I came here to listen to the rest of yesterday's story at the karaoke bar in Keyaki Mall.
It's certainly one of the best places to get private space, other than the dorms.
When I stepped into the room, there was no one but Horikita and me.
"If we're just going to talk, we don't need to come to a karaoke bar, do we?"
Since we've been in each other's rooms before, we have no problem discussing in either room.
So, if she chose this place, it must mean someone else is visiting us as well.
Let's not go into too much detail, and leave it to Horikita's initiative.
"We have a little time before our scheduled time. ... Want to sing something?"
She picked up the microphone on the table and held it out to me.
"No, I'd rather not. How about if you sing instead? I'll at least give you a hand or two."
"No."
Immediate denial. Why encourage people to do things they don't like... "I'll study instead."
She silently took out her notebook and her own reference book and started to study.
Although many classes at school are now equipped with tablets and other devices, I think it is easier to study independently if you open your books and notes directly.
The room is quite quiet when there is no singing going on.
Even though there was a strange atmosphere in the room due to the strange exchange, I decided to sit quietly on the couch and wait for the time to come.
The time passed to 5:10 p.m.
Horikita, who had been checking the time on her cell phone every few minutes since before 5:00, looked up with a sigh.
"I'm sorry, but this might take a little longer than I anticipated."
She didn't say who we were meeting with, but the meeting time was 5 o'clock, and it was safe to assume that they would be late.
The fact that they didn't call her back suggests that they had some unavoidable reason, or that they were a bit of a loose cannon, or they were deliberately late.
I repeatedly thought of various students, erased them, and waited for about 15 minutes.
After about 15 minutes of waiting, the door of the room, which had not moved a muscle, was slowly opened by an outsider's hand.
It was Kohei Katsuragi, a second year D class student.
He seemed to be very strict about punctuality, so I was surprised that he was late.
"I'm sorry I'm late."
"No, I don't mind. You must have had a lot of trouble. Katsuragi-kun." "... More or less."
Muttering this, Katsuragi urged the person lurking behind him to enter the room.
The other person shows up.
"Suzune, it's nice that you want to go on a date with me, but it seems like there are a lot of unnecessary people."
It was Ryuuen, the man who pulled Katsuragi, the former leader of Class A, into his own class.
"It would be difficult for us to have a constructive discussion if we only met with you."
While smiling wryly, Ryuuen did not seem to be slowing down his keen observation of Horikita.
Now that everything has been settled and everyone is here now, Horikita has regained her normal composure.
Since there has been little direct communication between them since their second year, it is not surprising that they can sense the change in Horikita even at this stage.
"Was he deliberately late to gain some sort of mental advantage?" "I don't know."
Before they even met up, they had already begun to probe each other, to check each other out, to fight each other.
I think it's safe to assume Ryuuen has not yet been told the reason why they were called here.
"You said you wanted to talk to us. ... Let's hear the details."
"Can you sit down? If it was just a minute or two, I wouldn't of bothered calling you here."
Ryuuen gave me a quick glance, but sat down on the couch, grabbed the tablet that was charging, started to operate it, completed the order with ease, and threw it messily on the table.
Horikita saw this and reached for the tablet to pick it up.
"Katsuragi-kun, is there anything you would like to order?"
"I'll have an oolong tea."
She listens to the request, completes the order on the tablet, and carefully returns it to the charging position.
"I'll tell you why I've called you all here."
She was about to talk, but Ryuuen stopped her with his hand to discourage her.
"I wanted to ask you something first. How does it feel to get class points for cutting down a limp? Is it as good as it sounds?"
He was not afraid to ask her something that would be damaging.
It's a way of trying to gain the upper hand when you don't even know what they're going to say yet.
It's clear that Ryuuen was using his classmates to figure what went on.
It was a move based on the assumption that the internal affairs problem was still unresolved, but Horikita beside me was unmoved.
"It's not as if problems didn't arise from me doing that. But I'm sorry, it's not going to happen the way you want it to. Most of the big problems have already been solved."
That's a lie.
At the very least, the issue of Haruka is still untouched, and it is unclear when the bomb will explode.
"You're pretty brazen for a liar, aren't you?" Ryuuen thinks it's a lie, but Horikita doesn't care.
"If you think it's a lie, then do what you want. You're not the kind of person who easily believes anything I say, are you?"
"Well, I don't know. Maybe I trust you more than you think."
"That's not funny whether you're being serious or a joking."
She dodged his provocations.
Katsuragi looked at Horikita as if analyzing her, and slowly folded his arms.
"What are your intentions? I thought you were going to expel someone."
"Are you worried that you won't have any friends? I think you're the only one who made the wrong choice."
Three of the four classes protected their classmates.
They tried to create the impression that Horikita was the only one who made an atrocity or mistake.
"It's too bad we were the only ones who chose the right answer, since we didn't even make it one step further in the A class competition."
"That's enough."
The door of the room was knocked lightly when Katsuragi stopped him.
The waitress who showed up brought the oolong tea and orange juice that Katsuragi had ordered.
The drinks were placed in front of Ryuuen.
Horikita and Katsuragi couldn't help but stare at the strange combination.
I'm thinking the same thing as well. Ryuuen and orange juice ... It's not like they don't go well together I guess.
"So, what is the purpose of this meetup?"
While everyone was pondering this, Katsuragi urged Horikita to have a conversation.
Horikita nodded and began to speak again, looking at both Ryuuen and Katsuragi.
"In order to defeat Sakayanagi's class, I'd like to propose a partnership for the next athletic festival."
Katsuragi's shoulders reacted slightly in surprise.
Shortly after, he returned to his normal state and asked a question.
"... What do you mean by "partnership"?"
The word "partnership" can be interpreted in very different ways.
It was natural for him to want to know the details, but he did not want to deny it outright.
Ryuuen, on the other hand, didn't seem surprised or impressed. He was just observing with a smirk on his face.
"This special exam has both a competition for all the grades and a competition for each grade. I want to take full advantage of the system that allows equal points to be accumulated by winning a team game played by multiple players."
"Why with our class? Would you mind if I asked why?"
Ryuuen, the class leader, did not speak at all, but listened attentively.
