Night Flower

Written: 7/25/2023

Well, the curtain has risen, and the sport's festival is officially starting. This is quite the action packed arc that I will have to implement, however I think I can manage. As for results I will again let you all assume what happens. I won't be covering every single event, however I will cover significant ones and the placements.

In general, this will be so far, the toughest thing I've written. Also, regarding Sudo and Sakura, they aren't dating. I will actually explain later how Sudo feels towards Sakura and Horikita. I think it is important to talk about this, as I don't want people to think they are in a relationship. If that was the case then Sudo would be upset with…. I cannot say because spoilers hehe.

Chapter 17: Sports Festival – Raise the Curtain

"You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength" – Marcus Aurelius.

Third Person POV

With the final preparations of the festival made, Class D was in a mood. They were feeling confident, considering the long-term work they had committed to.

While you can procrastinate academics for a test, the same cannot be said for physical abilities. With that, your body needs to be trained overtime to achieve improvements. You cannot improve it by training vigorously overnight, in fact it's quite the opposite.

One can hurt themselves and thus perform worse.

With the relay race, when Munfurawa had gone to change their representation for the events last minute, he caught a figure staring at it.

It was rather dark, but Munfurawa could make it out to be Kushida, with her phone out, clearly taking photos of the entire sheet. This was strange, why was Kushida doing this?

"This'll show Horikita… I'll expel her and take over the running's as class leader… hehe…" Kushida replied as she took a photo of Class D's reps before walking out. It seemed that the dark atmosphere of the room made it impossible for Kushida to see Munfurawa, who had taken a simple photo. He was glad he put his phone on Do Not Disturb, it really helped.

That was an instance that got Munfurawa's attention, and he knew that he would need to confront Kushida about her troublesome personality, eventually. For some reason, Munfurawa had a feeling Kushida may interfere in the results.

Munfurawa sighed, as he decided he would spend the time before the festival opens cooperating and discussing matters with Ayanokouji. After all, if he were to assume something suspicious, he would as well. It also helps that he also shares Munfurawa's skepticism of Kushida.

With some dialoging and messaging from Ayanokouji, the two agreed to their next plan. Munfurawa had sent Ayanokouji the evidence of Kushida gathering the performance and expected representatives of Class D.

As Munfurawa went to sleep, he pondered over the potentials.

When he woke up, he sighed realizing the day, and decided to put on his jerseys. He was somewhat used to it, but he preferred his martial arts uniform over this. Still, at least it wasn't in the way of his activities.

Once the curtains were about to rise, the entire student body marched disciplinary, to standard protocols. Munfurawa and Ayanokouji, who were next to each other looked around, noticing how vast the atmosphere was. Even though there weren't observers, there were still stands, and almost every race had cameras near the finish line.

Munfurawa had pondered the ideals and rules of the sport's festival, regarding how the placement could affect the points you receive and for your overall class. It was rather difficult, but they had to work with it.

Munfurawa was so busy observing the surroundings that he did not realize someone from the third year of Class A was giving the opening ceremony. He had to be tapped over his head by Horikita to then realize. It was here did Munfurawa realize Horikita was acting slightly different from her usual self.

She seemed more nervous, and even her expression seemed less serious. One may think it was because of Munfurawa himself, but the boy knew better. It was because of her brother. She was clearly looking for her brother, probably for some form of attention and acknowledgment.

The preparations were just phenomenal, with the respective coloured tents for the obvious teams. It was clear that mingling among the others were not tolerated within the school.

Ayanokouji looked at Munfurawa who nodded, a silent message they had understood. It was very eerie how similar both thought and functioned. However, rather than question it, they went with it. Besides, having another do half the work was less troublesome and it allowed for the other to enjoy their normal lives a bit more.

The first race was the second year 100m sprint, for boys. Munfurawa and Ayanokouji looked up, and began analyzing the setup. It seemed that the groups were evenly distributed to contain two students from each class, for a total of eight students. That meant that the last three students would be deducted points depending on their placement.

From what Munfurawa remembered, it went like the following:

1st Place: 15 points

2nd Place: 12 points

3rd Place: 10 points

4th Place: 8 points

5th Place: 0 points

6th Place: -1 points

7th Place: -2 points

8th Place: -3 points

Simple enough, and with the total amount of students in each class being approximately 40, Munfurawa knew that there may be as much as 20 groups to go. It was relatively large. Note that this included strictly the girls.

But since it was only the boys running, it was down to 10 groups, for 2 boys each from their respective class.

Being able to organize it almost perfectly, and accounting for genders was impressive.

Munfurawa looked for his name and saw that he was in group 7th. He had quite some time before he had to go. As for Ayanokouji, he was in group 5th. He had looked over to Munfurawa.

Specifically, of interest to Munfurawa was the fact that other than Ryūen himself participating in this group with him, he had no other notable individuals.

As for Ayanokouji, he was racing against Shibata. Judging from the emotionless boy's thoughts, he knew Ayanokouji might aim for second or third place. Considering Shibata was deemed among the fastest, it wasn't surprising.

