rest. Besides, violence is bad, no matter the circumstances"

"But he's definitely lying! He said the same thing back on the island"

"I didn't know you have a medical degree, red hair-kun," Mocked Kouenji.

"Bastard! So what are you just going to lie there and not participate and then leach off all our effort!?"

"If I recover, I will of course participate. If I recover"

"The next competition is about to begin, Sudou-kun. As our leader, your absence impacts our morale" Hirata said, trying to get Sudo away from here.

"Fine. I'll head on back"

"Thank you" Escorting Sudo out Hirata return back to the stands but just as I was about to leave Kiriyama appeared.

"There you are Kouhai!"

"Oh, it seems today I am popular. Shame that only the riffraff are being attracted to my charm though"

"Huh? What did you say?"

"I am not feeling well so I would like you to make this quick or just leave. I have no time for tedious things" Kouenji replied, combing his hair.

"Tch! You aren't even ill. And after your speech at the first meeting I thought you would actually be talented but I see that you are just hiding away in the medical tent" Kiriyama expressed his disappointment with Kouenji but I have seen this play out too many times so I headed back to Hirata.

"Kiyopon! Kiyopon! Did you see?" Haruka came up to me dragging a tired Sakura along with her.

"Sorry I was busy with Kouenji and Sudo" I had actually hoped to see their races and watch their progress but sadly Sudo's temper got in the way.

"Well I came fourth and Airi-chan came fifth! She even beat Shinohara-san from our class" Proudly smiling both Haruka and Sakura had done exceptionally well.

"Congratulations both of you"

"It's all thanks to you coach!"

"Thank you Ayanokouji-kun" Bowing her head Sakura and Haruka's training paid off.

Standing proud beside me we watched as Horikita and Ibuki lined up.

Ibuki hates everything about Horikita, especially her superiority complex, and Horikita has a dislike towards Ibuki as well.

You could say this matchup was fated or just a coincidence like my matchup with Ryuuen and Albert in the lanes to my left and right.

"Hey, I wonder if Ibuki-chan's good at sports?" Miyamoto asked.

"Hell if I know. All I know is Horikita's gonna win, no doubt" Sudo declared earning a "good Sudoggy" from Sotomura.

From personal experience I can't really say who would win but either way it will make things slightly awkward for me.

Bang!

The bullet fired and the girls kicked off towards the finish line.

Having the better start Ibuki charged forward but Horikita soon caught up as Ibuki kept throwing glances at Horikita instead of focusing on the finish line.

Nearing the end Horikita had just managed to scrape past Ibuki getting the win and looking pleased with herself, but it was a battle well fought and if Ibuki was less complacent Horikita wouldn't have caught up.

Kicking the ground in frustration, Ibuki walked off annoyed at the loss to Horikita, but if anything this will only make her work harder so that next time she completely crushes Horikita.

Now that the first year races were finished we all loved it look at our scores and we had racked up a few victories.

Our targeting of class A also helped and it seems our placement of 'deadweights' in their groups is extremely effective.

"You decided to come first" Horikita came up to me checking the scores as well.

"You decided to almost lose if not for Ibuki's hatred of you" Feeling Horikita glare at me I walked back to the stands to watch the second and third years.

Red Team: 1942

White Team: 1960

I miss doing track and field stuff.

Volume 4.5 looks amazing, have to read vol 4 first, but I am hyped for it.

Ichika, Kiryuuin, Sakura, Haruka all looked good on the art work and KiyoxKei!!!!

Polygamy with Ichika could happen, but for now I am happy with

I did good on the tests and stuff just being having an off week so writing is kinda hard.

Part 32

The White Team had taken the lead after the 100 meter dash much to the surprise of the second and third years but not only had the White Team triumphed but so had our class.

In the current point standings we were first followed by class B, D and A.

The gap with class B wasn't as large as the gap with class D but so far our momentum remains unshaken.

The next set of races were the hurdles races and if you touched the hurdle you received a 0.3 second time penalty but knocking them down received a 0.5 second penalty.

"Aight listen up!" Sudo barked, getting the class's attention. "Some of you aren't pulling your weight and if that continues I'll slap you senseless" The unathletic students and the girls all flashed expressions of unease at these words but it was time for the groups to start.

This time Sudo was in the last group and in the first group Sotomura and Ijūin took to the line securing us 7th and 8th place respectively.

"Ugh, maybe if they weren't so fat and lazy they could put up more of a fight" Sudo grumbled, not understanding the significance of their pairing. "Still that Shibata guy is something, better than Hirata that's for sure"

Shibata had easily won the hurdles and the 100 meter dash putting him in a good place to rival Sudo for MVP but Shibata's leadership and motivational skills were far superior to Sudo who acted like a tyrant.

What else would you expect from a class B student though?

"The fourth group please take to the line" The referee said and I took to the line along with Makida.

"We meet again" Standing in the second lane, Kanzaki called out to me.

"Asking you to go easy seems pointless"

"Well after seeing your speed first hand I think holding back would be pointless" He said, chuckling slightly.

"I must also say your classes plan has been more productive than I thought"

Due to Kanzaki being at the meeting and seeing we had and intended to exploit class A's participation table, Kanzaki is able to understand our strategy and how we are able to gain a lead over class B, D and A.

"All thanks to Horikita" Ichinose, thanks to the headache that is Hoshinomiya-Sensei, already suspects and evaluates me higher than I appear, so saying this to Kanzaki may only add more suspicion towards myself.

"Hmm..."

A class D student came in between us cutting our conversation short but after my performance in the 100 meter dash below third would only show I am holding back.

Bang!

At the signal I pushed off my mark sprinting at the same speed I had in the 100 meter dash. Thankfully Kanzaki overtook me storming to first place while I secured second.

Being above average in athletics or being athletic in itself proves nothing.

So doing this much shouldn't come back to bite me.

"Aah..*pant*...I hate this..*pant*.." A very exasperated Yukimura groaned.

"That bad?"

"A-Ayanokouji? Agh I've been cursed..*pant*..back to back seventh place!" He grumbled.

Yukimura is one of our athletically weaker students but unlike most of them he can excel in academics.

"It's not all bad. You can still ace the written tests so don't be discouraged" Patting his shoulder I said trying to encourage him.

"I won't fail but I do mmmh scores will be lower than they have ever been. *sigh* I will hold us back" Yukimura, like Horikita, is desperate to reach class A meaning he also feels responsibility more than other people so he understands how much of a burden he is being.

But if he was so confident that he was wrongly evaluated or so driven to reach class A he would have done something similar to Sakura.

Improve his strengths and iron out his flaws.

Not wanting to give him the hard truth and because it ain't necessary I moved away to watch the girl's matches.

Horikita and Mei-Yu Wang were taking part in the first group and the pale face of Mei-Yu showed the complete lack of confidence she had.

"Horikita-san, this matchup is far worse than we thought" Hirata said as he looked over at the group.

From class A Hirata pointed out Kamuro, a girl with purple hair and a similar stern grumpy expression to Ibuki, and Nishikawa. Both according to Hirata are formidable and among the top of class A.

From class B there was Andō and Amikura who both have moderate to strong physical ability.

Finally from class D there was Yajima and Kinoshita, the fastest of class D's girls.

I suggested for Horikita to participate in this group for exactly this reason.

To confirm that Kushida was successful.

"So winning will be difficult?" Horikita asked dejected.

"Yes"

"I see"

Bang!

Hirata was right and this group was probably the most competitive group that had lined up in any of the year groups with Horikita fighting her hardest to gain a lead on her opponents but she failed.

Kinoshita, Yajima and Nishikawa all passed Horikita who only just scraped fourth place making Andō take fourth and Kamuro take sixth.

"Truly a monstrous group" Hirata mumbled as he watched Horikita trudge back to the stands.

v( ಥ ̯ ಥ )v

Capture the flag was next and though the premise sounds simple this was by far the most dangerous event.

"Now c'mon everyone. That prat Kouenji isn't here so we just gotta make up for that!" Sudo roared trying to boost our fighting spirit.

"Yes! Let's try our hardest and win" Shibata shouted to both class B and C standing next to Sudo.

Our opponents lineup was a fierce one with people like Katsuragi, Ryuuen, Albert and Ishizaki all standing tall and ready to go head to head.

Based on sheer observation alone the Red Team had more manpower or brute strength, but thanks to class B being our partner our unity and team working skills should equal us our meaning it should be a war of time and tactics.

The main goal was to capture the flag twice, taking the win for your team.

Kanzaki and Shibata suggested that rotating our attack pattern would be better so to boost morale and gain momentum we would send our Sudo and Shibata along with the majority of class C while B defended.

Then after the first round Sudo and Shibata would defend while Kanzaki and Hirata attacked.

This meant that we would gain momentum and when they become more desperate in the second round our strongest players are in defence.

Violence like punching and kicking were off limits but pushing, grabbing or a light degree of roughing someone up would be overlooked.

"Hey Ayanokouji, have you ever done this before?" Ike asked, looking nervous.

"No"

"The hell!? Then why are you so calm!"

"It's just a game"

Buzz

The signal went off and the duo of Shibata and Sudo charged forward followed by the more assertive players off class C, but they were stopped by the formidable fortress that is Albert.

Class D's defence was solid with Albert fending off both Sudo and Shibata while Ishizaki, Komiya and Ryuuen also defended taking people to the floor.

However the same couldn't be said for class A.

Some of their students pulled back, opening up gaps for us to exploit and the ones who were meant to attack had to come back to defend against Sudo and Shibata.

Notably a scraggly looking class A student with long black shoulder length hair and a blonde haired boy stood off to the side not helping either side.

Looking into the stands I saw Sakayanagi sitting with a smug smile on her face as she watched Katsuragi and Ryuuens' desperate struggle.

White Team 1

Red Team 0

"Congratulations Sudo, Shibata you two did excellent in attracting all the attention. Well done everyone else and let's not get complacent" Kanzaki praised.

"Well you don't have to worry 'bout a thing! We will defend the flag no problem so go smash 'em" Sudo said confidently.

Glancing at the Red Team I saw Katsuragi trying to talk to the two boys who stood spectating but was unsuccessful.

Ryuuen still had his cunning smile as he watched everyone.

"Round two, come at me!" Sudo shouted as the second attack started.

Ryuuen followed behind as he sent in students of a similar stature and build to Sudo, pressuring our defence as our offence was pitted against a much more organised class A.

"Get em! Pull em to the ground don't let them beat you" Sudo roared over the angry roars of our attackers.

"Gah!"

Two screams were heard as Hirata and Sudo both fell to the ground. Albert had managed to break through Sudo and Hirata had been targeted as well.

"Who just punched me in the stomach?!" Sudo shouted and judging from his pained voice he had been hit more than once.

Hirata had gotten back up and Kanzaki had made considerable leg room in getting towards the flag

White Team 2

Red Team 0

"Those cheating foul bastards" Rubbing his shoulder Sudo grumbled.

We had won but Sudo had been taken to the ground, stomped on, kicked and punched leaving footprints on his back and torso.

"Just wait until I see him next. I'll lay him out flat and stomp on him to see how he likes it!"

"Did you not learn anything from your trial?" I asked the fuming Sudo.

"I have but are you just saying I let him get away with it? Look at my back!"

"Heat of the moment"

sigh* "At least we won"

"Yeah, well done Sudo" Kazaki and Shibata said, slapping his shoulder.

"Thanks for your help as well" Hirata said to Shibata and Kanzaki as the gap between the Red and the White team in our year group widened.

ヾ (@ @)

With no time to rest the class B/C boys coalition was up again for the tug of war.

Thankfully this time there was no chance of foul play or one side injuring the other and we took to our stations.

Ryuuens class took to their positions standing with Albert at the back ready to give us a challenge.

Katsuragi however was now facing high opposition as the blonde haired boy who stood to the side during capture the flag argued with him.

"Why should we trust you to lead us Katsuragi? After all we have barely won an event so far under your leadership"

"Hashimoto now is not the time. Yes we are losing but if you contributed then we could win this and get our footing back" Katsuragi said to the blonde haired boy, Hashimoto.

"Kukuku, your subordinates not knowing their place Johnny?" Ryuuen mocked.

"If only you were more cooperative—" Katsuragi started but got cut off by Ryuuen.

"Fine I'll cooperate this time to crush that monkey and the other freaks over there. So Snek go and tell your hobo friend to get in line and take this serious"

"I don't take orders from you either" Hashimoto said with the 'hobo' coming up next to him.

"Well I don't see that cripple here and unless you want Albert to rearrange your face I suggest you get in line" Stepping up next to Ryuuen, Albert towered over the two boys.

"Tch" Hashimoto grabbed the rope as the referee watched on.

"Class A is falling apart"

"Katsuragi has fallen from his position of leader. Sakayanagi at this point is just kicking a dead horse" Kanzaki responded to Hirata as we watched class D and A get into formation.

"Let's go!"

The tug of war started with both sides letting out grunts and roars as we fought for every inch. Our side held the advantage for one minute and then was pulled back to the center or lost the advantage to their side, we were evenly matched.

Until the Red Team got the advantage and stole the victory.

"Shit!" Sudo shouted, gritting his teeth.

"That was exhausting" Ike said, showing his red palms.

"They are really strong" Shibata said analysing class A/D.

The next round was a repeat of the first but with a slight reshuffle in both sides the Red Team's victory came faster much to the annoyance of Shibata and Sudo.

"Dammit! Here I wanted to win every competition. Maybe if you weren't so weak we could have won that one" Sudo growled head locking the exhausted Ike.

"K-Ken...you're killing me!" Ike squealed.

"Right next up is the obstacle course so I don't want to see any of you shorty bastards losing 'Kay?!"

( ﾉ ヮ ) ﾉ : ･ﾟ

Just like Kanzaki and Ichinose, Sakayanagi must have noticed what is going on.

Katsuragi would have noticed if not for being too busy trying to wrangle support from his classmates who had now turned their backs on him with the last straw being Yahiko's betrayal.

Judging from how no one but Sakayanagi's close guard of Hashimoto, Kamuro and the scraggly looking 'hobo' student, we're glaring at Yahiko she hadn't exposed him yet.

Ryuuen would most likely clock it soon enough and the fact that we are exploiting class A's table and he is exploiting ours will make things clearer along with increasing his interest in our mastermind.

"Hah..*pant*..man! I ran *pant* my heart only to get sixth!" Breathing heavily Ike said approaching me and falling to his knees. "Ken's not gone up yet?" His earlier vigour completely vanished and was replaced by a fear of Sudo.

"You don't think he could get like fourth or somin'"

Sadly if this were to happen Sudo in his current state would lash out even more at our class despite us actually being in the lead.

"What place did you get?"

"First"

"Hah?!...Saved by the lineup you lucky bastard"

Not wanting to have Sudo shout in my ear or try to confront me about how my placements have drastically dropped since my first race I decided to continually place first or second depending on my opposition.

Naturally I will be able to start placing third or fourth later due to gassing out, but for now I will continue to place high and get some private points.

"Sudo's going against that group!?" Ike shouted his eyes wide and the fatigue from earlier completely gone.

"Yeah"

Shibata, Hashimoto, Komiya and the scraggly student form class A were all in Sudo's group.

Sudo could probably win but he would have to dig deep and fight hard because his competition have all showed exceptional performances so far, but his biggest problem is Shibata.

Shibata who was currently warming up has been winning nearly every event he participated in and like Kanzaki his speed outclassed nearly everyone.

"Who do you think will win?" Hirata said standing beside me.

Throughout the festival we have been able to talk a lot and share our opinions on each race. It feels unusual talking to Hirata without having Shinohara, Karuizawa or another girl swoop by and steal him away.

It feels nice.

"In a straightforward race Shibata would win no contest but because of the obstacles I would have to lean towards Sudo especially after seeing him manoeuvre then easily in training"

"I am thinking the same thing"

We could only watch as the pistol fired and Sudo and Shibata took off.

They were neck and neck going into the first half and the race split into two separate races, the race for third and below and the race for 1st and second between Sudo and Shibata.

Sudo, despite his height, swiftly crossed the balance beam putting Shibata in second as they sprinted towards the second obstacle. Crawling on the ground like a wild animal, Sudo stormed through the net while Shibata chased, smiling. Next up was the sack race and Sudo managed to extend his lead as he hoped with dexterity that defied his build.

But Shibata was catching.

"This is more instende than Horikita-sans' match earlier" Hirata said as watched on.

Hashimoto had managed to separate himself from Komiya stealing third place while the evenly matched Sudo and Shibata continued to race in their own world.

Taking first place by going all out, Sudo breathed heavily as he came back.

Sudo had successfully taken first place three times so far making him one of the top athletes across all years.

Sudou, making his proud return, immediately confronted a shrinking Ike. "Hey. I was watching you, Kanji! The hell, man, sixth place?!"

"H-hey, you almost didn't get first just now, dude! We're practically equal!" Sudo headlocked Ike ruffling his hair before releasing him.

"Phew. Got first place. Still, though, that Shibata guy was really fast. Thankfully, I managed to beat 'im"

For now Sudo's goal of being the MVP across all classes and years was in sight.

Horikita however didn't have Sudo's luck and once again faced class D's toughest opponents.

"She's in the same group with Kinoshita and Yajima again"

Being someone who is proud of her athletic and academic ability Horikita desperately tried to battle against the class D students but trying to beat people who specialise in athletics is a hard task.

Kinoshita took the lead and broke away from the others ploughing towards the balance beam with Yajima in second and Horikita third.

Unlike the 100 meter dash and the hurdles where speed was the only factor that mattered, the obstacle course provided many unknowns like we saw with Shibata, thus allowing Horikita to catch up and be neck to neck with Kinoshita and Yajima.

"Looks like she caught a break" Sudo eagerly watched Horikita with his fists clenched tightly. His feelings for her on full display.

Passing the net Horikita took the lead but Kinoshita's speed was no joke as she closed the distance with Horikita saying hot in her heels in second.

Horikita, desperately trying to steal second place raced forward with Kinoshita losing her balance in the sack race giving Horikita a lead.

But just like Ibuki, during the last 50 meters Horikita kept looking over her shoulder, wary of Kinoshita making them neck and neck again until they became entangled and fell down.

"Whoa! Hey something big just happened!"

I was too far away to tell who ran into whom but if I was to put any money into it then this was pre-planned.

Taking seventh Horikita had clearly been affected by her injury as her scores dipped lower.

1st, 4th and now 7th, Horikita's scores fell lower and lower.

"..."

"What's the matter Ayanokouji-kun?"

"Hirata have you noticed something about Horikita's matches?"

"Umm..." Thinking for a few seconds he made a noise of realisation before answering me, "All her matches have been against formidable opponents from class D"

"Can I leave you to take care of the others? What we are thinking is only just speculation right now"

"Of course I will make things run smoothly but can we not do anything to help her?"

"No"

Leaving the class and Sudo to Hirata I walked over to Horikita to see how she was doing.

"Does it hurt?" I looked down at her sullen expression and asked.

"Not enough to inconvenience me or the competition" Trying to act tough despite struggling to sit down Horikita replied.

"Ow!" Lightly kicking her injured she yelped in pain.

sigh* "Really?"

"I-I can manage" She said timidly.

sigh* "Did the island teach you nothing?" I mumbled, shaking my head but I will let her be for now.

Ryuuen is the one tormenting her, not me.

"That girl is as sly as Ryuuen" Horikita spat.

"What do you mean?"

"She kept calling my name over and over when she was behind me and I think she planned on hurting me"

So that was why she was looking back.

Could she not ignore her?

"As soon as I turned back to see her, we ran into each other. It looked like an accident, but if so, then why was she calling my name? Honestly, I can't keep up with this. To think that we're still in the middle..."

She was the third student to be injured.

One second-year had fallen during the race, and had to withdraw because of the pain, but that at least had seemed to be an isolated incident among the upperclassmen.

"You need to get going. Your race is starting soon"

"Be careful" I departed leavign her sulking from behind and joining Hirata, my partner for the three legged race.

"How's Horikita-san doing?" Hirata asked, sounding worried.

"She wants to continue but I doubt she will last long"

"This is bad"

Hirata and I continued talking while he tied our legs together for the first-year boys' three-legged race.

The races followed right on one another's heels. It was an incredible execution on the school's part, structured as effectively as a live television program.

Because a three-legged race meant two people per team, only a scant four teams could run at once. Sudou, who was one group ahead of us, was starting the race.

He was partnered with Ike, and clearly still suppressing a lot of bottled-up rage.

Sudou bolted down the track with all his strength, practically carrying Ike with him.

"Aaahhh!" Ike cried as he was dragged along.

It came close to foul play, but still just barely counted, meaning Sudo successfully took first place again.

"Sudou-kun can be incredibly reliable, can't he?" Hirata asked.

"Yeah. But if we want to win, then Sudou alone isn't enough"

Sudo is still a loose cannon and over the Festival he is slowly becoming more and more out of control and with the provocations of Ryuuen and Horikita's situation he will explode becoming a double edged sword for our class.

"All right, we're up next"

"Whooo! Go! Go! Hirata-kun!!!" Hirata, due to hai popularity, earned many cheers from the girls in our class, but thanks to Haruka I also received a cheer.

"Kiyopon!!! Go win it Kiyopon!!"

Sighing internally as she shouted such an embarrassing nickname I just raised my thumb to her.

Bang!

Our compatibility and the fact that no one noteworthy races against us meant that we easily took first place.

"Our practice paid off Ayanokouji-kun" Hirata said, showing me his warm bright smile.

"Yeah, congrats Hirata" I replied.

I'm the festival if you don't have the players to make up a race you need a substitute or you get DQ.
So for the likes of Ryuuen's class or the second/third year, mainly second because we know of the expulsions, they will have DQ's in every event.

Katsuragi never stood a chance poor guy.

'Hobo' or 'scraggly student' refers to Kito.

16,322,600–If you somehow figure out what this means then you are a God.

Part 33

Hashimoto Pov
Snek

"Are you so focused on my destruction that you would also risk our class standing?!" Towering over Hime, Johnny asked angrily and loud enough to capture the class's attention.

The school had given us a 10 minute toilet or water break allowing us to rest a little before going out to compete again.

Class A is in a bad spot and according to Hime's calculations the current point standings are as follows:

Class C in first with a small gap between second place which is class B. Then there is a medium sided gap between class B and class D, putting us of class A in last.

According to Sakayanagi we probably will only be able to claw back 3rd place as the gap between us and class D isn't actually that wide but as it stands classes B and C are storming away.

Of course there is a reason why class C is doing so well.

"What are you talking about Johnny?" I asked as the sun gleamed off his shiny bald head blinding me.

"In capture the flag and tug of war both you and Kitō-kun along with some others from the 'Sakayanagi faction' didn't help and acted as hinderaces causing us to lose and in the case of the tug of war, Ryuuen had to coerce you into helping" He was right, hime had ordered us to hinder him and make it harder for him to win, but that isn't why his faction has crumbled.

"Not only that but I believe you have leaked our participation table putting us at an impossible disadvantage"

"My, my, those are some serious allegations Katsuragi-kun. Do you have proof?"

"Just look at the scores and our matches. Class C has placed their worst against our best and their best against our worst allowing them to storm ahead and putting us in last. It is obvious that they have seen our participation table as they have been able to fully predict and counter us" Pointing it out a lot of our classmates realised what was going on and looked at hime to see if she truly was responsible for the leak.

"Fufufufu, you are not wrong that our table has been leaked. But that doesn't mean I leaked it now, does it Totsuka?" A silent pressure radiated from hime as she gazed at the silent loyal mutt of Johnny.