"First of all, it goes without saying that Class A is out of the question. If we give points to the class that we should be catching up to, it will be the end of the world. The only two choices left are Ichinose's class or Ryuuen and Katsuragi's class. Even though Ichinose is the most trustworthy, my analysis is that she does not have the most physically gifted students."
"So you've chosen us by process of elimination."
"If it were a simple process of elimination, we wouldn't have been paired with any class in the first place. The only person I don't trust more than Sakayanagi-san's class is your leader, Ryuuen-kun."
He's definitely not an easy person to work with.
He nodded his head in sympathy.
"It's true. Even as a fellow member of the team, I agree, there is no one I would be more afraid to trust my back to. Then why did you propose this partnership at such great risk?"
"To win, of course. We can't win without stopping Class A's dominance."
"But what's the point if you can't deliver on that promise? Ryuuen is a man who will take any means necessary. I know exactly what I'm talking about because I've been through it myself. I can't recommend it."
It's hard to believe that he's the chief strategist of Ryuuen's side, but he's very harsh with his people.
If we team up with them, we will not only beat Class A, but we would potentially be swallowed up by Ryuuen's class.
"Today's discussion was not something I had planned to discuss right away. I hadn't talked to Ryuuen-kun like this for a while, and I still don't trust people who are late without a reason. However, when I saw Katsuragi apologize for being late, I changed my mind. At least I can trust you."
"You're so naive. Don't you think this attitude of mine is just a ploy by Ryuuen?"
"If I don't know whether I can trust me or not, then sooner or later I will be swallowed."
This is also Horikita's gamble.
If Ryuuen and Katsuragi were placed side by side, Katsuragi would appear to
be a sensible and good person.
However, if Katsuragi was doing this from the orders of Ryuuen, she will
have no choice but to accept it.
"You look a little different than before, Horikita. You are also growing up."
Katsuragi senses that Horikita has changed, that she is growing, and she is willing to sit down for a discussion.
"I understand the situation on your side. I'll give you my personal opinion from here."
He added the word "personal" because it was assumed that Ryuuen's intentions and thoughts were not taken into consideration.
"I also had a plan to join forces with Horikita's class this time and defeat Class A."
"You too...?"
"Yes. Your class has people like Sudo and Koenji who are talented beyond their years. Out of the four classes of sophomores, you have the highest physical ability and the most players. You don't have to worry about them dragging you down as a friend. He's not someone you can trust unconditionally, but he's also not a class you can easily betray, which is not a bad thing."
As Katsuragi spoke, Ryuuen's eyes were fixed on me. But his mouth remained shut.
Until now, there was no one else in Ryuuen class who could negotiate for
him, so he always took the initiative.
However, with the addition of Katsuragi, there is no longer a need to do so, and we have the option to wait and see. This is a huge positive factor.
It's uncanny that we don't know what Ryuuen is thinking and what he will propose at what timing.
While it is easy to talk with Katsuragi, Horikita is probably beginning to be aware of this fear.
However, if we were to have regular discussions for the next year and a half, this is a path that we cannot avoid.
"But in reality, this is a 50/50 decision as to whether or not to approach Ryuuen with a proposal for cooperation."
It's been more than a week since the details of the festival were announced.
"If we were to form a partnership, we would naturally have to secure first and second place in our class. When that happens, it will inevitably be the overall strength of the class that determines the winner. Based on simple probability alone, we must accept the possibility that Horikita's class will finish first, and our class will have to finish second."
By cooperating with each other to outsmart Sakayanagi and Ichinose's class, we are still creating a sort of Horikita's class vs Ryuuen's class situation.
This is why Katsuragi answered that it was 50/50.
Even though Katsuragi is a good conversationalist, it doesn't mean that he
would agree to a cooperative relationship.
If we don't get over the hurdle in front of us, we won't be able to start
negotiations with Ryuuen. ...
What are you going to do, Horikita?
"So our class is seen as a threat to yours."
"Of course. The situation is very different from a year ago. Unlike the time when you were ridiculed as a collection of defective products, you are now class B and you've dropped to 0 class points at least once. Most recently, Koenji single-handedly won the deserted island exam, and in the unanimous special exam, you made the tough choice to cut off your classmates, earning you 100 points. There is no doubt that your class is a formidable opponent."
"It's not my achievement, but I don't feel bad that you think so. But if we don't work together, if we go into the festival in disarray, there could be a worst-case scenario where Sakayanagi's class wins first place. The important thing is to defeat Mr. Sakayanagi's class. Isn't it?"
"I agree with you. That's also the truth. Ryuuen, what do you think?" For the first time, Katsuragi asked Ryuuen for his opinion.
"If you want me to lend you a hand, you have to give me something in return, right?"
"I think you are misunderstanding me. It's true that I'm the one who proposed the idea, but that doesn't mean that I have to give in. Rather, you need to understand that you are in a position to form a partnership with the class of candidates for first place."
"Don't make me laugh. I'm in a position where I can win without cooperation, but if you ask me to, I'm in a position where I'm willing to lend a hand. If you don't like it, you can go home, okay?"
"Do you know the actual way home then? If you go through that door, turn left and you'll find your way out of here."
Without even considering any kind of concession, Horikita urged Ryuuen and Katsuragi to leave.
This attitude is the essence of bargaining, but at the same time, Horikita gives off the vibe that she is not betting everything on this strategy.
In other words, as soon as Ryuuen left the table, the negotiations broke down.
The proposal to defeat Sakayanagi together would be dropped.
After that, if Ryuuen says he's willing to work with us again, the situation will be reversed.
"You've got the guts to bluff like that."
"What are you talking about? As Katsuragi said, our class is a very strong class in terms of physical ability. If we go head-to-head, do you think you'll be able to outrank Sudo and Koenji?"
"If we face them honestly and head on maybe not. But there are plenty of other ways to do it. It's not like you've forgotten what happened last year, right?"
This is exactly what I feared, a dirty trick by Ryuuen, disguised as an accident.
It is obvious that this is what he was trying to say.
"This year, there are going to be guests, and the rules of the festival, due to its nature, are going to be closely monitored. Let's see how far you can go with your sneaky tricks this time."
"There are plenty of blind spots. I don't think it's necessarily only during competitions."
That means unsupervised areas such as locker rooms and bathrooms.