The first individuals to race in Class D were Sudo and Sotomura. Class D had a lot, already at stake, considering Sudo played an integral role in setting the mood and contributing to the placements. As for Sotomura, Munfurawa was somewhat hoping he could perform averagely.

Sotomura, Sakura, Hondo, Yukimura, and Ijuin were all of Class D whom Munfurawa knew were poor in physical prowess. As a result he was hoping his advice and small training sessions with them would ultimately help them in not being a liability.

Not Munfurawa's words, it was all of them who wanted to perform and not be a burden, which Munfurawa understood. No one wants to be one.

To the relief of much of Class D, Sudo was outrunning all the other boys within his group. Sotomura, was unfortunately at the bottom of the fact, but he wasn't too far last. As what Munfurawa had hoped, Sotomura was begun to increase his pace near the end, passing a couple of others near his rank. As for Sudo, he had outpaced the other, winning by a landslide.

Class D gave a small cheer, as Sudo had easily placed 1st place, while Sotomura had placed 5th. While the latter wasn't impressive, they weren't going to have any penalties in points.

Eventually when it was Ayanokouji's turn, Munfurawa turned to him, "Give it your best." He called out.

Ayanokouji stared at him for a bit, realizing the implications of his statement before nodding, "We'll see." Was all he said. Considering he and Hondo were racing Shibata, most in Class D knew what would happen.

Ayanokouji had gone off at a moderate pace, which he eventually increased as he was slowly catching up to Shibata, but ultimately knew he couldn't pass, so he didn't. As for Hondo, he was also putting up a good enough performance, despite his initial poor physical abilities.

In the end, while Shibata got first place, Ayanokouji got third while Hondo got fifth as well.

It seemed that Munfurawa had given the boys some much needed advice on their physical abilities. Still, he knew their bodies would hurt them after. As he could tell Hondo was panting rather meticulously.

Eventually, it was Munfurawa's own turn to go, and he got up. Looking around, he noticed that other than Ryūen himself, he had no one athletic going against him.

Sighing, he knew what position he would take.

"Let's got! Munfurawa!" Yamauchi exclaimed, "Make sure you don't fall behind me!"

Munfurawa stretched his thighs and calves. He noticed that the other's within the 1st years Class D were cheering for him. In addition, so was Kamuro, with Sakayanagi looking with interest in the background.

"Kukuku, it seems we were destined to meet again." Ryūen introduced himself realizing they were in the same group.

"I wish that wasn't the case, but alas, that is what we must deal with." Munfurawa responded, not really paying attention to him, much to the delinquent's annoyance.

As everyone began to prepare, Ryūen continued his teasing.

"So, you think you can beat me this time?" Ryūen asked.

Munfurawa shrugged, "We'll have to see."

"Indeed, but compared to us normies, what do you defects have against us that'll make you come out?" Ryūen asked.

Munfurawa looked on, "The chance of improvement."

"Excuse me?" Ryūen asked a bit confused.

"Defects can be made proper with some tinkering. Put the right additions onto a defect, and it becomes new and strong. So Ryūen, let me show you how much of a defect you are by beating you." Munfurawa clapped back.

"Fufufufufu, I'd like to see you try." Ryūen responded before they started the countdown.

To Ryūen's shock, Munfurawa had beaten him soundly. He didn't leave him in the dust, or was always in the clear to win, but he put up a strong performance nonetheless.

Ryūen looked pissed, before he turned to Munfurawa, "You will regret this later…"

Munfurawa didn't care for his threat, as he made it back to his post, where the others in Class D congratulated hm.

"Awesome work Munfurawa! Let's beat this competition!" Sudo patted Munfurawa, before turning to Yamauchi.

"What the hell man!" Sudo bellowed, upset that Yamauchi had scored 7th place. "You just lost us class points!"

Yamauchi defended himself, "Hey! I didn't want to tarnish the reputation of Munfurawa in front of everyone, so I let him win."

Sudo facepalmed, "You didn't have to come near last then…"

Munfurawa sighed, "I was pitted against mostly slow runners."

"That is true, but you did well against that scumbag Ryūen, so you have some athletic endurance in you!" Sudo exclaimed a bit prideful. However, Munfurawa didn't reply. He didn't mind Sudo acting like this if it meant he didn't get violent.

Munfurawa looked to Ayanokouji who nodded, "First place?" He asked.

Munfurawa nodded, "Most were slow runners, and I just wanted to piss of Ryūen even more"

"Fair enough." Ayanokouji stated.

"You got third?" Munfurawa asked, and Ayanokouji nodded in a mirror-like interaction.

"Yeah, I was going to go for fourth, but then I realized all my runners were slow as well." Ayanokouji mentioned. "Being average in a bunch of slow runners means I would be considered poor."

Munfurawa nodded in acknowledgement, "So once again we had the same mentality…"

"Yeah."

Once the boy's 100m dash was over, the Red Team had gained a slight boost over the White Team.

For now, it seemed that Class B took first, Class D was second, Class C was third, and Class A was last.

"Why is class A last?" Sudo asked, clearly a bit frustrated at their ally team not performing well.

Munfurawa held him back, "This is just one event, we have much more left, let's focus on them."

