Night Flower

Written: 7/18/2022

So, as we continue on with the sport's festival, we will be hitting a point where we may delve off from the light novel. After all this is one of those stories where an OC finds themselves into the COTE world and light novel. The concept isn't anything new, but what always make them unique is the different interactions one can take with their OC.

You may either make them closely associated with Ayanokouji, from another anime universe, or even their own persona of themselves. Munfurawa is the first. He's meant to be his own unique individual, with faults and prospects that make him human. His own morals and beliefs are different and thus he stands out.

Once again, as for events and the possibility of a delve off, the most may probably be character interactions, like Sudo and Sakura. With that being said, I always felt that Sudo has an unhealthy obsession for Horikita. Not romantic feelings, just obsession, which can be worrisome. Still, his character developing is phenomenal in my opinion.

Chapter 20: Sports Festival – Emotions

"Either focus on what's tearing you apart of what's holding you together." - Anonymous

Third Person POV

Munfurawa was thankful that his left hand had stopped aching once he applied the muscle spray. He was worried Ishizaki had aggravated his already injured hand. While he did, it wasn't to the extent that it wouldn't recover by the time the nest event would occur.

Making his way back to his tent to see how Ayanokouji and Horikita were doing. He had told them to make sure Horikita was resting during the time.

It seemed that they were indeed doing so. As when he entered he saw Ayanokouji staring out with Horikita resting.

"Hey," Munfurawa started, greeting Ayanokouji.

"She's sleeping for now." Ayanokouji mentioned, motioning to Horikita.

"I see." Munfurawa replied.

"So what we're you checking out?" Ayanokouji asked.

"It's simple, I took the time to check on the other side." Munfurawa answered. "Wanted to make sure no side was hurt."

Ayanokouji raised an eyebrow, "So are you saying…" It seems he was getting the idea.

"Yes, Kinoshita's injury was staged. I checked on the other camp to find Ryūen looking over a healthy and uninjured Kinoshita."

Ayanokouji sighed, "This clearly is another attempt by Ryūen to cause some drama among us." (Shut up with the joke don't say it)

Munfurawa sighed, "Indeed, as for what we do, I am not sure."

"So, you confronted Ryūen?" Ayanokouji asked.

"Yeah, he does seem intent on keeping up this strategy."

Ayanokouji sighed looking up, "Well it's a shame that after the boys cavalry fight we will have the three-legged race."

"Oh shoot…" Munfurawa mumbled, "I forgot about that."

"We'll it seems that Sudo and Hirata have been excited to participate in it."

Munfurawa chuckled, "I don't understand why one would be excited to participate in an event with Ryūen in it."

Ayanokouji nodded, "You make a fair point. We should prepare for any possible strategy Class C may build."

Munfurawa looked on to the other years performing their own tactics and strategies. They had just over an hour at the moment.

"I'll let you discuss that with Hirata and Sudo. I'll look over ice girl."

Ayanokouji looked at Munfurawa with a bit of confusion, as to why he wanted to suddenly be alone with Horikita. However, considering he had went to confront Ryūen regarding the event, and had discovered some hidden information, he probably has was stressed.

Ayanokouji nodded after a bit, "Go ahead, just make sure she doesn't cause a ruckus."

"That's a statement unlike you, Ayanokouji." Munfurawa stated.

Ayanokouji stopped just before he left, as if he was pondering before he finally left, leaving Munfurawa and Horikita alone in the room where she was resting.

Munfurawa looked at Horikita's resting figure with a bit of thoughts in his mind. He took in her long hair, her thighs and overall body figure as she was resting. She was athletic and slim, as if she excelled in sports such as swimming or some form of martial arts.

Munfurawa looked on to her leg, the bruise from her leg scraping the cobblestone. There was no doubt that even if muscle reliever spray was put all over to make it hurt less, or less sore, Munfurawa could tell it needed a bit of cleaning.

Quickly getting some moist cream and some bandages, he began to gently wrap it to cover her bruise. She did move a bit in her sleep upon the contact, but she quickly relaxed after the initial shock.

He gently patted the wrapping he had placed over her bruise. He put it to the point where it would least interfere in other events Horikita may find herself involved in. In general, Munfurawa had decided to stay with Horikita for a bit. Even if they had their fair share of interactions, it was the quietness the two could fall in that made Munfurawa feel a bit light.

He gently put a hand to her forehead to check for any fever. She thankfully didn't have any before he checked any exposed surface that had any signs of injury. He did notice that her side was bruised a bit.

Sighing he assumed it was when Kinoshita bumped into her. She must've hit her elbow into Horikita's rib cage.

"That's going to hurt…" Munfurawa mumbled before he looked over her side. There was evidence of a bit of aggravation. It was slightly red and her muscle around there might have been injuries.

A bit of rest and with the spray will make it feel better sooner. He didn't know if her rib cage was hit or not truly. For now he did what he could which were simpler injuries. For now, he gently rubbed Horikita head as he began to also ponder about what Ryūen might be planning.

There was no doubt in Munfurawa's mind that Ayanokouji himself was deeply suspicious of the circumstances that were going on now. It made sense, and thus Munfurawa decided to let them take care of the next couple of events for now.

He needed a break, and after being in the spotlight for a bit, now found himself wanting to go back to a simpler life.

He took a sigh, before he felt a small noise come from the bed.

