April 2, 2015
Hirata decided to give Ayanokōji a call simply for peace of mind. He dialed the brunette's number and waited while the ringtone caused the phone to vibrate.
When the boy finally answered after about sixteen seconds, Hirata was mildly ecstatic for this conversation.
[ Uh... Hello? ]
A monotone voice was delivered through the speakers. It was an unusual lifelessness that made made the pretty boy concerned, but pushed his worries aside for the moment.
"Ayanokōji-kun? I wanted to confirm if you're a 100% affirmative of your recent message."
It was not distrust disarming his question, instead, it was thirst for clarity.
[ I would say yes — I'm completely positive about my suspicions. That's why I want to have you relay the message in my steel. You have enough charisma to make it work, Hirata. ]
Ironically, despite singing praises about the greenish-blonde boy, he sounded ever so monotone in his delivery. This juxtaposition of words and energy created an awkward atmosphere, causing slight amounts of discomfort for Hirata.
"I see..." he regarded everything he heard with complete seriousness, though. "You can count on me, Ayanokōji-kun. I'll do my best!"
The affirmation ran through the breezy air, bringing about a sweet melancholy and sweeping away that previous awkwardness.
With that said, the plan was a success. Hirata, with his affably convivial reputation would be perfect for the job.
[ Hey, what is a friend? ]
Surprise, surprise. This question held great importance for many around the world. Challenging the deeper intricacies — whatever makes one a human being.
Hirata, having his own story not yet unveiled, was not very excited to respond. His breath took on larger amounts of air as he considered an angle from which to answer.
"A friend... Is someone you would go above and better for. An individual with great importance to you. Someone who connects on a spiritual level. At least, that's how it works in my viewpoint."
A lot of words to convey one ideology.
Hirata remembered his failure during middle school — how he failed to protect his best friend.
They say that pain is the best motivator. And it seemed to be true in Hirata's case.
[ Your answer was appreciated, thank you. ]
Despite the diplomatic phrasing, that response was not very helpful to Ayanokōji. It was no different to what one could find in a dictionary, which was disappointing.
Maybe he should ask more people later on, he told himself.
[ Hirata. ]
"Yes?" he wondered what else was inbound.
[ I'm planning to purchase some wallpapers for my room... And maybe something else if I really feel like it. ]
According to the internet, whatever one puts into his room reflected his personality. For Ayanokōji, who want sure if his own personality type, it was considered intellectual dishonesty; jumping on a trend without actually caring about it.
You could say it's: the bandwagon effect.
"You never seemed like the type of guy who'd do that. How surprising."
[ Yeah. There's a first time for everything, right? ]
"I believe you're an intelligent young man, Ayanokōji-kun. You just don't project high energy when it comes to behaviour."
An accurate assessment. Not bad, Hirata; not bad.
[ Which is precisely why I'm taking this first step to becoming a real person. ]
What strange wording.
When hearing the last two words, 'real person', Hirata let out a soft chuckle. He figured this interlocutor was rather eccentric.
"Yoo-hoo~ Hirata-kun? What are you waiting for?" The voice was Karuizawa Kei.
Hirata was supposed to hang out with the girls today, but he asked them to wait until his call ended.
Too bad they were too impatient with the man.
He muffled his voice. "Karuizawa-san, I'm still speaking to someone. Gimme a sec, okay?"
She puffed her cheeks cutely, her skin turning pink. "Fine, but don't take too long!" She waltzed back to her clique after saying that.
"Sorry Ayanokōji-kun, I need to go." After bidding him farewell, Hirata ended the call and sought those lascivious girls.
In the embrace of his chamber — room 401— Ayanokōji was dressed simply. A white T-shirt and light-brown trousers with a green jacket to complement the apparel.
Again, according to the internet, utilizing the colour wheel to wear complementary colours would give a nice, fresh look that's easy on the eyes.
Plus, he didn't want to look like a hobo. That would increase the level of attention on him, an unwelcome fate. Looking decent in context of current social norms was an actual prerequisite for going out.
White, white and white again. It was all he saw in his life since childhood.
White walls.
White floor.
White gowns.
Everything except food and books was white.
Now, even his dorm room was white too!
That's why he wanted to buy wallpapers. It would help at least a little bit.
He glaced around his room, surveying his surroundings once more.