Sudo nodded after a bit before they began to watch the girls' 100m dash.

The first group seemed to have consisted of Azuma and Sakura. Immediately, Munfurawa took an interest in both. Sudo seemed to have as well.

"You can do it, Sakura!" Sudo exclaimed, clearly giving her the motivation. She did seem very nervous, and blushed when she heard Sudo.

Munfurawa chuckled slightly and did the same for Azuma.

Azuma smiled and gave a thumbs up, before the crack indicated for them to go. Azuma immediately pushed herself off to the front, while Sakura began to run at a moderate pace.

Unfortunately, it seemed that Sakura was in the last place now. On the bright side, Azuma was in first, however even then she had some behind her back.

Eventually, the race for them was over, and Azuma had ended it with a second place, while Sakura had placed sixth.

The two got back, with similar feelings despite the differing results.

"Sorry Sudo, I tried to stay first but…" Azuma apologized.

"It's fine, you're really fast, it's just that endurance needs a bit more work." Sudo mentioned, which surprised Munfurawa at how calm he was.

Sakura wasn't too far behind, as she didn't seem confident to talk.

"Sakura." Sudo started, and Sakura made a noise, clearly nervous for the yelling she perceives she'll get. "Good job." Sudo finished after a bit of time.

"W-What?" Sakura asked, "But I lost some of the points…"

Sudo sighed, "It's alright Sakura, you told me before how you always used to finish last in many activities. You improved right? You beat two people."

Sakura smiled a bit, "You aren't mad?"

Sudo raised an eyebrow, "Why would I be? You did good. At least you didn't disappoint like Yamauchi and Ike…"

Sakura chuckled a bit as she eased up a bit.

The next round had Horikita, and Ibuki.

Munfurawa and Ayanokouji were in the stand, looking over to see Horikita and Ibuki.

It seemed that both Horikita and Ibuki were looking back at Munfurawa, with differing expressions. Horikita looked determined and gave a serious nod to Munfurawa. Ibuki, however seemed much more shocked and less rowdy after seeing Munfurawa.

This confused him as to her sudden behaviour, but that changed quickly when both girls turned to each other.

Not knowing, Munfurawa assumed they were really competitive to win this race.

But what Munfurawa didn't know, was Horikita and Ibuki were also glaring at him for competition. When they both looked back at each other, they both realized the situation they were in.

"I see you have eyes on him, huh." Ibuki started, which got Horikita confused.

"Huh?" She asked.

"Don't huh me, it's clear to me you have feelings for Munfurawa." Ibuki confronted Horikita, looked away.

"Well, you always seem into him, always bugging him, so couldn't I make the same assumption?" Horikita asked.

Ibuki had a small blush on her face, as she remembered the interactions she had with Munfurawa.

"Perhaps, and this race will show you what I am capable of." Ibuki commented to her rival.

"And what is that supposed to mean?" Horikita asked, clearly skeptical and hawkish towards Ibuki.

"It's simple, if you cannot keep up with me, then I'll steal Munfurawa from you." Ibuki taunted.

Horikita's eyes widened somewhat as she suddenly realized what Ibuki was implying. "Very well, don't expect me to hold back on you anymore."

"I wouldn't expect you to hold back, considering the last time you were already compromised." Was all Ibuki said as the two got into position.

It was clear from an outsider's point of view that Ibuki and Horikita were rivals. Ibuki even considered Horikita, her self-declared rival. Munfurawa and Ayanokouji looked on.

"Perhaps this will be good for ice girl." Munfurawa commented.

"And why necessarily? Because she's interacting with others, even if it isn't always positive?" Ayanokouji replied.

Munfurawa nodded his head, "Indeed, Ayanokouji."

Still, it was strange how Munfurawa was pitied against Ryūen, while Horikita was put against Ibuki. It was a strange coincidence.

Eventually, when the sound of a pistol cracked into the hair, the eight girls charged forwards. Already, it seemed that Ibuki was the lead, as Horikita's initial dash seemed to have gone surprisingly sloppy. Perhaps the pressure was getting to her, mad ever so present when they race continued.

Horikita eventually managed to catch up, accelerating and closing the gap. Ibuki had been somewhat shocked to see Horikita keeping up, and she used that to her advantage, taking the lead and passing the tape a mere half second before Ibuki.

Even Ibuki had known she lost when she didn't feel the tape hit her figure. With a sigh, she turned to Horikita, "Good race." Was all she said before she walked off.

Horikita took some time to catch her breathe before she returned to her class, who were congratulating her. Horikita and Ibuki were the ones to take up the most attention within their group, due to the fact that the spotlight was purely on them.

In fact, even some of the upper years were watching the scene unfold, and Munfurawa could have sworn for a bit, he saw Manabu Horikita turn his attention to Horikita and Ibuki's race.

Munfurawa hid his little smile, before he got up.

As Munfurawa began to analyze the points, he saw that while white team had managed to close the gap with the points, the red team were still in the lead. Class D, was still in second, but Class C was catching up. Still, Horikita's performance did raise the morale for most of Class D.

Regarding the other girls, besides a few, most scored around the fifth spot, not contributing much to actually gaining points. However, it was better than being a liability, so they were happy.