He looked down and saw Horikita awake, trying to pretend she was asleep.

"You're awake ice girl." Munfurawa started.

Horikita sighed, knowing she was caught, "H-hello Munfurawa-kun."

"How is your leg?" He asked immediately.

"It's better, a bit sore but not hurting." She answered before looking down, not realizing the bandage.

"Who touched me…" Horikita asked.

Munfurawa raised his hand, "I did, it was bruising so I put some wrappings over to let it heal."

Horikita immediately fell back feeling calmer at that, "O-Oh, I see…" She mumbled as she closed her eyes. It was clear to Munfurawa that she was still awake, but just resting herself.

"What is the deal with you and Ryūen?" Horikita then asked. Munfuraw sighed, knowing exactly the implications.

"So, you were awake when Ayanokouji and I were talking." Munfurawa concluded.

"Why does that matter?" Horikita asked.

"It's very clear. Eavesdropping isn't a nice thing to do, especially when the two of us brought you here." Munfurawa stated.

"And whose idea was that to bring me here? I said I was fine. I did not need your help." Horikita emphasized, with an unusual tone that made Munfurawa feel like she was being hostile to him.

"Are you sure about that? Your leg was bruised, and so was your side." Munfurawa stated.

Horikita's eyes widened when she realized he had found that other injury.

"H-How did you find that one?" Horikita asked, "Were you peaking at more than my legs and thighs?"

Munfurawa sighed, "It's obvious how you were pulling yourself. Additionally, from my angle it seemed Kinoshita had elbowed you in the side to hit your ribcage. I looked and confirmed my suspicions."

"So that gave you the right to look underneath my shirt?" Horikita asked suspiciously, and Munfurawa looked on, seeing her challenge him.

"Did I every imply I looked at your body underneath your shirt? I could see the bruise from how you walked!" Munfurawa exclaimed, it was clear to him that she was thinking too far. "I did this to help you."

"And why should I trust that you helped me?!" Horikita mumbled.

It was then did Munfurawa realize. If she was awake when she heard Ayanokouji and him discussing about Ryūen, then she was also awake when he began wrapping her leg and side.

"So, that's what you think, huh?" Munfurawa asked. "You think I used this opportunity to violate your privacy and space."

Horikita looked on, sensing the sudden change in Munfurawa's tone towards her.

"So that's what you think of me huh? Even after all the other times I helped you." Munfurawa continued, "And here I thought you were actually genuine with yourself, even if you were a bit cold huh…"

Horikita seemed to have regretted a bit of what she said, but she couldn't put away the fact that he had done what he did. "Well, you shouldn't have looked over my body."

Munfurawa sighed, "I didn't have any malicious intentions! I told you, I just wrapped your wounds! In fact, would you have rather me or a stranger like Ryūen to do this?"

Horikita remained silent. Munfurawa got up from frustration.

"I see, if that's what it takes, then I'll leave. Goodbye, Horikita, hope you can take care of yourself." Munfurawa stated before he walked out of the room, leaving Horikita alone.

She had wanted to mumble or yell out a wait, but she remained frozen, in her own thoughts. She didn't even mind what he did. Rather, of the other actions he was doing. He knew of the fight he had during capture the flag, and she condoned it. She hadn't even gotten the chance to confront him about that.

Now, she had ruined any further chance of communicating with him due to this misunderstanding. What's worse, was that he had gone back to calling her Horikita, rather than the nickname she got used to.

"I messed up, huh…" Horikita could mumble, with only herself to blame.

It seemed to her that the cavalry fight was occuring. Once again, this was split into genders, with the boys attending first once again

Horikita sighed, as she had around half an hour to rest. Even though she wanted to confront Munfurawa, she knew it wouldn't be ideal now.

Right now, Munfurawa probably wanted some time away from her. She would have to wait after the relay race perhaps. For now, she decided, reluctantly, to close her eyes a bit.

Munfurawa by contrast had gone out. He was a bit upset about it, but he digressed. He couldn't change what Horikita thought. If this was enough for him to lose his precious tool, then so be it. They're were always more exciting tools to try after all.

Eventually, they all decided to go to the field, to perform the event. There wasn't much Munfurawa could do for Horikita. All he would do at this point, is leave her alone, and wait for her to run to him when she got herself into major trouble. It may be brutal, but with the circumstances of Ryūen targeting the significant figures within Class D, Horikita was no doubt at risk.

Plus, when Ryūen had openly admitted to wanting to use Horikita to get on Munfurawa's nerves. Perhaps staying away from her would do some good.

The boy's cavalry fight would occur within five minutes, and Munfurawa met up with Ayanokouji, Sudo, and Hirata.

Most of the other boys were nearby, such as Ike, Ijuin, and Miyake.

"So, what's the plan?" Munfurawa asked.

Ayanokouji looked on and answered for Munfurawa, "The four of us will perform the strongest horse of the class, with Hirata as the jockey. The jockey would be best suited for a slime athletic build, which Hirata fits such qualities. Sudo will hold the jockey, while Munfurawa and I will hold the flanks."

Munfurawa nodded, "Smart idea, alright that is fine. What about the others?"

Ayanokouji answered once again, "Sudo and Hirata had solved that. This was an idea we all came up with. I just agreed."

Munfurawa sighed, "You really need to make connections, who knows when it'll bite you in the ass."

Ayanokouji rolled his eyes, surprisingly, "Shut up."