It was 8 tatami mats wide. A computer against the wall. A single-person bed. The azure light hung from the ceiling. Windows were currently covered by curtains. The bathroom door was closed.
The kitchen at the far end of the room was separated by a counter, and it was decorated with hanging cupboards, a metallic sink, and a electric stove.
'I can get used to this...' he thought to himself.
Ayanokōji left for Keyaki Mall.
On the way, he took note of the picturesque scenery surrounding the path. He wondered if the naming choice was related to the overwhelming vegetation presented.
Perhaps they called it 'Keyaki Mall' because of the Keyaki trees adorning the area. If true, that was rather funky.
As Ayanokōji walked along the path towards Keyaki Mall, he couldn't help but admire the lush surroundings. The Keyaki trees provided a sense of tranquility and charm, making the stroll quite pleasant. The school's attention to detail in naming and designing its spaces was indeed impressive.
Upon reaching Keyaki Mall, he entered the spacious shopping area. It was a bustling place with various shops, and he could see students from different classes browsing through the merchandise. His main goal for this visit was to find wallpapers for his room. As he walked from store to store, he observed the different patterns and colors available.
Ayanokōji finally settled on a wallpaper design that he thought would add a touch of personality to his otherwise plain room. It had a simple yet elegant pattern with shades of blue, which he felt would create a calming atmosphere. With his selection made, he approached the counter to make his purchase.
While he was completing his transaction, he took out his phone to check for any messages or notifications. To his surprise, he saw that he had been added to a group chat. The chat consisted of Hirata and several girls he spent time with: Karuizawa Kei, Matsushita Chiaki, Satō Maya, Sonoda Chiyo, Ishikura Kayoko, Mori Nene, and Azuma Sana. Ayanokōji felt a bit shy about the sudden inclusion but decided to send a short greeting to the group before putting his phone away.
What he didn't think of was that the school had equipped group chat with a unique feature – a GPS tracker that allowed members to see each other's real-time locations on the school campus.
This feature was designed to 'signify friendship', and it could potentially lead to unexpected encounters.
As he was about to leave the store, he suddenly felt a group of people approaching. Turning around, he was met with the unexpected presence of the girls from the group chat who had spotted him.
Their arrival signaled the start of an unforeseen interaction.
1
The girls from the group chat had surrounded Ayanokōji, and they seemed curious about his presence.
A staredown ensued, with their eyes locked on him. While some of the girls appeared more intrigued, others looked a bit suspicious.
He, as always, maintained his calm and composed demeanor. He knew that the situation could become rather awkward, but he was prepared to let the girls decide how they wanted to proceed. For a moment, he felt like an unexpected guest in their gathering, but he was open to what they might have in mind.
It was a standoff of silence, a delicate moment in which the next actions of this new group remained uncertain.
Satō Maya not wanting to stretch things any further spoke. "You're the guy Hirata-kun added, right?" Her magenta hair swayed as she talked.
He affirmed it with a nod, looking right into her blue eyes. His arms were crossed as he did so, asserting dominance on a subconscious level.
She continued probing, "I think I remember you saying you play piano in during introductions yesterday."
Today was the second of April which was also the second day of school. Many things have been brought to light in just this shirt amount of time — two days!
"Of course I do. It's one of those things I use for peaceful meditation."
He deliberated whether to delve into a deep topic like Classical Music.
The younger generation certainly didn't appreciate artists like Mozart, Liszt, Beethoven, Bach and many others.
They preferred Pop or hip-hop these days.
It would be a lost cause trying to discuss when the other party can barely understand what you're saying.
Matsushita Chiaki, a brunette girl next to Satō, had her interest piqued. "Meditation? Looks like I've finally found someone who shares my fascination."
Did that just rhyme? She thought to herself with a mature smile.
"What are you doing here, Ayanokōji-kun?" she asked.
"Before I answer, where is Hirata?" he challenged her question with his own. "I'm curious."
To any observer, a newfound bond had formed between Hirata and these girls. Surprisingly, the young man was not here.
"He said he was feeling sleepy," Azuma Sana said.
She had aesthetic shades on, a bright pink color contrasting her black hair tied into a ponytail.
"Sleepy?" he uttered. "I guess the heat got to him."
The school was rather strict about its uniform policy — for no good reason either.
