HyHQxArb

1	CLASSROOM OF THE ELITE
2
3
4
5
6
7	2nd Year Volume 1
8
9
10
11
12
13	Shougo Kinugasa
14
15	TABLE OF CONTENTS
16
17
18
19
20
21PROLOGUE | Secret Manoeuvres
22
23
24
25	CHAPTER 1 | The True Meaning of Ability
26
27
28
29	CHAPTER 2 | A New Stage
30
31
32
33	CHAPTER 3 | The Problematic Group of First-Years
34
35
36
37	CHAPTER 4 | Ichika’s Exam
38
39
40
41	CHAPTER 5 | D-class with D-class
42
43
44
45	CHAPTER 6 | The Footsteps of the Dropouts
46
47
48
49	EPILOGUE | Profounding Mystery
50
51
52
53
54
55	[ PROLOGUE ]
56
57
58
59	SECRET MANOEUVRES
60
61
62
63	It was about two months ago, on a certain day of February.
64
65	In a meeting room inside a facility located in Tokyo, a man who seems to be in his 40s, Tsukishiro, slowly read the material displayed on the screen and explained the situation. The one who was listening to it was a young teenage child. He is a 15-year-old teenager who will soon be enrolled into a certain high school.
66
67	However, the true nature of this child is not a mere adolescent.
68
69	He is a specially educated person who grew up in a top-secret facility called the White Room.
70
71	“Here lists the detailed data of all the 156 second-year students, and Kiyotaka Ayanokouji is among them. You’ve already memorised everything in your head, right?”
72
73	Tsukishiro, who was standing in front of a projected screen, disclosed all the information about the school’s students’ materials which were collected over the years. It ranged from their names, date of birth, past schools, as well as their close relatives, their previous exam grades, all the way to their friends. This is a top-secret meeting with all sorts of detailed materials that even a normal homeroom teacher wouldn’t be able to see.
74
75	“I think you already know this, but the important thing is to make Ayanokouji drop out of school in April and bring him back to the White Room. We can’t delay the plan any longer. But do try to do it as smart as you can. We don’t want things to go public. If our moves were to be reached into the government’s ears, then he’d… No, your teacher’s name would be damaged.”
76
77	After being briefed by Tsukishiro, the child slowly raised his hand.
78
79	“Do you mean not to stand out carelessly?”
80
81	“Yes,” Tsukishiro replied,”That’s why it’s not possible for a mere student to dive head-first into this and get away cleanly. I’ll back you up as much as possible, but from now on, Sakayanagi’s faction will start to act more vigilantly as well, so we shouldn’t be acting carelessly.”
82
83	The child has basically gotten a good grasp of the situation, but the expression he made contained a certain dissatisfaction towards his given task.
84
85	“I’ll assume that you’re not fully convinced yet since you’re making that face.”
86
87	Tsukishiro looked at the picture of Ayanokouji behind him before turning to face the lone teenager in front of him.
88
89	“That boy… Don’t you like touting about Ayanokouji’s outstanding work? Not only was I sent in to regulate things, but the White Room which was about to re-kickstart its activities were forced to a halt because of him. This might be considered a luxury to the children in the White Room, and it is quite generous of Ayanokouji to delay their ‘experiment,’ but for the people who have grown up in the same facility, won’t they feel a bit humiliated by his actions?”
90
91	Tsukishiro continued to explain this point of his carefully, while at the same time emphasizing his annoyance towards him.
92
93	Basically, his idea was to try and bring out Ayanokouji’s ability by adding fuel to the competition.
94
95	That’s because this person named Kiyotaka Ayanokouji is a masterpiece.
96
97	Every time his situation is explained in words, a certain emotion lurks into the mind of those who listened.
98
99	Tsukishiro, who was showing a poker face, is the only person to have their emotions misread.
100
101	He’s been taught that the people who grew up in the White Room didn’t like it.
102
103	“Become an existence beyond that of Kiyotaka Ayanokouji.”
104
105	In a third party’s view who did not grow up in that facility, the feeling of ‘hatred’ towards this person could not be understood.
106
107	Sometimes, the hatred would swell to the point where it can’t be suppressed anymore, and it would evoke the thought that the mentioned masterpiece was just a runaway in the end.
108
109	“We’ve already prepared a stage for you. All you need to do is show your ability to the fullest. The data I gave you should be flawless. If you have this much ability in you, then it won’t be a problem for you, would it?”
110
111	After the explanation – and the provocation that was somehow brushed off by the listener – Tsukishiro turned off the screen.