Munfurawa chuckled at the response, which showcased he was getting into a new zone with Ayanokouji.

"Hey Sudo." Munfurawa called out.

"Yes?" He asked, clearly fired up about the event.

"Be careful for Ryūen, alright?"

Sudo chuckled, "With this strategy, we won't have to!" He boasted, clearly confident in his abilities.

This only made Munfurawa more nervous, as if this failed, the repercussions could be significant.

"It is clear that our class is developing a dispute with Class C, and Ryūen. We should note for anything they may do." Munfurawa pondered.

"I agree." Ayanokouji nodded, "Perceive their strategies and then counter accordingly. The last thing we want is a total wipeout and assault."

Eventually, the whistle blowed, and the cavalry fight began. Stealing the headbands from opposing teams carries 50 points, while the jockey carries 100. All in all, this game had quite the stakes, with the teams neck and neck to the point they may actually overlap one another.

Sudo had immediately rushed to the battlefield. It seemed that Class D wanted to play aggressive and go on the offense. It made sense to capture headbands while they were unprepared. However, Munfurawa kept his eyes out for Ryūen, and whatever devious plan he had going on.

It did seem to be working a bit, as Sudo had caught at least three horsemen offguard. Even though he only managed to pull one headband off, it was something, and Munfurawa gave the guy credit.

Eventually, it seemed that the horsemen was stalling, for once the group realized, they became surrounded by two horsemen from Class C. To further exacerbate the problem, the other horsemen had gripped Sudo's arm, and was trying to pin the jockey down.

"We need help!" Sudo called out.

Thankfully, a Class D horsemen with Yamauchi, Ike, Miyamoto and Sotomura had approached, taking some of Class C's resources out of the main show.

Sudo had moved the horse away from the group, but Ryūen was still on their case. It seemed that Ryūen was smirking as he then began to charge recklessly towards Sudo and Hirata. Munfurawa took the time, to put himself in the way of Ryūen.

"I know it's me you want, Ryūen, let's go." Munfurawa called out, as he put out both his hands to block Ryūen's advances. It did seem to work, however Munfurawa's left hand was getting aggravated bit by bit. He decided to hold it back for now, as he couldn't appear weak in front of Ryūen. He would definitely aggress on Munfurawa if he found out.

With a mightly push, he pushed Ryūen and his horsemen some distance away.

"Now Hirata!" Sudo exclaimed. Said boy nodded as they took the offense towards Ryūen's horsemen, pushing their way through the flanks, overpowering them before they approached Ryūen and his headband.

Hirata had managed to grab Ryūen's headband, and all he needed to do, was get it off his head.

However, that's where the problem became apparent: the headband, no matter how much Hirata pulled, wouldn't come off.

Sudo seemed to have realized what was taking so long, considering the other horsemen from Class C were approaching them, with the Class D horsemen doing their best to stall their charge.

"What is going on, Hirata, get it off of him!" Sudo bellowed.

"I'm trying! It's not coming off!" Hirata complained.

Sudo groaned before he managed to hold onto Ryūen and his horsemen, before he began to grip the headband.

Unfortunately, he was getting the same results. "What the hell! What did you do?!" Sudo asked a chuckling Ryūen who just smirked, before he kicked Sudo right in the stomach, making us tumble.

That wasn't it, as Munfurawa had landed on the ground, with Hirata on top of him. He had managed to keep him up with his sole left hand, but it was hurting by now. He was clearly clenching to hold the full weight of Hirata up.

"Go! One more push!" Munfurawa called, and Sudo, who recovered from the blow, angrily gripped Ishizaki, the flank, while Hirata grabbed onto Ryūen's headband one more time. Sudo too was grabbing it, but to no avail.

The overall performance was impressive, as the total impact had managed to stop Ryūen's horsemen altogether. Even Ayanokouji was holding onto them, pinning them into their place.

"What the hell did you do Ryūen?!" Sudo asked, as he continued to struggle to get the headband off of him.

As for Munfurawa, he let a small drop of gel hit his face. There was no doubt that it was Hirata. The only person he knew who wore gel, was Ryūen. Considering he tried to get him and the other's to trip with his gel, it made sense.

Suddenly, Munfurawa grumbled, more from the pain of holding Hirata on his left hand, and Ishizaki with his right hand. Overall, he was contributing to both pinning Ryūen's horsemen, and in getting Hirata to get the headband off of Ryūen.

However, now Munfurawa knew better.

"You asshole, you're wearing gel!" Munfurawa called out, which caught Ryūen off guard.

"Kukuku, indeed you're right. I do need my hair to remain still for the event after all…" Ryūen chuckled, which caught Sudo and Hirata by surprised.

"Why you, you stuck the headband to your head!" Sudo bellowed, clearly mad. But Ryūen used that to his advantage, and kicked Sudo off of his once again, while Kondo grabbed Hirata's hair, to get the headband off of him.

The jockey and his horsemen all fell to the ground, Munfurawa clutching his left hand in pain, while Hirata's headband fell to the ground, which Ishizaki picked up by kicking it in the air.

Ryūen had caught the headband of Class D's jockey, while they had brought them down simultaneously.

With that, the match had ended, with Class D taking a brutal loss. Class A hadn't done better neither, with Class B and some of C bombarding them.

Overall, the white team had soundlessly defeated the Red Team.