Boys had to keep their blazers on during school hours, regardless of the season.
Girls were at least allowed to take off their blazers, but they also had their own problems to deal with.
Girls weren't allowed to wear a pantyhose. This sucked during winter, when the air truly carries no heat.
Summer was hell for boys — winter was hell for girls.
"I hate these stupid rules. Girls can't wear a pantyhose? It's so dumb!" Karuizawa Kei expressed her frustrations, elevating her voice.
"I hear you," Sonoda Chiyo supported her. "The rules are inconvenient. That's probably why Hirata-kun found himself exhausted so early."
If even an honour student feels the effects of the school's rules, then it wasn't something to take lightly.
Who was even responsible for making these rules in the first place?
They deserved to burn in hell!
Hey," Mori Nene made herself party of the discussion. "If we brought the issue to the administration, would they do anything to help? Is like to believe they would."
Karuizawa was doubtful. "You really think grown-ups care about us? Come on, they wouldn't do shit even if we complained."
This was a major criticality of Japanese society.
Naïve, gullible youth have no right to question rules made by wise, experienced elders.
It was a culture based on blind obedience to superiors.
Do these traditions make sense in the first place?
Are they practical?
These questions, despite carrying insurmountable weight, would never be answered in good faith unless the system were to change.
In a way, many societies match this horrendous reality. Although great pushback has come to fruition, bigotry and oppression by salty old heads still exists.
Phew! Maybe the narrator shouldn't start a rant on social justice in a Wattpad fanfic, you know?
"The government is run by human beings. People like us. You never know if complaining might help, you know?" Mori had a point, but that sounded like too much effort to everyone else.
"Nah, no can do," Satō said.
"Why not?"
"Because I don't feel like it." All of them related to these words. "Ayanokōji-kun, wanna hang out with us? What were you doing here in the first place?"
"Shopping for wallpapers." They nodded in understanding. "Sure, I'll join you guys."
As Ayanokōji engaged with the group of girls and shared his thoughts on the school's rules, it became apparent that they were all feeling the effects of the school's strict regulations. The students were divided into a sea of uniforms, each facing their own unique challenges due to the school's dress code and policies.
The conversation shifted to the possibility of addressing these issues with the school administration, with some students being more hopeful about the potential for change and others feeling that the effort might be in vain. The girls expressed a mix of skepticism and reluctance to challenge the established rules, reflecting the broader cultural tendency toward obedience to authority figures.
Mori Nene suggested that perhaps raising concerns with the administration might lead to positive changes, but Karuizawa and others were less optimistic. It was a portrayal of the kind of generational and societal conflicts that can emerge when young people question established norms and authority.
Amidst these discussions, the group decided to welcome Ayanokōji to join them. It seemed like they were beginning to form a connection, and Ayanokōji was becoming a part of their circle, even if he initially had other intentions for his visit to Keyaki Mall.
After paying for the wallpapers, the store clerk informed Ayanokōji that they would have a delivery guy take it to his room and apply it.
He returned to the girls, having peace of mind since he didn't have to bother with the wallpapers himself. Most of them were already immersed in a discussion amongst themselves.
Satō latched onto his left arm, as if she were flirting, or maybe as if she was his girlfriend. "Tell me about yourself, Ayanokōji-kun. You look interesting in my eyes," she demanded.
Being completely honest about his childhood was not possible — some truths were better not told.
Therefore, he had to manufacture a fake, but realistic enough childhood to sell her.
Ayanokōji pondered for a brief moment, considering how to create a fictional but plausible backstory. He was treading the fine line of sharing something about his past without revealing too much or delving into the truth. After a moment of contemplation, he decided on a simple yet engaging story to share with Satō.
"Well, my family moved around a lot when I was younger," he began, fabricating his childhood. "My parents had jobs that required them to travel, so we changed cities every few years. I got used to adapting to new environments and making friends quickly. That's why I might seem a bit reserved at first, but I value the connections I make with people."
Satō nodded in understanding, her interest clearly piqued. "That sounds exciting, Ayanokōji-kun. Moving around a lot must have given you a unique perspective on life and made you adaptable. I think that's really cool."
Ayanokōji maintained his calm and collected demeanor as he continued to engage in the conversation with the girl, weaving a web of fictional experiences and details to keep her interested without revealing his true self.