"You're still the same, aren't you? That thought is certainly a threat, but ... this seems to be the end of the line."
Without any disappointment, Horikita slammed her notebook shut.
"Ayanokoji-kun. Thank you for hanging out with us today. I don't need to ask you to make a decision, but it seems that this case is too risky. I think we should call it a night."
"If you're okay with that, there's no problem."
Ryuuen, who was watching, didn't answer, but Katsuragi made a move.
"Ryuuen. It seems that Horikita is more different than we imagined. If we don't come to the negotiating table properly, it will be us who will be cut off."
After calmly analyzing the situation, Katsuragi turned his gaze to Horikita once again.
"You didn't ask me for help because you were more worried about the disadvantages of joining forces, right?"
"There was no suggestion from me. But things would have been different if Horikita had approached me. Besides, I had a feeling it would be more than I expected."
Horikita class's rating went up slightly as we updated the data we had. In other words, I reevaluated the class to be worthy of cooperation.
"It's natural to try to make things work out in your favor. You've become a bit more articulate, but the only reason it seems to be working is because Ayanokoji is standing beside you."
As soon as he said that, Ryuuen picked up a glass full of orange juice in front of him, and without hesitation, spewed all of its contents at me.
I immediately moved away from my seated position and avoided being hit.
The place where I had been sitting up until that moment was filled with a yellow stain that spread and became fragrant.
"I'm sure you've noticed his anomaly by now, haven't you? Could you have avoided that one?"
"... I don't think so."
"That's right. A normal person would be drenched without being able to react, but this guy, he's got an unconcerned look on his face."
"It's true that it has extraordinary reflexes, but what does ... have to do with this discussion?"
"Don't you get it? Ayanokoji is your lethal weapon, if you ask me. If you're showing off your gun to an unarmed opponent, it's no wonder your mouth would start talking so big."
"Did you go to the trouble of ordering orange juice just to test that? ... Give me a break."
I thought it was strange, but as usual, he's up to no good.
It was a good thing I left my mind open to when the drink was a unsuitable beverage for Ryuuen to order.
"Why did you avoid it? If you had just taken it all head on, things would've gone smoothly."
"Don't be absurd. I wouldn't want to be completely drenched in juice."
The smell is too strong, it's too sticky, and it won't come off. It's too much of a hurdle to cover unconditionally.
If it was oolong tea, I would be able to put up with it.
Orange juice is one of the best drinks for harassing someone.
"If you want to negotiate properly, get Ayanokoji out of here first. Then we can talk."
Ryuuen offers to continue negotiations on the condition that I'm not here.
"That's just like you. But I refuse. He is my classmate, and he has the right to be here, and I have the right to ask him to be here. I don't see what's wrong with using the weapons at your disposal to negotiate."
The extent of Horikita knowledge is unknown to me, but I wouldn't be surprised if she overheard Kei's incident on the rooftop and knew about it.
From the beginning Horikita told me that she doesn't need me to help her,
that my presence only would be enough.
I can't complain, because I'm just using her to keep my promise.
"My class, which is in a superior position, is offering to form a cooperative relationship. If that doesn't convince you, then you can pretend that this whole thing never really happened."
Ryuuen would never cooperate with Sakayanagi.
Even if we ask Ichinose, it's unclear how many useful forces we'll be able to obtain.
If we make the wrong decision here, it will inevitably affect the future of Ryuuen as well.
Even though it is unlikely, it is possible that the Horikita-Sakayangi alliance could be formed as well.
If Horikita's class finishes first, and Sakayanagi's class finishes second, it's not a bad result.
But if we allow that to happen, it will be more difficult to chase after Sakayanagi.
"Subject to discussion, I'm willing to join forces with your class. Now, may I hear your answer as to whether you will accept or not?"
The next answer was not given by Katsuragi, but by the leader, Ryuuen. After a few seconds of silence, Ryuuen made his decision.
"Okay, I'll take you up on that offer."
He replied, but his words did not stop there.
"But I'll have to put a condition. If we are going to cooperate, it should be on a stronger and more equal footing. If either you or I achieve the goal of
finishing first or second in our class in any order, there will be a 100 point difference in the class points we receive. To make up the difference, the first place winner will be paid the private points that will be awarded by March 1 before graduation. Add that promise."
He is trying to do the same thing that he did with Katsuragi in last year's deserted island test.
If one of us gets more class points than the other, we have to make up the difference with private points.
Ryuuen knows that he is in a disadvantageous position.
He's trying to get the extra points, but Horikita knows this too.
"The condition itself is equal. But I'm going to decline. It's a serious competition as to who will take first place or second place. It's only a fair fight and we'll settle it."
If we are equal, with or without conditions, then there is no reason for me to impose conditions if we believe that our chances of winning are high.
"Kuku. You can't let us suck the sweet juice that easily, can you? But then, it won't be as good for us."
"It's difficult to extract concessions from Horikita. I think it's best to keep a firm hand."
While Ryuuen is still reluctant to formally sign the contract, Katsuragi is still flexible.
"That's not enough. If you're going to ask me for help, you're going to have to be more sincere."
"Sincerity? It's the same for me, though, isn't it? If this strategy works and I can get Sakayanagi's class A to the bottom of the rankings, it will be a minus 150 points. There's plenty of room to consider this strategy of joining hands. But it's a risk we're willing to take."
As if to refute him, Horikita continued.
"I've been having doubts. It's about whether or not I can trust you. If we focus our efforts on team competitions to form a team, it is inevitable that individual competitions will be neglected."
It is entirely possible that Ryuuen will instruct them to betray the team and cut corners on the competition, or even not show up for the promised competition in the first place.
Since Horikita and the other leaders will be at the busy at the competition, it is doubtful that they will be able to monitor all the events.
They will not be able to bring in cell phones, so they will not be able to coordinate from afar.
"It's hard to trust you. This is the best concession we can make and we will cooperate. We will not concede even a millimeter more."
This is something that Ryuuen will have to hear.
Even if there was an attractive force in the class, Ryuuen could not be trusted,
that was the basic premise.
Horikita is saying that she will accept it despite that, and that she will
cooperate without saying a word.
"It's a good argument. You're right. I guess I'll just have to accept it here."