Sudo himself felt some pain from being kicked twice, while Munfurawa was clutching his left hand, which was definitely in a worse position than before.

After all, he had already injured it when Ryūen had clutched it in an attempt to pull him down with him in the obstacle race, and again when Ishizaki had tried to fight him back in the room. Now, he had to use that hand to hold onto Hirata's full weight, and it was enough for his hand. He wouldn't be able to use it for quite some time.

Munfurawa got up, walking back to the camp, somewhat bummed out, more so due to the condition of his hand. He ignored the angered tone Sudo had, while Katsuragi and Hirata sighed, accepting the results, even if the tactics Ryūen had used was unfair.

"I clearly had a grip on his headband! It should've gone off!" Sudo exclaimed, clearly angry, before he stormed off somewhere.

Hirata sighed, clearly upset about what happened, before he realized, "Hey where did Munfurawa go?"

Ayanokouji looked around, somewhat surprised the boy in question had managed to sneak away so suddenly. Was he going to confront Ryūen again?

Ayanokouji sighed, before he turned to see Horikita running out frantically.

"I overslept! I need to go, to the cavalry fight for girls…" Horikita burst out and immediately Ayanokouji could tell something was up with her.

Not only was she injured slightly, with the wrapping on her leg still there, but her franticness definitely came from something else. She was looking around frantically, and Ayanokouji could tell it was for Munfurawa.

"I don't know where Munfurawa went, but it does seem that the girl's cavalry will begin soon." Ayanokouji mentioned, looking at Horikita's blushing face.

"O-Oh, I see. How did you all do?" She asked.

"We lost. Ryūen had soaked his hair with gel to prevent us from grabbing his headband. By contrast, he managed to get ours." Ayanokouji informed Horikita who sighed.

"That bastard… is that why Sudo and Munfurawa-kun are both missing?" She asked.

"Possibly, however, it does seem that Munfurawa had injured his left hand and wrist." Ayanokouji mentioned.

Horikita's eyes widened slightly at this, "How… Who did that?"

"I don't know the complete details, but he was using that hand to propel Hirata up in an attempt to grab the headband from Ryūen." Ayanokouji mentioned.

Horikita was in thought, "He just lifted Hirata with one hand… What strength does he truly have?"

"But how does one have such a strength to lift a full person up…" Horikita mumbled.

Ayanokouji looked on, knowing Munfurawa would probably have some explaining if Horikita brought it up.

As for Munfurawa, he was on the way to get some medication, wrappings, and spray to help his aching hand. It really had been suffering quite a bit, with the pain becoming more pronounced after he had held Hirata up.

He was obviously pissed, but knew that whatever action he could retaliate could be used against him. He was at least lucky to dispel the drama for Horikita and Kinoshita, however for now, Horikita would have to solve her own issues herself.

After that display, he was no longer taking a role in the team. He had unexpectedly pushed to assist, when it was Sudo, Horikita and Hirata collectively leading the group.

For now, the girls would have their go regarding the cavalry fight. Unfortunately for Class D, Class C began to purely focus their attention on the lead jockey, which was Horikita.

Ibuki was the one to lead her Class into the fray, specifically targeting Horikita. Class A was left spotless whilst Class C put all of their resources into targeting Horikita.

"They seem to be specifically targeting Horikita." Munfurawa commented to no one in particular, but due to him being around the area with the others, Sudo and Ayanokouji heard and responded.

Ayanokouji with a mere nod, as if he was observing and analyzing the situation like Munfurawa. Sudo,by contrast, was clenching his teeth. There was no doubt in Munfurawa's mind that Sudo was not going to take another loss by Ryūen easily.

It seemed that Karuizawa. Who was leading a horsemen, attempted to support Horikita. After all, it seemed that Class A was being too careful in charging or attacking, as they probably had a underlying reason as to why they weren't intervening.

For now, Horikita was in a bad state, with Karuizawa attempting to help. However, she just collided with Ichinose's horsemen. Still, it was a standstill or stalemate, as Karuizawa's counterattack was well placed and strong. Unfortunately, she seemed to have been stopped in her place.

She was performing and trying to get her way towards Horikita.

"Class A! Come on!" They heard one of the girls yell from the fray. Ibuki had smirked once they realized they wouldn't get the assistance from the other class, before she kicked Horikita in the stomach, causing her to fall off her horse, and be crushed by the subsequent attacks, causing her headband to fall and be snatched by Class C.

Despite her efforts to get up and avoid the attacks, she was in such a precarious and compromising situation that no one could have gotten out of without some form of sacrifice. It seemed that Horikita in particular took quite the fall, as some of her fellow horsemen who fell with her landed on her knees.

Munfurawa noticed the pained expression Horikita gave off when she fell, and eventually she gave up and lied down waiting for the round to be over.

While Class D had given it their all, Class A's lack of intervention had allowed Class C to target Horikita. Now, she was injured from the altercation, and would probably be unable to attend the relay.

As for Class A, they were then overwhelmed by Class B and C, with the remaining remnants of Class D faltering once Horikita fell.

That seemed to have been the last straw for Sudo, who just huffed and walked off. Munfurawa knew that this would be bad, considering his temper may cause some problems.

After all, being kicked down by Class C in capture the flag, the rope release in tug of war, and how they treated Class D in the cavalry fight, it was a violation of the code of conduct, but the lack of evidence meant they were getting away with it.