Satō's genuine curiosity seemed to drive the conversation. "So, what kind of things are you interested in or passionate about, Ayanokōji-kun? Don't hide anything from me."
Ayanokōji paused for a moment, considering his response carefully. He needed to provide enough information to keep her engaged critically.
"I've always had an interest in observing people and understanding human behavior," he admitted, drawing from his true fascination. "It's like a puzzle for me, trying to figure out what makes people tick. I also enjoy reading and exploring new places. What about you, Satō-san? What are your interests?"
She smiled, appreciating the question. "I love fashion. My big sister and I enjoy trying out and designing different clothing styles. It's a way for me to express myself and connect with others. And I too like exploring new places, and of course, making new friends."
Ayanokōji found her passion for dance intriguing, and he nodded. "That sounds amazing. I want to see your works sometime."
Satō's cheeks turned slightly pink. "Really? Maybe I can show you something really soon. It's always more fun when you have someone to share with."
Ayanokōji's response was measured and polite. "I'd be interested."
Their conversation continued, focusing on their interests and hobbies, as they got to know each other better.
"You mentioned your elder sister. She taught you how to do what you do?"
"Hm-hmm!" she nodded.
"I wish I had a sibling. I've been lonely since forever when I was at home."
Such dejected words weren't welcome. "Don't bother yourself about it. You're fine!"
Satō's flirtatious demeanor was subtle yet noticeable, and she maintained her grasp on Ayanokōji's arm. She leaned in slightly, her magenta hair brushing against his shoulder as she spoke in a softer tone.
"You know, Ayanokōji-kun, there's something about you that intrigues me. You seem like a quiet, mysterious guy, and I can't help but wonder what's going on behind those thoughtful eyes."
Ayanokōji, maintaining his calm composure, responded with a faint hum. "I've been called mysterious before, but I assure you, I'm just a regular student trying to navigate this new school."
Satō chuckled softly, her eyes locking onto his. "Well, regular or not, I find your mysterious aura quite appealing. Don't you think there's something exciting about getting to know someone... mysterious?"
He met her gaze and replied, "Perhaps there is, Satō. But sometimes, even the most enigmatic people have their own complexities."
She tightened her grip on his arm just a bit. "That's what makes them interesting, don't you think?"
Ayanokōji couldn't deny the charm in her words, and the slight flirtation added a layer of intrigue to their conversation. "I suppose you're right. Getting to know someone can be an adventure in itself."
Satō's magenta eyes sparkled with curiosity. "So, Ayanokōji-kun, are you up for an adventure?"
Their conversation took a more flirtatious turn, as Satō playfully continued to engage Ayanokōji in a captivating exchange.
"An adventure with you? What kind?" he asked curiously.
"Erm, I dunno!"
Their attention was caught by an eye-catching entourage of second-years. The one who stood out most was the boy at the center position of the group, walking with poise and purpose.
His messy blonde hair swayed as he moved along. The way his shirt clung to his torso highlighted indubitable athleticism. The rest of his group followed behind obediently.
"That senior looked like a bigshot. Have you ever seen him before?" Ayanokōji inquired.
"Nope. I'm just as clueless as you are."
Ayanokōji and Satō watched the senior and his group walk past, their eyes fixed on the charismatic figure. Ayanokōji couldn't help but sense an air of authority around the senior, and it piqued his curiosity.
As the group disappeared from view, Satō leaned in a bit closer to Ayanokōji, her playful tone returning. "Well, I might not know who he is, but I'm definitely more interested in the mysterious first-year next to me."
Ayanokōji found himself slightly ticklish as he felt her warm breath against his ear. "I'm glad to hear that. Maybe we can have our own little adventure, Satō-san."
She grinned, her blue eyes locking onto his once again. "I'd like that, Ayanokōji-kun. Let's make it an adventure to remember."
The two continued to chat, finding themselves drawn to each other's company and the promise of a newfound connection as they embarked on their own unique adventure within the confines of this extraordinary school.
Satō and Ayanokōji's growing connection didn't go unnoticed by the other girls in their group. Their teasing and playful remarks indicated that they found the two's interaction intriguing. It was clear that the chemistry between Satō and Ayanokōji was not lost on them.
Matsushita was the first to speak up, her tone teasing. "Seems like we have a new power couple in the making here."