While laughing and letting it flow, Ryuuen relaxed his shoulders as if he was satisfied with Horikita's words.
"Do you really think you can trust me?"
"The enemy of my enemy is my friend, and I will trust in the useful words of my ancestors."
It's hard to reach your full potential in coalition when you still have lingering doubts.
In some cases, you may find yourself focusing more on your back than fighting as an enemy.
"I don't mean to agree with everything you're saying, but one thing is for sure, it's not a good idea to keep letting Sakayanagi's class lead the way."
Both Katsuragi and Horikita agreed with Ryuuen's answer and nodded without hesitation.
We have to beat Class A.
To let class A win. That is an action that we cannot allow to happen no matter what.
"Even though we have a direct competition with them coming up at the end of the school year, it's not going to be enough to upset the class points."
In the meantime, we're going to want to keep class A in range with us. I'm willing to trust that idea.
"You've been listening to you in silence, but it's time to hear your opinion, Ayanokouji-kun."
Horikita's idea, the risk.
From an objective point of view, do I accept this strategy or not?
"Cooperation in interest is not a bad thing. There may be some disagreement, but everyone understands that Sakayanagi is the target to be defeated. I'm sure Yosuke and Kei will follow suit with it."
Horikita was once again confident in her plan. However, Ryuuen put a stop to it.
"I'd like to sign the contract, but not yet."
"Not yet? Do you think you can get any more concessions out of me?"
"Let me make one last point. Is it you who brought up this proposal, Suzune? Or was it Ayanokouji, who was observing the situation with a clear face? Which is it?"
He's very keen on wanting to find out who came up with this idea.
"If it's not Ayanokoji-kun's idea, will you accept it? It seems that you and Ayanokoji-kun have a relationship that cannot be shared with anyone else."
That's what Horikita said in a suggestive way.
"I know firsthand that our enemies recognize each other's abilities. I also feel that I'm out of place."
"Did I ever say anything about that? I'm just asking who came up with this idea."
A slightly exasperated Ryuuen glared at Horikita and urged her to speak up.
"It was me who did. I only asked Ayanokoji-kun to be present here, and I didn't even let him hear about it until we were here."
If Ryuuen knew that it was my idea, he might end up refusing to cooperate.
When Horikita spoke honestly, Ryuuen laughed.
"I see. I'm relieved to hear that. If that's the case, I'll accept your proposal."
With that as the deciding factor, he officially accepted Horikita's offer to join forces.
"... Why?"
"Why? I don't know. You'll have to figure it out for yourself." He dodged the answer by saying that.
"I think it would be better for both of us if we had a written contract just in case. No, especially for your sake."
"I'll do that, of course. I'll have Chabashira-sensei and Sakagami-sensei join us in the meantime."
A contract involving the teachers. Of course, there will be a penalty clause in the contract.
No matter how good Ryuuen is at playing dirty, he can't do anything if he's bound by unbreakable rules.
"Then, I will leave the paperwork to you Horikita. Is that okay?"
"Yes. I wonder if you would allow me to go over it with you a few times, Katsuragi-kun."
When Katsuragi looked at Ryuuen, he replied with a face saying, "Do what you want."
Katsuragi's presence in Ryuuen's class is really significant.
He is smart, trustworthy, and can express his opinions to Ryuuen without hesitation.
Ryuuen's decision to entrust Katsuragi with the job, and the way he was able to select him, was nothing short of brilliant.
It was worth the large amount of money he had to spend to bring him in.
"Okay. Now that we have officially signed the letter, let's go to the sports festival."
Thus, it was decided that Horikita's class and Ryuuen's class would fight together in the sports festival.
The first priority was for our class to win, and the second priority was for us to work together.
However, this was not the end of the story just yet, and Katsuragi changed the subject.
"It's good that we've agreed to work together, but then there are some things you should consider. It's quite possible that Sakayanagi and Ichinose will team up. What are you going to do if that happens?"
It's a good idea to have a coalition against a coalition. That development is quite possible.
"It's not a problem. Even if Ichinose cooperated with Sakayanagi in this sports festival, we are still better. In addition, Sakayanagi would have to throw away her third place. Just as you were worried about second place when you teamed up with us, Ichinose will have the advantage if they team up too. With Totsuka's withdrawal and Katsuragi's transfer, there are 38 students in Sakayanagi's class. Sakayanagi's non-participation was also confirmed, so there were 37 students. Ichinose's class has 40 students. The difference between our classes are surprisingly large."
The athletic ability of the class is almost even.
In some cases, the difference in the number of classmates can decide the winner.
"However, Sakayanagi is a person who will come up with a strategy to make up for the difference in numbers."
"Haven't you seen the rules? If you don't participate in the sports festival, you'll have to wait in the dormitory. You can't even use your cell phone, which means class A's main brain would be completely dysfunctional."
"It is true that Sakayanagi cannot participate due to her physical condition. However, she can formally participate and earn a total of 10 points, 5 points from her score and 5 points from the participation prize. Once she meets the minimum requirements, she can continue to stay outside and send instructions."
As long as she is unable to compete satisfactorily in any event, it is inevitable that Sakayanagi will be the only one to stand out.
"It's not so convenient. Abstaining from a competition is a given right. If you
participate formally and then abstain, you will not be humiliated."
"Don't you need to have a compelling reason to participate? If you understand your physical condition and participate, you must be justified in doing so. If you have to finish the 100-meter run with a cane when everyone else has finished, then you have to do it. She would never put on such a spectacle."
"Certainly, a normal person would not participate because of his or her personality. However, once she learns that we were teaming up, Sakayanagi would consider the risk of participating and losing on purpose so she can give out commands. I'm saying that it's a problem to assume that it's a sure thing. What is the probability that she will not participate? Answer seriously."
"I'd say it's a 90% chance she won't."
"Your unfounded and free estimation is 90%. If that is the case, the appropriate value is even lower. I'd say 70% to 80% at best."
"This won't do. If we want to be sure she won't participate so it should at least be a 95% chance she won't."
Leaving us alone, Ryuuen and Katsuragi engage in a war of words.
"That's crap. But if you to make it so that she can't participate for sure then I have a way. I'm going to hang Sakayangai thoroughly before the sports festival. If she participates, the whole class will expose her during the competition. That way, I'll reach the 95% mark you're talking about."