Once Munfurawa got up, as the events had a thirty minute break in between, he noticed Kouenji sitting and flipping his hair. In particular, he noticed Sudo making his way down. Munfurawa sighed, as he and Ayanokouji quickly went down to stop any form of escalation.

Thankfully, they were able to make it. However, the interaction had started.

"What's the big deal?" Kouenji asked, clearly confused even with his smile, as if he was irritating Sudo even more.

"The big deal is that fact that you decided to sit this out! Are you disregarding all of our efforts?"
Sudo asked.

"Ahh it's a shame, but I am feeling rather ill right now. My chest has been bothering me, and I came here to spend some nice alone time." Kouenji replied, with such a stubborn tone, which only made Sudo angrier.

"You little…" Sudo mumbled before he let out a fist towards Kouenji who went back to looking at himself in the mirror.

Before Sudo could punch, Munfurawa stepped in, holding Sudo's fist firmly.

"Munfurawa, let me go-" Sudo was about to retaliate considering he was clearly in an episode, but Munfurawa again stepped in.

"Are you really going to waste your energy on someone who didn't even bother attending the class' set up physical trainings, not even once?" Munfurawa asked, and Sudo faltered.

"I don't care, he's just been sitting there, he's disrespecting all of our hardwork." Sudo retorted, putting more effort into moving his fist, which was still being held firmly by Munfurawa.

"Well then go ahead, punch him for all I care. Unless you are ready to suffer the consequences of your actions. I've seen recently how well you were able to keep yourself out of trouble." Munfurawa started, still holding Sudo's fist. "But think about what you are doing, is this a valid reason to throw hands?"

Sudo then got the message, and he stopped his fist from moving. He took a deep breathe.

"You're right." Sudo started, turning to Kouenji, "He's simply not worth getting worked up over."

With that he left. He was still angry, but they had managed to stop him from doing something he would regret. For now, he was busy putting Ike in a headlock, rubbing his hair rather violently.

Despite the cries of Ike, it did seem Sudo had managed to calm himself down.

Munfurawa looked towards Ayanokouji and they agreed to return to the tent, for the next event. Sakura had asked where they had gone, and Sudo sighed.

"I went to confront Kouenji about his absence." Sudo said. "Almost lost my cool, but I recollected myself and just left."

Sakura smiled, "I'm glad you didn't go back to that." She did so nervously which made Sudo relax even further.

Horikita finally approached Ayanokouji and Munfurawa, herself trying her best to not look at Munfurawa.

Munfurawa then turned to Horikita, "That was a close one, huh ice girl?" He asked, clearly taunting, but congratulating her as well."

Horikita nodded, "Indeed, it was close, but I did it."

Munfurawa was tempted to tell ice girl what he saw regarding her older brother, but he decided to hold back for now, as he still needed her to perform without any distractions.

"Yeah, we had to leave to confront matters regarding Kouenji." Ayanokouji briefly explained to Horikita what they were off to, which she nodded.

"That explains why you all disappeared randomly, it's a shame one's potential is wasted on his attitude…" Horikita mumbled. "At least you stopped Sudo from being violent."

Munfurawa nodded before they heard the announcement for the other round.

Horikita sighed, "If I were Kushida, liked by everyone, then perhaps I could have coerced Kouenji into participating."

"I highly doubt that, ice girl. Kouenji's personality clearly indicates he has little care for what others around him think. He even failed to acknowledge Sudo until he was under the fear of being attacked." Munfurawa explained.

It was here did Horikita began to look up, clearly looking for her brother.

Likewise, Munfurawa followed her gaze, and he noticed that the third year boys were running their 100m dash right now. This explained the break the 1st years got, which made sense.

The second years went first, then the first years, and finally the third years.

Regardless, he could see how fast Manabu clearly was. He easily outpaced everyone, and got first place for his team.

"Hmm, he is very fast." Munfurawa commented.

"Exactly, that's what my brother is. Perfect. Perfect at everything he does." Horikita mumbled, and it was here did Munfurawa detect a hint of jealousy coming from the ice girl.

It was a fact that she was living with, and he actually felt bad for her. To be out shadowed by someone. Even though they had the conversation regarding benefitting yourself before others, it was clear to Munfurawa now that Horikita clearly had some problems with her brother.

She wasn't a brocon, she was just trying to find her own footing, being under the shadows and expectations of someone everyone thought was perfect.

"What if I went against him and actually beat him?" Munfurawa asked.

Horikita wanted to laugh but was more shocked, "I don't believe that to happen."

Munfurawa sighed, "It's a what if. I didn't say I could beat him if I tried or wanted to."

Horikita then pointed out, "But you finished first in your race, even against Ryūen."

Munfurawa nodded, knowing that she was watching his race, "Yes, however the racers involved weren't anything noteworthy. Not even Ryūen."

"That It seems." She pointed out, before they heard the announcement for the next activity.

"The next activity will be the hurdle races. In five minutes, the second year boys will start their hurdle race!"

The announcement repeated and many of the second years began to make their way over to the field for the hurdle race. Once again, everyone was made aware of their own groups and the others they would be racing with.