Karuizawa couldn't resist chiming in, her voice dripping with amusement. "Are you guys planning to keep us waiting for the big reveal?"
Ayanokōji and Satō shared a knowing look, both amused and slightly embarrassed by the attention. But they were good sports about it.
"I guess you caught on quickly," Ayanokōji admitted, his usual monotone tone taking on a hint of amusement.
Sonoda joined in, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "Alright, you lovebirds, what's your next move?"
Satō giggled and looked at Ayanokōji. "Well, we were thinking about an adventure, right?"
Ayanokōji nodded, the hint of their conversation returning. "That's right. We want to make this hangout memorable."
Their friends all exchanged glances and whispers, clearly excited about the prospect of a memorable adventure. After a few moments of discussion and laughter, they had a plan in mind.
Gustav Holst's planetary suite filled the vibrant background, providing a serene, regal passover of time for everyone wandering about.
As the day wore on and evening approached, the group embarked on their adventure. They explored the school grounds, enjoying each other's company and creating shared memories. It was a day filled with laughter, fun, and the promise of new friendships.
Satō and Ayanokōji's connection had set the stage for an unforgettable hangout, bringing together a group of classmates who were destined to make their high school experience truly extraordinary.
1
April 3, 2015
Tomorrow had arrived and finally became today.
Hirata remembered his newfound responsibility communicated to him by Ayanokōji.
It was a shame this school wasn't the bustling paradise it projected itself to be in its advertising.
Classes were divided into a hierarchy. The class which was deemed most superior was Class A, and the most defective, low-quality one was Class D.
The students from Class A had a particular guarantee reserved for them by the end of the three year attendance, when they would finally graduate — the 100% employment guarantee.
With this advantage, a person could get into the university they wanted, or even work at the company they wanted. What a beautiful promise.
One problem, though. All the other classes, B to D wouldn't get such a reward. Only Class A.
Hirata was well aware of the stark hierarchy that existed within the school. The Class A students enjoyed privileges and guarantees that were simply out of reach for the others. It was a system that reinforced social inequality and division.
This quest promised to be a challenging one, as they would attempt to bridge the gap between the classes and encourage unity among the students. Hirata was determined to do his best to make a positive change, even if it meant facing resistance and obstacles along the way.
Hirata mulled over the predicament as he sat in the classroom waiting for the day to begin.
He couldn't help but wonder if there was a way to level the playing field for Class D and the other lower-ranked classes. Ayanokōji's idea was intriguing – convincing the Class D students about the S-System and encouraging good behavior among them.
If they could successfully implement this strategy, maybe they could pave the way for a more equal society within the school. Hirata knew it wouldn't be an easy task, but he was willing to give it a shot.
After all, unity and cooperation might be the only way for Class D to overcome the odds stacked against them in this unforgiving system.
Hirata, being a responsible and caring student, decided that the best time to address his classmates about the suspicious elements of the school was before homeroom started. He believed that if he presented his concerns logically and earnestly, he might be able to convince the majority of the class to consider the implications of the S-System.
Standing at the front of the classroom, he cleared his throat, and all eyes turned towards him.
"Good morning, everyone. I know we're just starting another day, but I couldn't ignore something that's been bothering me for a while. I've been doing some research, and there are some unsettling aspects of this school that we should discuss."
He went on to explain the S-System, the ranking of classes, and the potential consequences of non-compliance. At first, many of his classmates were skeptical, dismissing it as a conspiracy theory. But Hirata presented logical arguments, evidence, and examples that gradually won over the majority of the class.
People began to exchange worried glances, and a sense of unease settled in the room. Some students were starting to accept the possibility that something was indeed wrong with the school's system.
However, not everyone was convinced. Ike Kanji, Yamauchi Haruki, and Sudō Ken remained skeptical and disinterested. They didn't see any reason to change their behavior, and they made their dissent clear.
"Listen, pretty boy! I'm not gonna listen to you! Who made you the ruler of us?!"
"Yeah! We wanna enjoy our lives the way we wanna!"
"Leave me out of this shit, please?" Sudō said. "Even if what you say is true, that's not my problem, Hirata. You guys can play dollhouse and all that, but I'm not interested."
Some people possessed the ability to remain willfully ignorant in spite of obvious truths being presented before their eyes. People like these were always the ones who suffered in fiction.