"Wh-what does she mean Yahiko? Yahiko?" Not responding, the loyal mutt just stood there frozen.

"Why? Why would you leak it? Did she—" Before he could accuse hime of anything, Yahiko cut him off.

"I had to! I-I'm sorry Katsuragi-kun b-but I had to. H-he was going to expel me a-and damage your reputation as well. I-I had no other choice!" Shouting Yahiko rambled in fear, his face pale and eyes unable to meet anyone's gaze.

"Betrayed by your own mutt how sad. That's why I keep mine on a tight leash, isn't that right Masumi-san?" Amused by watching Yahiko fall apart and Katsuragi desperately trying to make sense of everything, hime had won.

But who had threatened him? And what had they threatened him with?

"Tch" Clicking her tongue Kamuro looked away from the situation in disgust and annoyance.

"What do you mean 'expel you'? What did they have that made you so scared?"

That was the most important question.

Yahiko, the loyal dog of Katsuragi, decided to betray Katsuragi knowing full well that his actions would lead to his downfall, but that means falling from power was the better option.

I need to find whatever they used to blackmail him and see if it can be used on anyone else.

Also who blackmailed him? Who in class C planned it and can they beat hime?

"Oy loli!" Breaking the tense atmosphere and shifting the focus from the now mute Yahiko, Ryuuen stood there with his gang.

"Are you here to dance for me too, monkey-kun?" Mocking him Hime looked unfazed at his appearance.

"Kukuku, if it wasn't for the spectators I would break your legs making you a disabled cripple" Ryuuen spat glaring at Sakayanagi.

"What do you want Ryuuen?" Butting into their exchange Johnny asked leaving Yahiko to calm down.

"Shut it baldy! The leaders are talking"

"Are you here to ask about the table? or for us to cooperate and stop sabotaging the group events?"

"Kuku, how did you know?"

Huh? Why would he ask about that?

"Because he saw class C's table and based his off theirs which is based on ours meaning he put his best against their worst who are against our best" As is she read my and my classmates' minds, hime answered as if it was obvious.

In fact it was obvious.

In every race we have been against similar level opponents from class D whereas class C is either superior or inferior.

"It seems we have both been played by class C" Katsuragi spoke up again only to the amusement of both Sakayanagi and Ryuuen.

"Kukukuku, played?"

"Fufufufufu, yes you were targeted Katsuragi-kun"

"What do you mean targeted?" Johnny asked.

"Someone from your faction leaked the table. The table which would be used in your last 'exam' as leader. If that doesn't tell you that you were targeted then I don't know what will" Hime's cold smug smile widened as both Ryuuen and Katsuragi realised.

"Kuku, so X got bored of baldy and decided he wanted to play with a loli"

"X?" I asked out loud, curious as to who he meant.

"Fufufufu, are you planning on betraying me Hashimoto-kun?" Feeling her gaze fall on me the pressure was intense.

"N-no I am just curious"

"So who is X?" Machida asked.

"The mastermind of class C" At his words a few of our classmates muttered names like "Hirata" or "Horikita" but Ryuuen clearly meant someone else.

Someone who has managed to hide in the shadows until now and guide class C, the original class D.

X I want to meet you.

To make a deal with you.

"Anyways I am also here to tell you to stop sabotaging the joint events" Ryuuen snapped, moving away from our previous topic.

"Hmmm...well Katsuragi-kun has now fallen from power so I see no reason to continue, but only if he kneels first" Looking at Katsuragi Hime didn't just want to remove him from power but completely humiliate him.

"Kukukukuku!" Bursting into a fit of laughter, Ryuuen watched on as Katsuragi accepted fate.

Third person

"Honami look"

"Ayanokouji-kun"

Both Kazaki and Hirata both pointed towards class A where the kneeling form of Katsuragi Kōhei could be seen.

Sakayanagi Arisu had now cemented her place as the leader of class A with her opposition kneeling in front of her.

Ayanokouji Pov

After the short break had ended a sense of unease was upon us after seeing Katsuragi kneeling to Sakayanagi marking his defeat.

My main aim for the Sports Festival had been accomplished albeit with a bit of flair from Sakayanagi, but now she has been put into the spotlight leaving me alone in the shadows.

Now I can watch and assess her. Understand how she operates and then formulate plans against her.

Now that we had resumed it was time for the cavalry battle and instead of the boys going first the order had been reversed meaning the girls were up first.

The cavalry battle ran on a time limit, and the rules were the same for boys and girls. They dictated that points would be awarded based on the number of enemy units your team defeated in a three-minute period, and how many allied units you had remaining. There were four horsemen to every cavalry unit.

Four students from each class were horsemen, which meant it was an eight-versus-eight battle. Extra students were kept as reserve units, to be substituted as needed. Each horseman was worth fifty points. One horseman in each class was designated the 'general' and they were worth 100 points.

You could still get points, even if your opponent was left standing, so long as you stole their headband.

Horikita, Mori, Kushida and Karuizawa were all chosen as our jockeys with Mori's unit being the weakest interns of ability.

Also unlike the races and events so far utilising the participation table of class A would be ineffective as there is also class D.

Ultimately this meant that we would have to change our strategy for the cavalry battle.

Which means that Mori's unit, the weakest unit in terms of ability and the one most likely to get eliminated first, would be the general (100 points) and they would refrain from entering one on ones or two on ones.

Beep!

On the singal class D and A quickly closed the distance but while most of the B/C coalition were focused on class A, Horikita was being attacked by Ibuki and the other horsemen of class D.

If it wasn't obvious before it was now. Class D, Ryuuen, is targeting Horikita.

"H-hey what the hell?! They aren't even going for anyone else!" Ike shouted as he watched Horikita get surrounded like a wounded lion by hungry hyenas.

"Bastard" Sudo grumbled with his fists clenched as he glared at the class D girls.

Mental warfare would be what Ryuuen is most dangerous at in my opinion.

His ability to rile up or manipulate his opponents thoughts because of their emotions is unparalleled compared to everyone so far, excluding Sakayanagi and Kouenji.

Destroying your opponents mentally before breaking them physically is how Ryuuen operates.

Karuizawa noticed this happening but as she and Shinohara tried making their way over Kamuro and Nishikawa blocked their path.

Ichinose soon came to back up Karuizawa and Shinohara but it was too late, Horikita's headband had been snatched and she came crashing to the ground with a thud.

However all was not lost as Ichinose and Karuizawa cleaned up the rest of class A with ease winning the girls' cavalry battle.

"Hey don't worry 'bout it, those bastards targeted and grouped up on you. Nothing you could've done about it" Sudo said to Horikita who trudged back to the stands grinding her teeth in frustration.

"I should have seen it coming"

"Leave it to me. I'll get payback and show Ryuuen what for" Sudo said, trying to sound cool.

"I'd expect nothing less from you" Horikita dejectedly replied, looking defeated.

"Aight! Let's go crush 'em"

Leading us out Sudo walked to where the cavalry battle would take place full of determination and drive.

I would be playing the role of the horse along with Sudo and Miyake while Hirata is our jockey, Sudo in the middle with me and Miyake to his right and left.

Thus our strongest unit was formed.

"Oy, Hirata. Focus on keeping your headband and not falling off 'kay?"

"So we are using that strategy"

"Well after what they did to Horikita and losing in tug of war I want to show those bastards no mercy"

"You guys ready?" Cutting into Hirata and Sudo's conversation the cheerful Shibata asked as he continued to enjoy the Sports Festival.

Then again why would someone in class B be unhappy?

Because the only reason why they will win is because class A ranged their own scores due to internal strife and class C has used their table to negate their victories.

Or because class C has a ticking time bomb ready to explode at any second?

Although maybe Kanzaki and Ichinose have realised this and that's why they are in such high spirits as they have realised everyone else will take each other out while ignoring class B allowing them to sail to an easy victory.

Maybe I should have Horikita and Hirata meet up with them after to ask about it.

Just like we had discussed when the clackson sounded we all partnered up and charged forward. Our plan, although very simple, was to eliminate the possibility of a one on one confrontation meaning that no matter how strong an opponent's unit was we would win by numbers.

Although Sudo had other ideas, "aim for that shitty Ryuuens head!" Roaring Sudo smashed through class A students sending them crashing to the floor, though it doesn't give any points unlike stealing the headband the risk is reduced considerably.

Unfazed by Sudo charging towards him, Ryuuen and his classmates let out grins as they too bashed into class B students stealing their headbands.

Kanzaki and Shibata also made a formidable duo but until Ryuuen fell the class B/C coalition victory couldn't be guaranteed.

"Hey monkey!" Someone shouted from behind but Sudo just ignored them, continuing to charge towards Ryuuen. "Oh that's right Ryuuen said you only listen to that Suzune bitch"

Hearing someone talk about Horikita like that and use her first name Ryuuen snapped around glaring at the boy who now looked at us smugly.

If my memory is correct then this is Hashimoto the boy who obstructed Katsuragi in Capture the flag and Tug of War. Stopping to look around I realised why the boy was so smug.

We were surrounded.

"What did you just say you stupid blonde bastard?!" Sudo spat not noticing how we were trapped by the three class A jockeys. Hashimoto, Machida and the scraggly student in front of us (12 o'clock), Katsuragi, Yahiko and Takemoto at 4 o'clock and the other at 8 o'clock.

(Not enough info on class A to form each cavalry unit)

Basically any way Sudo moves the other two will push in trapping him so like this.

"Oh you angry I called your little crush a bitch? Hahaha stupid defective" Sneering at Sudo Hashimoto perfectly pushed each and everyon of his buttons.

"Sudo-kun don't let him--" Before Hirata could warn Sudo that Hashioto was luring him in, Sudo charged forward.

"Uraaah, bastard!!" Instantly the other two jockeys moved in trapping us and slamming into me, Miyake and Sudo while Hirata was reduced to evading the hands that snatched away at his headband.

"Hirata-kun!" From the stands the concerned shoutes of the girls could be heard as we continued to push back against class A.

"C'mon let's show these bastards why they shouldn't run their mouths!" Sudo still had his enthusiasm but Miyake and I started struggling under the numbers and just like with Horikita our fall would be inevitable.

"Arrgh, huff-who just hit me-grrr" Taking a punch to his stomach Sudo moved back wobbling Hirata almost causing him to lose the headband, but Sudo wasn't the only one being hit.

"Gyah! Oy, you're not allowed to punch or kick my legs out-arrrgh!" Miyake and I were also being punched and kicked or having our feet stepped on and although this was against the rules due to us being so close and riled up the referee couldn't see it and it could be passed off as "getting too carried away/swept up in the heat of the moment".

But we weren't the only ones in a dire situation as my good friend Albert had demolished everyone he ran into and Ryuuen had also built up a nice collection of headbands and now ws trying to add Kanzaki's.

"This guy is like a brick wall! He doesn't even move when we push against him" Shibata shouted in enjoyment as he clashed with Albert who easily started moving him back.

"Yeah well Ryuuen is no easy target either" Kanzaki said as he tried to snatch Ryuuens headband but Ryuuen only dodged, attacking Kanzaki and Shibata with words alone.

"Kukuku, is that all you got? No wonder no one thinks of you as threats"

Back to us and our situation was now dire.

Miyake had fallen after battling against a whole unit but his sacrifice wasn't in vain as Hirata managed to snatch their headband securing us 50 points but the scraggly looking student delivered a sharp well placed punch to Sudo's liver causing him to hunch over throwing HIrata forward and into Hashimoto who then snatched Hirata's headband.

I also decided to fall to my knees and pant after taking a blow to the gut from Takemoto.

"Ahhh!" A cry of pain came from Shibata as he crumpled to the floor bringing Kanzaki with him who had failed to snatch Ryuuens headband.

The referee came over but not being able to see anything in the hustle and bustle and the fact that Shibata hadn't suffered an extreme injury he just gave a reminder to everyone to be careful.

"Unlucky monkey, it's your loss" Walking away after he delivered one last taunt Hashimoto's grin only annoyed Sudo more.

Scrunching his fists up in two tight balls with his knuckles bulging out Sudo started walking towards Hashimoto hunting for blood. "Hey! What do you think you're playing at? Get off me!" Shrugging his shoulder, Sudo tried to shake off Miyake and Hirata who held him back while Hashimtoto stood there amused by the enraged Sudo.

"Sudo stop it. We are causing a scene" Grabbing his arm as well I looked to where Horikita was in the stands bringing Sudo back to his senses.

"Fine, get off me!" We all let go of him, but Sudo had now gone critical and would explode at any moment causing us to lose our ace.

"The Festival keeps getting worse and worse" Hirata said gravely as we followed behind Sudo.

"Yeah"

Sudo was ready to explode, Horikita was injured enough that her performance is suffering considerably, Hirata and Miyake are also slightly injured though they don't show it and our point lead was starting to shrink.

Our previous momentum and string of victories had been lost and replaced by bad luck.

"Hey Ryuuji why is your hand so slippery?"

"I don't know but I felt a similar slippery feeling when I tried to grab Ryuuen's headband"

"You don't think?"

"It's pointless to appeal now, but I certainly wouldn't put it past him"

Overhearing Shibata and Kanzaki's conversation it seems Ryuuen had used something like hair gel on his headband to prevent it from being stolen.

How's your days been?

Dunno what to write here my brain is begging for sleep.

Part 34

Even when we had returned Sudo still hadn't calmed down and rather than get into a confrontation with him I tried moving away to speak with Haruka and Sakura to check on their stamina and results so far, but Karuizawa called out to us.

"This is bad news isn't it Kiyotaka?" she asked approaching us.

"Huh? What?" I asked confused as to what had just happened and why.

""What?"" Both Hirata and Karuizawa asked with blank faces.

"You used my first name. Why?" From what I can tell we aren't close. In fact I can guarantee that she hates me, so then why use my first name?

"Oh...Well I call Yousuke-kun by his first name and saying Ayanokouji-kun is too long so I thought I would use your first name as well. Why is there a problem?" She asked, looking at me innocently despite knowingly dropping the honorific twice.

"No, none at all"

"Anyways I was talking about Horikita-san. Hasn't she been up against some tough competition and she is in bad shape. The cavalry battle didn't help either"

"Yeah..." I replied taking a pause for a drink of water before replying to Karuizawa. "She is being targeted after all"

""Targeted?!"" Both of them exclaimed and I just nodded.

"So that's why she keeps going against high level students" Hirata mumbled to himself while Karuizawa gave me a knowing look, her eyes showed hints of both amazement and fear.

I guess it is natural since I indirectly told her someone would betray the class just one day after the Festival was announced.

Maybe she was right about me being a God?

"So it's Ryuuen right?" Karuizawa asked, looking for confirmation and I simply nodded again.

Ryuuen Kakeru had vowed on the ship that he was going to destroy Horikita, attacking her with everything he had to draw out the cowardly mastermind hiding behind her and he was doing exactly that and more.

"But it's not just that. Haven't you noticed anything about the other races?" Hirata asked, prompting Karuizawa to strike a thinking pose as she tapped her index finger on her chin.

"We have managed to avoid his heavy hitters"

"Yes. There table in terms of ability is eerily similar to class A's meaning thanks to Horikita-san's strategy we have been able to target both the weakest of classes A and D, but that also means our table was leaked" Once again Karuizawa threw me an uneasy look before feigning ignorance and acting shocked.

"So our table got leaked? Does that mean the traitors main goal was to destroy Horikita-san?"

"Most likely yes"

"Do you have any idea who would want to betray the class and target Horikita-san, Ayanokouji-kun?" Hirata asked.

"Sadly I don't"

"Realistically our table leaving wasn't a bad thing but Horikita-san is getting targeted because of it" Karuizawa said and she wasn't wrong as the table leak was what has carried us so far but the fact that Horikita and Horikita alone had to pay for that didn't sit well with neither of them.

Well Horikita isn't technically the only one being 'targeted' by Ryuuen.

My first race he and Albro *cough* Albert sandwiched me in an attempt to throw me off and gauge my reactions.

Miyake was also in the same group as Ryuuen for the hurdles and Hirata had been hurt by class C students in Capture the Flag. Also Sotomura had been visited by Ryuuen but given his foul mood as a result of the Sports Festival I doubt Ryuuen got anything but a headache from speaking to him.

Looking at this it was obvious that Kushida had yet to expose me or had been turned down because Ryuuen wanted to enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

His hubris so to speak.

"So this is what you meant by she will be humbled" Looking at the defeated Horikita Karuizawa let out a sigh.

"Actually there is more to come, but yes"

"I forgot you are heartless" Turning back to me with hatred in her eye Karuizawa spat.

"If that's how you want to think about it" She isn't wrong but she also isn't right.

"Anyways, what is your opinion on Horikita?"

"Well it's not like I am her friend or anything and I don't like how she is always acting so high and mighty, but this is going too far" Perhaps because she knew what it felt like to be targeted Karuizawa sympathised with Horikita.

"You're correct about her superiority complex. It is her biggest flaw, the thing that holds her back and holds back our class. It isn't as bad as it was before May the 1st or before the island as she now recognises people like Sakayanagi, but that's not enough"

Shifting my gaze I looked over at Horikita who had lost all fight before continuing, "Completely destroying and humiliating her will provide the shock needed for Horikita to change. To get rid of her complex and put her in her place, humbling her"

Letting my gaze linger for another second I turned back to Karuizawa. "Besides everything has been going according to my plan so there is no need to be so worried" I said but she didn't look reassured. In fact the knowledge that everything has been going according to my plan seemed to unsettle her.

"That's why I am worried"

Suddenly a loud roar interrupted our discussion and that could only mean one thing.

"I'm seriously gonna smack that smug grin off that jerks face and knock that blonde prats front teeth out!" A very animated Sudo spat as he moved towards where class D currently were.

After all of Ryuuens provocations and his constant attacks on Horikita, Sudos cauldron had bubbled up and burst into roaring flames. Reasoning with him was pointless and someone was bound to inevitably get hurt.

Standing in his way Hirata tried to do exactly that. "Sudo-kun I completely understand you but you need to calm down. Remember what happened last time you got in a fight"

Easily shoving Hirata aside, Sudo spoke, "Every time I do something everyone holds that over me and I'm starting to get sick of it! Yeah I screwed up but I have been trying my hardest and have more than made up for it so stop using the trial against me!"

"Then stop falling into the same trap Sudoggy" Standing next to me, Sotomura shot back at Sudo.

"Whatcha say?! Huh, you useless fatty? What have you been doing but holding us back while I have been trying my hardest?" Sudo snapped, taking a step towards the Professor who moved slightly behind me.

"Acting as bait and entering the races that people like you and Hirata-dono would be at risk of losing"

"Bullshit you are just making up excuses because of how shitty your results are" Blinded by rage Sudo didn't even attempt to think about it and see Sotomura was telling the truth.

Our class atmosphere was dense and no one dared to speak or interrupt these two as they went at it, but their faces of discomfort and worry for Sotomura showed that they knew what would come next.

Annoyed by his results and Sudo, Sotomura clenched his jaw before responding. "Yeah, well what happened to winning every event? You said that you could do it because you are 'oh so great' but you have failed to win every event. What are you going to blame your teammates when you are the leader in charge of giving orders--"

"Shut up" Unable to stomach the Professors barrage Sudo glared at him warning him to shut up but Sotomura didn't.

"Is flexing your muscles and showboating the only thing you are good at? If so then you are a pathetic useless leader--"

"Shut. Up!" Interjecting again this time a vein bulged out his forehead.

"Maybe if you were Hirata you would actually be someone worth--"

"Raaaarrgh!" Charging directly at us, Sudo had completely lost it.

Looking at him charging I could use his momentum to deliver a chop to his throat, stunning and choking him before a teacher comes in or I would have to deliver a jab to his solar plexus, but before I could do any of that Hirata got in Sudos way.

SMACK!*

Slamming into the floor Hirata's body folded under the power of Sudo's punch which now attracted the attention of everyone, not just our classmates.

"What's going on?" Chabashishkebab asked seeing Hirata on the floor and an enraged Sudo still glaring at Sotmura who was using me as a meat shield. "Did you hit him?"

"So what if I did? What are you going to do 'bout it?" The bloodshot eyes of Sudo now met with the sharp serious eyes of Sae-Sensei.

"No that's not it. I just fell down Sensei" Hirata said, clambering back to his feet but the red fist mark on his cheek tells a different tale.

"Doesn't look that way"

"Well you are just assuming things and like I said I fell so there should be no problems, right Sensei?" Hirata clarified again.

Pausing before speaking again Sae-Sensei glanced at me for a split second. "If the victim denies the incident then there isn't much I can do, but I suggest you all keep your distance from each other. I will give a report to my superiors later as a preventative measure"

We couldn't afford for this incident to be reported so this was the best we could hope for.

"I understand" Thanks to Hirata Sudo had been saved, but he still hadn't calmed down.

Kicking a chair and sending it flying Sudo growled, "Fuck this! Screw you all and this Sports Festival. Go on, lose for all I care you scum!"

He glanced at Horikita but quickly looked away walking away to the dorms.

"Things have spiralled out of control Ayanokouji" Karuizawa said before moving away to talk to Shinohara, Mei-Yu and the others.

"That was a close call dono"

"Yeah...You did very well" I said looking at the retreating form of Sudo.

Now both of my biggest problems will be fixed.

щ( ಠ 益 ಠ щ)

After having our dirty laundry on full display the show still continued and Horikita longingly watched her brother's cavalry battle.

I have also been keeping an eye on not only Horikita Manabu's performances but his proteges, Nagumo Miayabe, as well and I can say that they are both very athletically gifted but the Elder Horikita is superior.

Sudo kept to his word and didn't return back for the 200 meter dash giving us an automatic DQ.

"What happened to your dog Suzune? Has he gone to fetch a stick like a good boy?" Coming over to gloat, Ryuuen observed the pained expressions of my classmates. "Ku, still blank"

"What are you after Ryuuen?" Hirata said confronting Ryuuen.

"Nothing I just came to see what all the noise was about" Putting his hands up to exaggerate his innocence Ryuuen's smirk widened.

"Maybe you should focus on your own class, after all class A has almost overtaken you" I didn't know if Hirata was correct but judging from the fact that class A was taking this seriously now it is reasonable to assume they have overtaken Ryuuen's class.

Of course our gap with class B has vanished and they are now most likely ahead of us and with Sudo not participating and fatigue kicking in our results have dropped.

"We won't know until it's over but I have already got everything I wanted"

ヾ (@ @)

After finishing in first in my 200 meter dash I approached Horikita to set the final piece of my plan in motion.

"Do you remember what I said after the first study group failed?" I asked and her blank face was enough of an answer so I continued. "I told you that in the case of physical exams Sudo would be our ace. That letting him go would be a waste and hinder your rise to class A"

"I understand what your are trying to say b—"

"Then why aren't you going after him?" I asked cutting her off mid sentence.

Horikita is the only person who will be able to bring Sudo back.

Well I could but I would probably have to put the fear of God in him and be forceful causing more problems so I would rather not.

"Because it is impossible. How would I be able to bring him back?"

sigh* "Are you really that short sighted?"

It was blatantly obvious Sudo has a crush on her and practically every girl talks about it. The reason he desperately tried so hard was for Horikita.

"I'm sorry but I have other things to worry about and still don't follow what you are trying to say"

"Remember what I did on the island?" I asked to take a seat next to her.

"Vividly"

"So you remember how I sabotaged you? How I played Ibuki so that I could isolate you and then rough you up?"

"I would rather not relive it but yes I do"

"I did it again"

"What!?" Snapping her head round fixing her piercing sharp eyes on my watching my every move, Horikita was alert.