112
113	The room that was once covered in darkness is now enveloped in light once the ceiling lights turned on.
114
115	“Well, since you don’t have any other questions, let’s get going. Time is precious, after all.”
116
117	After receiving those instructions, the boy turned around with his back facing Tsukishiro and left the room as if nothing had ever happened.
118
119	Tsukishiro felt a slight chill after seeing this calm attitude of his.
120
121	Intuition called for the wrong words in his explanation.
122
123	However, it’s not possible to retract those words which have already been spoken.
124
125	“There’s one thing I forgot to confirm.”
126
127	The person leaving the room stopped in their tracts, and Tsukishiro continued to talk with the boy’s back still turned towards him.
128
129	“You didn’t hide anything from me, did you?”
130
131	Even people on the same side as him could understand that this organization is not monumental.
132
133	If the person doesn’t agree with the first and foremost point, then there wouldn’t be any more reason to continue on.
134
135	Tsukishiro needed confirmation for that.
136
137	Without looking back, the person quietly walked away, not before performing a small nod.
138
139	After the person left the room, Tsukishiro turned off the lights once again and displayed the image of Kiyotaka Ayanokouji on the screen.
140
141	It contained all the data of Ayanokouji recorded while he stayed in the White Room.
142
143	“I don’t like using this word loosely, but… he’s definitely a monster.”
144
145	The measure of his academic ability, and not to mention his physical capabilities; they are easily comparable to that of a superior adult’s, and maybe even more so than that.
146
147	He’s had enough experience and achievements to prove that he can – without hesitation – win in a fight against a professional in combat, even if they had the upper hand.
148
149	“A battle of those who were artificially nurtured from the White Room against naturally-born geniuses… I wonder who would win if they fought head-on?”
150
151	Of course, Tsukishiro already has a solid answer to that.
152
153	However, that answer isn’t absolute.
154
155	“To hunt, or to be hunted. Even if it’s a game between children, it’s going to be a heck of an interesting one.”
156
157	As an adult himself, Tsukishiro didn’t waver. He never would. Just do what you’ve been told to. That is your purpose.
158
159
160
161
162
163	[ 1 ]
164
165
166
167	THE TRUE MEANING OF ABILITY
168
169
170
171	It has been a long time since society became familiar with the term ‘ability’ in the 21st century.
172
173	Japan was at a turning point as the world faced various problems.
174
175	Those problems range from declining birth rate, an aging population, environmental problems, along with a declining sense of nationalism. Overall, Japan was just full of declines.
176
177	Thus, in order to rebuild these efforts from the ground up, the government had begun to emphasize their work on human resource development.
178
179	And through those efforts, a certain high school was born.
180
181	To attract a wide variety of students from all over the country and to train world-class children in order to lead the future.
182
183	That is the purpose of the Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School.
184
185	The biggest selling point of this school would be that it does not question the student’s grades when determining their eligibility to enter its curriculum.
186
187	Instead, the students are selected according to the school’s own criteria. The ability of each student isn’t solely based off their grades, but instead are scored on multiple aspects.
188
189	For example, those who can study but are bad at communicating with others. Those who excel at sports but aren’t the brightest.
190
191	Even the ones without any special traits. They are all accepted into the school to partake in the same curriculum together.
192
193	It is a mechanism that a normal high school wouldn’t have thought of in the first place.
194
195	Students with such diverse personalities are made to live in groups and compete on a class-by-class basis.
196
197	The purpose of doing this is to let the students fight in a competitive society and to create the groundwork necessary to survive as a group.
198
199	And thus, the students who are stamped with the seal of ineligibility will trace the fate of withdrawal without mercy.
200
201	Nobody can survive in this school just by studying or exercising.
202
203	The first year is divided into four classes, from A-class to D-class.
204
205	At the time of admission, approximately 40 students are allocated to each class. Thus, bringing the grand total up to 160 students.
206
207	In a more detailed analysis, this school is wildly different compared to other high schools.
208
209	First of all, students will not be allowed to contact the outside for three years until graduation. At the same time, they will also be barred from leaving school grounds and are forced to live in the dormitories.
210
211	This sounds more like a prison than a school.
212
213	To contradict this fact, the school – which boasts a large amount of area – have prepared facilities for students, so there is no need to worry about living essentials. In a large commercial facility dedicated to students and school officials called Keyaki Mall, you can find just about everything you’ll ever need, ranging from cafes, consumer electronics retailers, and all the way to saloons. If you want something else not found in this place, then the Internet is the second-best option.
214
215	In addition to that, the money required for daily life purchases is provided in the form of ‘private points,’ and they are used instead of actual cash in an easy-to-understand one-point one-yen basis.