Most girls glared at these impudent idiots for ignoring Hirata's warning. The rest of the boys also took a stance against the idiotic trio.
They didn't want their monthly allowance of points to be squashed. If that happened, all the other classes would laugh at them. On top of that, they wouldn't be able to eat the delicious food in the cafeteria. They'd have to settle for the free vegetable set with a foul, bitter taste.
"Why would you not want to behave? That makes no sense!" Karuizawa said, confused by their brazenness.
"Yeah! Do you dogs really think you're low-key?" Shinohara insulted.
"For all that energy, as a fellow man, I believe you three act like bitches." Yukimura Keisei pressed his spectacles against the bridge of his nose as he spoke. "We've listened to everything Hirata told us and understood it. So why can't you just cooperate?"
Ike, Yamauchi and Sudō hardly budged even under all this pressure.
"Stop!!!"
All the palaver halted. All eyes turned to the one that shouted.
Kushida Kikyō.
"Guys, why are you fighting?" her eyes were teary, accompanying her dejected face and arched posture. She really seemed to be on the verge of bawling.
She continued, "Can't we do better than this? I thought we could all get along!" Her emotional speech stirred guilt within the hearts of those striking up pandemonium.
"Ike-kun. Yamauchi-kun. Sudō-kun. Please help us. I'm asking you sincerely."
A classroom of forty pupils, and yet all were silent.
Unable to bear the gloom any longer, the idiotic trio finally yielded, acquiescing to her request.
"W-well... If Kushida-chan says so, then it's fine."
"Sorry, Kushida-chan. I was being ignorant."
"Ugh, fine." Even Sudō surrendered his white flag.
With Kushida's emotional plea, the resistance of the trio — Ike, Yamauchi and Sudō — finally crumbled. Under the weight of her sincerity, they couldn't help but give in.
Hirata felt a sense of relief as their classmates united in understanding and willingness to cooperate. It was a small victory, but it was a crucial step in building a better environment within Class D.
As the morning continued, there was a noticeable change in the atmosphere of the classroom. The students started discussing ways to improve their behavior and overall class dynamics. They realized that sticking together and supporting one another would be key to avoiding any detrimental consequences from the school's system.
Hirata's speech along with Kushida's contribution had made a significant impact, and it appeared that Class D was on the path to becoming a more cohesive and responsible unit. They still had a long way to go, but they were no longer in the dark about the school's suspicious elements.
And so, the day continued with a newfound sense of unity among the students of Class D.
1
April 3, 2015
In the wake of their discussions about improving class dynamics and their understanding of the school's system, Class D began implementing various ideas to foster cooperation and initiate change.
One suggestion that gained traction was the idea of conducting a comprehensive survey of the school campus.
Their goal was to identify the frequency and locations of hidden surveillance cameras throughout the school. By mapping out these cameras, they hoped to better understand the extent of monitoring and surveillance they were subjected to.
To make this idea a reality, several students volunteered to discreetly gather information on the placement of cameras in different areas of the school. They planned to create a detailed map that would help raise awareness among their classmates and make them more cautious about their actions in monitored areas.
Another proposal involved promoting student-led study sessions within their class.
The idea was to encourage students to take more initiative in their learning process. To achieve this, they decided to implement a structured study schedule. Every Monday and Thursday, a designated student would be responsible for presenting a specific topic in the subject designated for that day.
To ensure active participation and engagement, the designated student would send a message to the class group chat a few days prior, confirming the topic they would present. This allowed all students to research the topic beforehand, making them better prepared for the discussion.
The hope was that these study sessions would not only improve their academic performance but also promote a sense of shared responsibility and a habit of taking the initiative.
As the class began to put these ideas into practice, they were aware that these efforts were just the beginning of their quest to improve their class's standing within the school. They understood that it would be a long and challenging journey, but they were determined to work together and strive for a brighter future in their unique school environment.
The student chosen for the upcoming Monday was Makida Susumu. By virtue of his confidence in mathematics, he decided to take the job.
Since today was a Friday, there was ample time for preparation. Monday was on the sixth of April, meaning he had Saturday and Sunday to his prerogative.
Their plan was, at the very least, to cover two subjects each week together. That way, covering ground would become simpler.