While the strategy of targeting a specific horseman is not a violation, the way they executed it was, especially with the injury Horikita had sustained, now.

Even Hirata was somewhat upset with the circumstances. They had lost both cavalry races, due to Class C's foul plays. Sudo would be a walking machine of violence after then.

Munfurawa sighed, noticing that Karuizawa had approached Ayanokouji, upset with her performance. This intrigued Munfurawa as to the sudden interaction.

"Sorry I couldn't do more." Karuizawa commented, clearly looking down

"It's alright, you had the most stellar performance within our class." Ayanokouji responded, trying to cheer her up.

"But still, it was my weakness that prevented me from helping her." Karuizawa explained, trying to pin the blame on herself, for some odd reason.

Ayanokouji seemed to have also been confused by her statement, "Why are you blaming yourself? Horikita was targeted by Ryūen."

At that Karuizawa looked up, "Targeted? You mean to tell me that was Ryūen's plan all along?"

Ayanokouji nodded, "It's not just being targeted in the cavalry fight, but the whole sport's festival. Every wonder why Horikita kept getting all the athletic students from Class C?"

Karuizawa pondered, before she sighed, "Now that you mention it, yeah…"

"Indeed, Ryūen must be ordering his class to prioritize attacking Horikita, and Munfurawa as well." Ayanokouji explained.

"But how would he know which sets Horikita and Munfurawa are in, unless…" Karuizawa put the pieces together, "He knows our participation settings?"

Ayanokouji nodded, "Not a lot of people in our class would actually notice that, good job. But yes, I supposed our draft has been leaked to Ryūen, and thus he's been able to tell who in our class goes when."

"Her opponents were Yajima and Kinoshita… So you think someone leaked our participation settings, and Ryūen has been using it to attack Horikita?" Karuizawa asked.

Ayanokouji nodded, "Indeed. As for the person, I think it's someone in our own class."

Karuizawa sighed, "But who in our class then?"

Ayanokouji looked as Sudo was walking to somewhere down out of his sites, "Someone in our class who hates Horikita."

Karuizawa made a face, "I know she can sometimes be cold, but her actions imply it's just how she does things. Everyone understands that, so who would hate Horikita?"

Ayanokouji sighed, "That's where I'm stuck, I'm sure it'll be found with time."

Karuizawa looked down before she pondered.

"So Ryūen's plan is to screw Horikita over?" She asked.

Ayanokouji nodded, "I'm pretty sure, but there is another person in our class who's been conflicting with Ryūen that I know of."

At that Karuizawa looked at Ayanokouji, "And who is that?"

"Munfurawa. It seems that Ryūen has taken an interest in him, and is using Horikita to make him act." Ayanokouji mentioned.

Through all of this, Munfurawa was eavesdropping, and could clearly hear and analyze all the information Ayanokouji knew. It showed Munfurawa that even if he was quiet, he was observant, and taking in everything. It proved to Munfurawa that Ayanokouji was always listening even if he remained silent.

He was certainly a deadly being with that.

"How would we help her?" Karuizawa asked.

"I have a feeling Munfurawa always has something planned. It would be surprised." Ayanokouji mentioned.

"And why are you leaving it up to him?" Karuizawa asked, "Even if he is reliable…"

"Because he acts on my thoughts. Whereas I ponder and think, Munfurawa acts." Ayanokouji answered, "In many ways, we are alike in how we perceive things. The difference is how we act and use that information."

Karuizawa was about to ask, before they heard a very angry roar coming from below.

"What is that?" Karuizawa asked a bit scared.

"Probably Sudo, he's been angry after the cavalry fight." Ayanokouji merely explained as they began to go down and investigate the commotion.

Munfurawa followed suit, though he was a bit conflicted on checking on Horikita or Sudo.

"After her ingratitude, I'll let her solve her own issues on her own." Munfurawa thought as he went to check up on Sudo after Ayanokouji and Karuizawa made their way down.

Likewise, Sudo seemed to have been grilled, yelling profanities, as he made his way towards Class C.

Hirata and Yukimura were there doing their best to stop the rampaging beast, but to no avail.

"Calm down man, it's understandable. Even though he's cheating, it's difficult…" Hirata explained, as Sudo only became angrier.

"I don't care! I'm the leader, and thus you will listen to me!"

Hirata then spoke up, "Actually, you, Horikita, and I are the leaders of this Sport's Festival."

Sudo didn't let down, and continued to push his way forward, using his anger to control him.

"Is this really how a leader looks?!" Hirata asked, "Terrifying and scaring others?"

Sudo looked around, and saw that Hirata was telling the truth. Everyone within the room, besides Ayanokouji and Munfurawa, were cowering in fear, and doing their best to stay as far away from him as possible.

Even Ike, and Yamauchi wanted nothing to do with him. No one wanted to suffer his wrath.

Horikita, who had just made her way down, looked around.

Sudo immediately looked to her, "Horikita, you're the other leader, tell me, and I justified to give Ryūen a piece of my mind?"

Horikita was clearly out of it at the moment. Her leg was paining her, and she had just limped her way down to see the commotion, rather than get her own self checked up.

"Do you really think she would be the type to resort to violence?" Munfurawa stood up.

Sudo looked towards Munfurawa in betrayal, "Excuse me?"