Eventually, Munfurawa could tell his group was a bit more intense. Ayanokouji's was the opposite, this time his was somewhat not as notable.

Munfurawa then turned to Ayanokouji, "Hey, do you think you could get first or second place this time?"

Ayanokouji looked at Munfurawa with his usual expression. However, Munfurawa could tell that he was internally freaking out at least. "And why should I go out in the spotlight, you should know I like to remain average."

Munfurawa nodded, "Yes, I understand. However, I was in the same category as you were regarding the 100m dash, and I got first place."

Ayanokouji sighed getting the message. He wasn't up against a lot of athletic individuals. Thus, Ayanokouji knew he would be seen as suspicious due to the average results. If he got the same results against a bunch of athletic individuals as the bunch of newcomers, then the applaud and skepticism would be different.

Eventually, Ayanokouji sighed, "Very well, I'll get first place…"

"Thank you."

Ayanokouji was with Okitani this time. Munfurawa by contrast was with Yukimura, who was rather average.

"Make sure you guys don't get last or I'll slap you!" Sudo exclaimed, trying to instill fear to make everyone try harder.

Most of the unathletic students began to tremble in fear and at the amount of pressure coming from Sudo.

Munfurawa looked back at the scores for now:

Red Team: 2015 Points

White Team: 1887 Points

"What kind of tyranny is this…"

The start of the first-year boys hurdle race started with Ayanokouji and Okitani.

The race started for the first group, and while it seemed that no particular individual came out, Ayanokouji had managed to come out, especially around the end.

Okitani by the contrast got in the middle.

Ayanokouji got first place, true to his words, while Okitani got fourth. Overall, the class right there gained 23 points. That was quite a strong performance.

"Yo! Ayanokouji! That was nice!" Sudo complimented and praised Ayanokouji who clearly looked uncomfortable.

"Most of the individuals weren't that athletic, so it was easy to get over them." Ayanokouji reasoned, and Sudo sighed.

"That is true, but still, the results is appreciated." Sudo finished before they went to the second group.

Ayanokouji sat down next to Munfurawa, "See, aside from praise from Sudo, you didn't get that much attention."

"I see, it seems my assumptions were wrong for once." Ayanokouji mentioned.

"It wasn't wrong, just the requirements and circumstances make a difference" Munfurawa explained, and Ayanokouji nodded.

"Yeah, it seems. I just had the wrong idea with sticking to my original strategy originally." Ayanokouji mentioned.

They watched as the others began to participate in the hurdle race. What the class worried about was Sotomura.

The boy, had complained of a stomach ache, and was using it as an excuse to get out of the race.

"Come on, Sotomura! Don't be a wimp." Sudo flared up at the display Sotomura was giving.

Munfurawa sighed, "It's fine Sotomura, you don't need to clear all the hurdles. The penalty for disqualifying is worse than finishing last. Just give what you can, alright?"

Sotomura looked down, "Alright, but don't yell at me if I come last…"

"It's fine but focus on what you are capable of." Munfurawa reassured, with Sudo looking at him a bit confused as to why he was being easy on him.

As Sotomura went to his own group, they began to get ready. Overall, he had a nervous expression to him.

"You should've given him some fear to do well." Sudo commented.

"That isn't healthy, it's better to acknowledge how much they can do. Remember not everyone can achieve what you are capable of." Munfurawa pointed out.

"And what about you?" Sudo asked, "Are you capable of achieving what I am capable of?"

Munfurawa didn't answer that question as he began to watch Sotomura. To his credit, he ended up only hitting the last three hurdles down. Even with the reassurance he did try. To make matters better he scored a surprising sixth place. However, it was bumped down to seventh after the penalties for hitting the hurdles were applied.

Eventually, Munfurawa himself got up and this time was met with Shibata and Kanzaki. Both were within this group of individuals.

"Well, this will be an interesting set within a group." Shibata commented. "It is an honour to race against you."

Munfurawa eyed him warily before he begrudgingly replied, "Same goes for you." Shibata seemed to have noticed the unexplained hate Munfurawa was showing to him for some reason.

Kanzaki then asked Munfurawa, "Ichinose says you are relatively fast. I can't wait to see what you truly capability of."

"I saw your second placement in the 100m dash, you seem very capable of committing in a race." Kanzaki mentioned, "Also Ichinose apparently saw your form and the likes."

Munfurawa shrugged, "Adrenaline can do quite the stuff to you." He realized where Ichinose probably got that from.

Shibata looked intrigued at what he was being told, "So are you not trying?"

Munfurawa scowled, "It doesn't matter. You inevitably benefit from this, so I don't think you should complain." His tone towards Shibata once again surprised him. Kanzaki noticed this and got in between them.

"Alright you two, stop it." He bluntly responded, before they stared in their own direction.

To Munfurawa, it made sense that Class B had committed to some reconnaissance. As a result, they probably know of the significant characters they are against.

Munfurawa could assume, that he was within the high mid-tier of their ranking for characters to take seriously.

Eventually, they all got into their placements. Someone from Class A got into their placements, cutting the conversation short. Aside from Shibata, Kanzaki, and Munfurawa himself, there wasn't anyone else significant to worry about.