216
217	However, these private points aren’t infinite.
218
219	Each month, private points are allocated to students according to the amount of ‘class points’ their class has. For each class point, 100 private points will be allocated to the students in that class. For example, if a class has 786 class points, then the students in that class will get 78,600 private points each month.
220
221	In other words, to accumulate enough private points necessary to live a comfortable school life, class points must be secured first.
222
223	Fortunately, there are several ways to gain class points, but the most common way to obtain them is through a special challenge given to all students in that grade called ‘special exams.’
224
225	Basically, students from each class will compete with each other, and whoever performs the best will gain class points, while the lowest performers will lose class points. Let’s say your class has 1000 class points. That means, you’ll be allocated 100,000 private points each month.
226
227	If you along with your class continuously underperforms in these special exams, then your class points will inevitably drop down to zero. Thus, the private points you’ll get each month will also be zero.
228
229	The relationship between class points and private points is probably a mechanism for uniting the students with different ways of thinking by fighting together as a group to gain class points. Having a sufficient amount class points will also mean guaranteeing a fulfilling school life.
230
231	However, that is not the only charm of the Advanced Nurturing High School.
232
233	The biggest selling point of this school is to graduate while enrolled in class A. The victorious students can go on to even higher education and get their preferred jobs. In extreme terms, whether it is a university for the elite, or a high-end company, they will almost always be allowed a pass.
234
235	That said, life certainly isn’t that easy. If your boss clearly sees that you are not performing as they expected you to, then you’ll be kissing the company goodbye.
236
237	Still, there is no doubt that the perks given by this school is a very attractive favour.
238
239	Many people wonder if that is the main reason why the Advanced Nurturing High School is such a high-profile school.
240
241	Kiyotaka Ayanokouji is a student who attends this elite school.
242
243	And after a little over a year of studying in this school, his second year will begin soon.
244
245	As of the 1st of April, Ayanokouji’s class, which is class D, has 275 class points. The students in D-class will only receive an amount of private points just shy of 30,000. By the way, A-class, which is led by Sakayanagi, is currently in first place in terms of class points, with an overwhelming lead of 1119 class points.
246
247	Following that is class B which was led by Ichinose. Their class currently has 542 class points. And just behind that, Ryuuen’s class C has 540. They are so close that the difference in class points just seems insignificant.
248
249	Although the difference of class points between D-class and the other classes is quite big, there are still numerous chances for Ayanokouji’s class to come back.
250
251	In the next year, how much the gap between each class can be reduced through their efforts will be key to the game.
252
253
254
255
256
257	[ 2 ]
258
259
260
261	A NEW STAGE
262
263
264
265	The long yet deceivingly short spring break is finally over, and the opening ceremony of the Tokyo Metropolitan Advanced Nurturing High School has arrived.
266
267	On this day, all of us will be leaving the classroom that we have been so familiar with over the past year, and will be moving to a new classroom now that we are sophomores.
268
269	At first glance, everything seems the same, from the chairs, desks and the plain walls; but somehow, it still feels different to me. The first thing everyone was waiting for when we entered this classroom was the message that was apparently displayed on the blackboard.
270
271	“Please wait in the same seats as the previous year.”
272
273	Until last year, what was called a ‘blackboard’ was utilized by writing on it using chalk by a teacher.
274
275	However, the blackboard in front of me could be called as a ‘black screen’ instead of an actual blackboard.
276
277	To put it simply, a large electronic monitor has now replaced the traditional blackboards.
278
279	From this year onwards, we will be using this gigantic screen for day-to-day activities in class. Just like any new piece of technology, it has a certain shine to it that makes it seem precious.
280
281	The students who arrived at class after me all seemed to be at awe when they noticed the newly implemented ‘blackboard.’ Anyway, as instructed by the screen, I headed straight to the back of the class, right up to the leftmost window, where a seemingly-familiar seat welcomes me. I sat down with a bit of excitement, only to be let down with the same view yet again.
282
283	When the time comes, the opening ceremony will be held in the gymnasium, same as last year’s occasion.
284
285	Following that, the teacher in charge of our class will explain the schedule and necessary preparations for this fiscal year, lasting for an estimated two hours. After that, class will be dismissed in the morning.
286
287	As spring break has just ended, the students’ minds seem to be prioritizing on elsewhere. Naturally, my friends – and most likely everyone else – who have not met each other for quite a while, are excited to see what their acquaintances were involved in during the holidays.
288
289	“Yo!”
290
291	While I was surfing the internet on my phone on my seat, I was called out by someone from my right.
292
293	No, it wasn’t Horikita. Not in a million years would she greet someone with the words”Yo!”
294
295	The person who allegedly greeted me was my classmate, Miyake Akito. He is one of the people in the Ayanokouji Group who I get along with well.