"You heard me, Sudo." Munfurawa started, as he approached Sudo, being the only one other than Yukimura and Hirata to approach. "Has anyone of us agreed to what you want to do to Ryūen?"

Sudo was grunting, as his eyes clearly was bulging. "You- wouldn't…"

"We all understand the frustration, but are we falling to our anger?" Munufurawa asked.

Sudo suddenly kicked a desk, which made a noise terrifying the others around the area.

Still, Munfurawa kept his ground, Ayanokouji looked on, while Sudo got himself off from Hirata and Yukimura's grasps.

"You are letting your emotions make your decisions! You have no rationality for this class!" Yukimura called out, which made Sudo stare at Yukimura threateningly.

"What did you say?" Sudo asked as he approached Yukimura now.

"You heard me, if you are going to be a leader, then step up, act like one, and show proper decision-making. This." He pointed around, "Is not what a leader does."

"Shut the hell up." Sudo commanded.

"Yukimura is right, Sudo. We're relying on you, and we need you. For that we need you to understand how we all feel and for you to see that what you are going to do won't help at all. Look at the bigger picture, man."

"Shut your mouth, right now." Sudo commanded yet again, with a more threatening tone in his voice.

Munfurawa had taken the chance to approach, knowing Sudo might get violent.

And violent he did. With absolutely no warning, Sudo rammed his fist into Hirata, who hit the wall behind him. He would have launched another punch at the fallen Hirata, if Munfurawa hadn't blocked it with his right hand.

Sudo looked to Munfurawa with bloodshot eyes, not realizing the mistake he had made.

He swung himself towards Munfurawa who dodged, before Sudo grabbed his right arm tightly. Unable to move, he used his left hand to block an unrestrained punch, before kicking him back some distance.

Munfurawa hissed as he felt the pain resound and resurge within his already injured left arm. He had gotten Sudo off of him, but he looked like he wanted to continue.

Most of the class looked on, in shock. It was clear that Munfurawa had injured his left hand through numerous trails, including when he kept Hirata from falling on him. Even Horikita looked at Munfurawa in worry. That left hand seriously was being injured repeatedly over and over, just how long would it eventually take to heal?

This act only made them look at Sudo with disappointment.

"Look at yourself." Munfurawa started, deciding to act now. "Here you are wanting to give Ryūen a beatdown, because of all because of his foul plays."

"Exactly! He shouldn't get away with this without punishment!" Sudo exclaimed.

"And this is your way of punishing him? Injuring your own team?" Munfurawa asked, showing his bruised left hand, and showing breathing Hirata, trying to catch his breath, clearly in pain from the blow to his chest.

Sudo shook his head, "Of course not! Just don't get in my way!"

Munfurawa looked on, "Using fear to intimate your own class. Even your fellow friends and leaders are afraid to approach you. Is that your way of leading?" He pressed onto Sudo, "The way I see it, you are no different from Ryūen."

That remark seemed to have hit Sudo with more force than any other physical attack he could have sustained. He visibly flinched, before he looked down.

"N-No! Don't compare me to that b-bastard…" Sudo mumbled, his will getting weaker.

"You both love to cause trouble, and to keep your classmates silent through fear if they ever talk to you. That sounds like something you and Ryūen would do." Munfurawa explained.

"I-…" Sudo tried, but Munfurawa shook his head.

"I'm ashamed of you." Munfurawa started, shocking most of the class. "Here I thought you were changing for the better. Yet here you are, picking fights with your own allies."

Sudo grumbled, as he clearly was trying to keep the voice of criticism out.

"If you really want to go and give Ryūen a piece of your mind go ahead, but if you get disqualified, you'll only make yourself angrier." Munfurawa explained.

That enraged Sudo as he quickly tried to grab Munfurawa's shirt, only for him to push his arm out, making Sudo grab that instead.

Try and he might, Sudo could not move Munfurawa out of the way, as he kept his own footing.

"Can you just shut up!" Sudo exclaimed, "Acting like you know everything! If you wanted to be the leader, then you should have! Your stupid logic will get us nowhere!" Sudo finished.

"Is that so?" Munfurawa asked, "How did my logic fan out during your assault case? How did my logic fan out during the deserted island exam? How did my logic fan out in your relation with Sakura? Huh?"

"Shut up!" Sudo hollered, as he tightened his grip on Munfurawa's arm. "I'll fucking break your arm if you keep doing this!"

The threat seriously made the other's around nervous for Munfurawa. "Where is the logic in that?" Was all Munfurawa asked, before he left his arm to go limp, as he propelled himself forward, elbowing Sudo in the shoulder.

The boy grunted and clutched his shoulder as Munfurawa watched. Instead Sudo decided to continue.

He punched with all of his might; his anger unfiltered.

All the while, Munfurawa blocked and dodged. It was a scene for the class to see as Munfurawa skillfully dodged back.

"Stop using your damn martial arts skills and fight me!" Sudo hollered.

"Not until you calm down." Was all Munfurawa stated. He was hissing a bit whenever he felt Sudo strike his left hand, but he continued on, not noticing the pained look Horikita was giving him.

Eventually he saw an opening, and before Sudo knew it he was on the ground, with Munfurawa managed to drop him to the ground, in a position where he would no doubt struggle to get out.

"Let me go…" Sudo struggled.

"Look at you." Munfurawa started, "You are supposed to be a leader. A figure for many of those who are self conscious about their own abilities, someone who can help them perform better. Didn't you want to show your worth to the class?"