"Last time I did to because you were a pain but this time I did it to fix your short sightedness and wipe away your superiority complex"

Standing up I looked down on Horikita showing some of my darkness to emphasise what I was about to say.

"You are a pathetic useless disposable tool. Have you not noticed that I have already put in place people who will replace you? Can you not understand that if you fail I will simply side with Kushida and remove you, stopping you from ever reconciling with your brother?"

"I told you on the island that I would dispose of you when convenient and your next actions will determine that exact fate. You Horikita Suzune have been targeted and played by Ryuuen and are knowingly trying to compete despite having damaged your ankle which is dragging down your results. You are prioritising your own selfish needs over leading the class"

"Missing out on a chance to gain your own personal weapon which will be completely devoted to you and instead choosing to lose more points and bring further embarrassment to yourself"

"Keep up with the way you're going and your brother will never acknowledge you. No he would never want to look at such a defective disgrace as yourself"

"Then what do I do!?!" Shouting and attracting attention to us Horikita was fuming.

"I have said enough. It's time for you to think, think what is truly worth it. Bringing back Sudo or letting the whole class suffer due to your selfish desire"

Waking away I was finally done.

Whether or not Horikita goes to find Sudo and bring him back means nothing to me.

Kushida glanced at me flashing a genuine smile, probably happy seeing Horikita suffer, but soon the curtain will fall.

A revelation and a collapse.

The first half of the festival has pretty much come to a conclusion but there is not way to track Red and White Team points to class points.

So for clarification sake the current ranking is:
Class C (Kiyo) followed closely by Class B then a moderate gap with class D then class A.

I'm also assuming class C/D would on average spend 20,000 points per person each month.

If that isn't a reasonable average then tell me cause I was also thinking 15,000 points per month but 20,000 is a good medium.

Part 35

Horikita Pov

The first morning half of the festival had come to a close and from our performance I could say we were either first or second at the least.

Once again he boosted us up.

Sighing internally at how the enigma that is my neighbour, Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, had once again come to the aid of our class, I shook my head.

Questions like 'Why are you helping now when you were so reluctant before?' 'So are you going for class A? If so, why?'

These questions although valid were all pointless as he would just give a vague reply or completely dodge the questions.

I also know better than to get in his way.

Acting on reflex at the memory my body shuddered.

My destination was the nurses office and as I dragged my battered and bruised body towards it, his cruel cold words came back to me.

"pathetic useless disposable tool—defective disgrace"

"Tch" I couldn't help but click my tongue balling up my hands in tight fists.

What was I meant to do? I was targeted by Ryuuen-kun from the start and it's not as if I could avoid it because the table was set in stone beforehand.

Not only that but once again he sabotaged me! Letting the table be leaked.

...but maybe I should have seen this coming, once again my shortsightedness got in the way...

"Is this why Nii-San rejects me?" No, I don't have time for this.

Ayanokouji-kun was right in the fact that Sudo-kun is our ace and so if I am chasing after him I would need to get my leg seen to first.

Arriving at the infirmary I noted that someone else was already here, but it's better than got in near Kouenji-kun again.

"How does it look Sensei?" I asked as the nurse inspected my leg.

During the short drinks and toilet break I had asked an emergency first aid staff member to tape my leg, though that turned out to be insignificant as my performance still suffered.

"I have already said this, but continuing to try and participate will be difficult"

The nurse diagnosed me with a sprain and the fact that with this and the target on my back from Ryuuen-kun continuing to participate seemed like a fool's errand.

How can I demand Ayanokouji-kuns and my other classmates help and cooperate in reaching class A if I hold them back here?

Doing the exact same thing I berated Sudo-kun and the other two idiots for doing.

"Do you plan to take part in the recommended competitions?"

"I had, but I think it would be better for everyone if I used substitutes instead"

"That's a wise choice"

Thanks to the Zodiac special exam I have more than enough private points to pay for 3 or 4 substitutes, but who would it be?

Onodera-san's name popped into my head, but for now I think it would be better to go back and ask Hirata-kun.

He knows them better than me and I doubt Onodera-san would be willing to cooperate with me after I looked down on her during practice.

"Thanks for treating me"

Leaving the nurses office to find Hirata-kun my situation only seemed to get more and more bleak and it was a result of my own fault.

I guess this is what Ayanokouji-kun wanted me to understand.

That I am the one holding myself and the class back and I need to change.

My limping reflection made me look even more pathetic than I felt currently. I do still suspect Kinoshita-san deliberately tripped me as some plot by Ryuuen-kun, but it is my fault for not ignoring her and lowering myself to Ryuuen-kuns' schemes.

"I'm so glad I found you, Horikita-san! I need to talk to you about something" Kushida-san said, sounding panicked as she ran into me.

"What is it? I have some business I need to take care of"

My suspicions around Kushida being the one who sabotaged me so I would rather not talk to her right now, but her whole atmosphere was very tense and worried.

It seems off.

"Okay, but I don't think you will be able to avoid this. Also I don't think this is something we should talk about so openly"

We moved off to the side away from the passing students hoping to get this over with.

"It's about Kinoshita. Apparently her injury is so bad that she can't even get up right now and well...she is asking to talk to you Horikita-san"

"Hmm? Where is she?" Unable to hide my surprise I instantly responded.

"This way" Kushida-san said, taking us back to the nurses office.

•••

"Good I was just saying you had just missed Horikita-san" The nurse said the Chabashira-Sensei as myself and Kushida-san entered the infirmary again.

"Thank you Kushida for fetching Horikita" Chabashira-Sensei said to the still unnerved Kushida-san.

"It was no problem, Sensei. Anything to help!" Kushida-san said.

"What's the problem?"

Peeling back the closed curtain I noticed earlier, Chabashira-Sensei allowed me to catch a glimpse of the sobbing Kinoshita-san.

"Earlier Kinoshita fell during the obstacle course, do you remember?" Taking us out in the hallway Chabashira-Sensei asked.

"Of course she bumped into me after all"

"Well she is saying you deliberately sabotaged her knocking her down Horikita"

"That's not true at all!" For an instant I couldn't believe the words that had just come out of my Sensei's mouth.

Regaining my composure I continued in a less surprised and more composed manner, "If anything it—"

"'If anything it' is what?" Cutting me off she asked with her stern glare fixed upon me.

Sensei is a very smart teacher who understands a lot about her students and the school's system. She also has a great understanding of how most of us think so she probably cut me off knowing my claim was baseless.

Yes it was obvious to anyone that classes A, C and D are all linked in this exam with the tables and it is obvious that class C had targeted the weak of either class A or D and then been targeted by class D or A.

However just because this is obvious and the fact Ryuuen-kun has been feather bold in his actions that doesn't mean I can just pin the blame on him without proof.

Even though Ayanokouji-kun agreed that Ryuuen-kun is targeting me, his word alone isn't gospel.

"Never mind it was just a coincidence"

"I'd like to believe that both because you are my student and I doubt this is something you would resort to, but Kinoshita claims that during the race you kept looking back at her and upon checking the footage that was the case"

"That's because she was calling my name like an obsessed stalker"

"She called your name? I see...you should have just ignored her, but I see" Chabashira-Sensei paused after reiterating something I had already concluded.

"Even if that's true Kinoshita is claiming you kicked her causing an injury severe enough to take her out of all subsequent competitions. We have also had a teacher and medical staff exam the injury and they believe it was intentional"

"Even if she is injured she is still lying becauseIi didn't do anything to her" My situation continues getting worse, especially with all these lies she is stringing together.

"Like I said I believe you are innocent, but as long as we have no proof we have to consider the matter out of fairness"

"That's just idiotic" I said displeased at the cuurent predicament.

Ryuuen-kun was once again abusing the schools' system to target our class just like he did with Sudo-kun.

"Well that's not all. The other teachers, of course, already know about this, but if this drags on and there is no resolution then this will be brought up to the Student Council and I don't think I have to remind you what it was like after Sudo-kuns' fight, do I?"

Once again my situation only got worse, but if this was to be brought up to Nii-San he would most likely feel irritated and ashamed as his disappointment of a little sister continued to cause problems for him.

Whether this was part of Ryuuen-kun's goal or not I have no idea, however I have no choice but to walk down the path of truth and plead my innocence.

"If you called me here to give a statement then I just have, otherwise I have somewhere I need to be" I said trying to refocus back on finding and persuading Sudo-kun to stop our ship from sinking completely.

"Under the circumstances you are the one who is guilty in the schools' eyes. Both the evidence and Kinoshitas' injury speak volumes in comparison to your testimony which means that all your points after the incident will be forfeit as well as your participation in the remaining recommended events"

Chabashira-Sensei delivered even more bad news as I started trying to leave, causing me to turn back to her before I spoke.

"I was planning on using substitutes in the first place so I don't mind, but I didn't purposely cause her to fall or get injured. Besides if the injuries as so serious I doubt a fall could have done it or I would have been able to do it inconspicuously"

"I do agree that it is surprising that no one noticed or caught it on tape, but sadly your stubbornness won't get you through this as Kinoshita plans to take this to the school. All the evidence and the fact that Kinoshita stands at the pinnacle of class D's girls in terms of athletics and any intentional sabotaging would stupid especially given their current predicament do not bode well for you"

sigh* "I understand"

My current predicament was that I, Horikita Suzune, had deliberately targeted and successfully taken out one of class D's strongest players.

Class D are currently either 3rd or 4th, but the gap between them and us in class C and class B is large enough that losing a star player was critical. As a result, trying to persuade someone that Ryuuen-kun had plotted this and done something was impossible.

Not only that but Ryuuen-kun could also use the facts that our participation tables are reciprocals to each other as an advantage to boost the claim that I targeted Kinoshita-san.

'I did it again' Once again Ayanokouji-kuns' words came back to me and I finally understood how he had sabotaged me.

But does this mean he was able to predict that Ryuuen-kun would do something like this? Did he see through everyone?

His presence and abilities are something I have been wary of since the island special exam, especially his strength, but his foresight and ability to predict his enemies thought processes and actions were beyond terrifying.

Left with no other choice than to brace myself for the storm ahead I decided to ask Sensei how she knew all this.

"How did you hear about this? And who else knows?"

"Kushida consulted me on the matter not wanting it to get that far"

"Sorry Horikita-san, but Kinoshita-san asked me to consult a teacher" Kushida-san said, looking at me apologetically.

"Well at least you went to Chabashira-Sensei rather than another teacher who would likely escalate this instead of giving me a chance to explain things, but why would Kinoshita-san tell you instead of a classmate?" I asked carefully, watching Kushida who looked slightly uncomfortable under my gaze.

"Oh, well that's because I am good friends with Kinoshita-san and decided to come check on her before eating and she told me"

"I see"

Perhaps I am only being overtly suspicious of Kushida because of Ayanokouji-kuns' warning or maybe it is something to do with the fact that she hates me yet acts with so much concern?

"May I speak with Kinoshita-san?"

"I don't know. Kinoshita-san seems pretty shaken and may probably be emotionally unstable?" Kushida said, looking towards where Kinoshita-san would be resting behind the curtain with an expression of pity.

"Please Sensei, I am not going to cause problems or stir the pot any more than it already has been" I asked, giving a bow.

"Very well"

At that point footsteps could be heard in the corridor approaching the infirmary until a boy revealed himself.

Both hands stuffed in his pockets as he strutted towards us like he owned the entire school, it was him.

"Looks like things have gotten pretty serious, wouldn't you say Suzune?"

"Ryueen-kun..." I spat annoyed at how once again my first name escaped his vile mouth.

Trying not to let him read me and finding that I was confused as to why exactly he was here I failed and Ryuuen-kuns' smirk widened.

"Kinoshita called and I rushed here after hearing about it. To think someone would do this on purpose..." *sigh* He said walking past us towards Kinoshitas' bed.

We all followed in a panic as he swung the curtain open revealing a very startled and scared Kinoshita-san.

"Sup? I heard you were dealing with a pretty nasty injury" He said, getting closer to the now trembling Kinoshita-san.

"Whoa that looks natsy. I'm surprised you held out for so long after all you have been going through'' Pulling out her bandaged up right leg so that we could see it as well, her injury looked painful.

"Sorry I tried my best, but it just won't--hng!"

"Don't worry about it. I know you wanted to participate in the three legged race, but your health comes first" Ryuuen-kun said, his cunning sly smile still plastered on his face as he watched Kinoshita-san writhe in pain.

"I see that you are injured, but why are you saying I deliberately caused it when we ran into each other?"

Kinoshita-san looked away from me and Ryuuen-kun stepped in between us facing me. "I never thought someone as prideful as you would resort to this"

"Stop lying. We both know I wouldn't resort to such cheap tricks unlike you" I fired back glaring at Ryuuen-kun whose grin widened.

"Are you trying to say I did this? That I would deliberately have Kinoshita crash into you and lose one of my aces? Even you must see how far-fetched delusional and desperate that sounds" Ryuuen paused then shifted his gaze back to Kinoshita-san.

"She was going to enter all the recommended events, but now she has to withdraw. Surely you know what the consequences of that are, right?"

"100,000 Private Points on substitutes for each event"

If Kinoshita-san really did want to enter each of the remaining events then Ryuuen-kun would have to fork over 400,000 Private Points for substitutes of lower ability compared to Kinoshita-san.

So would he really spend 400,000 points and sacrifice one of his aces when his class is in such a detrimental position?

My head bagan to hurt thinking about Ryuuen-kun as his behaviour is as erratic and unpredictable as Ayanokouji-kuns.

But could he have?

"What are you thinking? Still blaming me?" He asked leaning towards me, his hands still in his pockets while his gaze met mine seeing right through me. *sigh* "We can keep having this petty back and forth but that won't settle anything, isn't that right Kinoshita?"

"Horikita-san..." Kinoshita hesitated. "When I fell, you said...that I definitely wouldn't win"

"I said no such thing. Why are you lying?"

"Horikita, you only looked behind you when you raced with Kinoshita. Why did you do that?" Chabashira-sensei asked me again.

"Because she kept calling my name like some crazy obsessive stalker. At first I tried to ignore it, but I found it suspicious and looked back"

"Is that true, Kinoshita?"

"I never called her name"

"She denies it, Sensei. Besides, even if Kinoshita did call Suzune's name, what's the big deal? It's just a name and surely Suzune could have ignored something as small as a desperate cry from a highly spirited competitor. Having a strong will to win isn't a crime is it?"

Their arguments, stories and reactions were all in perfect synchronization to perfectly paint me as the one in the wrong. It wouldn't be a surprise to say it was rehearsed.

"Um...Kinoshita-san, Ryuuen-kun, I think this is all just bad luck. I can't imagine that Horikita-san would deliberately hurt her opponent." Kushida-san spoke up quietly in my defense.

"But Horikita-san said that she definitely wouldn't let me win! She said that!"

"Don't you think your desire not to lose just got to you? I mean, I think that Horikita-san was really upset when she fell. I think she was just trying her best" Once again Kushida-san acted in my defence.

"I can't forgive Horikita-san for this. Now I have to take a break from track and field practice," she said

"You really are shameful. You and your whole class" I spat, this farce had gone on long enough.

"What are you trying to say Suzune?"

"After how you beat up Ishizaki-kun, Komiya-kun and Kondou-kun to make your claim against Sudo-kun more convincing, do you really think I wouldn't see through the same trick?" I paused, this whole argument is going against me so I need to wrangle back control.

"Your timing, the fact that Ibuki-san, Kinoshita-san and Yajima-san have all been against me throughout this whole thing because you saw our table and built yours around ours, targeting me like you promised afate the Zodiac special exam. Using your lies and underhanded tricks to trap me"

"Kukuku, that's all very good, but where's the proof? Ultimately you are just spouting paranoid nonsense trying to cover up the fact that you deliberately took out Kinoshita-san. The rest is all coincidence and paranoia"

My lack of evidence meant all my claims were baseless and just the fact that Hirata-kun, Karuizawa-san and Ayanokouji-kun heard Ryuuen-kun vow to 'destroy' me doesn't mean anything.

"But if you are sure that this is all some kind of plot invented by me then you should have no problem proving it to the higher ups"

"That's...Well would you mind if I talked it over more with Horikita-san quickly before you do that please?" Kushida asked, pleading with Ryuuen-kun.

Her concern was unneeded, but I couldn't tell her that because I was too focused on getting out of Ryuuen-kuns' trap.

Like a fly trapped in a spider's web I was currently struggling desperately and it didn't help that Ayanokouji-kun had clipped my wings, trapping me.

Ryuuen-kun mused for a moment contemplating Kushida's request before making a proposal.

"I am short on time and can't afford to drag this out as the recommended participant competitions are coming up so I would like to finish this and the best solution si to leave it in the capable hands of the higher ups"

Looking at me, Kushida-san and Kinoshita-san in turn, Ryuuen-kun continued. "But we could strike a quick deal"

"Strike a deal?"

"You should compensate Kinoshita and Class D for any losses"

"I don't have to listen to your jokes" I refused.

Accepting it would imply that I am in fact guilty despite doing nothing wrong and knowing Ryuuen-kun the deal wouldn't come cheap.

"You won't strike a deal, and you don't want us to report this to the higher-ups? Then we're done here"

"What exactly do you want, then?" Kushida-san asked Ryuuen-kun.

"At least one of you has a good grasp of things. Let's see. If you hand over a million points, I'll have Kinoshita withdraw her complaint. That way, we can prepare a substitute for the recommended-participant events, and Kinoshita will receive some incidental income. Simple, right?"

"Don't be ridiculous! I haven't done anything wrong so I shouldn't have to pay any points let alone such an extortionate amount"

"Then go ahead and prove that, Suzune. Lay it all out in black and white for us"

"Tch. You both sound so sure of yourselves, but are you sure your lies won't be seen through like last time?" I bluffed.

"We can prove we aren't lying so let's hurry up and get the Council President to pass his verdict"

Not only did Ryuuen-kun know about my link with the President, Nii-San, and was using that to provoke me, but his confidence in not being found out only increased after my response.

Does he know 'X'--Ayanokouji-kun--has helped him? or Is it the fact that my fall had been seen by everyone meaning they were all his witnesses?

Ryuuen-kun had thoroughly thought this through and my back was well and truly up against a wall.

Cornered with no escape.

Tch. My demise was set in stone before I even set foot on the field. This is the full extent of my mistake and Ryuuen-kuns' planning.

"Um...could I use my points, Ryuuen-kun?" Kushida-san asked.

"Huh?"

"I don't believe Horikita-san would do something like this on purpose. That's why I don't want this to turn into a big deal. But...I don't think Kinoshita-san would lie, either. Couldn't it just be an unfortunate accident?"

"Oh, that's quaint. Sorry using your points is a no-go. I believe Suzune did this out of malicious intent, to hurt Class D. This apology is meaningless unless we get money out of her. Of course, I won't stop you if you're willing to pay up, too"

"Very well. Kinoshita, we're going to report this to the teachers, then to the student council." Ryuuen-kun ordered.

"The school officials should understand how serious this is. They certainly wouldn't stand for something so mean-spirited and vicious"

I had to choose.

I could pursue the truth, disputing Ryuuen-kun and his lackey's claims.

Or I could compromise right here.

I wanted to do the former, but I had no evidence to prove the truth. I would only be wasting time and everyone's trust.

I had to strike a deal with Ryuuen-kun right here.

"Wait"

Ryuuen-kun and Kinoshita-san stopped walking. "What is it, Suzune?"

he asked. "Have anything to contribute?"

"If I pay you, you'll make it so this issue never happened, right?"

"You're admitting to foul play?"

"No, because I'm not a liar"

"Well then, why exactly are you paying us?"

"Your strategy beat mine, of course it had help, but there's nothing else I can do" The humiliation didn't matter anymore, I just need to get this over with and find Sudo-kun.

"Did you hear that, Kinoshita? She doesn't think she's in the wrong. Can you forgive her?"

"No, I can't"

"Well, there you go"

"Grr..." I growled, my anger bubbling up at this farce.

"Still, I know that you have your pride, too" he added. "I understand that you don't want to admit you're the bad guy in front of your teacher and your friend. That's why I'll accept your offer. I have a kind heart, after all. However, whether Kinoshita will accept your apology is another story"

"If I pay you a million points, you'll act like nothing ever happened. That's what you said. No other conditions, right?"

"That was certainly the previous offer. You declined it once, right? If we're going into a second round of negotiations, I have more conditions"

Just how much did Ryuuen-kun intend to torture me?

"How about you get down on your knees and beg? Maybe then my feelings, and Kinoshita's, will change"

"Ryuuen. This is going too far" Chabashira-Sensei finally spoke up against his outrageous demands.

"Teachers should stay out of this. It's a problem between students" Ryuuen-kun replied, shutting down Chabashira-Sensei.

"Well, I won't force you to decide right away," he told me. "The teachers are watching us, too. I'll wait to hear your answer when the sports festival ends. Will you kneel before me and offer a million points, or will you let the school deliberate? Which will you choose?"

"Don't think that this ends with the sports festival, either. I'm not done with you. Kushida, bring Suzune to me after the festival."

Ryuuen-kun and Kinoshita-san both left, leaving me at a wordless loss.

"Are you okay? Horikita-san?" Kushida-san asked.

"I'm okay. More importantly, how long has it been? Sensei, how much time is left for our lunch break?"

"You still have about twenty minutes. You haven't eaten yet, right? You should hurry up"

After wasting so much valuable time I couldn't afford to waste anymore eating so I decided to start heading off to find Sudo-kun--

"Excuse me"

--to save our class.

All Horikita's Pov and she is more suspicious of Kushidda here because of Ayanokouji and the island.

She knows not to trust him because of his hidden side and because she knows that Kushida hates her yet acts nice to her she is wary and untrusting.

Of course this doesn't mean she automatically blames Kushida but the thought crosses her mind.

Part 36

Ayanokouji Pov

"Haaa...I'm so tired!" Haruka said dramatically as she rested on Sakuras' shoulder.

"Me too..." Sakura also said looking equally exhausted as Haruka.

"Well you both have done amazing and can rest now" I said sitting down with our waters and bentos

It would be no understatement to say that Sakura and Haruka's performances have been among the best in our class.

Yes their placements may be overshadowed by the likes of me, Hirata, Sudo and Miyake, but Haruka and Sakura have managed to remain consistent with their performance in each race being on the same level as their first which allowed them to reach higher placements as everyone else's performances dropped.

The training paid off and after the festival is over Hirata will do his part.

"Yeah, but I have to say that it's all thanks to you helping us coach!" Haruka said grinning and sticking her thumb up at me.

"Y-yes...thank you for helping me again" Referring to the time I stopped her potentially getting raped, Sakura bowed and flashed a smile.

Her stutter while still there seems to be dwindling when she talks with me further showing her small marginal improvements.

She just needs to keep this up and then she will be ready to confront the Shizuku issue.

"It was no problem. In fact I am happy I could be of help to you, both of you" I said looking at each of their smiling faces.

"Let's eat!" Cutting through the awkward silence, Haruka started digging into her food. "Spice. It needs spice!!"

Giggling at the spice demons outburst Sakura laughed and the awkwardness from before dissolved into a fully fledged conversation.

Of course Haruka carried most of it, but all three of us being antisocial we still managed to keep the conversational flow natural.

It's a similar yet different feel to when I am with the Book Buddies.

However, it is still nice.

Karuizawa Pov

It was still the lunch break and me, Yōsuke-kun, Mii-chan, Satsuki, Chiaki and Maya were all having lunch together when I saw Maya-san throwing glances at Ayanokouji-kun.

"Who are you looking at Maya?" Satsuki asked oblivious to the fact that Maya was taking 'sneaky' glances at Ayanokouji-kun.