Ryuuen says he would never give in to threats that trample on his dignity as an individual.
"From an ethical point of view, this is unacceptable."
"I agree. The school will not stand idly by."
Both Horikita and Katsuragi denied that they would accept such an action. "We have to crush Sakayanagi no matter what."
"Remember that we are in the bottom class because it's not that easy to just do that."
If Sakayanagi were to function as a leader during this sports festival, it would certainly be difficult to predict what kind of moves she would make.
Whether or not she participates will have a great deal to do with whether we win or lose this sports festival.
If we can make sure that Sakayanagi will not be able to attend, then victory is at hand.
"Horikita. Are you including my contribution to the class victory?"
"Basically, I try not to think about it. You're the only one in a special position."
"That's a convenient thing to hear. If the participation or non-participation of Sakayanagi is impeding this cooperative relationship, I may be able to help."
"What do you mean?"
Katsuragi, who had shown interest, stopped talking to Ryuzen and turned to me
"If you leave it to me, I'll have Sakayanagi forgo her participation in the sports festival."
"What ...?" "Oh?"
Horikita was surprised and Ryuuen was impressed. Katsuragi listened to me in silence.
"However, in exchange for letting Sakayanagi not participate, I don't want my score to be disregarded even one point at the sports festival. That goes not only for Horikita, but also for you, Ryuuen."
"I didn't include you in my calculations from the beginning. If you want to stop Sakayanagi, you can save us a lot of trouble."
"I can't even imagine what kind of a trick you will use, but if Ryuuen and Horikita believe your words and leave it to you, I have no intention of making any further comment on this matter. If Sakayanagi does not participate, it will not be difficult for us to bring Class A down to the bottom of the class."
"But can you really do that Ayanokouji?"
"Ah. There's a good chance you'll get some rest even if I don't do anything, but you can leave it to me. Also, as I was listening to you, I was thinking that there are not many opportunities for Horikita and Ryuuen to get together and cooperate with each other like this, are there? Is there something else you'd like to discuss?"
During this discussion, I was thinking about something a little different than the three of us.
"What is it?"
When I began to speak up with a suggestion, Horikita and Katsuragi looked at each other, while Ryuuen remained silent and listened.
As soon as I finished my explanation, the ice in Katsuragi's glass melted and clinked.
"It's an interesting idea, but ..."
Horikita looked at Ryuuen in puzzlement, not sure if he would accept it or not.
"It is certainly not impossible according to the rules. But..." "You don't like what I'm proposing?"
If I had proposed this suggestion at the sports festival, there is a possibility he would have rejected it.
"Oh, I don't like it."
Ryuuen rejected my plan, but Katsuragi interrupted.
"Your personal feelings can wait Ryuuen. This is a good idea. We may need to go over the details and rules again, but no, we're talking about Ayanokoji. I'm sure he's already checked them."
"The rules are fine. We can develop the game more strongly with the help of Ryuuen's class than with our class alone. Right?"
"Yes, that's right. That's for sure. ..."
Horikita herself is well aware of the problems we are facing.
"Let's go with it Ryuuen. We should now prepare for a direct confrontation with Sakayanagi."
"Listen, Ayanokouji. If we destroy Sakayanagi, you're getting crushed next."
Perhaps these words were the decisive factor in Ryuuen's acceptance of my proposal.
"Katsuragi, you should organizing that starting now." "I will."
"This is exactly what a Class A siege looks like ..."
"The first priority, however, is to keep Sakayanagi from participating in the sports festival. Any cooperation at the festival or proposal will not start until Ayanokouji clears his first step."
"I know. Leave it to me."
I have a strategy to stop Sakayanagi that neither Ryuuen, Katsuragi, nor Horikita can pull off.
1
Before 7:00 p.m., Sakayanagi, Kamuro, and Hashimoto of the 2nd year class A gathered at a café in Keyaki Mall.
"I'm not surprised to be called out of the blue, but what do you want today, Princess?"
"What will happen at the next gymnastics festival? What should we do?" "I thought we had a plan?"
"The situation changes from moment to moment. And today, we have a new change."
Saying this, Sakayanagi continues.
"Ryuuen-kun's class and Horikita-san's class made contact with each other."
Hearing this, Hashimoto's eyes change.
"Which one of them approached each other first? Was it Ryuuen?"
"That's not clear. But whichever way you look at it, you can be sure that the two are connected."
"Wait a minute. I don't think it's going to work out that easily for them. I don't think Horikita would easily trust Ryuuen. He's not the kind of person who she can collaborate with is he?"
"You know how they say the enemy of your enemy is your friend? We are in a solid position to run alone. They may not trust each other, but when they have the same goals, they work well together."
It is easy to see how the two classes might find it difficult to work together. The trouble with the two classes joining forces is easy to surmise for both of
them.
Their expressions become hardened because this report is not good news for us.
"It's not safe to go on like this, is it?"
"We can't beat them on our own, can we?"
"We will lose. If the three classes had fought separately, we would have had a chance of taking any of the rankings, but we got connected in an unexpected way."
Sakayanagi looks at Hashimoto, clearly stating the obvious.
"I wouldn't have teamed up with Ryuuen if I were you. You never know when you might be caught red-handed."
"I would rather have you scratch my neck in my sleep. Ryuuen-kun's class takes first place and Horikita's class takes second place. If that result happens, I welcome it, but if it is the other way around, it will be a little troublesome."
Sakayanagi is more wary of Horikita's class than Ryuuen's.
Hashimoto's laughter faded at Sakayanagi's comment that could be interpreted as such.
"There's no doubt that they're riding a wave of momentum right now. I thought it would be impossible for anyone other than Ryuuen's class to get 100 points without losing a few fish. Is Horikita growing up ... or is Ayanokouji also playing a dark role?"
He emphasizes the name "Ayanokouji," and turns to Sakayanagi. As if to confirm something.
There was no way that he could possibly be the one who could use such probing, and Sakayanagi continued indifferently.
"You've seemed to be pretty interested in him lately. What's going on?"
"... No, not really. I think he is hiding his ability compared to what is shown on the OAA. Well, it doesn't mean that Ayanokouji is the only student like that."