296
297	“You know, I was a bit worried since you didn’t show up in the group chat much during spring break,” expressed Akito.
298
299	It is true that during spring break, I had little to no interaction with the group.
300
301	Would it be a miracle to say that the conditions in the surrounding area was hustling and bustling, and that despite me being somewhat neglected, I was still approached by a classmate?
302
303	“Of course, there’s no rule that states we must get together every time, but you’re like the ‘leader’ of this group, so it wouldn’t hurt to hang out with us a bit more, right? And most of all, Airi seemed to care a lot about you during spring break.”
304
305	Thinking about the feelings of the girls in the group, Akito gave me that piece of advice.
306
307	“Sorry, I’ll show my face a bit more onwards.”
308
309	“That’s okay. I’ll admit I did miss seeing you around, too.”
310
311	When a friend says that, it becomes a little bit painful. Still, I didn’t feel at guilt here.
312
313	As if he hadn’t intended on staying here for long, Akito raised his right hand as a gesture of goodbye and turned around to return to his seat, which was the same as last year’s.
314
315	I think he is a very good friend to have.
316
317	After that, since I didn’t want to fiddle around with my phone anymore, I decided to eavesdrop on some conversations going on in class.
318
319	From the topic of spring break earlier, it has moved on to the new first-year students.
320
321	Tomorrow will be the day when the entrance ceremony will be held and when the new freshmen will arrive.
322
323	Last year, class D was treated fairly well after entering school, with no major conflicts happening during the first day.
324
325	All classes were immediately given 1000 class points after admission. In other words, it would be equal to 100,000 private points, which is equivalent to 100,000 yen in cash. The students were heads over heels about their monthly allowance, and bought one item after another. In addition to that, being late to class and even absences were commonplace, along with talking and dozing off in class.
326
327	On the other hand, serious students focused only on themselves and did not have to pay attention to their chaotic surroundings.
328
329	There may be several reasons why they were not acting properly, but it can definitely be said that the school intended on leaving the problem children alone. If the teacher didn’t care, then why should the students either?
330
331	However, that could technically be counted as the first ‘special exam’ held by the school.
332
333	Whether or not the ability to notice what is going on is considered different from the compulsory education in elementary and middle school, as a high school student, I was voluntarily trying to find out if I could take things for granted.
334
335	And, as a result, on the 1st of May following that uncivilized month, our class points immediately fell to zero. Thus, the private points that were initially going to be transferred to us were also non-existent.
336
337	After that unforgettable day, as class 1-D took on several trials, their disjointed students slowly grew and developed a sense of unity, finally being able to crawl out of the rabbit hole they dug themselves in. At one point in time, we even managed to overtake class C, but at the end, we still fell back down to class D.
338
339	Despite countless exams and trials, we managed to gain 375 class points throughout the year. Although the difference between the current class points of class A and class D is unbearably large, in the past year, we remain as the class to gain the most class points out of any class.
340
341	Now that we have advanced to the second year, it will be important to know how much you can improve together in order to increase the class points.
342
343	“Oh, hey!”
344
345	I could hear the voice of a cheerful girl greeting her friends. Immediately after that, the girls who were greeted by that voice turned around one after another and returned the greeting. It was Karuizawa Kei who gathered all the girls together. The number of girls increased rapidly, and the same stories from before loop back to the beginning.
346
347	It was only the other day that I started going out with Kei, the leader of the girls in our class.
348
349	There is no one but the two of us who know this relationship.
350
351	As I recalled on the conversation that I was eavesdropping on, a suddenly voice of surprise, similar of that to a shriek, resounded through the whole classroom. When I looked up, I immediately understood the real reason of the surprise.
352
353	Should it be said that such a reaction is natural when seeing the appearance of a certain classmate who has been going to school just as everyone else here?
354
355	The female student, who was attracting all the attention, went straight to her seat – that is, the seat right next to mine – without responding to the surprise.
356
357	That long, beautiful black hair of hers is now gone, and has now been replaced with shoulder-length hair. Actually, it was even shorter than that.
358
359	This was the result of her finally reconciling with her brother, Manabu Horikita, and finally broke away from her past self, one where she was always chasing after the shadow of said brother. Thus, she cut her hair to show that she has changed.
360
361	I can’t be surprised since I already know of that fact, but if this were to be my first sighting of her, then my reaction would have been the same as the people around me.
362
363	“Su-Suzune… You… That… Your hair… What’s happened to your hair?!”