"U-umm...N-nothing-no one!" Her cheeks had a little rosy pigment to them as she ate her food still side glancing at Ayanokouji-kun.

"Huh?" Turning to look in the direction of Mayas gaze, Satsuki then snapped her head back round. "Are you looking at that gloomy guy?"

You really need to start learning how to read a room idiot!

"Umm...yeah..." Maya mumbled looking down at her fidgeting fingers.

"Why are you acting like that? Wait, don't tell me you like that gloomy guy?" Satsuki asked, looking disgusted at the concept.

"He's not gloomy!" Maya shouted before apologising and sitting back down. "Okay maybe he looks a little, but I think he's more mysterious and cool. I mean have you seen him throughout the festival?"

Mayas' eyes sparkled, but speaking about his performance so far Ayanokouji-kun had shocked the class even more than Sakura-san and Hasebe-san have.

Taking first and second place consistently only losing to people like Kanzaki who is stupidly fast.

A lot of the girl shared Mayas new found interest in Ayanokouji-kun saying things like, "Karuizawa-san has Hirata-kun, but Ayanokouji-kun is also cool" or "He's not gloomy it's just mature and I heard he helped train the pink haired girl and Hasebe-san"

Though I am more scared about why he is standing out and going so far.

From what I can gather he is a person who likes to be left alone, but he is also a master manipulator able to hide in the shadows with ease so then why is he risking his position in the shadows?

What is he after?

"Kei-san?!" Maya said, shaking my shoulders.

"Huh? Wh-what's the matter?" I asked confused as to why everyone was looking at me.

"You zoned out" Satsuki said and it appears that while I was thinking about Ayanokouji-kun and getting no closer to figuring out his objective, Maya and Satsuki decedi to ask for my opinion.

"If you want my opinion then Yōsuke-kun is better, but Ayanokouji-kun is different to the likes of Ike and Miyamoto"

To be honest I couldn't really tell them my true opinion that he is dangerous because that would expose me and I couldn't really just fault him out of nowhere so I gave a fair opinion, but I would rather Maya and the others not get too involved with him.

Who knows what he could do, who else would become his slave?

"See? I told you he was better than Ike the filthy desperate disgust—"

"Satō-san you shouldn't talk about Ike like—" Before Yōsuke-kun could even finish Ike walked past screaming to Yamauchi, who was right next to him, about Kushida-sans' breasts and ass.

"Ayanokouji-kun is reliable" Yōsuke-kun said abruptly before focusing on eating his food.

"Even Hirata-kun agrees Satsuki-san!"

"Ugh, whatever" Satsuki said, ignoring Maya.

"But he is also really close with or dating, depending on who you ask, Shiina-san from class D" I said ending Mayas' fantasy.

"Huh? What? Really?"

"Oh yeah...sorry Maya-san, but I have also seen him together with her" At Satsuki's confirmation Maya looked down and we finished eating in silence.

Horikita Pov

Still scolding myself for so easily falling into Ryuuen-kuns trap and being tangled in an inescapable web of deceit I arrived at the first year's dorms.

Pushing the thoughts of Ayanokouji-kun, Kushida-san, Ryuuen-kun and even Nii-San to the back of my mind I walked in ready to accomplish my goal.

To bring back Sudo-kun.

"H-Horikita?" Resting on one of the sofas in the lobby, Sudo-kun sounded surprised as he noticed my presence.

"Why are you here? Wait, don't tell me you are here to persuade me to come back and help those scumbags?" His words were harsh, but the uncontrollable rage from before seems to have subsided a little.

"Do I look like the type to come running all this way to persuade you?"

"Err...well..no, no you don't...So then why are you here? To scold me?"

"I don't know..." I said, unable to speak my true reason for being here.

"Huh?" Sudo-kun said, tilting his head looking confused.

To be honest I truly don't know what exactly I should say. Ayanokouji-kun banged on about how Sudo-kun could become a 'weapon' for me, but I don't understand how.

"If you stay out of the competitions we won't just fall below class B, but possibly classes A and D"

"Hmm, sounds bad. Guess we are in trouble then, huh?"

"Yes. Fatigue has affected the majority of us and if that hasn't it's injury and now we don't have the table to rely on, so we just keep falling"

Despite our brilliant start our class had accumulated many injuries, majority minor, but they had affected our performance and with Sudo-kun and Kouenji-kun not participating our strength has severely decreased.

I can't say where we are in the rankings, but I know that the gap is growing smaller and smaller as there are more points on offer in the recommended participation matches.

"And after all the work I did carrying all the deadweights, that Hirata" Sudo-kun grumbled.

"You should really be thankful for him. After all if he hadn't stopped you from hitting Ryuuen-kun you would have been disqualified and maybe face a worse punishment, like me" I mumbled the last part not wanting anyone else to know and Sudo-kun didn't seem to hear or mind.

"I just couldn't stand him. Using those cheap tricks and cheating, I just couldn't"

"Ryuuen-kun never plays anything fair and even I understand how annoying that is believe me" Sudo-kun gave me a weird confused look at the end part, but I paid no mind to it and continued. "But I also have to say that you have it your all today"

Sudo-kun, despite his outrageously short fuse and natural hot headed nature, was actually a good leader who strived and pushed himself for the class.

His strong desire to win pushed him on and his performance was definitely the best in our class if not close to being best in our year.

Yes Sakura-san and Hasebe-san have grown the most, but Sudo-kun still performed the best.

"However that said there are still things you need to work on" I paused ready to hear his rebuttals about my next point, "The fact that you are here alone is enough proof"

"Huh? The heck's that supposed to mean?"

"If you had people that relied on or trusted you then I wouldn't be the only classmate here. Even your 'friends' Ike-kun and Yamauchi-kun haven't even come here to try and bring you back"

Thud!* Kicking the table to vent his frustrations, Sudo-kun didn't reply so I continued.

"That's your major problem there. Your terribly short fuse and temper which makes you try and bully your way through life. You did the same thing with the midterms and class D and caused trouble for yourself and everyone and now you have snapped again"

"I get it okay!!" He shouted, spinning around and facing me, "I know my temper and attitude are bad, but I can't help it. I have been trying, really really trying, but when everyone else is constantly having digs at me for being useless it's hard"

"I decided to be the leader to show them that I could help and be useful, but it turns out that I'm not Hirata so that's never going to happen"

Sudo-kun said, putting his head down showing how pathetic he felt.

"Guess now I'm all alone again, huh...?"

"I understand" I said and he instantly looked up at me.

Unlike the people who say 'I understand' or 'I know how you feel' when truly they are only trying to sympathise and ease the burden I can truly understand and resonate with these feelings.

"Respect. The desire to fight alone. I understand those all too well" I told him and he watched me carefully.

"During the midterms I got annoyed at those who were struggling and couldn't study, you included, and I got angry when they couldn't do it. The island I hid the fact I was ill from everyone because I didn't want to invoke anyone in my problems. It was my fight. But instead of refusing like I did you worked harder to carry the deadweight"

Sports and academics though different share the same principles, talent and effort.

What I had felt towards Sudo-kun during the midterms was probably what he was feeling now.

And to think I was so set on letting him fail and yet now I am relying on him.

The irony.

"Then you understand how I feel. Right now, I wanna be alone"

"I wish I could, but we need your help otherwise we will fall behind" Sudo-kuns actions affect not only him, but the whole class and right now we need him.

"Aren't you just as bad as me then? You abandoned the class as well just to chase after me so you can't really lecture me can you?"

"I suppose I can't"

His reasoning couldn't be faulted because I had abandoned the class exactly like him.

"You're disappointed in me right? Don't worry I'm used to it, used to being Sudo the embarrassing disappointment" Putting his head down his dejected voice Carrie towards me as he continued.

"I was born to worthless people, that's why I'm worthless too. I came here to escape that, to stop myself from ending up like my parents...but it turns out I'm just like them" He finished with a deep sigh.

"I refuse"

"Eh?"

"I said I refuse that you or anyone else can deem themselves worthless based on parents or situation. You control your actions, behaviour and choices. Being born from amazing or worthless parents doesn't control who you are or will be"

(Kind of a rejection to Arisu's gene theory)

"What do you mean?" Still not able to fully understand, I explained further.

"You're still a nobody. Like unmolded clay, who you will shape up to be depends only on you. As of right now you have incredible athletic ability, but lack in academics. You can improve both through hard work and the fact that you are able to help and advise people despite your rough manner of speaking shows me you aren't worthless. You just need work—"

Ayanokouji-kun has helped me understand this back during the midterms and from how he has 'helped' me.

"—but if you run away like you are now then you will be worthless"

"I don't care! Just call me worthless and shove off" He replied.

"So, you're going to throw in the towel because things aren't going your way?"

It seems what I had said to him had fallen on deaf ears. Perhaps I wasn't as capable as Ayanokouji-kun when it came to this, so maybe Sudo-kun couldn't be made into my 'weapon' after all.

The bell signalled the end of lunch meaning the competitions were about to begin and Sudo-kun wouldn't be able to make it back in time for the scavenger hunt.

"Go back, Horikita"

"No. Not unless I bring you with me"

"Fine, do what you want" Sudo-kun said as he stormed off towards the elevator.

"I'll be here, waiting"

"Do what you want"

I didn't take my eyes off him until the elevator doors closed.

sigh* I'm trying...

Ayanokouji Pov

"Dammit! Without Ken here we have no chance of beating that monster" Ike said, kicking the floor after our humiliating loss in the four way Tug-of-War.

"Yeah, even with class B's help we still stood no chance" Onodera agreed heading back to get a drink of water.

Albert, the one Ike called 'monster', had been one of the driving factors in class D's victory meaning our standing dropped even lower.

"It's impossible to understand where exactly we stand in terms of points as we haven't been keeping score, but our lead has certainly vanished and it's class B's win" Hirata said.

"They are doing their best and having fun as well, though they also haven't been involved behind the scenes" I said as we watched Ichinose and Shibata smiling as they talked to their classmates.

But that's why they aren't thought of as a threat.

The Sports Festival itself was ignored or devalued by the class leaders of classes D, C and A and they instead focused on pushing their own agendas.

Ryuuen attacked Horikita and played mind games with Sudo, Kushida was also able to put her plan of replacing Horikita in action as well.

Sakayanagi, with my help, was finally able to conceive and show to her class how useless Katsuragi is and gain full control.

I was also able to manipulate two out of the three other classes in our year all with just one participation table.

"Mhmm" Hirata nodded, pausing to look at the participation table before speaking again, "Looks like Sudo-kun won't be able to make it back in time for the next race"

"Horikita is off trying to bring him back but I guess that isn't going too well. Maybe he won't even come back"

"So then what will we do about the next race? Aren't Sudo-kun and Horikita-san meant to be participating in it?" Karuizawa, who had come over from speaking with Satō, Shinohara and Matsushita, asked.

"We will use substitutes" Hirata had already paid for three substitutes, two for Sudo and one for Horikita, meaning he had spent a total of 300,000 private points so far and now with this the total would be 500,000 private points.

"I know you got 500,000 points from the Zodiac exam, but are you sure you can afford to keep financing the substitutes?"

"Yeah, Yōsuke-kun, are you sure you don't want any of our classmates to help pay?"

"I have enough, besides saving 100,000 private points is hard enough and like you Karuizawa-san many of our classmates struggle to save" Hirata said causing Karuizawa, who is an uncontrollable shopaholic, to get embarrassed and pout.

"Horikita will probably be able to pay you back anyways, though I doubt the same can be said for Sudo"

"Well for now I think we should focus on trying to do the best we can in the last two events so we should start trying to look for substitutes for Horikita-san and Sudo-kun"

Mixed-gender three-legged race and the 1200 meter relay.

Those are the last two events and both bring a fair share of points.

"Umm, Hirata-kun?" Just as Hirata was about to leave looking for substitutes Kushida walked up to us.

"What is it Kushida-san?"

"I would like to substitute for Horikita-san in the three legged race! Of course I will use my own points to pay, but I want to help" Kushida beamed, even offering her own points.

"Since you're pretty good at sports I don't think there will be a problem, but are you sure you want to use your own points?"

"Yeah it will be fine. I have too many after the Zodiac exam anyways so I will go inform Chabashira-sensei that I'm Horikita-san's substitute" Kushida said turning around to tell Chabashira-Sensei.

"I'll come too"

""Huh?"" They all let out a surprised sound as I moved to stand beside Kushida.

"I will sub for Sudo"

"Really? Well if you aren't too tired then that would be great. After all you have been getting first and second place throughout the whole festival so I don't see why not?"

"Then it's decided. I will also use my own points so you can save some for the 1200 meter relay" I said leaving Hirata and a surprised Karuizawa behind.

"We may not have practiced much together, but let's do our best for everyone, okay!?" Kushida said keeping her usual demeanor and I just nodded along.

However, inside Kushida must be trying to figure out what I am doing or why I have decided to put a little effort into the tournament

"What is Kushida?" I asked, feeling her watching me from the corner of eye.

"Nothing"

"Ah, Kushida-Hmm? So you're going to substitute for Sudo Ayanokouji?" Chabashira-Sensei asked, seemingly amused at my presence.

"Actually I'm subbing for Horikita" Hearing this Kushida stifled a laugh while Sensei glared at me.

"How amusing. For someone who usually contributes nothing you have been rather proactive in the Festival"

"Lead by example"

"Huh? What do you mean by that, Kiyotaka-kun?"

"I couldn't have Haruka and Sakura working hard and putting lots of effort in if I am to just do nothing. That would just make me a hypocrite"

"That's very mature of you Kiyotaka-kun!" Kushida said giving me false praise?

After paying the substitution fee and leaving the amused Chabashira-Sensei before Hoshinomiya-Sensei could find me and get too close we left to line up.

"Yoo-hoo! Ayanokouji-kun! Oh, Kikyou-chan, too. Looks like we're competing in the same group, huh?" A very cheerful Ichinose said, walking up to us next to her partner, Shibata.

"Oh, wow, real tough opponents! To think the two of you are teaming up..."

"Well, Shibata-kun might be tough, but I'm really not all that special, you know? I haven't gotten first place in anything yet"

"Really? Wow, that's unexpected"

"I placed second one time, but I got fourth or fifth for all the rest of my events. To tell you the truth, someone else was supposed to participate in this three-legged race, but I guess she sprained her ankle before lunch. Quite a few people got injured this year"

Apparently the epidemic of injuries had spread to class B as well, though not nearly as high as the other three classes.

"Well good luck Kikyou-chan, Ayanokouji-kun"

"Mhm, I look forward to racing against you Ayanokouji-kun" Shibata said as the two cheerily moved to their lane to tie their legs together.

They really are enjoying themselves...

Why can't I be naïve like that every once in a while?

Or maybe I can be like that with Hiyori?

"I guess we should also...Um, would it be okay if you did it instead? It would be weird for a guy to do it, plus Ike might kill me for it" I mumbled the last part, but with our distance Kushida heard and her face twisted slightly.

" I couldn't give a crap what that pervert thinks, I wish he would just have a heart attack and die , but why are you asking me to do it Kiyotaka-kun? You were fine tieing yourself and Horikita-san together"

Wow.

If someone told me she was bipolar or had multiple personalities after seeing that I couldn't disagree.

"Status and admirers" I explained and Kushida just smiled to herself probably seeing it as a victory over Horikita.

"Anyway, I can't believe Horikita-san went off looking for Sudo-kun like that"

"What do you mean?"

"Well she never skips class or bothers to care for others and yet she just ran off to help Sudo-kun...Don't you think it's odd?"

"Yeah, I was surprised"

"You didn't really look all that surprised, though" As Kushida said that, she crouched down and pulled the cord around my leg.

"I suppose it's hard for people to read my face. Always has been."

"You mean, you have a good poker face?"

"Kushida"

"Hold on just a little longer, okay? I'll be finished soon"

Our conversation so far had been amicable and Kushida had kept her usual persona, for the most part, but I decided to cut to the chase.

"How do you plan to proceed in taking over from Horikita?"

"Hmm?" Finishing tieing is together Kushida stood back up looking at me slightly dissatisfied. "You're not even going to ask about the table?"

"I already expected as much and knew, but like I said I wouldn't get involved"

"You still made plans though like using class A's table"

"That was for my own personal gain nothing more, anyways I want to know how far you have thought ahead before I help"

"Well I obviously have the upper hand in terms of popularity, but Horikita is already the designated leader so I will first join in with your 'leaders club'"

"The one with Hirata and Karuizawa?"

"Yes. I don't think it's fair that I should be left out and what for? I haven't done anything wrong have I?" She asked with a smile that said she knew full well what she had done.

"Then?"

"Then Horikita will keep losing and we will fall back to class D as a result of her leadership—"

"And that's when you plan to oppose her and create a situation much like class A's" I said, cutting her off.

"Sort off, yeah"

Throughout the whole discussion Kushida had kept her vibrant cheerful smile and demeanor so to outsiders it looked like an amicable discussion not a plot to turn the class upside down.

Though her plan isn't bad it's just lacking-then again that's why I am here.

"It's good, but not enough" I paused looking around to gauge how much time we had left.

"Horikita is stubborn and determined and already had two victories under her belt so one loss won't affect her much. Also the fact of you opposing her doesn't fit your personality"

"So then what should I do?"

"You know exactly what to do already—"

""Expel her"" We said at the same time.

"Still that is not an easy feat, but with the help of Ryuuen and maybe myself it would be possible but then it's how would you combat Ryuuen? Sakayanagi? Ichinose?"

"I would be able to unite our class and I have a weapon against class B. Ryuuen will be more difficult, but I will have your help and class A, well we will get there together" Kushida said, seeming to have plans against both Ryuuen and Ichinose.

"Very well. When the time comes I will help you" I said and the race began.

How should Kushida rise up in the class?
(I have ideas/idea but I'm just asking for thoughts)

When did the contract with Ryuuen and Katsuragi start? Like first payment?

Part 37

Horikita Pov

"What else are you planning?" I thought aloud to the empty first year dormitory lobby.

Almost an hour has passed since Sudo-kun left meaning it would be nearing the time for the final competition.

"Hirata-kun is probably shouldering all the burden right now" *sigh* "All our previous effort will now go to waste"

There was no doubt we had fallen from first place and with our two strongest competitors, Sudo-kun and Kouenji-kun, not participating it wouldn't be a stretch to think the now unified class A or Ryuuen-kun's class D had surpassed us in points.

Winning was out of the question even if Sudo-kun were to return and yet I remained here. Right in front of the elevator. Waiting.

I couldn't participate in the 1200 meter relay because of my injury and with Ryuuen-kun demanding my points I can't afford a substitute, but that wasn't the reason I was staying.

Leaving now meant risking the possibility that Sudo-kun would return and see that I too had abandoned him.

I can't do that.

If I did I would become a hypocrite. Not only that, but all Sudo-kuns effort would be for naught and I didn't want that.

"You seriously waited..." The voice I wanted to hear reached my ears and I turned to see Sudo-kun with a surprised expression.

"I told you I would" I said trying to hide the surprise in my voice. "So you came back"

"It's over isn't it? The Festival I mean"

"Yes, but if we go back now then we can make it in time for the last event"

"What's the point? I'm pretty sure we ain't first anymore and wouldn't be surprised if we fell to third place" Sudo-kun said looking slightly annoyed that his effort was wasted.

"You're right. Our class had to face more obstacles than the others with Ryuuen-kun's tricks and Kouenji-kun's and your absence, so our classmates didn't stand much of a chance in keeping first place"

Class B who had sailed smoothly into first place avoiding any conflicts or scheming couldn't be brought down now, but have Ichinose-san and Kanzaki-kun noticed this or are they as naïve as they look?

Thinking about things like class A's new directive under Sakayanagi-san or who leaked our table? and why? Were all thoughts that crossed my mind, but I decided to push them aside for now.

"Can I take it as you being here means you want to go back?"

"Nope. Just came to see if you were still hanging 'round here" He said, sounding uninterested at the proposition of going back.

"I see..." I said before resolving myself and speaking again.

"While I was waiting I had time to think. To think about everything I have done so far. My mistakes. And it helped me realise we are very similar after all"

"You and me are nothing alike. We have nothing at all in common"

"No. We are alike" I paused before continuing allowing my next words to hold more weight.

"Always alone. Hoping to achieve recognition. Believing we could do it, if we kept trying. Our only difference in these aspects is that you want recognition from a group of people while I want it from one person"

"You already know and have met the Student Council President, right?"

"The prim and proper guy at my trail? What about him?"

"He's my brother. My older brother"

"Really? Oh...wait didn't you say something 'bout fighting with him?" Sudo-kun asked surprised, but given that not many people have made the link I wasn't surprised.

"Our relationship is far from good. Nii-san is an incredible person both in academics and athletics, but because I am incompetent he doesn't like being associated with someone like me. That's why I have tried so hard to become like him too. Trying my hardest in everything and trying to drag our class to class A"

"But aren't you already incredible? I mean you win us both those special exams in the summer" Sudo-kun said, but really all I had down was take credit for Ayanokouji-kun's work because he "dislikes attention"

"Nii-san is far more incredible than me and his reputation in this school is proof enough of that. That's why I wanted to take the anchor position. I had this idea that we cousin talk and maybe he would cheer for me"

"He really doesn't acknowledge you? Even though you're tryin' so hard?"

"He doesn't, but this Festival has helped me realise something. I'm not incredible. Ryuuen-kun outsmarted me and I didn't even manage to see it coming or defend against it. So far I'm not satisfied with what I have achieved and while I still want to reach class A. I also realise that working alone will only prevent that"

"You're not givin' up?"

"I will never give up. That's another difference with us, I refuse to give up or back down. I will continue going forward until I receive my brother's admiration" I responded with a firm voice resolving myself and showing my determination.

"That sounds like a painful path to take"

"Maybe, but I can't continue being ignorant of those around me"

The Sports Festival and Ayanokouji-kun had taught me that sometimes there is more to people than just what you see and that alone I can't hope to unify and lead the class.

"I said that you would end up resorting to violence again and then when the time came I just ignored you, but that wasn't the right thing to do. In future if you try to resort to violence again I will stop you, so please lend me your strength. I promise I will help you as well" I looked him right in the eye, meeting his face and not looking away.

"A few hours ago you wouldn't have ever said anything like that so what's with the change?"

"Like I said, I had time to think. To understand how worthless I am"

'Pathetic useless disposable tool'

Once again his words repeated in my head, his cold harsh accurate words.

"So I will ask you again, Sudo-kun. Will you lend me your strength?"

"Horikita..." Sudo-kun said with a complicated expression, my words had hit their mark.

Balling his hands tightly into fists he then hit himself in the forehead, "Ugh. I don't know what exactly I'm feeling...but—"

Stepping toward me he held out his right hand, "—I will work with you, Horikita"

Saying that his face had a slight smile on and I felt a smile creeping on my own face as well.

Inside I felt like a weight had been lifted, I'm no longer alone. I have an ally.

Ayanokouji Pov

"Finding substitutes may be tricky" Hirata said, looking at our demotivated class.

"But at least it's the final event" At last the Sports Festival was coming to its close with the final event, the 1200-meter relay, about to start.

pant* "Hah!...I made it *pant* How are things looking?" A very bright and cheerful Sudo, completely out of breath, had come back with Horikita in tow.

"Sudo-kun, you came back!" Hirata said, looking at him with a bright smile, however many of our classmates stared at him with icy glares.

"Yeah, well it's my fault we are in this mess" Sudo paused scratching the back of his neck smiling sheepishly.

"Sorry for hitting ya, Hirata. I let my temper get the better of me and crashed our morale. Sorry" Saying this Sudo gave a deep bow.