Hashimoto immediately backed down because he would not be happy with the outcome if the two sides engaged in a battle of wills.
He decided it was not a good idea to provoke them and attract their attention.
"But what are you going to do? With you, they say they'll lose, but you'll be absent, won't you?"
In other words, you're abandoning the game? Kamuro asks.
Hashimoto, who had been smiling, seemed concerned about this point and his expression became hard again.
Only 150 points. Even if Class A scored last in this sports festival it would not cause much damage.
However, they had fought so hard and built such a strong position that a defeat would not be welcome.
"There is only one answer." Sakayanagi laughs and continues.
"I will also participate in the sports festival. Even if they really join hands with each other, they are calculating that they can finally win with my non- participation. I will show them that this is an illusion."
"Are you sure about this?"
"It's good that you're motivated, but are you sure you want to do this?" The two were upset by Sakayanagi's announcement of her participation.
"I'm sure you'll be able to handle it. But if you say you'll get out, I guess we'll have to wait and see."
"However, this does not mean that overall athletic ability will improve. It is only a matter of picking up the competitions that may be missed. In other words, it will be a tough fight for first place even if I participate."
"It's not hard to see a crack in the relationship between Horikita and Ryuuen- kun. When they are desperately trying to work together on the day of the event, I'm happy to give them a little pushback."
Hashimoto and Kamuro have confidence in Sakayanagi, who exudes absolute confidence.
She has repeatedly produced high results in the past.
"I guess that's a relief, huh? Well, I'm amazed that our princess is able to pick up information so quickly. You didn't do it on that leg, did you?"
Usually, Hashimoto and Kamuro are used to gather information.
However, this was the first time they heard information from Sakayanagi first.
"I'm still the representative of Class A," Hashimoto replied, "So I've been asked to do the same. I've also made many acquaintances among the first- year students."
Without panicking, Sakayanagi smiled softly, as if enjoying the show.
2
It was finally October, and the main event of the sports festival was approaching.
I went there with Kei for the purpose of going on a date.
The oppressive stares from third-year students were as usual, but despite
Kei's involvement, she didn't seem to mind.
"I'm used to it now."
I'm not sure if she really is used to it.
Today, Kei wanted to visit several stores, so she decided to go to an electronics retailer first.
"What are you planning to buy?"
"What? I don't really want anything. Oh, no, it's not that I don't want something, but I didn't come here today for myself."
It means that she came here for someone else.
"Isn't your birthday coming up soon Kiyotaka? I thought about surprising you, but I thought it would be better to give you something you want."
Oh, she was right, it will soon be my birthday.
"I thought we could look around together and see what you want."
"I see."
This reminds me of how Kei has been repeatedly asking me what I like and what I plan to buy recently.
Since I had been saying random things without thinking deeply, she seemed to think that she would find something she wanted and give it to me as a gift.
"What about the Private Points expense?"
"Kei does not have a lot of money saved up."
"I understand, but it's just a birthday present. It will be fine."
She seems to be willing to buy whatever she wants, but it's not going to happen.
However, under the circumstances, I understand that it would be incorrect to say "No, I don't need it."
It is also obvious that the desire for something extremely inexpensive will not be satisfied.
I'llchoose something that isn't too expensive but still holds decent value. This is the kind of development that is being sought.
"I know what you're thinking right now."
She turns her eyes on me and crosses her arms forcefully.
"I'll buy what you want! Okay?" "..... Yes."
At the very least, it means that we should not buy unnecessary things in order to reduce our burdens.
The first time I walked out with my arms crossed, Kei put her cheek against my arm.
"Heh, heh. I'm happy."
Saying this, he tightened his hold on my arm.
"I have nothing more to hide from you Kiyotaka. I never thought I could have someone more important than my father and mother."
She blushed, but her eyes narrowed as if she was truly happy. "Kiyotaka can't hide things from me either, right?"
"Oh."
Hidden things. What does it mean?
My family. The White Room. What I'm going to do at school. Friendship and romantic feelings.
If any of these apply to you, then you are probably doing nothing more than hiding something. In other words, I haven't told Kei the truth about anything.
"Ah..."
While I was looking around the store, talking about the products, I bumped into Sato, who was in the store by herself.
As soon as they met, Sato's eyes fell on my linked arms with Kei.
"We are so in love, aren't we? Oh, I'm so sorry to bother you."
"Oh, wait, wait!"
Kei tries to stop her, but Sato runs away from the scene without a second glance.
"..., you little ..."
Kei puts her hand on her forehead.
"Are you still concerned about Sato?"
"It's not like that, but ... it still doesn't make me feel good. ..."
"Then you will have to refrain from crossing our arms outside from now on."
"No, I won't do it."
While feeling sorry for her friend, she has no intention of giving up her position.
"What's that? Hey, Ayanokoji!"
While walking around the rice cooker and hot water pot section, I ran into
Ishizaki and Albert.
At that moment, I could feel a slight tension in the arm I was holding with Kei.
"You're on a date with Karuizawa, huh? And with your arms crossed. ... You're a real good guy, aren't you?"
Ishizaki looks at me enviously, but I am more conscious of Albert's hand standing beside me.
He is holding a large branded pot in his hand.
It is strange that it doesn't look that big because Albert is so big.
"Oh, is that it? It's Ryuuen's birthday on the 20th of this month. I created it now. Hah!"
"What? Is the 20th the same birthday as..."
Surprised, Kei looks up at me with some alarm.
"It was the first time I had heard of it."
"Is it the same as someone else's birthday?"
"Do you still care about Sato?"
"It's not like that, but ... I still don't feel good about it. ..."
When Ishizaki looked at her, Kei glared at him and hid slightly behind him. "What's the matter with you?"
At that moment, Albert puts his hand lightly on Ishizaki's shoulder. Finally, he realized the reason for Kei's caution.
"... Oh, right... ......"
I heard him muttering something.
Even though it was Ryuuen's instruction, Ishizaki called Kei to the rooftop and participated in what was called bullying.
It is only natural that Kei would not take kindly to such a man like Ishizaki.
Perhaps he was angry at himself for being so slow.
After clicking his tongue, he lightly clenched her fist and pounded his head.