2
Chabashira-sensei entered as usual, showcasing her ever-stern face. She noticed Horikita's hand was raised.
"You, at the back. What is it?"
"I was curious about something, Sensei. Since we can transfer points amongst each other, is there a safeguard against potential exploitation of naïvete? Specifically, a means for both parties to be held under contractual obligations?"
It would be ruthless if the school allowed its pupils to get scammed just like that.
When people made deals in the real world, they typically made use of a middleman or third party. This was to ensure honesty and unanimous upholding of any clauses established.
In this case, it should definitely be possible to involve the school as a truncation agent for bad-faith deception.
"To answer your question, there is a system in place. Both parties are required to sign a memorandum for a deal to be legitimized. Hypothetically, if one party violates any contractual obligations, a complaint may be submitted to faculty members or even the Student Council, if one wishes it so."
She continued, "A duplicate of such a memorandum would be necessary, so action can be taken. You would need to also provide proof of the violation, obviously. When I say proof, I'm including voice recordings, video recordings or any other method sufficient for a case to be made."
Chabashira-sensei's response brought some clarity to the class regarding the safeguards in place for the transfer of points and the prevention of exploitation. Horikita's question was a valid concern, as it was essential to have a system that could ensure the fair and honest execution of agreements.
The mention of a memorandum and the requirement for both parties to sign it highlighted the importance of documentation and transparency in any point-related dealings. It was also good to know that there was a process for filing complaints in case of contractual violations.
Chabashira-sensei emphasized the need for proof, which indicated that the school took such matters seriously. It was clear that they had measures in place to address any issues related to point transfers and agreements.
This information provided a sense of security for the students, knowing that there were mechanisms to prevent exploitation and ensure accountability within the system. Horikita's question and Chabashira-sensei's response were valuable in helping the class better understand the rules and regulations governing their unique educational environment.
"Is that all?"
"Not yet. If I wanted to influence school rules, how much would it cost?"
This line of questioning was inevitable.
On the first day, Chabashira-sensei said, 'Anything located on school premises is available for purchase'.
Did that really mean anything? Was it only limited to physical products? Or were even abstract concepts up for grabs?
Technically, if something doesn't exist corporeally, how can it be classified as 'on school grounds'?
Knowing whether these kinds of rights counted was important, as it could be useful later on.
"You may have gotten the wrong idea, Horikita. If you want to enact miniscule alterations to the rules, (for instance, being allowed to arrive a minute late to class, shortening the length of your skirt, etc.) without penalization, you can make such a configuration for 75,000 points."
She paused, allowing the information to become digestible.
"As for rules that deal with the fundamentals of our institution, no such configuration shall be made. Regardless of whatever amount you have at that moment."
Essentially, there were things that students were barred from touching. It made perfect sense, otherwise, a literal introduction of anarchy would've taken place.
"How many of you have grown interested in the SCP elections?" she asked the entire class.
As if they'd already forgotten about the matter, a series of "Ooh's" and "Aah's" escaped their tongues.
"What's with the strange sounds? Does anyone think they stand a chance of getting elected if they tried?" she enquired.
"Speaking of which, Sensei," Hirata said. "Can a person join the Student Council if affiliated with another club? I was planning to register for the football team."
"That would depend on arrangements decided between yourself as well as the other members."
She said this because Nagumo Miyabi, Vice-President of the Student Council —— was able to juggle between soccer club as well council duties.
No rule existed to prevent this in history.
"Do they operate within similar scheduled? If it hampers my ability to participate, then it's probably not worth it."
This sentiment was shared by many.
They had their own interests and hobbies. Why take on additional responsibility if you aren't going to enjoy it?
"Did you expect me to have their schedules memorized? Very funny question, Hirata," Chabashira-sensei retorted.
What a troublesome teacher.
"Hold up! That's not wha-"
"I believe the club fair will be held today. Any information you seek should be found there. Understood?"
Everyone nodded in understanding.
The bell rang, signifying the end of Homeroom period. Shuffling of a few seats scratching against the flooring filled the air.
There was always a two-minute-long intermission punctuating separation of lessons. This was to let students have enough time for bathroom business and water breaks.
How merciful.
Right now, Ayanokōji was using his phone when murmurs grew into a shouting mess, breaking his reverie.
"Yo! Check this out, on the school forums!"