Seems like I got through to Horikita.

After a few moments Hirata laughed happily, though his swollen cheek probably hurt, recovering from the shock.

"K-Ken? Is that really you?" Ike asked, sounding completely shocked while wearing a confused expression.

"I did something stupid, I have to apologise. I also want to apologise to you too Kanji"

"Don't worry about it. After all I'm not that good at sports so it's fine"

"Hirata, if you haven't decided on a substitute please let me run" Sudo turned back to Hirata helping clear our previous issue.

"I'm afraid I won't be much help with my leg, so I think a substitute would be best" Horikita said dejectedly.

Horikita desperately wanted to participate in this event more than any of the others because of the chance to run against and talk with her elder brother and you could still easily see the determination in her eyes, but with her injury running would only negatively affect the class.

Ryuuen's attack on Horikita had destroyed her body and spirit and now the most fatal blow was delivered.

"I'm fine to substitute in Horikita-san's place then" Kushida raised her hand despite just having races with me in the previous event.

"Thank you Kushida-san" Hirata said, confirming the lineup for the 1200-meter relay.

Our team which had to consist of three boys and girls was now finalised with Hirata, Sudo, Miyake, Onodera, Maezono and Kushida stepping in for Horikita. However—

"Sorry Hirata...but can I also ask for a substitute. After the Cavalry battle my leg got hurt and then I twisted it during the 200 meter dash. I thought resting a little would dull the pain, but I was wrong"

"I'm that case we need a representative from the boy's side" Hirata said, looking over everyone as his gaze fell on me.

"I'll substitute for Miyake" I said, raising my hand.

"Are you sure you aren't too tired? After all you have just been up in the last event" Hirata said, but my stamina won't be an issue.

"I can manage"

"Thank you Ayanokouji" Miyake said, giving me a bow.

"No problem"

"Well with Ayanokouji-kun running our chances sure have shot up" Karuizawa said, rallying support from some of the girls in our class.

"Yeah Kiyopon has been getting first and second throughout the whole festival" Haruka said, only raising the support and faith in me.

Horikita looked at me suspiciously, similar to how Chabashira-Sensei had looked at me earlier, only to avert her gaze back to her injury.

"Thank you for your help Ayanokouji-kun. However even with Ayanokouji-kun we can't really be sure that we will win. After all everyone here has been working hard in many of the recommended events as well as the ones this morning so I'm sure your all tired"

Fatigue had definitely affected the rest of the runners especially because they were the ones that had been trying so hard throughout to create and maintain our initial lead.

"That's why I think we should focus on how we start more than anything else. Sudo-kun, do you think you could get us off to a good start and overtake other runners? I will follow up after you to help keep the lead and make sure we maintain it for as long a possible"

Getting an initial lead would give us a tactical advantage as lanes couldn't be prepared for all of the twelve competing students. As a result we would start side-by-side.

However in the rules it stated that after overtaking a runner you could take their inner lane so if you could get a lead in the initial dash, you would escape the chaotic free-for-all at the start.

"Well, sounds like we ain't got much of a choice anyways if we want to win"

The plan was for Sudo to go first, giving us both a lead and momentum which Hirata would then try his best to conserve.

After that it would be left to the girls until it reached me in the anchor position, a position with equal importance as Sudo's

sigh* Seems like I always get the troublesome roles.

Everyone took to their places with Horikita's older brother and the Vice President Nagumo, whose performance stood out among his year, even took to the field.

"We're counting on you Sudo-kun!" Hirata shouted.

Doesn't that just increase the pressure he is feeling though?

""You've got this Sudo-kun!!"" Kushida and the other runners also cheered for the now motivated Sudo who got ready in his lane.

In an attempt to bridge the gap in physical ability the school had placed the first years closer to the innermost lane meaning Sudo was in the second lane while class 3-A was in the outermost lane.

"That was almost very problematic" Hirata said standing next to me. "A few more seconds and I would have withdrawn"

Just like Miyake, Hirata too had been injured so we came up with a plan that I would become his substitute.

"Ryuuen's underhanded tactics have cost us more than we thought" Hirata's bright expression faltered, hardening a little before his usual demeanor returned.

"For now let's just cheer on Sudo-kun" I nodded my head and we both looked towards Sudo.

Bang!

Instantly when the gun fired, Sudo shot off his mark dashing down the lane. Running faster than he had during the whole Festival, launched forward with powerful strides.

An instant lead was formed as a result of the speed and momentum allowing him to overtake all 11 runners.

""Whoa!"" The other racers shifted and in the stands many shocked gasps could be heard.

"He's so fast!" "Is that a first year" "Sudo-kun is amazing"

Panicking because of Sudo's strong start the second and third year male and female students got caught up in a chaotic free-for-all only allowing Sudo to extend his lead.

"It's up to you, Hirata!" Sudo said passing on the baton after gaining us at least a lead of fifteen meters.

Enthusiastic screams of excitement and encouragement could be heard from class C as Hirata also managed to maintain our lead as we transitioned to our third runner, Onodera.

Onodera is one of the fastest and most athletic girls in our class and is even on the swimming team, but being a girl she wasn't able to outcompete the guys chasing her.

If you take the fastest men and fastest women the men are about 10% faster, on average.

Usain Bolt holds the men's 100 meter world record with a time of 9.58 seconds while Florence Griffith-Joyner holds the women's with a time of 10.49 seconds. They also both hold the 200 meter records with times of 19.19, for Bolt, and 21.34 seconds, for Florence.

Which goes to show that even at the highest level men are faster, this can also be explained though the men having extra muscle and their hearts and lungs being able to pump more blood and oxygen in comparison to women.

As a result a male second year from class A overtook her, then a third year class A, another third year class A and another second year class A male overtook her.

By the time Maezono got the baton our lead was almost gone, however the race was full of surprises. A third year girl from class A fell fifty meters behind their next runner. In a panic she tried to get back up but a class A second year took advantage and gained a lead of their own.

When Kushida received the baton class A had overtaken us putting us in seventh place.

Age was definitely an important factor as us first years had a hard time competing at the same level as our senpai's.

Only class B had managed that feat holding third place and Shibata patiently waited in the anchor position.

As the fourth runner from the third-year Class A tumbled, the situation between the guys in the anchor positions changed.

"Looks like victory is ours this time, President Horikita. I would've liked to run against you directly, if possible"

Nagumo laughed as the runner from his class approached with a thirty meter gap between Horikita's teammate.

"Looks like we're going to win in overall points, too. Guess the old really do move over for the new, eh?" He said smugly, though I don't believe he could have beaten Horikita anyways.

"Do you seriously plan to change this school?" Elder Horikita asked.

"You're too traditional. Stuck in the past and although you're strict you're weak. Your rules are too generous and they stop people from getting expelled. All I'm going to do is make this school a true meritocracy"

Nagumo said moving forward as he spoke to get in position to receive his baton.

I'm fine with the school the way it is, but then again his idea also isn't bad.

Not that I care, but this is the person that Horikita wanted me to fight against...he's okay I guess?

Not long after Nagumo received his baton, Shibata also set off. "Leave the rest to me!" He shouted a fire blazing in his eyes as he chased after Nagumo.

My eyes met with the Elder Horikita for an instant allowing me to see that he was fighting some internal struggle.

"I'm surprised" He said capturing my attention before continuing, "I didn't think someone who dislikes troublesome things you have put on quite the display and have even taken the role as anchor"

"Your sister was originally meant to be the anchor. Besides my results so far haven't been too noteworthy"

"I see. She looked to be facing some trouble, but I suppose you already know about all of that, don't you?" He said clearly having understood what was going on with the first years.

"What do you mean?" Feigning ignorance would be pointless against someone like him so I decided to see what he knows.

"It's not that hard to tell that someone from class C managed to manipulate both classes A and D for their gain at the start of the festival"

"How can you be sure it is someone from class C? Maybe it was class B"

"Impossible" He said adamantly. "As President I keep an eye on every class and out of your year class C stands out the most. The Island special exam and Zodiac special exam garnered a lot of attention especially because your class was originally 'the most defective batch of defectives ever'"

"And I am able to attribute all that to your presence and the same can be said for this festival"

"I guess saying 'it was all Horikita's plan' won't work?" Simply shaking his head to my question he responded with one of his own.

"Though why didn't you follow through?"

"I don't care about winning the Sports Festival. I was just using it as a means to teach your sister a lesson and set some pieces in motion"

From the very start I said I had no interest in winning the festival, after all I did just carry us through the Zodiac and Island exam.

"I have no interest in sorting out your family affairs" I said to which he gave me a quizzical look.

"If Horikita, your sister, continues to be a problem I will allow her to be expelled whether you are here to see it or not" I said in a cold tone as we faced each other.

"If that's the case then that will be her fault" He replied shifting his gaze towards his approaching teammate.

"Since you couldn't race properly against Nagumo, how about you race against me?"

"What?"

"During the midterms I showed you some of my ballet skills so why don't I show you the rest?" Reminding him of the time in the alley all those months ago, he turned to look at me slightly annoyed and confused with my vagueness.

"What I'm saying is that if you give up in second place and wait for me to receive the baton I will race against you seriously. After all there won't be many more chances for us to compete like this will there?"

Standing still he turned to face me, "I accept"

Once his team's runner passed him the baton the Elder Horikita didn't move. He simply accepted it and stood completely still.

"Great work. Thank you for your effort"

"Uh, thanks..." *pant* The third year said leaving in a mild state of shock.

Picking up on the buzzard spectacle murmurs came from the audience as another runner passed us.

Finally, Kushida approached me at full speed. She'd be here in seconds.

"I'll say one thing to you before we race"

"What?"

As the two of us got ready, I turned my head to face him, "Run as fast as you can"

I had the feeling that the Elder Horikita wore a slight smile as I said those words and finally the baton passed to me.

"Kiyotaka-kun!" Kushida shouted.

Launching off my mark I bolted down the line. I hadn't run this seriously ever.

The feeling was worlds apart from all the times I had run in that cold sterile room and the atmosphere from the audience only added to that feeling.

I wonder if I'm smiling right now?

Cold wind washed over me as my contest against the Elder Horikita continued.

The Sports Festival.

My classmates.

The Red Team.

The White Team.

Other runners.

None of them mattered to me. All that mattered was competing against the man next to me.

Picking up our pace with each second slicing through the wind and thundering down the tack we easily closed the gap between us and the runners in front of us.

"Whoa! No way!" The very shocked runner said as we stormed past him leaving him in our dust.

The crowd was completely silent or perhaps I had tuned them out to focus on our one-on-one.

Beyond the first curve, beyond the straight line that followed, and then to the last curve.

Maybe I am smiling? After all this is the most fun I have had so far.

So let's go even faster.

Finally got back and thought to finish this up.

When I say smiling I mean genuinely smiling because he can smile, which I remember because of 'Self Test' ( Amazing fic ).

I only realised this until after I wrote it but a 1200 meter relay between 6 people is actually really short.
Each person only has it run 200 meters which isn't that far, plus I remember doing like 1500 meter runs back at the start of high school. (Not relay)

8 years and 243 days

The sum of all natural numbers from 1 to infinity is negative 1/12

Third Person Pov

An eruption of noise from the spectator area broke through the tense silence washing over the grounds.

Applause came from staff members and other impressed alumni while ecstatic cheers sounded from the overjoyed class C, as well as a few other first, second and third year classes who were impressed by the one-on-one, and some shocked and inquisitive muttering from the second and third years.

The runners who had been overtaken crossed the line with expressions of awe and defeat as their attempt to catch up or close some of the distance only resulted in stitches and complete exhaustion. While those who had already finished breathed little sighs of relief that they had secured their placements.

Looking at the two who now stood face to face at the centre of everyone's attention Nagumo could only click his tongue, as his spotlight and first place finish meant nothing. Though his scornful gaze honed in on the mysterious kouhai.

"It's my loss" The elder Horikita said, offering out his hand to shake.

Beads of sweat glistened on both their brows, built up from all the strength and stamina they had just exhausted as they battled for the slightest lead on the other.

"Thank you. I haven't had to run like that for a while or come that close to losing" Ayanokouji said as he extended his hand to shake Manabu's.

' It's also the most fun I have had since coming here as well'

"Yes, it has been a while myself so thank you" They both let go of each other's hands before Manabu continued, "Though it is a shame you didn't accept my previous offers to join the Student Council"

"Even if I did, would it have meant anything?" Ayanokouji replied, glancing towards Nagumo who was now celebrating his class's victory.

"Hmph" A small smile revealed itself as Manabu chuckled to himself as he observed Ayanokouji.

' Truly regretful'

Satisfied with the results of their fierce one-on-one and brief conversation both runners started to head back to their classmates. Neither had any regrets and both of their opinions of each other improved even more.

Waiting for them to arrive back at their respective classes were their classmates full of questions, which would be answered.

Though as he walked back Ayanokouji still felt the sharp lingering gaze which remained fixed on him ever since he took up his position as the anchor.

"Fufufu" Sakayanagi laughed as his aloof expressionless face reflected in her violet eyes, her grip tightened around her cane as she stood up.

' Who could have thought something like this would be possible? That we would be able to meet again? Let alone in a place as convenient as this'

"Masumi-san..."

Ayanokouji Pov

Well attention was my goal...

Making my way back to my ecstatic classmates all celebrating despite the fact that we didn't win in the end the weight of many peoples' different gazes was slightly unnerving.

Reminds me of being in the White Room, except they aren't watching me through glass or behind a monitor.

"Kiyotaka-kun, that was amazing! I mean I knew you were fast, but not that fast!?" Kushida enthusiastically greeted me first, expressing her shock at my speed.

"Yeah you two were both stupidly fast. I mean even the other runners looked pale faced as you passed them" Onodera agreed, handing me a water bottle and a face towel.

"Thanks and well I guess I was just being carried along in the heat of the moment" Shrugging my shoulders I drank some of the water before pouring some on my head to wash away the sweat.

"'Heat of the moment' doesn't explain that speed" Horikita said as she limped over to me flashing a stern glare.

Onodera shrunk back as Kushida tilted her head beside me.

"Well it's not like I can run like that all the time. It's like I said, after Sudo's start I let the excitement get to me" I said while massaging my calf and subtly grimacing, "Though I am paying for it now"

"Ayanokouji-kun?" Hirata asked, slightly concerned after seeing my act.

"I'm fine, probably just pulled a muscle" I reassured him while Kushida instructed me to at least see the nurse to get it checked out.

"Meh, pulled muscle is nothing" Sudo said as he slapped my back and flashed a toothy grin, "All that matters is he beat the Student Council President"

Horikita audibly twitched as Sudo said that, but then a look of realisation washed over her, "What did you speak about?"

"Hmm?"

"After Nagumo senpai left you two started speaking to each other so what did you say because whatever it was must have been the reason why he agreed to race you?" Horikita wasn't dumb and also knows of her brothers physical prowess so she must have realised that he gave up second place to race against me.

"I just challenged him on your behalf" I said, silencing her and before any more questions could be asked Karuizawa intervened.

"Looks like they are announcing the results"

Horikita scowled glaring at me before moving towards where the closing ceremony would be held in front of a large screen which would display the results of each year and team.

In big bold letters 'Red Team' and 'White Team' were the headers of two columns as the total number of points were displayed beneath and to no one's surprise the 'Red Team' were victorious, slapping us with a 100cp penalty.

Next up was the results for each year with the second and third years' class A's standing tall with a large lead while their class D's came in a miserable last place by a larger margin.

"--And for the first years"

"Ugh, I knew we lost"

Class B had stormed away with the victory and while they were overjoyed and celebrating, Kanzaki's sour expression stuck out like a sore thumb.

Class D managed to barely scrape second with class A a mere 100 or so points behind them, leaving us of class C in last place.

"200 class points" Karuizawa sighed as we faced a double penalty.

"That's practically half of what we have gained so far in the last two exams" Kushida pointed out the even more crucial factor as our moods sank lower.

"To lose all that in just one exam..."

"It's frightening" Hirata said, finishing off Horikita's sentence looking troubled before going deep in thought.

The fact that I was the person who went out of my way to get us all those classpoints, throwing them away seems pointless and stupid especailly because I am being forced to work towards class A.

However there was a larger goal behind this.

Due to the Zodiac and Island special exams being back-to-back exams I just followed along with her blackmail while also setting up a little test.

The test being how strong her resolve is in reaching class A and will she be corrupted by the two successes?

So in this exam I made it so that I contributed and had a positive effect on the class while being one of the factors in our downfall, however Chabashira couldn't possibly say with 100% confidence that I did sabotage the class.

But what's important is how she reacts to the 200cp loss.

Will she threaten me to work harder in the next one and overplay her hand? Or will she be patient and bide her time in getting to class A with gains and losses?

"--Lastly, we will announce the MVP for each year group"

Hearing these words Sudo's head jerked up and attention focused on the screen, after all if he took first place across all years he would be able to call Horikita "Suzune" similar to how Ike calls Kushida "Kikyou"

Ironically the situations are very similar. I thought, taking a side glance at Kushida.

However much to Sudo's disappointment Shibata had beaten him in the end and was the VIP for the first years, giving class B another reason to celebrate.

"Dammit!" Sudo let out an agonized cry and kicked up some dirt as the once in a lifetime opportunity was stolen from him.

"Well it is only natural" Sotomura said and Sudo just replied with a "Yeah, yeah".

"It's my own fault for walking out halfway" He replied, still staring regretfully at the scoreboard.

"Sudo-kun" And here to be the bearer of bad news was Horikita, "You remember our promise right?"

"Yeah" Sudo sighed. "Shame, but a promise is a promise. I'll call you Horikita from now on"

"Yes well now it's time for my conditions" Horikita replied, causing Sudo's drooped head to snap up instantly and his expression to stiffen.

"Wh-whaddya mean? Conditions..." He asked while I backed away slightly wishing him good luck.

"If you took first place, you could have used my first name. Isn't it only natural that I make a request of you in return?"

"Well, yeah... I guess so..?"

"So, I'm going to give you a penalty for not achieving your goal. You are forbidden from ever using violence without a justifiable reason ever again. Can you promise me that?"

"It's my punishment, right? I promise"

"Of course, you're not the one who gets to decide what a 'justifiable reason' is. That's up to me or a third party" Staying silent Sudo just nodded to accept the conditions and its terms.

Satisfied Horikita slowly turned and limped away a few steps before stopping. "That reminds me. I also failed to live up to people's expectations as well"

"Huh? But that's just 'cause you were injured and that bastard Ryuuen. Nothing you could've done" Confused as to where she is going Sudo replied with an opinion shared by our classmates as well.

"Even so I bragged and looked down on others and yet when it came down to it I didn't lead by example. So for that I need to be punished" Horikita said, glancing at Onodera, Shinohara and Kushida.

"...Therefore if you want..you can call me by my first name, I don't mind giving you permission"

"Huh? H-hey!"

"That is my punishment"

A perfect compromise. One that was surprisingly mature for Horikita.

"There are going to be plenty of exams after this--" While Horikita continued talking to Sudo and showing how she had heeded my advice, a girl whom I had just learned the name of earlier today, Kamuro, came up to me.

"Sorry to interrupt, but do you have a minute?" I nodded and we walked to the side so that other people could continue heading back into school to get changed.

"Would you mind coming with me after you finished changing?"

"Why me?" I asked because she has no real reason to call me out.

There is no possible way someone in class A figured out I am the one who blackmailed Yahiko, so what's this? A confession?

Highly unlikely, I mean all I did was run fast. If that's all it takes to win a girl's or this girl's affection then she would have gone for Sudo, Hirata or Shibata over me.

"Because I have something to talk to you about, so meet me at the front gate at five o'clock" Dumbfounded and unable to think of a solid reason I just nodded in agreement as she walked away.

"Wait, what was that just now?" Yamauchi asked me, his eyes green with misplaced jealousy.

"Think she's going to confess?" Sudo asked

"I highly doubt it"

"Really? I mean, there's a chance you know? She could've fallen in love with you after your performance as anchor" He replied, nudging my shoulder with a grin on his face.

sigh* "Like I said I highly doubt that"

(ﾉヮ)ﾉ:･ﾟ

As promised, after I had changed back into my uniform I made my way to the front gate to see Kamuro standing there waiting.

"Follow me" She said upon noticing my presence and instantly started walking away.

I'd rather not, but I have to make sure why she is doing this.

"Follow you where?"

"The special building" She said and we made our way towards the building and up towards the special annex.

"What exactly--"

"Wait" Cutting me off and walking away, Kamuro turned a corner and whispered, "Can I go now?"

"Yes. Excellent work, Masumi-san. I'll count on you again in future."

Kamuro must have left because the next noise I could hear was the tapping of her cane against the floor.

"I doubt you're going to confess" I said as she continued looking at me with her cold smile.

"Fufufu, what made you think that? If anything I should be the one thinking about being confessed to" Her voice was calm and soothing to listen to and while her laugh was unsettling it had a refined element to it.

However I felt my eyes narrow slightly at her words.

"Why would you think that?"

"Well after you went out of your way to deal the final blow to Katsuragi-kun for me, how could I not think that?" Her gaze held my own as her cold smile remained unfaltered, but my composure waned.

"I'm not following..." Feigning ignorance and confusion I tilted my head breaking away from her gaze, which only caused her smile to widen.

Clack. Clack. Sakayanagi walked forward standing about an arm's length in front of me.

"It's been quite a long time, Ayanokouji-kun. Eight years and 243 days, actually" Still trying to understand how she knows of my involvement with Katsuragi her words made even less sense.

"?" All I could do was watch silently, causing her to giggle.

"I guess it is cruel of me to assume you would know me, after all it was me watching you through the glass"

I felt it.

My heart beat slowed while I hung on the edge of every word.

Ping!

Like opening a vacuum sealed door the sound of my phone receiving a notification allowed me to break free from the exchange, my mind still rattled.

"Fufufufu. My, my now that is a suitable pose" She too had pulled out her phone and became instantly amused by what she saw posted on the school forum.

So that's what he decided to go for.

Posted on the school's forum, on display for everyone and anyone to see was Horikita. However the image was much more than just that it was Horikita kneeling before Ryuuen.

"Feel free to send your message now" Sakayanagi said, looking at me as she perfectly predicted what my response would be.

Hesitating at first I sent the message then looked at her once again feeling the silent pressure from before.

"Hmm, where were we?" Giggling as she moved forward to stand shoulder to shoulder with me I felt the air around her change once more, "That's it... White Room"

I felt my eyes widen as those two simple words cracked my composure.

"..." My mouth dry as words failed to escape my throat.

How does...?

She couldn't possibly--No I am the sole survivor, but then that means--

"It's unpleasant, isn't it? When only your opponent knows your secrets. When they make you squirm" I could feel the sadism from her words as she continued to enjoy my silence.

' Eight years and 243 days'

' after all it was me watching you through the glass'

Her words from before which meant nothing and didn't make sense now rang through my head. She knew. The reason she was able to say it was me who targeted Katsuragi was because she knew.

"This is a reunion. It's only right I come give my childhood friend a proper greeting"

Turning my head to look down at the girl who has me hanging off her every word. I have never seen her before nor have I met her during school, but I'm not stupid enough to discount the fact that she knows me.

That is the fact that is the most unsettling.

"Oh, it's quite alright that you don't know me, but I know you. And to reunite in a place like this... To be honest, I could never have imagined it" A sense of relief or nostalgia filled her voice only to be erased in her next sentence.

"But now everything makes sense. The island, the Zodiac, class C's expulsion incident and class A's table. They were all you" She had me, her words and tone said that she wouldn't be persuaded overwise and the fact that Horikita had just knelt before Ryuuen meant that my escapes were cut off.