"I should have said "I'm sorry ...." Hah! I should have told you on the rooftop."
"Don't talk about it in here."
Ishizaki tried to apologize, but he still lacked delicacy.
This is Keyaki Mall. It would not be surprising if someone he knew showed up at any time.
Kei would not be happy if I brought up the incident on the rooftop.
Although the problem can be solved by simply separating the two of them, as long as the relationship between me and Kei continues, there will probably be more than a few opportunities to get involved with Ishizaki.
Maybe we should change the location.
Even in Keyaki Mall, there are not a few places where there are blind spots.
I'm not sure if it's a good idea to have a small group of people in the same room.
Albert also put the merchandise back on the shelf once and came along with Ishizaki.
They were apologizing because they felt very sorry for what they did.
By going by the emergency exit, we are far enough away from the shop that the students can see us, but not hear us.
If we see someone we know, we can stop the conversation right there and it won't be a problem.
"I'm so sorry! All this time without even an apology, really!"
"... I don't care if you apologize. In fact, it makes me even more angry than I already am."
"What? ...?"
"You were beaten to a pulp by Kiyotaka, so I have no choice but to apologize to you."
"No, no, no, that's not..."
"If Kiyotaka hadn't helped me on the rooftop, or if I had lost to Ryuzen and the others, there would have been no need for you to apologize to me like this. Am I wrong? Because it's annoying."
Kei has a point when she says that it is a nuisance.
I am involved with Ishizaki and Albert, but only because of the rooftop incident.
It's not surprising that there was a situation like Kei said.
"I think it can't be helped that I'm being blamed, but still, ..."
"I don't blame you. It is natural that the strong guy is superior. I don't like to be the one who is lower, so I have somehow managed to stand on top and have an overbearing attitude toward those lower than me. Isn't that right?"
Despite the differences in degree, Kei and Ishizaki are in fact similar in some ways.
They share the same values: "Let sleeping dogs take care of themselves."
"I understand what you are saying, but there is one thing I have come to understand since I came into contact with Ishizaki. Without a doubt, he has grown from the Ishizaki of that time in a better direction."
"What do you mean by "better direction"? I don't see anything different."
"I know this is just how I feel, but I don't think Ishizaki would easily go along with what Ryuuen did to you if he tried to do it to someone else."
"Yeah? He don't look like he could rebel against Ryuuen."
This point must have been right on the mark. Ishizaki choked on his words.
He was unable to say anything back, and his frustration overflowed, so he slapped his knee hard with the palm of his hand.
Kei saw this and sighed.
"That's enough. Right now, you are Kiyotaka's friend, right? I won't forgive you but I will stop blaming you."
"Is- is that alright?"
"I've already said it, haven't I? It's over, got it?
"Y, yes!"
Ishizaki raised his head in happiness.
"Umm... So about that. Earlier, whose birthday was it?
Ishizaki asked her again. Kei still didn't trust him fully yet, but she pointed her index finger at me.
"Eh? Really? Ayanokouji's birthday is also October 20th!? Ishizaki was shocked beyond words.
"This is fate, isn't it!?"
"What fate, there's more than 400 people in this school, it's not strange that there are some people with the same birthday."
"But, isn't it amazing that it's Ayanokouji and Ryuuen?"
Ishizaki was overjoyed over a simple coincidence. As Kei said, it wasn't strange, but for some reason even Albert looked a little happy.
"Can we return to the store now?"
"Ah! Right! Wait a sec!"
His voice was so loud that Kei, annoyed, plugged her fingers into her ears.
"I have a suggestion – if it's okay with you, why don't we celebrate both their birthdays together? Ryuuen-san's and Ayanokouji's double birthday party, won't it be amazing?"
No, from the moment I heard that suggestion, I did not for a second think it would be amazing...
I tried to imagine it, but I couldn't really picture it well. "If he apologizes, I'm okay?"
"Eh?"
"I said if that guy, Ryuuen lowers his head then I accept." Her response was a pretense to refuse.
Ishisaki's jaw dropped. Then he realized how difficult it would be. "Ryuuen won't apologize to me, right?
"Eh? Well yeah, that's definitely not happening..."
It might have been impossible for Ishizaki to even suggest it to Ryuuen. Ishizaki was stunned, but gathering his determination, he pursed his lips with
great force.
"If both of you agree, then I will suggest it to him!"
"You probably shouldn't?"
A beating was probably waiting for him if he did that. Ryuuen was a well known figure in our year, so that was the image that came to our minds.
"I'll do something about it! If I can get the promise of an apology, it'll be a birthday party!"
"Well... if you can really make it happen I'll think about it..."
Ishizaki was overflowing with his passion and even this cheap promise wouldn't bring down his mood.
Maybe I should also clearly reject this idea.
It's true that Ishizaki has been able to express his intentions more strongly of late. Furthermore, judging from the fact that he didn't expel anyone during the Unanimous Consent Special Test, it was also true that Ryuuen's way of thought was beginning to change.
However, I shouldn't read into it as proof of whether that was his instinct or his real intentions. Even if you want to change, humans don't change that easily.
And Ryuuen wasn't trying to change, he was trying to evolve.
Being a man who has only fought using evil, he has simply started to use good too. He was beginning to freely control what happened both above and below the table.
If Ishizaki's read on him was wrong, then───
"I think you should probably stop."
Kei tried to stop him, but Ishizaki's resolve wouldn't be broken.
"If Ryuuen says he will apologize, it's fine right?" "But ───"
"I understand! On top of that, let me apologize again. I'll get you something that I put even more effort into than I put into Ryuuen-san's present!"
Having lost to Ishizaki's energy, Kei hesitantly agreed, saying "Okay, I get it."
"Done! First, let's go look for Ryuuen-san's birthday present!"
Albert nodded, and he and Ishizaki went back towards the mega mart before us. They clearly understood that the two of us could not go with them.
"Why did you accept Ishizaki's idea? I thought you would shoot him down."
Accepting the honest apology was one thing, but she had never thought I'd choose to meet Ishizaki and the others on my birthday.
"I mean, for me, being together on your birthday, just the two of us would be great... but..."
"Are you betting on the chance that Ryuuen will apologize?" "That's impossible. It's not that...."