This meant, that Class B and D were looking intently at this group. It was clear they were expecting quite the amount from this.

Munfurawa knew all he could do was interfere somewhat.

The start of their race began with the three already taking the lead. Munfurawa, Shibata and Kanzaki were neck and neck with each other, as they crossed the halfway mark on hurdle 5. Shibata had managed to get the lead.

The three finished neck and neck towards each other, and it was unknown who actually finished first.

The class of B and D held their breaths as it was eventually revealed that Shibata had finished first. Munfurawa by contrast finished third, compared to Shibata and Kanzaki.

However, Kanzaki had accidentally touched one of the hurdles with his foot, making him fall to third place.

As a result, Shibata had finished first, Munfurawa second, and Kanzaki was third. The other, Yukimura finished sixth, which he was upset about.

Still, for someone who had a terrible physical ability has he did previously, it was impressive, and Munfurawa gave him a good job.

"That was intense…" Shibata commented, as we wiped a sweat off of his face. Kanzaki nodded, taking a deep breathe.

It was strange to them how Munfurawa's breathing was noticeably calmer compared to the others.

"I wasn't even sure who won… Heck I didn't even know I actually hit a hurdle…" Kanzaki mentioned, clearly a bit upset about that result. Still he was fair and enjoyed the experience.

"Overall, that was intense!" Shibata exclaimed, clearly having enjoyed the race in general. "We should do more races together like this…"

Kanzaki nodded, "I am definitely down for that…"

Munfurawa merely sighed before he left for his own class.

"Damn! You almost beat that Class B punk!" Sudo exclaimed, clearly full of praise as Munfurawa silently went back to the tents. "You are a very fast runner!"

Munfurawa shrugged, "I was just feeling excited and fired up. Having someone like Shibata made me want to try as hard as I could." Obviously, there were other outlying reasons.

Munfurawa sat down. Both Ayanokouji and Munfurawa had done well in the rounds they were in so far.

Unfortunately, it seems that everyone else in Class D did not perform to the level as they were hoping. Specifically, the second and third years of the team did not perform as well as the first years.

Horikita ended up scoring third in the hurdle, with her racing against Yajima and Kinoshita. Both of whom were experienced due to them being in the track and field club.

Still. The fact that Horikita was put against Ibuki in the 100m dash, and the track and field members from Class C, it was a coincidence.

As for Munfurawa, he had to face Ryūen himself. This was indeed strange. It seems that Munfurawa had quite the investigation to perform. Overall, it seemed that Ryūen had found out which contestants were in which.

Within the time they had their break, Munfurawa had approached Ayanokouji.

"Ayanokouji." Munfurawa started, "Do you find anything strange going on, with Class C?"

Ayanokouji nodded, "I assume you have caught onto it, but the coincidence of Class C and Class D's students within the same events?"

"Yes." Munfurawa confirmed, "Don't you find it suspicious that those classmates were put up against Horikita?"

"Indeed, there's only one logical explanation I can think of." Ayanokouji pondered. "Either Ryūen had a copy of who went with what, or there's a traitor within our class."

Munfurawa sighed, which Ayanokouji caught on, "Do you have any information about that?" Ayanokouji asked, after realizing Munfurawa had that reaction.

Munfurawa looked on, "I may have found something of interest…"

"And you chose to keep it secret?" Ayanokouji asked.

"Not necessarily, but rather I didn't think too much about it. Besides, I had not time to think about it." Munfurawa explained.

"Very well, what is the evidence." Ayanokouji started.

"Well, I found Kushida staring over the contestant placements for our class. There is a possibility that she had given it to Ryūen." Munfurawa hypothesized. "I even managed to get a photo of her, and she said she did this, so that she could expel Horikita."

Ayanokouji let this sink in, as he began to think.

Eventually he got up, "Very well, let's decided what to do, but for now, we should get back to our next event."

Munfurawa nodded, "Indeed, we should."

It was unfortunate that the second and third years, besides a few couple had performed rather poorly, however the Red Team were still in the lead, albeit with a closer margin of space from one team to another.

As a result, Munfurawa and Ayanokouji looked on, as they began to hear about the next activity. It seems that the other event was capture the flag, as Sudo was excited to point out. It seems that this was a specifically boys sport, every class had a specific role.

Right now, Class B was led by Kanzaki and Shibata, and Class C was led by Ryūen of course. Within Class C, Munfurawa could easily tell they were in for some form of trouble, considering the three from that brawl with Sudo were involved.

Another particular figure Munfurawa knew was Albert Yamada. He had seen him in his zodiac exam group. He was incredibly fit for this, and Munfurawa knew they would need quite the strategy just to get past Yamada.

"For this, Class D will go on the offense, Class A will defend." Sudo called. "We'll flip the roles next round?"

Katsuragi then came on, "So you want to put roles based on the class?"

"Yes, that way it is easier for communicating and coordination." Ayanokouji stepped in. Katsuragi then nodded, understanding the plan.

It seemed that for this round, it was best out of three. For the first round, Class C and D would attack, while Class A and B would defend.