"Actually Kouenji--" Using the last option available to me and probably the person who Ryuuen is most confused over, I tried throwing out Kouenji's name.

"Please relax" She said cutting me off, "I've no intention of telling anyone about you"

"Why not?" I had regained my composure, but I had lost too much ground and sat idly on the defensive.

"I don't want anything to get in my way. I'm the perfect person to bury false genius" Clack, her cane struck the floor again as she continued. "I've been bored with my school life so far. Petty battles for class leader against someone incompetent and a half-baked attack from Ryuuen-kun" *sigh*

"But you can entertain me" I practically see her smiling as she says this.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Please, go ahead. I would be honoured to have you ask me a question. I am happy to tell you anything and everything"

"Well that's good. Then--" My golden eyes met with Sakayanagi's violet one's as the air around us became tense and thick.

"--Can you bury me?"

"Hee hee!" Sakayanagi chuckled softly to herself, and smiled once more.

"Sorry for laughing. I don't intend to insult you. I know quite well how incredible you are. I've been looking forward to this. I'll be able to realize my dearest wish by destroying the greatest 'masterpiece' that your father ever made."

"Though first I will show you that this all isn't just an inflated ego or an idle threat" She paused, turning her head so she was looking forward. "First I will destroy the class of naïve idiots like how you are playing with Ryuuen-kun"

Clack. Clack. The noise of her cane became fainter and before she reached the stairs she spoke out one last time.

"Then I will destroy you"

...

A few moments of silence passed until I felt myself grinning on the inside.

"Sakayanagi Arisu..."

Motivation finally hit me!!! Briefly

Wanted Kiyo to be on the back foot with Arisu especially for their first meeting and now she will start the conflict with Ichinose sooner.

Unlucky Horikita.

Also I wrote this over the course of three days because of discord and Genshin.

Humiliation

'Humiliation is a bitter medicine, but it had healing effects'
Thought I would throw in a quote instead of a math problem this time.

Energy sapped bodies slowly retreated from the classroom, their heads low as their mood was still bitter after our crushing defeat.

"Sakura-san, Hasebe-san can you wait a moment?" Picking up on why Hirata-kun was calling out to those two in particular I also glanced in their direction.

"Um, what do you need Hirata-kun?" Hasebe-san said, sounding uneasy as she glanced at Karuizawa-san and her friends.

"I just wanted to say thank you for all your hard work. Ayanokouji-kun told me about how much effort you both put in, so on behalf of the class I would like to say thank you"

"U-um...--" Both of them looked to be at a loss as Hirata-kun gave a bow.

"Yes thank you for your effort. You both improved a lot" I added.

"Um, w-well Ayanokouji-kun h-helped a lot" Sakura-san said, her strained voice expressing discomfort.

"Horikita"

Redirecting my attention to the person calling my name I saw Chabashira-sensei standing in front of my desk.

"What is it Sensei?"

"I would like to hear your opinion and report on the results of the class" She said loud enough for me to hear, but no one else.

"Shouldn't you also ask Hirata-kun about this as well?" Hirata-kun knows more about our classmates than me and would be able to evaluate their personal results better than me.

"No. This is an issue for the class leader and last time I checked that was you, Horikita"

Hmm?

From her words and the fact that she doesn't want Hirata's opinion tells me this is less about my classmates' results, but the classes.

Specifically the behind the scenes, but why?

Teachers don't need to know about details like that because they are neutral in--

"I understand"

Teachers are 'supposed' to be neutral.

However I know that isn't completely true.

Thoughts about the trial and how Sakagami-sensei strongly defended his pupils flashed in my mind and then the incident in the guidance room at the start of the year.

Chabashira was the one who opened my eyes to Ayanokouji-kun. She's the reason I learnt that there was more to him than his crippling social skills and dull appearance. The reason I tried to use him.

"Good, well I am free now so--"

"I'm sorry, but I can't do it today so tomorrow so could you wait until tomorrow?" Her gaze sharpened before she closed her already narrow eyes letting out a sigh.

"Fine. Come by the faculty room tomorrow" I nodded in reply ending our exchange as Sensei then took a stack of papers from the front and left the almost empty classroom.

"Horikita-san?"

"Karuizawa-san, I thought you left already?" I tilted my head curious as to why she was lingering around.

"I left my phone so I had to come back and get it, though I didn't expect for you to still be here?" She asked, looking at me puzzled, holding her phone in her left hand. "Well, not that it matters, if it's something important you will bring it up in our next meeting right?"

"Yes and about that I want to have another meeting at the end of the week, maybe Sunday if it's convenient?"

"Sure! I will tell Yousuke-kun and Ayano--"

"Just Hirata-kun"

"Huh?"

"I will explain it when we talk again, but for now just invite Hirata-kun"

"Oh..okay. See you Horikita-san" Karuizawa said leaving the classroom.

It might already be too late, but I have to do something even if it's just damage control.

Seeing that Karuizawa-san had finished talking with me and everyone else had left, the only other person in the classroom approached me.

"Are you ready to go now, Horikita-san?"

"We may be cutting it close on timing, but yes. Let's go, Kushida-san"

Walking side by side we left the classroom, our pace hindered slightly by my limp which I was trying my hardest to suppress as we made our way to meet Ryuuen-kun and put an end to my suffering and the Sports Festival.

*Timeskip*
*Scene change*
HorikitaxIbuki Lemon UwU

"Took your time, but you actually came? I was half expecting you to run-well limp away and hide" Ryuuen-kun mocked, lifting his back off the wall smirking with his hands in his pockets.

He looked unshakable, like everything can only go in his favour.

"Running away would only lead to more problems. This is my responsibility, I made this grave when I got careless and dependent so I intend to lie in it" I told him with resolve filling my voice and gaze.

"Kuku, you're starting to understand, but let's see if you keep that look after this is all done" Responding to my resolve with a toothy grin, Ryuuen-kun's amusement had only grown.

"Yes, but if I may, can I ask for just one last favour beforehand?"

"Go ahead, just don't take too long" Shifting his gaze between us for a moment Ryuuen-kun agreed, still grinning.

Nodding my head I turned to speak to Kushida this time.

"It's only us three here so you may as well be honest"

"Huh? What do you mean by that Horikita-san?" Kushida asked, tilting her head with a confused expression, but there was also a little hidden malice in her expression.

"It's you. The wolf in sheep's clothing the thorn in class C's side. In my side" I paused, sharpening my stern glare as her hidden malice became more and more visible with each word. "You are the one who betrayed us by leaking our participation table to Ryuuen-kun, aren't you Kushida-san?"

"H-Horikita-san how could-no why would you think I would do something like that?"

"Because of me. Because I know you. However the you I know isn't the same as the nice personable Kushida Kikyou-san that everyone here knows, but the Kushida Kikyou-san from Junior High"

As the words 'Junior High' escaped my lips Kushida's expression completely warped--

No her entire presence warped.

Bright sparkling warm round eyes dulled into cold sharp daggers that glared at me full of malicious intent, her welcoming smile twisted into a sadistic smile.

Her change was like night and day, almost as if Kushida had two personalities.

I don't know how Ayanokouji-kun found out about this side of Kushida-san, but if he has then why is he helping her?

"So you do remember then you must also know why I am doing this, right?" Looking back I should have recognised her sooner, but now that I have my awareness of her has only increased drastically.

"To keep your past and this a secret"

"Exactly. Well that and something else" Her words, icy and cold.

If Ike-kun was here he would probably be ghostly pale, unable to comprehend just what he was seeing and hearing.

"But aren't you only creating more problems and threats for yourself? You have teamed up with Ryuuen-kun and now involved him, a scheming unpredictable troublesome person who has probably already thought of several plans to expose or stab you in the back"

Kushida-san wants to protect herself and yet the methods she has used and is using don't make sense.

Ryuuen-kun can't be trusted.

"Because I hate you" Kushida-san spat.

"Kukuku--" Laughing as he watched our confrontation of words, Ryuuen-kun's toothy grin widened.

"I hate you. Detest you. Everything about you pisses me off and makes me want to vomit and the fact that you know about my past only amplifies my burning hatred of you" Her words acted as venom that spat out at me.

I've never seen hatred so deep.

So strong.

"So then you want to drive me out of this school even if it means harming our class in the process?" My stern glare met her malicious cold glare as the air between us became heavy.

"Of course I don't want to hurt my class or my classmates, I mean they are my friends, but I have no other choice" A shiver made its way down my spine making my hair stand on its end as Kushida shifted from her 'usual' and 'cold' persona's.

"You were such an arrogant stuck up bitch at the start of the year. Isolated from our classmates, just you and your perfect self--ugh makes me want to puke. I 'tried' making friends with you while laughing internally as everyone else praised me and called you. I had planned to expel you sometime in May after letting you speak to your beloved oh so amazing brother"

More and more malicious and venom filled her voice as she continued talking.

"But then you decided to become our leader. You! The stupid bitch who had looked down on us all decided to be our leader. Midterms, that stupid monkey Sudo-kun's trial. Both times you won and helped the class and as a result you became our leader"

"So you decided to help Ryuuen-kun because if I failed as leader and dragged our class down further everyone would blame me and you could remove me with no problems?"

It is a good plan especially given our disorganised and desperate state at the start and even now some of our classmates like Yukimura-kun curse themselves at every loss.

"Even then aren't you still being rash? What if I remembered and called you a traitor exposing our pasts?"

"Hmm, Horikita-san or Kikyou-chan? Bitchy mongrel or 'class angel'? I wonder who people would believe?" Kushida-san paused, tapping her index finger against her chin feigning a thinking expression, her bright smile returned, "Oh yes, me!!"

Giggling to herself, my image of Kushida only blurred more, making my head hurt.

Is this really what she's like? Then is what I have seen in class a mask? But how does it not slip when she deals with Ike or when she is talking to me?

"...That may be true, but you still wouldn't be able to den sharing the same Junior High and some people would become naturally wary of you"

If one accusation is the truth then the others may be. That's what some people may think and that would result in them growing suspicious and uncomfortable around Kushida-san.

"Yes, but you could never do that could you?" I flashed her a suspicious look not following as she added. "Because if you did I would bring in your dearest elder brother"

Almost like a natural reflex my body stiffened. Nii-san is probably the most effective weapon in Kushida-san's arsenal--No Nii-san is the most effective blackmail that can be used against me as seen with Ryuuen-kun in the nurse's office earlier today.

However, once Kushida-san plays that card she has nothing else to use against me and I have no reason to stay in line.

Hence why we are here in this situation.

Driven by an extreme burning hatred towards me Kushida-san was incapable of ignoring me and her hatred only increased tenfold as I solidified my position as leader causing her to strike a deal with Ryuuen-kun.

"So then what about Ryuuen-kun? After you expel me what are you going to do about him, I mean he knows and has witnessed all this so he can't simply walk free can he?"

If I can get Ryuuen-kun to betray her--

"He's proven effective so far so I will continue to use him a bit more before I get rid of him too, after all once I kick you off the pedestal, which is your role as class leader, I will be the one to take up that role making Ryuuen-kun a natural enemy"

Boldly, as if Ryuuen-kun wasn't standing directly in front of her, Kushida-san admitted she would target him next after using him a bit despite currently being allies.

"Kuku, what a shrewd and twisted girl, but I guess that is why I agreed to help you. Because of this twisted personality and venomous mouth of yours"

"Horikita-san, I have told you that I hate you. I hate you so much that I made a deal with the most treacherous person in our school and sold my soul to the devil himself" Kushida-san said, shuddering slightly as she mentioned the 'devil himself'.

"Betrayed by someone as important and useful as Kikyou" Ryuuen-kun said as Kuhsida-san walked over and stood next to him, her face twisting as he used her first name, "Shame"

sigh* "She wasn't the only one to betray me though..." I muttered quite enough so they couldn't hear me.

"Well I think it's time you got a move on and do what you came here for or are you still clinging to that pride of yours?" Ryuuen-kun sneered as I felt my stomach turn and tighten in anticipation.

"Fine...But don't think this means that I am accepting the blame or admitting to being guilty. Yes this is my fault for underestimating and not anticipating that you would stoop to such low extremes as discarding your best runners just to spite me, however I still know that you were behind the incident and made Kinoshita-san frame me"

sigh* "You were doing so well until now...I almost thought you had matured Suzune, but I guess not"

"Am I wrong?" I replied. "Everyone knows how devious you are and can be along with the fact that your classmates follow you out of fear. So is it really wrong to think that you didn't coerce Kinoshita-san?"

"You're being delusional. Accusing me without any real proof except some gossip and wild theories"

"Call me delusional if you must, but other people will and do agree with me already" I paused, preparing to enter another war of words. "However, I just want to know why? Was all this just so you could destroy me like you vowed on the cruise ship?"

"Wasting all this time just to have you kneeling is a waste now so you will also kowtow"

Kushida-san giggled next to him watching me try to fight the same pointless uphill battle from earlier today.

"But fine if it will speed things up" *sigh*

"Before the sports festival I had your biggest admirer Kikyou get her hands on class C's complete and final participation table. Then all I had to do was rig the match-ups perfectly so that your strongest went against my weakest and vice versa securing us wins. However, that wasn't what actually happened now, was it Suzune?"

"No, because your table was based on ours it ended up being a mirror of class A's meaning your guaranteed wins weren't guaranteed anymore"

"Except I had also done my homework on them hence why I beat them overall despite sharing the same handicap of only having 39 participants"

From the very beginning when the sports festival was announced and the rules about participants were explained Ryuuen-kun must have realised that taking first place would be an arduous near impossible task.

Unlike every other class Ryuuen-kun's class only consists of 39 students after Kondou-kun was expelled for framing Sudo-kun.

However, just like the island Sakayanagi-san was also unable to contribute thus putting them on equal footing in terms of points lost due to disqualifications.

He gave up on winning the moment he understood the rules.

"You never intended on winning from the start. That's why you could afford to be so careless with Kinoshita-san"

"Yes, winning was pointless, though I never intended to win it either. Class B can enjoy this victory. Maybe it will make them more confident and entertaining so I can enjoy crushing them just like I am enjoying crushing you right now. After all crushing you was my main goal for the festival"

"But weren't your actions overly reckless? Your whole plan relies on luck. Luck that I would be unable to keep participating and luck that Kinoshita-san injured herself"

"Not unless I made sure you would be injured"

"!?"

"I had Kinoshita practice knocking into someone so that when she did it in the actual race it would look natural. Then your race against Ibuki where you overexerted yourself only increased your risk of injury"

His preparations and planning shocked me. Everything was taken into account and designed to achieve his goal of crushing me.

"Though do you really think Kinoshita's injury was an accident?" Narrowing his eyes as his grin widened, Ryuuen-kun continued. "I mean an injury that bad just from a little tumble, really?"

"Huh?"

There's no way--

"Like you said my classmates follow me out of fear" The air around us got heavy as his cold voice sent a shiver down my spine. "After the little tumble I had her pretend to be injured and in pain before dropping out and then just before she saw a nurse for treatment I injured her myself. Like this"

SLAM*

All of his weight followed behind him as his food struck the floor, the sound from the impact echoing around us for a few seconds.

"...You...injured her?" I felt sick.

With no regard for his classmates he not only threatened, but actually followed through with violence.

Dangerous.

"Mhm, terrifying isn't it? The power that comes with fear and strength. Of course she opposed at first, but I persuaded her" He said, chuckling to himself as he reminisced about her protests.

Monster.

Willing to go to such extremes all just to bring me down. Ryuuen-kun's schemes are both terrifying and insane.

"Hubris is also terrifying" I said, pulling out my phone.

Ryuuen-kun had practically bragged about everything he had done without even giving a second thought to if I was recording.

"Oho!? A bluff?"

"No. I've recorded this whole farce and placed all my eggs in this one basket"

Ending the recording I played back to a more recent section and played it so that they both could hear.

~Before the sports festival I had your biggest admirer Kikyou--~

"This gives me enough evidence to use against both of you so if you try to extort points out of me, make me kowtow or even kneel, then I will report both of you and release this. Then I wonder which of us will receive punishment?"

To ensure my position as leader and prevent you from sabotaging me again--

To hold you at bay and protect myself before our next exam--

I will use this.

"Wha--?!" Words failed the pailed face Kushida-san who looked frantically at Ryuuen-kun, a bead of sweat forming on her brow. "Ryuuen-kun she--"

"I don't plan to use this for anything, but my protection so let's end this" Stepping back in an attempt to escape my body stiffened as I glanced at Ryuuen-kun.

"Ku. Kuku! Kukukuku--!" Bursting out into a fit of laughter he clutched his stomach.

"Ha. Hahaha--!" Kushida-san too burst out laughing, washing away any trace of the panicked expression I saw just moments before.

"You really are grasping at straws. All that recording shows is me humouring your delusions and forming some twisted scheme based on your previous description of me"

"I can just delete that part and then submit it" I said, but he remained unfazed.

"Then I guess I will just have to show them this" Pulling out his own phone and pointing the camera at me. "The full audio and video recording. Beginning to end. Now who is more believable"

"Tch"

Not once have I put him on the backfoot or wipe that grin off his face. In fact all I have done throughout this entire exchange is play into his hands, humouring him.

"Just hurry and kneel" Kushida-san spat tired of my time wasting.

"Accept reality and realise you lost"

"I understand..." I said kneeling while Kushida stood to our side and took a photo of me kneeling to Ryuuen.

I understand that I can't win against you Ryuuen-kun.

'I made this grave' and I fully intend to lie in it, however this was also an opportunity--

With a click Kushida-san captured the image of me kneeling as I then brought myself into a kowtow, a single tear rolling down my cheek.

--to gain control over you, to make sure you stay in line.

~I've recorded this whole farce~

From the moment we left the class I have been recording meaning I have leverage over you, Kushida-san.

I've won against you.

Another click captured the image and then Kushida-san sent the photos to Ryuuen-kun while admiring and laughing at them herself.

"I'll keep the kowtow for now, but I may as well share the kneeling one with everyone" My head snapped up as he laughed and tapped his phone sending pings! to my and Kushida-san's phone.

However, that was when Ryuuen-kun's phone pinged again.

"?" A puzzled look flashed across his face as he tapped his screen playing some sort of recording.

~Pwa ha ha ha ha, kukuku *cough* *cough*--~

Huh? What the hell is this?

~Brilliant! Kakeru-dono you never fail to humour me. Thank you for these wonderful photos, but...~

""Soto--"" Kushida-san and I both muttered before Ryuuen-kun played the next audio.

How is he involved in all this? Better yet, what is he doing?

~You should make sure you have full control over your class before attacking someone else's. After all you don't know when someone might betray you like Kushida-dono betrayed Tsundere-dono~

Rage burned in Ryuuen-kun's eyes as he tightened his grip on his phone glaring at the screen as yet another audio file played

~Listen up, I'm saying this once and only once. Horikita Suzune has gotten full of herself despite being a puppet leader so we're going to set a trap for her. She will be crushed and humiliated~

That's Ryuuen-kun's voice.

Is this a recording from a previous discussion? If so how did Sotomura-kun get his hands on it?

Just like our conversation before, Ryuuen-kun goes into detail about his plan to crush me until Ibuki-san interrupts him.

~Your strategy sounds good and all, but let me fight Horikita. I know I can beat her~

~Fine, but you had better win. Now Kinoshita when you run against Suzune in the obstacle course make sure you collide with her. Do whatever it takes to knock her down~

Ryuuen-kun's voice paused on the audio and the sound of footsteps could be heard. He must have been approaching Kinoshita-san's desk.

~Then once you've knocked her down--*SLAM*--I'll injure you and extort her~

My head was ready to explode as my situation took a complete 180. However if Sotomura had this audio then he could have told me--

"R-Ryuuen-kun. What's going on? What's with that recording?"

"What's going on, Ryuuen-kun? What's with that recording?" Kushida-san's pale face and nervous voice fell on Ryuuen-kun's deaf ears.

"Ku..kuku. Kukukuku--" Bursting into a fit of laughter Ryuuen-kun completely ignored Kushida-san and focused on his phone screen.

"Be grateful Kikyou, they saw through us both and still let you humiliate Suzune. The bastard had us dancing in their palm so that they could humble Suzune. All of this was basically them outsourcing!"

Amusement was written all over his face as he laughed, Kushida-san still looked uneasy, but managed a sigh of relief.

"I knew you were just a puppet. The Zodiac, island and trail weren't your victories, but theirs. The mastermind X's" Walking past me Ryuuen-kun's gaze sharpened as he took one last look at his phone before stuffing it into his pocket.

"Ryuuen-kun what are you doing?"

"It's over Kikyou. I got what I wanted and more so I'm done here. You should leave to or someone might see you"

"Urgh! Stupid bitch!" Kushida-san spat before walking away as well.

Ayanokouji-kun and Sotomura-kun are working together, but why would he reveal that?

'Why would he wait to release the evidence?' I would ask myself this, but I know why.

It links to the reason why I can't trust him.

Why he is my true enemy.

Okay so that kinda wraps up the sports festival, but as it turns out vol 5 and 6 lead into each other so there won't be any big time skips.

Sports festival ends at the start of October and Vol 6 is after midterms is mid October as Kiyo's birthday is the 20th.

Sorry this is late blame mudae on discord, Genshin and Danmachi Ln

Report

Third Person Pov

It hadn't even been a full twenty-four hours since the Sports Festival had come to a close and yet a new wave of life had already washed over the school impacting everyone, teachers and students alike.

What should have been classrooms full of energy sapped and either gloating or disheartened students, were instead bursting with life as if the festival hadn't happened at all. Regrets, ambitions, victories and defeats, none of them mattered anymore as everyone's attention was drawn to one thing.

A thought about one photo.

Second and third-years alike, drifted from cluster to cluster exchanging all the information and other tid-bits they had squeezed out of their kouhais grinning as they learned more and more.

Events like this were rare so to speak and if this were to happen to one of them they would most likely look at the gossipers with disdain and hate, but that didn't stop their laughter or snide remarks.

Soon however the new sources of information had all dried up and the senpai's moved away from their immature gossiping to childish brainstorming sessions where they tried to create theories and figure out the context or reason behind the wordless photo. However these sessions didn't last long and instead dissolved into rumour creation and spreading.

Once again their first-years had proven themselves to be an abundant source of entertainment in comparison to their senpai's. Of course the second and third-years had their own interesting students like Nagumo, Horikita, Kiryuuin etc...

However the first-years had more to offer:

A class of 'defectives' which turned out to be the most defective class of 'defects' ever. Losing all their class points in one month and then having one of their classmates get involved in an expulsion incident which affected the whole year's points distribution.

An openly confrontational leader and class, who were directly involved in the expulsion incident losing one of their classmates after only being here for two months. However, that didn't seem to bother their class leader as they all witnessed his behaviour in the gymnasium and heard about the incident involving Nagumo.

And now there was this.

A photo posted on the schools forum for all to see.

No caption was given or needed as the humiliating picture spoke volumes by itself.

The photo which was the root of the second and third-year senpai's enjoyment and childish antics.

Horikita Suzune--

The stubborn cold and blunt leader of the former class D, now class C. The leader who was coming off of two consecutive victories before going into the Sports Festival and the one behind the first class D's promotion, redeeming her class after their embarrassing start in April.

--was kneeling before Ryuuen Kakeru.

Posting it publically only emphasised how much of a cruel and ruthless person Ryuuen was while also acting as a threat.

'Next time it will be you kneeling'

The photo had sent waves through the first-year with everyone reacting in different ways caught by surprise by such an unexpected event.