364
365	It was Ken Sudou who shouted out so hastily after seeing Horikita’s new look. After all, he is the one who has fallen in love with her.
366
367	Yet another girl, who was puzzled by Horikita’s sudden change, approached her as well.
368
369	“Horikita-san, I wouldn’t have imagined this… Right, I was so surprised when I saw you!”
370
371	It was Kikyou Kushida, who is another classmate, and also coincidentally from the same middle school as Horikita.
372
373	“I wonder, is it that strange that I cut my hair?”
374
375	Not only Sudou and Kushida, but also many other students who paid attention to Horikita’s new hairstyle, was glared at by her cold eyes.
376
377	“No, no! I was just so surprised. Your new hairstyle changes your image a lot. Of course, I’m not saying that it looks bad at all. Short hair is nice too. Ain’t that right?”
378
379	Although the impact of Horikita’s change was strong for Sudou, the length of her hair isn’t something he would be so trivial about. Rather, he readily accepted the new image of his preferred partner and showed his support. Despite that, Sudou couldn’t hide his puzzled appearance.
380
381	“Yeah, that’s right… I think it suits you well. But what happened? Why did you decide to cut your hair?” Kushida asks.
382
383	The topic shifts slightly to find out Horikita’s motive for cutting her hair.
384
385	“Come on, tell me! Why’d you cut it?”
386
387	Before Horikita could even answer, Sudou cut in with his impatient words.
388
389	“Let’s just say… It was about a broken heart, and so on…” Horikita’s answer was vague.
390
391
392
393
394
395	“Eh? A broken heart?”
396
397	“If I were to put it into more accurate terms, then I’d say it’s more of a declaration of independence.”
398
399	Horikita answered without putting much attention towards her hair so as to brush off the ‘broken heart’ statement of hers.
400
401	“Well, I guess that’s true. There’s no way you would have a broken heart, would you?”
402
403	Even though he says so, Sudou is still breaking out into a cold sweat.
404
405	“This year, since I’m a second-year student now, I’ve decided to fight as hard as I can in order to make D-class rise higher. That’s why I wanted to do as much as I could handle.”
406
407	“That’s right. Well then… I think I’ll extend my hair instead,” Kushida claimed.
408
409	It is true that long hair is also cute, but the true motive behind extending her hair is much different from that.
410
411	Kushida is probably frustrated that she has the exact same hair length as the one person she hated now that Horikita has cut her hair short. No one would have guessed that was Kushida’s true intentions. I couldn’t help but imagine the raging feelings swirling inside Kushida right now.
412
413	“If you’re satisfied with my explanation, then would you all be so kind as to return to your seats?”
414
415	Horikita is implying that there’s no point in paying so much attention in the length of her hair.
416
417	Horikita, who had a strong impact on her surroundings, seemed to be a little dissatisfied that she is attracting so much attention. She looked grumpy, but fortunately the bell rang and the chat finally ended.
418
419
420
421	* * *
422
423
424
425	Part 1
426
427
428
429	Several days have passed since the opening ceremony was held. In the blink of an eye, the weekend has passed and it is now Monday.
430
431	Every single day since then was full of peace.
432
433	At the beginning of the school year, major changes have been made to the blackboards, and all textbooks are now replaced with tablets. Last week, my eyes have been focusing on the newly distributed tablets.
434
435	Just as e-books have become more popular these days, the textbooks that were used in class have also been replaced by electronic versions inside the tablet itself.
436
437	The tablet is given to each student, along with a new high-speed charging device installed at the rear end of the classroom. The charging port is always available to prevent the tablets from running out of battery in the middle of class. In principle, it is prohibited to bring back the tablets, but students are allowed to transfer necessary data over the school’s network.
438
439	The previously troublesome number of textbooks that we had to carry each day has now all been stored inside this 12-inch tablet as data. In addition to being able to freely manipulate and utilize tools and images, the school has also responded to the act of globalization by allowing smooth interactions with people from around the globe in English classes.
440
441	If you think about this government-supervised school, this new way of learning is actually quite late to being introduced.
442
443	However, it remains unclear at this time whether the progress made is necessarily correct or not.
444
445	The evaluation of this change will be greatly divided on whether the children are able to succeed in the future and fit in with society.
446
447	The level of knowledge gained during the second year of high school will naturally be higher than that of the first year. I don’t know how high the threshold for other high schools are, but I can at least say that this school seems to be way above average.
448
449	If so, then how far can Sudou and Ike go on their own when studying? In order to prevent more expulsions, we as a class need to support each other more than ever before.