This was such a weird phenomenon, but they digressed. In general, it was forbidden for the attacking team to encounter the other side's attack team. In general, the offense needed to focus on capturing the flag, while the defenders were to focus on protecting the flag.

Immediately when the sound cracked, Sudo charged forward. It was clear that he was purposing himself to make a way for the others.

Eventually, up to four and five students grabbed hold of Sudo, which managed to subdue him. Munfurawa took the opportunity to push past, while Ike and Yamauchi began to run around erratically, almost like they didn't know what they were doing.

"I made a way for you scoundrels! Help me and make use of it!" Sudo screamed towards his class, before more began to make their way.

Munfurawa felt someone pull his shoulder, which he quickly subdued with a quick force of his free arm, stretching out his hand. This gave way for Ayanokouji to scrape the flag. He managed to duck into the crowd.

"What the heck? One of them is going through! One of them from Class B called out for attention. Munfurawa took the opportunity to get extra aggressive. Pushing through and twirling, he managed to make his way towards the pole.

"Come on! Let's go! I got it!" Sudo bellowed as he latched onto the pole additionally. As the flag began to tilt in their direction, a loud whistle was heard, which signaled the round to a halt.

Everyone within Class D was confused at what happened. In the end, it was revealed the white team got the first point, as Class C had managed to bring down the flag of the other side.

Sudo sighed in frustrating, "Come on you all! We are supposed to work together! Only Ayanokouji and Munfurawa were the only ones who really helped!"

It was apparent that even if Class D had the strategy, they had to be careful since Class B had an overall strength compared to Class D. Overall, with Class C going into the offense this time, they didn't know how they could perform.

Still, despite the frustration from Sudo, he was still rather confident about what he could do. "Alright everyone! We need to put up a solid front against Class C!"

Sudo then got up, as Class D began to form their position to defend the flag.

"Alright, what's the form?" Hirata asked Sudo, who was still somewhat unsure.

Munfurawa sighed, "It seems that we can place the strongest near the flag. We can put the weaker ones in the middle, with the average and above average in the outer line."

"Wouldn't that give us a vulnerable middle ground, making our defense seem hollow?" Sudo asked.

Ayanokouji decided to but, in this time, "Actually, the middle will work well, considering the lack of space the others can maneuver. Therefore this position and form is actually fine."

Sudo sighed, "Well that sounds understandable, very well, as long as everyone does their part, then I am fine with this!"

With that, everyone got into their positions. Munfurawa, Ayanokouji, Hirata, and Sudo were all closest towards the flag, clearly with the intent on making sure it doesn't fall over. They were deemed the strongest within the class, and thus could hold back.

Another contender was Wataru Ijuin, a large man who excelled in physical strength. While his endurance skills were poor, barely better than the worst in the class, his overall muscle strength was above average. He also had a rather large and stocky frame that could help with this occasion. Still, he was put on the front as a strongman wall.

Going against Class C, Munfurawa had quiet the skepticism.

"Munfurawa, are you feeling something coming?" Ayanokouji asked, "Like a storm?"

Munfurawa nodded, "Yes I do, it seems the uncertainty Class C always has is what is bringing out our threat perceptions."

"Indeed, we will just need to remain cautious and aware of their plans." Ayanokouji mentioned.

Munfurawa looked on, as Sudo was clearly focusing on winning this.

Who could blame him? He had the weight of pulling everyone up. He was the strongest in the eyes of many in the class, and thus had to pull not only his own weight, but the additional weight that the othes' lacked. It was stressful, and Sudo seemed fulfilling in this role.

Upon the sound of the gun firing, Class C bolted towards the defenders of the flag, which was Class D. already, from what was being shown, the scenery looked dire. Class C's dash was much more aggressive and violent compared to Class D.

They were going recklessly, without strategy. Just attempting to use their blunt strength to overpower Class D, not just through pushing, but through other, more violent means.

Ryūen was laughing from the rear of his group. He almost looked like a general, ordering his troops to ascend into no man's land, with the intent of taking the other's side. In this case, they were on the defending, doing their best to remain on the status quo.

In this case, most of Class C began to viciously dash forward. The sheer aggression could shadow the strength, as they began to strike the defenders of the flag.

Almost immediately, the sounds of grunting and yelps were heard. Both Munfurawa and Ayanokouji looked up, and could easily see what was happening.

Class C was openly beating up Class D students. One elbowed another, while the other struck their legs, attempting to snap their knees, while some began to throw literal punches. Most within the outer defences were able to hold them for a bit, but once the defense seemed to have faltered, those from the middle layer, began to push forward to assist.

Even if they couldn't do much in this case, as they are the weakest within the class, the move was smart.

Acting as reinforcements would do wonders to stall for time, with the hope that Class A would capture the other side's flag before they could breach through.

However, the fact that Class C were brazenly using foul tactics, and wanting to inflict pain, this could be a major problem. Especially since if one's body is to receive pain with enough time, it might hinder the other events.

Munfurawa silently cursed seeing Ryūen smile. It was clear, that was his strategy. Even if he loses this game, if they managed to inflict damage to Class D, then their performance may fall due to potential injury.