Kei turned around and looked at Albert and Ishizaki as they were walking away from us. Ishizaki was happily talking to Albert.
"I could feel that Ishizaki-kun likes being your friend. Even Kiyotaka needs friends, you know."
I quickly realized that she was referring to the fact that the Ayanokouji group was in pieces.
Kei realized I had guessed what she was thinking and turned away, her face bright red.
"Also? Ishizaki-kun did say he would once again apologize, and I just thought it wouldn't be a bad thing to accept that."
That side of her that wasn't honest was somehow very Kei.
But, it was more likely that it wouldn't come true. It was better to take Ishizaki's proposal with a grain of salt.
Like this the days passed till the day of the Sports Festival.
3
Sato, who had run out of the electronics store ahead of the rest of the group, catches her breath in front of the women's restroom.
"Oh, why did I run away, huh?"
A dear friend went out with someone she loved. The first thing that comes to
my mind is that there is nothing wrong with that.
I knew that, but when I saw her with her arms crossed, I was overcome with
an unspeakable urge.
If I had stayed where I was, I don't know how I would have behaved.
I suddenly ran away, but this time I felt a strong sense of guilt about it.
I sat down on a spot and hugged my knees.
"Next time, I'll try not to panic. ..."
I'm sure Kei is saving up in the classroom because of what happened with Ayakouji-kun.
In reality, we should have wanted to stay together even longer.
Just as I stood up, a shadow fell on me.
"I'm sorry to interrupt you. Are you Maya Sato, senpai?"
When she was approached by an unfamiliar student, Sato is at a loss for words.
"Yes, but ... Eh, who is it? You're a first-year student, right?"
"I don't think it's a big deal right now. Actually, there is something I would like to tell you as soon as possible. If you could spare a few minutes of your time, would you?"
"What? What do you mean?"
She is confused when she is told that she needs to talk to a junior whom she does not know.
The image of Ayanokoji and Karuizawa working closely together was still fresh in her mind, and she felt unsettled.
"I have information about Ayanokoji-senpai."
But Sato's movement stopped when she heard those words.
"... Ayanokoji-kun?"
"Yes, I am talking about him and his girlfriend, Kei Karuizawa, who is a senior."
Sato's eyes widened as she heard the names of the two people who had been occupying 99% of her mind for some time.
Sato felt a little nervous as the distance between them closed in. "Can we talk somewhere private after this?"
"That's ...."
The freshman takes advantage of his physical prowess to get close enough to touch his lips to Sato's ear.
"If Karuizawa-senpai withdraws from school, don't you think that will give you a chance Sato-senpai?"
Karuizawa is my closest friend at the moment, and Ayanokoji is the man of my dreams.
He says that this is a chance to change the relationship between the two and his position in the world.
Various emotions started to overflow. "What are you talking about?"
"Whether you listen or not, I leave it to your judgment. But if you don't listen, you will regret it for a long time to come. If you don't want to be seen, you can come to my dorm room."
Satisfied that he had verbally given his room number, the first-year student turned away and left Sato.
Sato was left confused and unable to understand what had happened. However, only one thing stuck in her memory.
"A chance will come my way."
Words suggesting the possibility of going out with Ayanokoji.
At the same time, feelings I didn't want to know crawled out from the bottom of my heart.
"I will..."
4
While some issues remained, the class proceeded with careful preparations
for the sports festival.
Although some students objected to the idea of a joint competition with Ryuuen, when the time came to start practicing, there were no major disputes, and the team competition practice went smoothly.
Even the initially negative classmates became willing to cooperate with each
other in order to win the competition, and worked hard day and night in the training sessions to build up their skills.
Finally, the night before the sports festival arrived.
It was around 9:30 p.m. when I made a phone call to Horikita.
"It's very late, isn't it? I was about to go to bed."
I could hear the sound of a hair dryer working in my ear.
"It's an important matter related to the sports festival."
"You have something important to tell me?"
As soon as she said this, the switch was turned off, or perhaps it was switched off, and the room went quiet.
"I wanted to say something first, too. Sakayanagi, is still planning to participate in the sports festival tomorrow, right? Didn't you say you could stop them?"
"It has something to do with that, too. I'm thinking of not attending the sports festival tomorrow."
"... You won't be attending? Wait a minute. What do you mean?"
I could tell that Horikita on the other end of the phone was visibly upset by
the sudden report.
I hear a clang, and a slight scream goes up. "Are you okay?"
"Sorry, I just dropped my hair dryer..."
I heard the sound of a cell phone being put somewhere. It sounds like she is in a hurry to pick up her hair dryer.
'So, why will you be absent? It doesn't mean you're sick, does it?"
At first glance, my voice sounded fine, so it was understandable that she was puzzled.
"There is nothing wrong with my health. In fact, I feel better than usual."
"If so, why? If you don't show up, you lose 10 points, right? Even if we don't count your win, it hurts to lose those 10 points."
With only 38 students in the class, it is understandable that she would want to complain.
"I'm not saying that 10 points isn't light. But this is part of my strategy." "... Your strategy?"
Of course, this is not the sort of thing where the father's assassin is a guest of honor. I mention here what I have been silent about until now.
I mention here what I have been silent about until now.
"This will lead us to the key to attacking Sakayangi, which is inevitable when aiming to take down class A."
"The strategy for Sakayanagi ...?"
"I told you, I have a way to keep Sakayanagi from participating in the gymnastics festival."
"I don't know how your absence is connected to the attack on Sakayanagi, but ..."
Horikita was about to ask the reason, but quickly reconsiders.
"I can't possibly understand what you're thinking right now. Besides, even if I persuade you, it won't change your mind to cancel it right?"
"Ah. First thing tomorrow morning, I'll call the school and tell them I'm not
feeling well."
"Then I guess I have no choice but to trust you here."
Horikita, while stunned, gave her approval.
"I was going for at least three first places as a personal goal, but now I have to add ten more points to my total."
"Thank you."
I end the call and plug my phone into the charging cord.
Before going to bed, Horikita will be too busy re-calculating her score and won't be able to sleep for a while.
Although it was a bit harsh, we will let it go as a necessary expense. There was one more phone call to be made.
Once I have provided them with the necessary information, everything is ready to go.