450
451	At any rate, what has changed substantially is the digitization of study materials, but other than that the seating plan of the class has also changed. It is possible to use private points to secure your favourite seats, but in the end, I didn’t need to use that.
452
453	Previously, I sat at the rear end of the class and right next to the window, pretty much what you’d call a cliché seat. After the change, I miraculously scored another seat at the back, this time however being at the opposite end of the class, where I’m closest to the corridor.
454
455	Generally, seats close to the corridors are pretty unpopular because there are a lot of people coming and going which can cause distractions. To me, however, that wasn’t that big of a deal.
456
457	In addition to that, although the number of new students passing each other has increased, there is no change to me in particular who is not involved in club activities, and I have yet talked to anyone else from another school year yet.
458
459	It’s already been a year since I’ve talked to a senior student. That time was to get a hold of old exam questions.
460
461	At any rate, the first few days of the new school year were lull.
462
463	“Is everyone present?”
464
465	At about the same time as the school bell rang, our homeroom teacher, Chabashira-sensei shows up in our classroom.
466
467	Chabashira-sensei’s expression was serious.
468
469	And since there won’t be any classes in the first and second periods after this, we can expect something to go down.
470
471	It seems that the minute amount of peaceful days is coming to an end.
472
473	“Sensei, is there a special exam?”
474
475	Before our homeroom teacher even spoke, Ike immediately asked that question after noticing Chabashira-sensei’s facial expression.
476
477	Nobody dared to act silly, and the feeling of even trying has gone straight out the window.
478
479	It did not seem to be a problem for Chabashira-sensei, though.
480
481	In the past, every time a special exam is announced, many – if not, all – the students would feel uneasy.
482
483	However, as much as we despise them, it is a path that cannot be avoided if we’re aiming for the top. Though, we are becoming more and more capable of facing them.
484
485	“It may be a concern for all of you, but there are things that I have to address before I move on. This is very important for the future of your school lives.”
486
487	After taking out her cell phone, Chabashira-sensei continued to explain while showing the screen of her phone to us.
488
489	“Everyone, take out your cell phones and put it on the desk. If anyone has forgotten to bring their cell phone, then I’ll have you return to your dorms and take it back here. However, everyone seems to have their phones, so there’s no need for that.”
490
491	Mobile phones are now a must-have item in daily life. Above all, it can be said that we have now been accustomed to having it on our bodies at all times, as if we’re wearing them just like our clothes.
492
493	Soon after confirming that all 39 of our cell phones are on our desks, Chabashira-sensei began to talk again.
494
495	“First of all, each student has to access the school’s website in order to install a new application. It should be available for download at this time. The official name of the app is ‘Overall Ability,’ but after installation, it will only appear as ‘OAA.’”
496
497	The screen of the ‘blackboard’ switches to a live-action demonstration of the installation of the app.
498
499	This can be considered as a convenient part obtained from digitalization.
500
501	After installing the app, an app with the icon of the school’s insignia is added in our phones, along with the letters ‘OAA’ displayed below the icon.
502
503	“Once you’re done, put your phones back down. If there’s anything that you don’t understand, then raise your hand.”
504
505	These instructions are so simple that there shouldn’t be anyone who has trouble following them. That’s at least true for our class, as there are no students who are struggling with the instructions, so the process is going smoothly.
506
507	“Remember, it’s not only you, class 2-D, but all classes spread among every school year are doing the installation work at the same time. This app is an excellent one which will bring various benefits to the students of this school in the future. I’m going to ask you to start up the app without wasting any time.”
508
509	Following Chabashira-sensei’s words, I tapped the icon of the app to start it. Immediately upon opening, the camera on the phone is activated.
510
511	“Scan your student ID cards using your phone’s camera. It’ll automatically complete the initial setup phase.”
512
513	Using the rear camera of my phone, I took a picture of my own student ID card which included information such as my name, age, class, student ID and a photo of my face. After a few seconds, the setup is complete.
514
515	“Now that you’ve created your accounts, there’s no need to log in later. Also, be careful with handling your phones from now on, because the app you just installed on your phones have confidential information about yourself.”
516
517	When I logged in, I could see several interactable items listed as small icons in the main menu of the app.
518
519	“This app contains personal data for all students of all grades. For example, if you press the icon for class 2-D, all students’ names will be displayed in alphabetical order. Give it a try.”
520
521	A total of 39 face portraits are certainly displayed in order.
522
523	“I don’t care who you look at, but I recommend tapping on your own name first.”
524
525	I tapped on my own name as I was told.
526
527	What I thought was going to be displayed is just simple information like my name, face portrait, age, class, date of birth and so on, but it seems I was off the mark here.