Ichinose was quick to address her class confirming that she herself was fine and that Ryuuen wasn't going to post a similar picture except with her in Horikita's stead, before she then reached out to Hirata, Kushida and Horikita to see if she could help with anything and to get a grasp on what was going on.

Both Ichinose and Kanzaki had been discussing their 'win', among other things like Sakayanagi's movements, in the library when their phones blew up with messages.

Class B was partially linked to class C and Horikita through their alliance so understanding their actions in the festival was something they were going to discuss, but now that they saw Horikita like that, Ichinose and Kanzaki had decided to address their 'win' with everyone.

Sakayanagi would start targeting soon now that she is class A's leader so it was time for class B to act.

They needed to show everyone that they shouldn't be overlooked.

Sakayanagi had already seen the photo and knew the reason why it came to fruition, Ayanokouji held off his evidence, so she brushed off her classmates' concern knowing that Ryuuen still had business with class C.

"So Hirata-kun and Kushida-san managed to organise their classmates and keep them calm?" However, that didn't stop her from sending someone to observe how class C was doing.

"Most likely. It's just, that Sudo guy wasn't there..." Hashimoto replied finishing his report.

"Hm, interesting. Given his short and volatile temper I would assume he probably got into a fight yet there has been no news of anything like that. I wonder?" Sakayanagi mused to herself tapping her cane against the floor.

"Hey, Princess, what are you going to do about Ryuuen?"

"Nothing"

"Huh? What do you mean nothing?" Hashimoto asked, almost choking on his words as he spat them out.

"I'm going to do nothing, for now, because Ryuuen-kun still isn't finished with class C"

"What do you mean?" Katsuragi asked, curious as to why Sakayanagi was so confident in herself.

"He still has to find, expose and defeat X, the shadow leader of class C responsible for all of Horikita-san's achievements thus far"

"What are you saying? To my knowledge Horikita-san was the one behind the island and the zodiac, with help from Hirata-kun as well, but are you saying that she was just a front?" Katsuragi asked, finding it hard to believe since he had observed Horikita first hand and deemed her capable.

"Fufu, I would have agreed with you, but X is the real mastermind." Pausing until her gaze found Yahiko, she continued. "So Ryuuen-kun won't be a problem for another exam and it's best for us to leave him and 'X' to it"

"Why? If X was behind their victories so far then wouldn't it be better if we helped Ryuuen?" Machida asked, barely following along.

"Because X has leverage on us and if we moved against him he would likely use that to throw our class into chaos, isn't that right Totsuka-kun?"

All eyes in the class fell on the boy, Totsuka Yahiko, who they all knew to have been blackmailed into betraying Katsuragi.

"Wait, Princess you aren't saying that it was X who blackmailed the loyal mutt, are you?"

"I am and that is why we shall leave X and Ryuuen-kun alone for now"

Sakayanagi didn't understand what Ayanokouji was really up to with Ryuuen and class C, but she knew that after their one-sided reunion Ayanokouji would be vigilant if not already planning ways to defeat her.

In fact Ayanokouji already had more than enough to cause a rift in her class through Totsuka.

When she had finished her business with Ayanokouji she went to a private medium sized karaoke room where Kitou, Katsuragi, Yahiko and Kamuro waited.

Hashimoto was sent on a scouting errand because she knows all about his desire to graduate in class A.

Kitou was mainly used for intimidation and ended up waiting outside as Totsuka spilled everything.

Confessing everything from betraying Katsuragi to being summoned and attacked in the special annex.

Everyone was left speechless and disgusted at the SD card containing a video of Ichinose, Kushida and various other first, second and third year girl's naked bodies.

A chill ran down Sakayanagi's spine just thinking about how much of a powerful and frightening pawn Ayanokouji held even if she was also disgusted by its existence.

However she knew that Ayanokouji would never stoop to such a low meaning someone else had filmed the video and Ayanokouji had intervened using their perverted scheme to gain a devastating weapon.

'So who filmed it?' She thought before remembering a certain trio Hashimoto had told her about.

Totsuka wasn't her only problem though, she also had to deal with Ichinose and class B before she could move on to dealing with Ayanokouji.

Hashimoto watched on as Sakayanagi or Princess, dived deeper and deeper into her thoughts. Even though he holds her above everyone else in terms of ability, Hashimoto still felt uneasy.

Graduating from class A was all that mattered to him and he would do anything to guarantee his graduation which was why he had reached out to Ryuuen and planned to reach out to Horikita, but those plans were aborted.

Now though, the enigma called X was causing him to re-evaluate Ryuuen and Sakayanagi.

Could they really help him graduate as part of class A?

Meanwhile over at class D Ryuuen watched on from where he stood, leant up against the teachers podium, observing his classmates.

His piercing gaze cut through them as he moved from person to person conducting a passive interrogation narrowing down the pool of suspects.

Victory, if you could call it that, was short lived and didn't even feel like a proper victory.

Not only had X anticipated that Kushida would leak the participation table and he would match class D's physically strong with class C's physically weak students, but he also anticipated how he would deal with Horikita and still allowed it.

No, X had used Ryuuen to teach Horikita a lesson while also helping along Kushida's motives meaning all Ryuuen was doing was dancing in the palms of X and Kushida.

"Tsk" He grumbled clenching his fist as his glare lingered on Shiina.

She was their main link with class C and was actually very close with one of the people he suspected of being X.

Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.

But from what Ibuki said and what Shiina had said herself to him when he confronted her the night prior, she wasn't the one who betrayed him.

The mole inside class D that is working for X.

The reason he was laughed at.

Mocked.

Made to look like a joke.

He was caught off guard, blinded to the possibility and he ended up paying for it, Horikita got to keep her private points that she got from the cruise.

"Next time" He muttered looking away from Shiina and instead focusing on a different girl.

Next time he was going to be the one laughing as he exposed and crushed X and the stupid freak who laughed at him.

"Nishino—"

Defying all expectations however, class C was eerily silent.

38 out of the 40 students were all present with the only sounds that could be heard was the ticking of the second hand and Kouenji's nail file.

Hirata and Kushida's influence over their classmates was on full display as they had managed to collaborate in the calming down of their classmates whilst also fending off overly curious and rather insensitive senpais or class D students as they tried to contact Horikita.

A class group chat was something that Karuizawa had suggested in their last class representatives meeting and thanks to that Horikita was able to ask for everyone's help in keeping calm and patience so she could discuss what happened during school time.

Horikita had also asked Hirata to arrange a meeting with Ichinose and Kanzaki on Sunday after the class representative meeting.

*Tick* *Tick*

A very tense thick silence enveloped the classroom preventing anyone from starting up a casual conversation as the seconds passed by and homeroom drew closer and closer.

*Tick* *Tick*

Homeroom was drawing dangerously close and yet Horikita still hadn't arrived despite normally being one of the few early birds.

*Whoosh*

Suddenly the door at the back of the classroom slid open to reveal Horikita and Sudo.

"Horikita-san! Are you okay? What's going on? Why were you—"

*Whoosh*

Just as Ike started blurting out all his inner thoughts the other door to the classroom slid open revealing Chabashira-Sensei who flashed Ike a stern look before making her way to the podium.

"Homeroom has started so I expect you all to remain silent and in your seats while I take attendance and relay the schools notices" Her cold and indifferent voice only annoyed her students who were all slightly glaring at her.

They couldn't care for all the admin stuff right now, all they cared about was hearing Horikita's story and learning why she was humiliated like that.

"Okay now that attendance has been taken I will move on to the notices" Chabashira paused looking down at her clipboard and then back up to her students' strained expressions.

"Oh, my. I appear to have picked up the wrong piece of paper...I will have to relay the information tomorrow, but don't worry it's nothing vital, but that means you have the rest of homeroom use as you wish"

Throwing a quick glance at Horikita she soon left the classroom having her position at the teacher's podium stolen by Horikita.

"I understand you all have seen and want to know about the photo, but first I would like to say thank you for all your effort yesterday. Even if we came last you all pushed yourselves and worked hard for our class"

"Secondly I would like to say thank you to Hirata-kun, Kushida-san and Karuizawa-san for helping organise everyone and prevent any incidents with class D" Giving a bow to each of them Horikita finished her thank you's moving on to the main issue.

"Yesterday, Ryuuen-kun outsmarted me. I made the foolish mistake of underestimating how low he would stoop and paid the price which is what that photo is"

Pausing to make her next words hold more of an impact, Horikita perfectly controlled the atmosphere in the classroom.

"However I won't make that mistake again and next time I intend to beat him just like we did during our summer vacation and that is why I am going to apologise to you all"

""Huh?""

A wave of confused noises echoed through the class and the hallway at Horikita's words.

"Despite being your leader I was arrogant and looked down on you all instead of lifting you up and helping you like a proper leader would. I was pushing my own goals and ambition on all of you, expecting you to just go along with it because I said so. So I apologise" Horikita finished bowing her head.

"N-No Horikita-san you don't need to apologise" Hirata spoke up first followed by the rest of his classmates with each one of them throwing their own compliments at Horikita.

"Well then I would like to ask all of you something, will you help me reach class A?"

"Yes"

"Heck yeah!"

Hirata and Sudo both hastily and enthusiastically, though Sudo may have been a bit over enthusiastic, agreed shortly followed by the whole class bar Kouenji and Ayanokouji.

"Then let's do our best to help each other achieve that"

Horikita finished receiving a round of applause as she walked back to her seat getting ready for their first period and her chat with Chabashira later on.

However she has made one thing abundantly clear, she was the leader of class C and this business with Ryuuen had only solidified her position.

Time skip
Horikita Pov

Classes were all over and despite being hounded and gawked at by senpais, today was very productive.

My position as the leader of this class has only grown stronger and thanks to my intervention Sudo-kun didn't get into any fights with people from class D or go after Ryuuen-kun meaning we can put the Sports Festival behind us.

The meetings on Sunday will help the class run smoother and also discuss what the alliance with class B actually means and create ways of utilising that bond.

Kushida will no longer be a problem now that I have the recording, but just in case I have something planned.

*Knock* *Knock*

As arranged I had come to the staff room to meet with Sensei to 'discuss the festival' despite never having to discuss the island or zodiac exams.

"Come in~" Hoshinomiya said in her usual unprofessional tone.

"Chabashira-Sensei?"

"Ah, Horikita-san, thank you for coming. Wait just a moment while I organise this paper work and then we can move somewhere more private" Sensei said as the other teachers overheard our conversation.

"Hmm...Another one of Sae-chan's students coming to meet her for a private chat...you aren't doing anything naughty are you, Sae-chan~?" Hoshinomiya asked with masked hostility.

"No, unlike a certain someone I don't cross the line and disclose private information or meddle with class affairs" Sensei gave a curt reply walking towards the door with me in tow.

"Wh-what do you mean by that Sae-chan!?"

"Ichinose Honami" Hoshinomiya visibly flinched at Ichinose-san's name. "Also don't pout, you aren't a child anymore" Sensei followed up chastising Hoshinomiya-Sensei.

"Mou~ Sae-chan aho!"

sigh* How childish.

We walked all the way to the guidance room, the same room where she exposed Ayanokouji-kun's entrance exam scores, going straight towards the kitchenette door and opening it showing me that no one else but us would hear our conversation.

"Before we start, would you like some green tea?"

"I will pass. I would rather get straight to the point"

"Hm, that makes this whole thing a lot easier. So go ahead" She said, sitting down on the other side of the small coffee table.

I already know she doesn't really want a breakdown on everyone's achievements and actions, but I also don't have a clear idea as to why she wants to know.

But if I were to guess then I would say that she isn't as indifferent to the class competition as she made out to be.

Meaning I might be able to get her help with Kushida.

"Well you have most likely seen the photo or heard about it and you were there in the infirmary when Ryuuen-kun stated his demands so you already know more than most, but what you don't know is that there is a traitor in class C"

Opening up now is crucial to getting her help which would be needed for dealing with someone as influential as Kushida-san.

"A traitor?" She asked, trying and failing to hide the shock in her voice.

"Do you have any leads as to who it is?"

"Actually I already know who they are and have leverage against them"

"Oh, so then I assume you have it under control?" She asked following my train of thought.

"I will not say their name, but they are a very influential figure in our class and so if I cannot keep them at bay I would rather them be instantly expelled or removed from our class before they can destroy it"

"..." Silently thinking over my request, Sensei narrowed her eyes at me before nodding. "Ok, I will see what I can do in the event that you request my help"

"Thank you" I bowed.

"So anything else to add?" She prodded for more information about the festival.

"Well I didn't give Ryuuen-kun my private points because someone intervened, but other than that the only other thing of significance was that we based our table on class A's table negating the damage done by Ryuuen-kun when our class table was leaked" I summarised not seeing the need to go into any further detail.

"Ok, thanks for that I will make sure to include it in my report, but before you go I have one last question for you. What is your opinion on Ayanokouji?"

Back in May, when I came to protest against my placement in class D, she had exposed Ayanokouji-kun's 'perfectly average' scores from his entrance exams.

This was why I decided to rely and ultimately use him, which was a very foolish idea.

"I think his personal results are always good and his results from the sports festival were among the best in our class"

"Anything else?"

"No" I paused, deciding to speak my mind. "Why do you care so much about Ayanokouji-kun?"

"What do you mean? I view all my students in the same light, none inferior and none superior. No one gets special treatment"

"So then why did you give me a hint about Ayanokouji-kun? If you hadn't shown me his entrance exam scores I wouldn't have paid him a second thought"

"Who knows?" She replied with a smirk clearly evading the question and any further questioning.

"Well, I have one more thing to ask of you before I go, assuming that you have asked everything you wanted to?" I asked, I was ready to wrap up.

"Go ahead"

"It's about my position as class leader—"

Chabashira Pov

Horikita left the guidance room having finished her request, which I must say was a surprise especially coming from her, but if it helps restrict the traitors movements I will happily oblige.

Moving towards the roof I found myself thinking about the festival, about Ayanokouji's actions and what exactly went wrong.

The feeling of unease I had felt since the infirmary still remained, growing worse the more I learnt.

Ayanokouji had seen through everything.

The traitor, Ryuuen's plan for the participation tables, Ryuuen's plan for Horikita and the festival's ultimate outcome.

He had told me beforehand not to expect victory, but seeing him take first and second place consistently as well as our class's initial performance raised my hopes.

I almost thought he would defy my expectations again, but the class soon crumbled.

However from what I briefly observed this morning and learnt from my discussion with Horikita, the class's unity only improved as a result of that humiliating loss and it seems they will all work harder together in the next one.

"Pffff..." Puffing out a big cloud of smoke, I heaved a sigh.

But why do I still feel like I'm overlooking something, like I am already dead, but don't know it yet?

There was more to Horikita and Sae's discussion, but what they discussed is relevant later so I will let you speculate for now.

Sorry, I kinda abandoned this fic, but I'm back now for about 1 week and then school starts, depression , so I will try and write ahead or keep the chapters flowing again.

Also because the sports festival and Paper shuffle take place within a week or two of each other I will be doing more of these 'filler' or character and plot building chapters

Thanks for reading have a good day.

New Target

After finishing my one-sided reunion with Sakayanagi I regained my composure and started making my way towards the dorms.

I had never expected someone to know of my past, especially not a student, but the fact that Sakayanagi knows about me actually answers a lot of my questions while also helping to theorise and learn more about the school and S-system.

The main and most important question Sakayanagi answered is how Chabashira was aware of me and knows a bit about my life.

Given that Sakayanagi is also the name of the Director it would be safe to assume, like I did with Horikita and her brother, that they are related which was already speculated going by the rumours. As a result I can say that Sakayanagi's father, most likely, is the one with the connection to that man and the White Room.

On one of his visits or maybe his first visit, Sakayanagi's father brought her along which is when she saw me and also learned about the purpose of the White Room.

Given that this is true then it means that Sakayanagi's father was the one who disclosed some of my background to Chabashira when he saw my name among the enrollee's.

However if he did recognise me then why would he leave me in class D?

Was he hoping I would help them?

Since my knowledge of the school's selection process is currently limited I can only make assumptions, but if it's true that all class D students have a 'defect' and a severe one at that, then how did he learn about mine?

That man never saw me as having any sort of fault so unless it's the Director's personal opinion or he somehow found out about my 'defect', which should be impossible, it means that I have to put that theory on hold.

Figuring out the reason why he told Chabashira is also something I would be interested in learning, but I doubt she would be willing to tell me nor would it be helpful. Though if I was to hazard a guess then I would say that her 'indifference' probably played a part.

However none of this matters right now because all that matters right now is that Chabashira lied.

That man never contacted her and any and all knowledge she has of me came from the Director meaning I am under no threat.

In fact I am free.

Free to make her regret blackmailing me as she falls deeper and deeper into the void of despair.

Just as I entered the lobby my phone pinged with a message from Haruka inviting me to a café to take part in her and Sakura's celebrations.

Being the reason for their physical growth and achievements in the festival I didn't see a reason to refuse and the fact that Haruka would be paying was an added bonus.

It was also a chance to learn about what Sakura plans to do next?

If she wants to continue maintaining and upping her physical ability not just focusing on stamina, but coordination and overall ability.

Not only that, but would she take the chance to expand her social network?

Sakura has grown comfortable around Haruka and thanks to the daily training sessions myself, which is noticeable by how she speaks.

Sakura when I first met her couldn't make eye contact for long, if at all, and would stutter because of her social anxiety, but now she doesn't bar some exceptions brought on by certain topics of discussion.

Her tone still lacks enthusiasm, similar to mine, but she is slowly crawling out of her shell when around myself and Haruka. So if she was able to branch out and grow her circle of friends it may even help her lose the stutter completely.

Though her social anxiety may still remain until she overcomes her biggest hurdle.

Shizuku.

Would she crumble or find a way to overcome it?

That is why I am willing to help her grow, why I am interested in her growth.

While I was heading to the café, whose popularity was far overshadowed by Pallet, I was approached by a few senpais looking for details about Horikita or to even express their interest in me after my race against Horikita's brother.

More senpais will probably approach me in the next two weeks as the third years step down from their positions as club leader and eventually leave the clubs, the newly appointed second-year leaders will try to scout and gain new members to help with budgets and competitions and due to my performance I will probably be approached by the track and field team.

However after I decline their offers and say I would rather laze about word will spread and the offers will stop.

Once I arrived we started our celebrations ignoring the senpais' childish curiosity and cheap remarks and instead focused on our own relaxed celebration since our fatigued bodies were crying out for rest.

It was now break time one day after the festival and I was currently following Hirata towards the cafeteria for a private discussion.

This morning Horikita was able to give a brief simple explanation about what happened avoiding any mention of a traitor to prevent further unrest.

Naturally, when our classmates saw the photo of Horikita kneeling everyone was sent into a frenzy of confusion and unrest. Everyone knows what type of person Ryuuen is and the fact that they had seen class D targeting Horikita in the festival, our class was sent into disarray.

But, thanks to Karuizawa's quick and excellent thinking she suggested a class group chat, which with the help of Hirata and Kushida's social network was soon created and used to organize and calm our class preventing any confrontations with class D or unneeded panic.

Our class never had a united inclusive group chat, instead we had many different one's for different friendship groups like Karuizawa and Ike's, making it harder to relay information to the whole class at once outside of homeroom without using Kushida who was in nearly every group chat.

Thanks to this our class would function better and adapt to changes faster, but we would also be more united or feel a stronger sense of cohesion.

Not only did Horikita get the chance to address the photo, but she also strengthened her position as class leader while also further uniting us under one collective goal:

Reaching class A.

Thanks to Ryuuen her pride was finally shattered allowing her to see her faults and understand why and where she went wrong and by openly addressing that to the class she gained respect.

Horikita, just like Sudo, Sakura and Karuizawa, is now growing and bettering herself so that her dream of reaching class A and being acknowledged by her brother comes true.

Kushida, even though she didn't show it, is probably furious because her actions have had the adverse effect; strengthening Horikita's position rather than weakening it.

But would I allow Horikita to cement herself as leader?

We arrived at the cafeteria which was relatively empty, given that it was break instead of lunch, and took our seats in an isolated far corner so that we couldn't be overheard or have a surprise guest.

Hirata had called me out discreetly while our classmates focused on Horikita who now started discussing our midterms and we both managed to escape relatively unnoticed.

"Ayanokouji-kun" Hirata said, his serious tone and expression coupled with his frim gaze took me by surprise as I gave him my full attention.

"Were you the one who helped Ryuuen-kun?"

I had predicted this.

Out of everyone in our class there are only 2 people with friends in class D, myself and Kushida. Between the two of us I would be suspected ten times out of ten because of my closeness with Hiyori, Ibuki and Albert through the Book Buddies and Kushida holds more of their respect and trust.

Hirata, like me, had noticed people like Shinohara and Miyamoto glaring or throwing hostile glances at me and instead of letting it fester he brought me here to 'interrogate' me and clear their suspicions.

"No I'm not. Hiyori and I agreed not to involve our friendship in the class battle" Proving myself innocent on words alone is futile unless I expose the real traitor, but because I saved Ike on the island and 'helped' Karuizawa with Manabe, Hirata should believe me.

"I believe you, sorry for asking" He apologised.

"It's no problem. Making the connection is easy and assuming I'm the traitor from that isn't a stupid conclusion"

"So you noticed as well" *sigh* "I will make sure to let people know that you aren't the traitor, but I can't say their suspicions will fade"

"I understand" I finished letting an awkward silence come between the two of us as Hirata mulled over his thoughts.

"Ayanokouji-kun do you remember my friend?"

"Yes"

"When I saw the picture of Horikita-san and when I was dealing with the senpai's or students from class D it reminded me of him. The way they acted was similar to how other people and the bullies did" Hirata's voice was low and his defeated tone as he spoke about his friend showed how he was still hurt.

"Ryuuen-kun targeted Horikita-san and Sudo-kun and I couldn't do anything to help"

Being one of the reasons why Ryuuen's plan worked so well, I remained silent listening to the rare side of Hirata that barely anyone has seen.

"I never expected someone to betray our class" Hirata paused and then lifted his head so our gazes met. His determined resolved gaze met my neutral empty gaze. "But I won't let that happen again which is why I would like your help"

"My help?"

"Ayanokouji-kun you are a very capable and mature student who I also have placed a large amount of trust in" Hirata praised me, but my actions don't deserve such merit do they?

"Can I ask why you value me so highly?"

"You have helped Horikita-san since the start and you have helped our class deal with various incidents like Sudo-kun's trail, the underwear incident and your hard work in the sports festival. Not only that, but you have kept your word about both Karuizawa-san's and my secret and are even helping Karuizawa-san mature"

Since I used to be the only person Horikita regularly talked to and have been present at every significant event, despite my involvement being minimal in the eyes of our class, Hirata had noticed this and because of my involvement on the island and cruise he had come to trust me to some extent.

Karuizawa's slow growth was also something he had noticed, but if he knew the reason behind it and how I am treating her he wouldn't be praising me.

However the reason why I am cold to Karuizawa is not because of a personal grudge, but because she is a parasite.

On the cruise she 'latched' onto me because compared to Hirata I am the stronger host and ever since I have treated her with cold indifference constantly using her, but Karuizawa has to put up with it because while Hirata may be a benevolent host he failed to protect her from me or Manabe.

Not only that Karuizawa has seen first hand how everything in the sports festival panned out how I wanted it to even though I exhausted barely any effort, so she is stuck with me as her host.

But does Karuizawa really want that?

Does she really want to be used and treated coldly?

No.

Karuizawa will and has already started trying to shake her parasitic nature by instead strengthening her own position so that she can go independent. The group chat and council both help her in establishing her presence as a significant figure, but like Sakura she has her own mountain to climb and scar to overcome.