"I did!" Sudo exclaimed, "That's my main purpose with agreeing to being a leader! To prove my worth and show everyone I can do stuff."

Yukimura decided to butt in, "Is that what you wanted? To have the class win? To me it seems that you just want to show off. You want to show us how amazing you are at this. I told you this before, but being a leader requires you to put extra weight on yourself to make sure everything works."

That riled Sudo up, and Munfurawa turned to Yukimura, with a stare that implied not to get involved.

"Whatever, I don't care anymore…" Sudo mumbled, "It's not use. This sports festival can be a shit show festival for all I care at this point."

Munfurawa looked on, "Fine then, be the delinquent that almost got expelled back then. Be the delinquent who will just be a liability to everyone. Be the delinquent who will cause us to lose, being yet another liability. Be the delinquent who let everyone down."

"Hey!" Munfurawa looked to the source of the voice to see Chabashira looking at what was happening, with Munfurawa pinning Sudo down. "What are you two doing?"

Munfurawa sighed, "I'm giving Sudo a pep talk, nothing more."

"That doesn't look like a pep talk." Chabashira commented.

"You know how rowdy Sudo can get, I'm doing this, so it'll get into his thick skull." Munfurawa replied.

Chabashira sighed, "As long as no one is hurt then I guess you're fine…"

Munfurawa waited until Chabashira was gone before he turned back to Sudo.

"I…" Sudo was clearly trying to think of something, before he proceeded to stare at the ground.

"I knew you were nothing but a delinquent. So useless…" Munfurawa said at last, before he left Sudo, the delinquent not knowing what to do other than to get away from the stares of everyone.

Munfurawa sighed, as he walked off simultaneously in the opposite direction.

"Munfurawa-kun!" Horikita's voice echoed, as she limped her way towards Munfurawa.

She then tripped, only for Munfurawa to catch her before she hit the ground.

"What is it?" He asked at last.

"W-Why…" Was all she asked before she began to breathe heavily.

"You did what you could in the cavalry fight, even we wouldn't have been able to do anything better in your shoes." Munfurawa explained, soothing Horikita's guilt.

"But…" she was about to ask before, Munfurawa began to lift her up.

"W-What are-" Horikita was interrupted.

"I saw you limping on your way here, and don't think I saw the others fall on your leg. I'm taking you to the tent." Munfurawa stated with no voice of opposition, due to her tone.

Horikita could only remain still, and eventually lean her head into Munfurawa's chest as he carried her to the tent. Throughout this entire time she wanted to apologize to Munfurawa, but the situation was clearly not on her side.

As he began to look over her leg and wrap it up, he sighed, "Your leg has gotten crushed when you fell off your horse, not to mention that you probably aggravated it." Munfurawa stated.

Horikita sighed, "What about your hand?"

Munfurawa looked at his hand, wincing when he touched his wrist. "I probably will not be able to participate in the 4-way tug of war. I can still participate in the 3-legged race, and the 200m sprint.

Horikita looked on, "But you are injured…"

"My hand is injured, not my leg. I can still run." Munfurawa explained, as he began to wrap his hand in wrappings, with the bruises lightening slightly.

Horikita looked on in shame, "The relay race, I may not be able to perform as the anchor…"

Munfurawa looked on, "It's fine. We'll find a substitute. I know how much you wanted to race against your brother, but I don't think you can."

Horikita shook her head, "No, I must… I need to show him my accomplishments…" There again with her brother, and not to mention the hostility she showed Munfurawa prior.

He had enough of how Horikita currently was.

Munfurawa sighed, "You really are just like Sudo, you know that?"

Horikita looked on in shock, "What do you mean?"

"Isn't it obvious? You both only think about yourself. If you cannot take care of your own fellow peers and friends, then you cannot take care of yourself." Munfurawa had stated, deciding to add a more demoralizing tone into his voice.

"Don't say that to me! I've been trying my best to make ends in this situation. With our information on the table's list leading to Ryūen, how can I be at fault? Isn't it the traitors?"

Munfurawa sighed, "Yes, that may be true, but what did you do? All of the situations that have been observed have been by me and Ayanokouji. What have you done?"

Horikita looked surprised at the surprisingly hostile tone Munufurawa was displaying. She hadn't expected this.

"Man, you seriously are useless, no wonder you are in Class D." Munfurawa stated at last, which clearly put a hole in Horikita's mind.

"H-How?! I work myself to make this work! I have good exam and physical abilities! I do much better than the rest of the class! How would anyone be able to act?!"

Munfurawa looked on, "You want to know what I did for you?"

"What." She asked.

"You could have been in much more trouble with Kinoshita, if I hadn't caught her and Ryūen in the room orchestrating for her leg to be beaten, with you as the main culprit."

That surprised Horikita, "W-What…"

Munfurawa nodded, "Indeed, if it wasn't for me you would have some problem with Ryūen and Kinoshita. What exactly have you done?"

Horikita remained silent.

"Exactly, there's a reason why you are down in Class D. You are just like Sudo, thinking you are better than everyone."

"I do not think that!" Horikita exclaimed.

"Are you sure? This entire time you worried about your own performance, your own abilities to run, and you own abilities to be seen by your brother. When did you talk about the team?" Munfurawa asked.

Once again, when Horikita did not answer, Munfurawa knew he was right.