528
529	What was actually displayed were pieces of information that nobody would’ve imagined.
530
531
532
533	 		 			 2-D Kiyotaka Ayanokouji
534
535
536
537		 			 First-year Results
538
539
540
541		 			 Academic Ability
542
543			 C (51)
544
545
546
547		 			 Physical Ability
548
549			 C+ (60)
550
551
552
553		 			 Critical Thinking
554
555			 D+ (37)
556
557
558
559		 			 Social Contribution
560
561			 C+ (60)
562
563
564
565		 			 Overall Strength
566
567			 C (51)
568
569
570
571
572
573	“Sensei, what are these? Are they my abilities scored in numerical values like a game?”
574
575	“That’s right. These are your individual results based on your performance during your first year here at this school. Although I said it has confidential information, it is still possible to view not only our class’ but also the grades of all students no matter what year they are in. I approved of this statistics system since I judged it to be useful for your education in the future.”
576
577	In other words, the role of this app called OAA is to get a grip on each individual’s capabilities in numerical form. They can also use the app for convenient purposes such as sending a notification to all students in this school.
578
579	In the upper right corner of the screen, I tapped on the ‘?’ button. A menu popped up which includes a detailed explanation of each scored category.
580
581	Academic Ability: Calculated from scores in written tests conducted mainly throughout the year.
582
583	Physical Ability: Calculated from the evaluation of the individual’s strength in P.E. classes, club activities, special examinations etc.
584
585	Critical Thinking: Calculated from how capable the individual can adapt to society, such as the number of friends they have, communication skills which include their standing position, and whether or not their applications for solutions are effective.
586
587	Social Contribution: Calculated from various factors such as the attitude of the individual during class, absences and tardiness, their behaviour, and their contribution to the school through the affiliation of the student council.
588
589	Overall Strength: Calculated from the four aspects of the individual as listed above, though their social contribution score is halved when calculating their overall strength.
590
591	Here is a more specific way to find the score for overall strength:
592
593	(Academic Ability + Physical Ability + Critical Thinking + Social Contribution * ½) all divided by 350, and then multiplied again by 100 which is rounded off to the closest integer.
594
595	I see now. My ability to think is lower than other aspects, which in my opinion should be a convincing enough cover to hide my true abilities.
596
597	The number of friends and communication skills for me are not very high.
598
599	If other aspects are evaluated by what we usually show, then it is likely that the student body can easily agree on their scores.
600
601	In addition to the first-year scores, there are options for second-year and third-year scores, but those are currently blank (since we haven’t even finished our second year at high school yet).
602
603	“Right now, only your first-year results are available, but from today onwards, as long as you are in your second year of high school, you are going to be evaluated without the impact of your previous year. Updates will be made at the beginning of each month along with the class points.
604
605	“Sudou, your current academic ability is grade E, right? That’s not a very shiny grade that you can show to anyone, but if you get a perfect score in the next written exam, you will be given an A+ on your second-year evaluation page,” Chabashira-sensei explained.
606
607	In other words, the evaluation for your second year is for that year only, separate from your previous year. And the annual results will always remain as its own record. Even if Sudou gets a perfect score in the written exam in April and his academic ability evaluation shoots up to an A+, if he scores 0 points on the written exam after that one, then the two results will balance out and he’ll get an average evaluation of C. If that’s how you spent the year, then the total average of your actions will come out at the end.
608
609	The most notable aspect of this app is that information about the student body can be confirmed not only through face-to-face exchanges but also through OAA. Just from seeing a student’s name, face, and what kind of grades they have, no matter if they were a freshman, sophomore or senior, you can gather up lots of information without even the need of directly exchanging information.
610
611	By the way, the first-years seem to have their grades evaluated based on their performance in their third year in middle school. Aside from academic ability, physical ability and social contribution, there is a possibility that their critical thinking ability cannot be evaluated as of yet.
612
613	A useful performance checking tool… No, that’s not the only thing.
614
615	It is clear that this will play a more important role.
616
617	“Some students who have achieved unsatisfactory grades may be dissatisfied with the fact that records remain, but I have to tell you that I’m the one who oversees all of your growth that year.”
618
619	The closer your academic ability and physical ability are to E-grade, the more you will leave a stain as a student.
620
621	“The results in your first year of high school are now a thing of the past. It will have no effect on the future evaluation of all of you who have now become sophomores. In other words, it is important for those who have achieved poor results to change their perceptions on their past. We expect the visualization of your performances to encourage that kind of growth.”
622
623	If personal results continue to remain in the app which can be reviewed by everyone in the future, there will be a lot of people who would want to make an effort to improve their reputation, even if it’s small. As Chabashira-sensei said, the effect of promoting improvement in the performance of each student seems to come to an extent.