Like many institutions in developed nations, ANHS also had an application serving as a forum board for the entire scholarly populace. Currently there were no rules for what one could post there, probably because such stipulation was overly redundant.
[ Nagumo Miyabi:-
Hello to you all, and a warm welcome to the newly-enrolled first-years.
I've been serving as Student Council Vice-President since last year, when I too was a freshman. Despite many challenges, we traversed cordially, venturing into many fun possibilities.
As you have already been informed by your respective instructors, we are opening the road for challengers to try their hand at becoming President.
1. Why is this a thing?
There is a main purpose — I proposed the idea in anticipation of dissenters raising issues with my own presidency.
Humans are not a monolithic hive-mind. We all have differing philosophical and political views.
Did you catch my hint?
Yes. I myself am planning to become President, which means that you'll have to face me, the same way I faced my senior; Horikita Manabu.
2. This Nagumo guy seems narcissistic. Why does he want someone to challenge him?
No comment.
3. What can a president do? Is there something we're missing?
I plan to give my speech via the club fair today. You'll hear an announcement through the intercoms about time and venue. Be there, but don't be late.
If anyone has questions to ask, feel free to approach me when the right moment arrives.
Until then, stay safe! ]
This message came with many indirect warning signs.
First, that he would fight relentlessly for this esteemed position of authority.
Second, he held a monopoly of information since it seemed like he knew something that other students didn't.
Third, he has some degree of power already because he was able to convince the school to make such an event a reality. Likely a very cunning individual.
'This is not a guy to play games with...' most would think.
3
During lessons, everyone tried their best not to misbehave.
This meant no chit-chat, late-coming or absenteeism. No video games either.
Of course, during break and lunch they could do whatever they wanted...
But there was no room for risk-taking unless consensus was reached to allow certain interactions for the purpose of investigation.
The teachers themselves noticed how Class-1D poised themselves gracefully. Quite the surprise considering how the Class D of previous years displayed retardation of the highest order.
They wondered to themselves if it was a miracle from God, or if some foul play had taken place. Regardless, it wasn't really important. They were here to do their job and get their paychecks.
Over time, the class familiarized themselves with some other teachers.
Mashima Tomonari — a bulky middle-aged man with a stern look but a gentle voice. His hair was gray and accompanied by green eyes.
Hoshinomiya Chie — a young woman in her late twenties whose attitude was a little too cheerful. She had violet eyes and light brown hair.
Sakagami Kazuma — a bespectacled, skinny man with black hair and wrinkled skin.
There were other instructors as well, but they'd never built much of an impression.
"I'm telling you! This outfit looks really hot on a guy!"
"Nope."
At this moment, Ayanokōji was chatting with Hirata and company. The topic shifted to a new fashion trend.
"I'm not asking, I'm telling you," Karuizawa said, holding her phone in the air for the group to see.
A picture of a male model recently published in a popular magazine. He was dressed cutely, almost androgynous in appearance.
"You guys need to try it out, for me!"
Ayanokōji stretched his legs, his body perched atop Satō's desk. One look would tell any observer that she literally took no notes during the last English lesson. "Hirata. You'll do it, won't you?"
"Blegh! I mean, yeah?"
"..."
Silence grabbed all momentarily, thanks to that quivering response.
"Hmph! You guys are mean..." Karuizawa folded her arms and sulked, puffing her cheeks while looking away.
"Dude, like, aren't you trying too hard here? It doesn't look special to me," Satō commented.
"Why did you call me a 'dude'?" Karuizawa's head turned ever so slightly.
"I call anyone whatever I want, whenever I want, wherever I want. In case you didn't know, that includes you, dude," doubling down on her tomboyish language, Satō did not back down.
Letting fresh air in through the nearby window, Ayanokoji's hair swayed, strands traveling over his head. They ignored this for now.
"What's your deal, Karuizawa-san? I can think of outfits more attractive than this. Maybe you're actually a newbie?" Azuma teased, planting a hole is Karuizawa's apparently factual story of living fashionista since her first breath.
"Shut up. Change the topic, please."
"Ayanokōji-kun, what are you doing?" Sonoda called out to our protagonist.
"I'm..." his answer did not manifest.
"What? Finish your sentence~" Matsushita smiled.
"... feeling the wind."