"You seriously need to get this into your head. If you want to get to Class A, you need the rest of us. Look at the bigger picture, and grow up." Munfurawa stated.

"And who are you to judge me! You used foul play against Class C too!" Horikita yelled.

Unbeknownst to the both of them, Ayanokouji and Hirata had walked into the tent somewhat, before remaining outside and eavesdropping on the two.

"Don't try and downplay the issue at hand. Get the hint and realize how useless you are right now. At least Sudo wants to win. You always claim not to care for others, yet you are supposed to be a leader! Munfurawa exclaimed.

"Are you really doing this…" Horikita mumbled.

"Yes! It's about time you face your own faults! It's the reason why you are like this in the first place! We need to get Sudo back." Munfurawa explained.

"But, he's clearly a liability, you said it." Horikita responded weakly.

"I said he can go back to being the liability he once was, not that he currently is one. If you want to get to Class A, one person out of forty won't do it alone. Face it, Horikita, you need to people to help you in this situation. What can you do right now with your injury?" Munfurawa asked.

Horikita remained silent.

"What can you do?" Munfurawa asked the question yet again with a more aggressive tone.

"I don't know…" She said at last.

With that out the way, Munfurawa proceeded to walk out, "You might as well talk to Sudo about rejoining, or else we will all suffer because of you two."

Munfurawa then turned his back away, walking out of the tent, leaving Horikita in a bit of a mess, to think about.

Horikita began to get up and walk towards the infirmary inside alone, feeling terrible due to the verbal conversation Munfurawa had just given her. It seriously had hurt her, and she knew their already strained relationship might have been strained to a point of no return.

What she was to do now, she didn't know. One thing she knew know, was that her leg hurts. Not just her legs, but her head and chest. It was somewhat impressive how much Horikita could have held herself in tact without getting emotional with Munfurawa.

She hadn't really gotten the chance to confront Munfurawa about his own problem, with the foul play he did after Ryūen and his class did the same prior. Regardless, it wasn't right.

For now, she had to focus on her own leg. Making her way to the infirmary, she noticed on of the beds was curtained off. Still, she allowed the nurse to inspect her leg.

"I'm afraid but the sprain will make participating in any further competition, especially if walking is such a task now." The nurse confirmed, which made Horikita sigh.

Horikita knew that her mentality of continuing to try would be hopeless. Munfurawa had made that clear to her.

As of now, what she had to do, was put her trust onto her class, whom she would be with in order to rise to Class A. Without them, she wouldn't be able to.

"That's what Munfurawa was telling me this entire time…" She pondered as she let it get to her.

"I don't think I can. I'll just be a liability I'm afraid…" Horikita stated at last.

"I see, well I think for the sake of your leg it's a fine decision." The nurse replied.

She sighed, before she noticed Kushida running towards her.

"Thank god I found you, Horikita…" She breathed out.

"What's going on?" Horikita asked.

Kushida chuckled, "It's a long story, but I think you'll be interested."

"No. I have important matters to do." Horikita stated, not wanting to waste anymore time.

"But-" Kushida tried to reason, only for Horikita to shut her up.

"Listen, for once, I am trying to help this entire class, rather than myself, so if you can, let me go with this, and not be distracted by you, okay?" Horikita quickly explained to Kushida, who's eyes widened a bit at her reaction.

"O-ok…?" Kushida mumbled as she walked Horikita struggle to walk towards the lobby.

As for Horikita, she eventually found Sudo on a couch in the lobby.

"What are you doing here, Horikita?" Sudo asked with a very melancholic voice. Horikita sighed, knowing she too, was going to have to face her own problems, for the benefit of this class.

Kushida began to run towards the boys, noticing the unusual attitude of Horikita. To Kushida, Horikita seemed done, and finished. It was very concerning, and thus wanted to confront Munfurawa, or Ayanokouji about it.

However, when she made it, she realized Munfurawa, Ayanokouji, and Hirata were all talking.

"Oh, Kushida, what is it?" Munfurawa asked, turning around after.

"How did you hear me?" She asked, a bit surprised.

"Footsteps, the running tempo and sound is different and recognizable." He merely stated.

Regardless of her question about how Munfurawa could detect her, the question of Horikita came up.

She began to explain what she noted of Horikita, explaining her solemn attitude, and her difference in tone, describing her mental state as worrisome.

"Of course Kushida would know about mental states well…" Munfurawa commented, regarding Kushida's own personality shifts.

Instead, of being concerned, how Kushida would expect, he merely shrugged.

"Whatever Horikita does, it's her choice." Was all Munfurawa stated.

"B-But…" Kushida mumbled, clearly surprised by the sudden change of attitude he had towards the usually cold girl. She even noticed that he wasn't calling her ice girl anymore.

"What happened between the two…" Was all Kushida could ask.

And despite even Hirata asking what happened between Horikita and Munfurawa, all Munfurawa gave was a shrug. While in his mind, he had a different plan and idea.

"The fate of the Sport's Festival, is now all up to you, Horikita."

A.N / I don't really have much to say other than hope you enjoy. Hope that twist between Munfurawa and Horikita was unexpected, I do like twists sometimes. But yeah, Sudo and Horikita will have their chat, and I definitely will write it down, and change some stuff, while Munfurawa, Ayanokouji, and the others will do their part for the rest of the festival. Anyways, see you later.