"How would I help?"

"Well I would like for you to continue helping Sakura-san and Hasebe-san, but I would also like for you to monitor and investigate our classmates"

"Wouldn't someone like Karuizawa or Kushida be better because of their superior social skills?"

"I also have Karuizawa-san investigating the girls, but I would like you to help because you are able to read people whereas Kushida-san sees the good in everyone" Hirata said referring to how I saw through his and Karuizawa's 'relationship' and Ibuki.

"Ok, I will do what I can"

"Thanks"

With that we both got up to leave the cafeteria and return back to class before lessons started again, but not only had I gained an insight into Hirata Yousuke I had also found a new goal.

A new target.

So just a notice school has started back up so my time to write goes so updates will be slower, sorry.

Kiyo moving onto the last pillar of class C, poor Hirata.

Have a good day.

Council

Horikita Pov

After my revelation to the class, the days passed without any problems especially because of my 'fame', which was caused by Ryuuen-kun posting the photo of me kneeling to him on the school forum for all to see, vanished just as fast as it had appeared.

The capricious nature of our senpai's had been clear to see as they took pleasure in my humiliation but thankfully all the added attention and trouble passed.

Now instead of mocking and making snarky comments towards myself and class 1-C as a whole, our senpais engaged in an exclusive inter-year feud.

I had seen glimpses of the division between the second and third year's during my time at the pool during summer vacation, though at that time it was mainly directed at Nii-san, and again in the Sports Festival.

However, during the Festival, both year groups showed passive aggression towards each other and now the air surrounding both the second and third years is a dense heavy one thanks to the notice from the school and student council.

Nii-san's term as President is over and elections would take place but since there were no other candidates the current Vice President would succeed Nii-san.

Although this was an important announcement and change, many of my classmates-

No, the majority of first year's didn't care and even Chabishira-sensei brushed past the topic with obvious disinterest.

Our classes passed, preparing us for the upcoming midterms and almost instantly it was Sunday, the day I had arranged with Karuizawa-san after the Festival for our 'leader's meeting'.

Unlike before there are changes in both; members and the importance as well as the location.

Last time we were able to meet at a small cafe so that our conversation remained private but this meeting will be held in our homeroom for two purposes; privacy and convenience.

Privacy is guaranteed by the fact that it's a weekend and students are unlikely to come to school on a weekend and the fact that you need to wear your uniform to get onto the school's grounds it's even more unlikely that someone will be here.

However, Chabashira-sensei is also currently present with me inside the classroom meaning that if anyone were to come and try to listen she would send them away.

Chabashira-sensei's presence is vital for this discussion and thanks to our talk in the guidance room I managed to gain some support from her which will be useful in creating our class 'council' which is inspired by all three of our rivals current leadership systems.

Whoosh!

"Good morning Horikita-san, Chabashira-sensei. I hope we didn't make you wait too long?" Hirata-kun asked, stepping into the classroom followed by Karuizawa-san, Kushida-san and Yukimura-kun.

"I had some business with Sensei so it isn't a problem and you are all right on time," I replied watching each of them take a seat in the chair circle I organised.

"Firstly I would like to say thank you all for coming on a Sunday, I know there are probably other things you could be doing or had planned so thank you." I opened, starting the 'meeting'.

"Karuizawa-san, Hirata-kun you already know the general idea for this gathering but unlike last time I want to make some changes with the first being that, if you accept, you four will be joining me and forming the class council."

"Class council? Do you mean something similar to the student council?" Yukimura-kun asked drawing a line between the two.

"The idea is based on the Student Council and the other classes' leadership styles but tailored to suit class C so that our unity and cohesion work better. Class C, as we are now, is split into various factions like Karuizawa's friend group, Sudo-kun and co and what you could call the loners like yourself Yukimura-kun. Out of all these groups, Kushida-san is probably the only one who is welcomed by all."

Yukimura-kun is similar to me in the aspect of class popularity and while Hirata-kun may be a very agreeable and kind person there is a slight disconnect between him some of the other male students in our class. Meaning that Kushida-san is the only one who gets accepted into all groups big and small.

"As a result of this our ability to work together effectively, our cohesion, is limited which we saw on the island," I paused letting them think back and remember how divided we became. "So to fix that and prevent it becoming a reason for our downfall the council will greatly help because while I may be the ultimate leader I am not involved on the same personal level as you three," I added motioning to Hirata-kun, Karuizawa-san and Kushida-san.

Similar to class A we also have many different factions but rather than trying to overpower the different groups I am instead deciding to slowly bring us together through appointing Hirata-kun and co.

"So then why am I here?" Yukimura-kun asked, understanding that he wasn't what you could call a 'pillar' for class C.

"That is involved with my next topic but before I get to that do you all understand what I have just explained?"

"So just as a summary, we are going to be representatives?" Hirata-kun inquired about my explanation and part of his role.

"Yes, you do that and help make decisions. Before I said I am the ultimate leader but due to appease the different groups and opinions we will be the ones deciding on the strategy we use in special exams."

Taking out a contract from my bag I handed it to Hirata-kun for it to be passed around.

"To summarise this contract states that all decisions attaining to things like participation tables will be discussed with the class and then decided on by vote between council members. A majority is needed for the decision to be approved with the majority, in this case, being members," Chabashira-sensei's pen stopped moving and I felt her focus shift to us.

"This contract guarantees fairness while also preventing the threat of potential traitors since Chabashira-sensei will be signing this with us agreeing with the terms," I finished, pulling out a pen ready to collect their signatures.

Hirata-kun, Karuizawa-san and Kushida-san all tensed for a split second upon hearing 'traitor' and Yukimura-kun's expression darkened probably at the thought of a traitor or because he had drawn that conclusion after replaying the festival in his head.

Although I am doing this to improve and strengthen our class, this council is also acting as my shield.

Protecting me from both Kushida-san and Ayanokouji-kun.

"Could we maybe learn more about how the council will work before we sign Horikita-san, not that I don't want to it's just a bit vague?" Hirata-kun asked re-reading the contract.

"That's perfectly alright and I had already expected someone to ask. As I have said and wrote on the contract we will be the deciding vote on things like participation tables and strategies. I will always favour the strategy that has the highest chance of victory because my goal is reaching class A, so to counteract my bias the council comes in."

"Together we may be able to come up with plans and strategies that reap class points while also not sacrificing or putting too much stress on our classmates. Alternatively, we can also vote when a compromise seems impossible like in the 'hands-up' and 'ability' scenario," Once again I used our past experience to strengthen my argument.

"Based on my observations Yukimura-kun and myself will vote in favour of class points while Hirata-kun and Kushida-san will vote for classmates' benefits which makes Karuizawa-san the deciding vote."

Karuizawa-san is strong-minded and often does things that benefit her or make life easier for her so having someone with her semi-selfish mindset is helpful since she wouldn't be as easily swayed.

Though sometimes she tends to just side with Hirata-kun rather than speak her mind.

"Is that fair?" I asked, receiving a nod from everyone as they started to sign the contract.

In a few seconds, all the signatures were collected and Chabashira-sensei walked over to add the final signature.

"Congratulations Horikita," She said, signing the contract. "I have agreed to these terms meaning that in exams like the Sports Festival I will only accept a participation from one of you 5 only if it has 3 or more member signatures."

"Sensei is going to keep the original while we receive a photocopied version on Monday," I thanked Chabshira-sensei and then turned back to the council.

"Now that's out of the way I can move onto your roles. Hirata-kun you are the Vice or Alter-Rex of the council and class meaning that if I ever take ill or become unable to lead you will take over."

"Karuizawa-san you are in charge of maintaining the class' group chat ensuring that information reaches everyone and doesn't get leaked. You are also going to be the swing vote meaning you need to make decisions for yourself based on your opinions," I warned, stressing the importance of her position.

"Kushida-san you are our link to the other classes and the other years as well as someone easy to approach meaning you will be able to handle classmates' concerns which aren't important enough to be a topic of council discussion."

Kushida-san's social network is a weapon that is only rivalled by Ichinose-san so if I can use it then it will greatly benefit our class.

"Yukimura-kun, you are in charge of study materials and keeping a record of our classmates' academic growth. I would also like you to work with Mei-Yu Wang and other study group heads so that we can prepare for the midterms and prevent expulsions."

I had concluded my explanation and got part of what I came for and it looked like they had no questions as of now so it was time to wrap up.

"Obviously this is a lot to digest so we can discuss the midterms in more detail tomorrow so for now let's conclude our first meeting here."

"I look forward to working with you Horikita-san," Hirata-kun gave a bow which I returned and then after we all finished the formalities we started to leave.

"Um, Kushida-san I need to talk to you about the points I owe you so can you stay behind please?"

"Oh..um, sure!" She replied, waving off Hirata-kun, Yukimura-kun and Karuizawa-san before sitting back down.

"..."

"..."

Stalling for a time by rummaging in my bag the footsteps in the corridor could no longer be heard so I could now safely move on to my second objective.

"Um... Hori--"

"But aren't you only creating more problems and threats for yourself? You have teamed up with Ryuuen-kun and now involved him, a scheming unpredictable troublesome person who has probably already thought of several plans to expose or stab you in the back."

"Because I hate you."

Time stopped.

Kushida-san's cheery facade had stiffened and her mouth repeatedly opened and closed in disbelief, disbelief that she had been caught.

"This is a warning, don't sabotage me again," I threatened showing her the audio clip on my phone.

" Y-..You bitch!" She cursed now seething with rage.

Not only does the council's new voting system works against her now this evidence can completely destroy her life here at ANHS.

"Also I want to tell you that trying to involve Nii-san won't work."

"Huh!?"

"Chabashira-sensei. You may not have realised, but as the leader, my relationship with her is a lot stronger than any of our classmates which is why I was able to make such a contract. It is also why I asked her for another favour which protects me, Nii-san and our class from you."

"A deal which means that if you betray our class or target me again you will face a trial for sabotage and ultimately be expelled due to the evidence I have here," I said waving my phone in front of her to reinforce my threat.

"Why on earth would she ever agree to that?" Kushida-san spat half believing me.

"Because she knows Kushida-san. As a homeroom teacher, she receives information on all her students," I replied feeling a smile form on my face.

"... FINE!" She shouted struggling to escape from the hole I had put her in.

"Thank you," Picking up my bag and walking towards the door I turned around to add one final comment. "I don't expect to be friends nor for you to like me at all, but I would rather not have to expel you."

Today I have gained protection from Kushida-san and Ayanokouji-kun

This came out later than expected.

There will only be two more of these 'filler' chapters with one being Kiyo and Hiyori's 'not date' date.

I did this because the time between the sports festival and paper shuffle is only about two weeks at best so instead of a skip we have this.

Contract

This document is a contract between current acting members of Chabashira Sae's homeroom class.
This contract outlines how decisions will be made, what authority each council member has and the way in which members can be removed and elected.

•The council must seat an odd number of members so that there is always one swing vote/member which decides the majority.

•The council must be representative of the class and have a balance of conflicting views and opinions so that the ideas and policies put forward will be diverse.

•Policies must be discussed with the class as a whole before being voted on to ensure transparency and fairness.

•If any council member tries to submit a document like a participation table on their own or without consulting the class then said council member has breached their authority and will face repercussions.

•If the class deems anyone on the council to be inadequate or unfit for the role then they can vote and the council will follow the majority. However in this case the other council members can't vote and a majority has to be at least 4 votes.

•Elections will be held for each vacant position and the candidate with the most votes will take the vacant seat they run for. Elections happen over a ten day interval.

By signing this I confirm my acceptance of these terms and conditions and will work for the benefit of the class:

Horikita Suzune
Hirata Yōsuke
Karuizawa Kei
Kushida Kikyou
Yukimura Teruhiko

Signature of the witness and enforcer of the contract:

Chabashira Sae

Part 38

The weekend passed washing away all the chaos, regret and triumph left behind in the Sports Festivals wake paving the way for a new trial, but before everyone's focus could be consumed by that the Student Councils election ceremony had to conclude.

Usually, such an important and significant event that affects the whole student body would garner the attention of all students regardless of their year group– based on what Hirata told me–however, a quick glance was all anyone needed to see that the first years couldn't care less- well the majority of all first-years couldn't care less.

Horikita, Hirata, Yukimura and a few of class C's other honour students as well as some students from classes B and A were all paying attention due to them having a connection/interest in the Student Council. Though none were paying more attention than Horikita whose determined gaze zoned in on the podium in a display of growth and resolve.

I myself remained indifferent as I floated in and out of consciousness picking up bits of the principles speech then filtering through my thoughts in perfect equilibrium so I didn't incur Horikita's wrath or let my strict indifferent homeroom teacher catch me not paying attention even though she herself doesn't care about the Student Council.

Throwing a sidelong glance to the professional-looking yet not so professional homeroom teacher in question the tail end of a conversation came to mind--

' I don't care about the costs or the consequences! I just..- I want this to be over. I want–'

Flashback

Today, Sunday hadn't really progressed how I had expected it to given that instead of spending the majority of the day with Hiyori I actually ended up spending it with Sotomura... and Ike, Sudo and.. Yamauchi. Instead of watching a remastered showing of the 1967 'Jungle Book', we watched 'Dororo to Hyakkimaru'. Instead of reading mystery novels like 'ABC Murders' or 'The Big Sleep' we read light novels like 'Overlord' or read mangas like 'Beserk'.

Sotomura initially suggested it as a way of: "expanding my general knowledge– and taking the first step to becoming an otaku–in case we ever get tested on general knowledge" and used Hiyori's cancellation due to Ibuki having food poisoning as further justification, but the eventuality of a test incorporating anime, manga and general knowledge as a whole is slim at best. However, I couldn't disregard the eventuality and ended up wasting(?) 6 hours of my life.

Then after leaving Sotomura's dorm at 4:30 pm I followed my usual routine and headed towards the gym taking advantage of my newfound liberation brought on by the Sports Festival allowing me to implement my new cardio routine which will not only help maintain but also develop my physical prowess.

Finally after what could be summed up as a high-intensity cardio session, the cold embrace of a cold shower and a balanced meal I welcomed Karuizawa into my room to learn about what Horikita wanted to discuss before attempting to expand on my general and fashion knowledge.

However, my attempt caused Karuizawa to freeze up as a swell of confusion washed over her since I had tried to extend our time together by broaching a new completely unrelated and irrelevant topic which mainly centred around her interests rather than listening to her report then giving her new tasks to complete all while offering no gratitude and talking a harsh tone.

"Now we'd like to welcome President Horikita to the stage so that he can share some final remarks with you all."

Refocusing on the present just in time to hear the moderator hand over the stage to Horikita Manabu I watched as he slowly took to the podium sweeping the gymnasium with his gaze.

Horikita, the younger Horikita, who usually shrunk and became a shadow of her usual self under the gaze or sight of her older brother remained resolute. The girl from the ally who blindly chased her brother was still there but now she understood how harsh this school could be and how flawed her behaviour was and started to correct it meaning that if her brother, the older Horikita, saw her he would probably acknowledge her.

But despite all this growth, Horikita will still fail her new main objective: reaching class A.

"I am very proud to have led the Student Council for nearly two years. I'm also grateful for the opportunity. Thank you all very much."

Brief, unemotional and delivered with formality, Horikita's older brother finished his address and then returned to his original position.

Unfortunately, the proceedings didn't end there since the new President had to be sworn in.

"President Horikita, thank you for all your hard work and congratulations on everything you achieved. Now we would like to welcome the winner of the elections, previous Vice-President Nagumo Miyabi of class 2-A to say a few words."

Walking past the Student Council members currently on stage, Ichinose being one of them, Nagumo took to the podium and began his speech.

"Hello. Thank you principal for introducing me I'm Nagumo, the new Student Council president. Horikita I sincerely appreciate your strict but also kind guidance. I'd also like to express my utmost respect for you, while also putting emphasis on what an honour it has been to serve alongside you and learn from you. The most capable President in the school's history. You are a true role model for future presidents and have demonstrated the calibre that all Presidents should have." Nagumo paused, giving the older Horikita a deep bow further displaying the respect he holds for the older Horikita, before facing the student body, which was now paying a lot more attention, again.

"Once again I will introduce myself. My name is Nagumo Miyabi and I am now the President of the Student Council. I sincerely look forward to working with you all."

Perhaps having noticed the attention deficit among the first years Nagumo emphasised the 'all' while directing his gaze towards us.

"Now this may be sudden," Nagumo, donning a thin, sly smile, started addressing the gymnasium again, "but for my first order of business, I pledge to change the term length for the student council members as well as the general election method. Our current system of holding general elections in October allows for candidates to succeed roles earlier than the previous system and while it does cause mixed results the system works. However, I believe that the President and other members should hold indefinite terms, meaning that they will serve until graduation."

"This means that the current general election system will be annulled but at the same time, I will also annul any restriction on the size of the Student Council. This means that we won't have to reject and waste talent if an excellent candidate opts to join. Now although the indefinite term and removal of the election process do seem like it discounts the opinions and power of the student body, we will implement a system where a majority vote can remove someone from office."

"Please allow me to confirm this to everyone regardless of whether you are a student or teacher. In order to bring this school into the future, I intend and will thoroughly destroy the past." Shifting his tone and deliberately picking his words Nagumo began to deny the brilliance of the previous President in favour of his own brilliance.

"I wanted to implement these changes at once...But a newly elected President has many obligations and restrictions." Nagumo said, throwing a quick glance at Horikita and then returning to the student body. "Be ready, all of you. With me as President, this school will become a true meritocracy and not the system we had before. Under me, this school will see a revolution across all years. So be prepared to give me everything you have."

Finishing his speech he smirked at Horikita before returning to his initial position cheered on by the majority of the second year student body which gave an audible explanation to his overwhelming victory.

Nagumo Miyabi...

I hold no interest in you or competing with you. Although you have some sort of relationship with Ichinose I truly don't care since you can't make decisions for her. I also know that I shouldn't be on your radar or someone of concern, but...

If you are the one that undoes all my planning and effort then you would be a far more dangerous opponent than Ryuuen or Sakayanagi.

Exiting the gymnasium walking alongside a groggy Sotomura who had managed to sleep through the whole ceremony I caught a glimpse of the one responsible for class C's fate. The one who started it all and is the reason why Horikita's ambition will go unfulfilled and then turn into regret-- just like her ambition did.

Flashback

Big Echo
Medium booth 04 at 8 pm

That was the message Kushida had sent summoning me to our school's karaoke facility and after successfully evading the friends she had invited out as an excuse to rent a karaoke room I entered unseen.

Holding our meetings in a karaoke room to ensure privacy, reduce the chance of being seen and cause misconceptions and guaranteeing neither party has set up recorders is actually a pretty convenient and smart idea.

An idea that would never have occurred to me...

Casting aside my soon to be self-deprecating thoughts I took a seat opposite Kushida and placed my phone on the table next to where she had put her phone.

"So what do you need to talk about? I assume it's linked to what happened this morning between you and Horikita?" Given Kushida doesn't know about Karuizawa I feigned ignorance about the council since we both know Horikita no longer trusts or consults with me.

"Horikita-san now has full protection against us. Now, no matter what we try to do we will no longer be able to control class decisions or submit things like participation tables thanks to the creation of her council." Summarising the main surface issues Kushida then expanded on why these options are no longer available.

"The council, which has been approved by Chabashira-Sensei, makes it so that no one person can make a decision which affects the class but instead a majority decision needs to be reached among the five representatives. However, on top of that, each decision needs to be deliberated with the class first and then the council members meaning we would only have a maximum of three alternative approaches to vote on."

This basically means that in situations like the one during the Sports Festival where we voted on hands up or ability to determine participation or when we were on the island and prioritised occupying one spot and loss minimisation, these decisions would be discussed first and then decided by the council.

The council could also serve as a sort of regulator advising the class on how many points to save or give them tailored revision timetables

Ultimately Horikita made a good system that will help our class function better while also minimizing conflict.

Continuing her explanation which was nearly a perfect match for Karuizawa's explanation except the confused and dubious undertone was replaced by an annoyed spite filled undertone.

"So she plans to take advantage of your vast social network to benefit the class in exams where we have to work with or against our senpais," I said, summarising the purpose of Kushida's position which is surprisingly significant despite Kushida's stance towards Horikita.

"Yes, except that position is also a way of forcing my hand and guaranteeing I can't do much to expel her." Kushida spat, hating the fact that Horikita can control her actions to some degree.

'This contact guarantees fairness while also preventing the threat of potential traitors...'

Horikita's words were probably plaguing Kushida even at this very moment especially because Horikita had so carefully planned out her actions and the events so that Kushida had no choice but to sign since if she didn't it would raise suspicion among Hirata, Karuiawa and Yukimura who all knew about their being a traitor inside class C.

So by signing Kushida can no longer collude with Ryuuen or submit tables as they are an act of sabotage against the class which violates the contract and as punishment she could be expelled.

"..." Holding back my thoughts for now I motioned for Kushida to continue her recollection.

"So? What are we going to do now?" Kushida asked, demanding a response as her cold gaze bore into me.

"Well before I answer that I would like to ask one thing. Does Horikita want to expel you?"

"Huh?..."

"Horikita clearly understands how important your social network is and will be in future exams which is why she gave you an important role that only you can do. So expelling you would actually hamper the class's chances going forward meaning that Horikita doesn't want to expel you. Unless she has said otherwise?" I asked again, giving a little more explanation to emphasize her answers' importance.

Kushida fell silent for a moment and then answered, "No. No, she doesn't want to expel me."

" So...?" I asked, prompting Kushida to fall silent again as she weighed up everything searching for her answer.

What will you choose?

Will you continue to sink deeper and deeper into despair as you desperately cling to your grudge? Continue to be my puppet? Continue to persevere despite knowing I will stab you in the back or toss you aside at any moment. Continue to position yourself in Ryuuen's crosshairs following my orders.

Or will you let go and move on becoming the true 'class angel'? Embrace your mask and work towards being genuine like Ichinose. Help Horikita work towards her ambition despite not having one yourself. Give up on being perfect , on being admired .

Watching on as Kushida deliberated between two choices which bear many different and unique outcomes I lamented in the pleasure of cause and effect which I would never have experienced inside the confines of the White Room.

Every decision is a trade off and depending on the severity one decision is all it takes to bring a person or a class to their downfall. The inability to take back or reverse a decision after seeing its impact is what makes them so heavy and crucial.

Regrets and questions like: "what if I had worked with Horikita?", "what if I sided with Kushida earlier?", "what if I had convinced Kushida to bury the hatchet?" or "what if I didn't hide my academic and physical capabilities?" are all questions which I have played out in my mind and then compared to reality as a way to see if I made the correct decision– which I haven't.

Kushida gave her lip a final bite before clenching her fists and meeting my gaze, "I want your help."

So you decided to hold on to the past...

"Well the contract said that you can't sabotage the class however sabotaging Horikita isn't part of that. So we just need to find a way of dragging Horikita down while helping our class win the exam or not take losses." I said explaining the flaw in Horikita's plan.

"However, that is easier said than done..." I trailed off, alluding to Kushida that I know a way to get Horikita expelled.

"I don't care about the costs or consequences! I just..- I want this to be over. I want your help in expelling Horikita."

I won't say whether the decision you made was right or wrong, but...

2600 words so not as long as some might have hoped given how long it's been since my last update however I thought this was a good place to end on and it's a good open to the next arc.

We managed to hit 100k while I was not uploading, kinda embarrassed, but thanks for all the support

Btw for those who dislike or critique Nagumo I am just putting a disclaimer here to say that I may have been slightly influenced by Prince so yeah...

Have a good day and thanks for 100k