"Sudo, we have to help now." Munfurawa started, and almost too fast did a couple of students from Class C breach the lines of fire.

Sudo immediately met with the individual, holding him tight, before another came from behind and struck him on the side.

Sudo let out a cry of pain as the punch surprised him, before the student kicked him right in the spine. Sudo collapsed from the pain, but even on the ground, they continued to assault Sudo.

Munfurawa knew he had to act now. "Ayanokouji, cover for me."

Ayanokouji looked on, clearly getting the message and knowing what was going on, "Understood." Was all he said.

Munfurawa then ran towards the two and landed a punch right in the center of someone's back neck, which made them collapse in pain, before he grabbed the other, pushing his hands deep into one's arm, which was a pressure point, making the student collapse as well.

Munfurawa took the time to quickly help Sudo up.

"Ugh… I'm going to kill them… Thanks Munfurawa." Sudo mumbled before he sincerely thanked Munfurawa. It seemed that he wasn't in too much pain, but that kick to the spine wasn't a joke.

"Are you going to be okay?" Munfurawa asked.

"I think so, we'll see with time." Sudo said before he went back with Hirata and Ayanokouji to defend.

Munfurawa looked to Ayanokouji, "Ayanokouki, let's go!" Munfurawa called out, and the emotionless boy nodded. Once again, they didn't have to explain to each other the problem. Instead, they would act differently.

Munfurawa and Ayanokouji had stepped forward slightly, with Hirata and a now recovering Sudo staying near the flag.

Immediately, Munfurawa could see Albert Yamada making his way towards the flag. He had injured probably a couple of the students in Class D. With all the commotion going on, it was hard to focus on one individual, and Munfurawa took full advantage of that.

He also knew that Yamada was impervious to usual physical damage based on the sheer muscle he had. Therefore he needed to strike pressure points, like the ones on the neck, chest, shoulder, and arms.

Jumping from his position, he positioned his body to catch Yamada off guard with an elbow to his solar plexus. Not done yet, he twisted his body and snapped his leg hard to kick Yamada in the abdomen, hoping the velocity from the short distance he could use for his legs wouldn't make it a hindrance. Thankfully, it didn't and it struck Yamada in his abdomen.

Yamada was still standing but was now gasping for air. I looked at him, with a bit of a guilty expression, indicating this was just to win, and that there was nothing against him.

Before he could recover his breathing, Munfurawa grabbed his arm and jabbed his arm into his pressure point, which made him fall from the pain.

Yamada was now on his knee from the pain and air he was trying to gather.

Munfurawa then turned to see Ayanokouji had taken care of Kaneda by punching him in the side of the neck, as Kaneda was busy striking Ijuin down. Even though the man was bulky, he couldn't defend himself when he was vulnerable.

As for Munfurawa, he saw Yukimura on the ground, with Komiya over him, clearly pinning him down, potentially hurt him.

Munfurawa looked on, a simple axe kick that struck the pressure point of his shoulder made Kaneda fall down, as his body stiffened, and fell to the ground.

Ayanokouji himself had taken care of Kondo by pushing him down and stomping on him.

The last was Ishizaki, and he merely whimpered out realizing his class was slowly failing. Eventually, Munfurawa and Ayanokouji went back to defend, as most of Class C continued their assault, albeit weaker due to the stamina they had used.

Eventually, the horn blew, and Class A had managed to take the flag of the other side.

"We won…" Sudo panted, clearly shocked by what happened.

Munfurawa could see the shocked look Ryūen was giving him, as his plan had, for the most part, failed.

He then looked to the rest of his team. For the most part, they seemed fine, albeit with a bit of injuries. The injuries Ayanokouji and Munfurawa had given to Class C were in a much worse state. But Sudo was the worst, as his back from getting stomped was still hurting.

"Sudo, maybe you go and get some muscle relief treatment." Munfurawa pointed out.

Sudo clearly wasn't going to, "But this is the tiebreaker! I can go for one more round, Munfurawa."

"Can you? Perhaps, but this will only make it worse. You'll injure it to the point you can't participate."

Sudo looked on a bit hesitant, "Fine, I'll stay behind on this round, and then I'll go to the infirmary…"

Munfurawa sighed, "Alright…" It was a decent and fair compromise to be fair.

Even if Sudo was in this last round, he wouldn't perform much, and avoid most of the contact with others.

Munfurawa made it over, and with Ayanokouji began to converse.

"That was brutal…" Munfurawa started, and Ayanokouji nodded in agreement.

"To think Class C would do such a thing, it is something they would do, however."

"Sudo will be taking a lesser role this round, so the two of us will have to carry on…" Munfurawa mentioned. Hirata had come behind and nodded, and Ayanokouji sighed, but agreed.

"With Sudo remaining behind, I'll be counting on you and Ayanokouji to play the role." Hirata stated towards the two.

Munfurawa and Ayanokouji looked at each other, realizing where both of their minds were.

Munfurawa nodded, "Yes, we will."

A.N / Not much to say here for chapter 17. Despite how grand the sport's festival is, I have very few stuff to say now. If there is anything I'll say it next chapter. For now, see you for the next part of the sport's festival!