624
625	“Sensei, why is the evaluation method for social contribution a little different from the other three categories?”
626
627	The impact of social contribution on overall strength is halved.
628
629	The question was posed by Yousuke Hirata who had wondered about that point for a long time now.
630
631	“Academic ability, physical ability, and critical thinking; the school regards these three categories as very important for the success of a student. On the other hand, social contribution is a little different. Social contribution is based on a student’s morals and manners, their language and attitude towards teachers, their presence in class and absences or being late to school. Their ability to comply with the rules and regulations set by the school, and also the appearance of the student from various aspects such as their ability to speak up and their accuracy in replies are all examined. Since being socially active is merely a choice and not impacted much by talent, the impact on overall strength is set to be low.”
632
633	Unlike the three other skills that cannot be gained overnight, a person’s personality and attitude can change a lot in just one day.
634
635	Take Hirata’s case for example, one day he’s a social, friendly person who is easy to talk to, and the next day he’s become a walking ghost that rejects anyone else’s company. Plus, when he recovered from that ‘depression’ era of his, it only took him one day to do so.
636
637	From that, we can see that social contribution isn’t a challenging skill that requires a lot of effort to acquire, and instead it can be heavily affected from one’s surroundings.
638
639	“This app is equal. It has nothing to do with the fact that the class is above or below. Everyone is equally valued. As of now, students who are highly regarded for their collective strength can say that they have achieved results worthy of praise as a single person.”
640
641	The student list is arranged alphabetically, though it seems to have a sorting function.
642
643	It is not necessary to look one by one for the person with the highest collective strength in class D in these two years.
644
645	When I tapped on the sort function, it was Yousuke Hirata who came up at the top with the highest combined strength in the class.
646
647
648
649	 		 			 2-D Yousuke Hirata
650
651
652
653		 			 First-year Results
654
655
656
657		 			 Academic Ability
658
659			 B+ (76)
660
661
662
663		 			 Physical Ability
664
665			 B+ (79)
666
667
668
669		 			 Critical Thinking
670
671			 B (75)
672
673
674
675		 			 Social Contribution
676
677			 A (85)
678
679
680
681		 			 Overall Strength
682
683			 B+ (78)
684
685
686
687
688
689	If you look at it from a numerical standpoint, you can see Yousuke’s excellence in a single glance. No matter which part you put your attention to, his high level of achievement is almost indescribable. If Yousuke’s weakness, which he had shown at the end of the year, had not been shown, his evaluation would have been a little higher.
690
691	On the other hand, when I sorted the Overall Strength category to ‘Lowest to Highest,’ Ike came out on top. His overall strength was 37.
692
693	Additionally, there was another student with the same overall strength.
694
695	Airi Sakura.
696
697	She also had an overall strength of 37.
698
699	Sudou, who seemed to be regarded with the lowest-ranked overall strength by the class, is actually placed above several students.
700
701
702
703	 		 			 2-D Ken Sudou
704
705
706
707		 			 First-year Results
708
709
710
711		 			 Academic Ability
712
713			 E+ (20)
714
715
716
717		 			 Physical Ability
718
719			 A+ (96)
720
721
722
723		 			 Critical Thinking
724
725			 D+ (40)
726
727
728
729		 			 Social Contribution
730
731			 E+ (19)
732
733
734
735		 			 Overall Strength
736
737			 C (47)
738
739
740
741
742
743	Academic ability and social contribution are quite low in terms of year one due to his poor behaviour. However, the height of his physical ability is enough to compensate for his evaluation, and thus he escaped from the bottom. When I did further research, I found out that Sudou is the only person with an A+ rating for his physical ability out of the whole first/second grade.
744
745	Sudou, who has started improving his academic ability and is showing his mental growth, will most likely improve his exam grades even further in his second year.
746
747	“Also, this is not directly related to the D-class, but in the first/second grade, as an exceptional measure, only the physical ability evaluation of the second year A-class student Arisu Sakayanagi is the same as the lowest-grade student.”
748
749	Arisu Sakayanagi, a second year A-class student, has a physical handicap.
750
751	She needs to use a cane for your everyday usual activity of walking.
752
753	In other words, since she has a sort of handicap on her physical movements, she won’t be able to do any exercise, sports or rigorous activities.
754
755	However, it’s not fair to just give someone zero points if they are not able to do something due to their condition – which, by the way, can’t be controlled in the first place – so, in that sense, there has been an agreement to match her physical ability score with the person who has the lowest one as well.
756
757	At any rate, the visualization of one’s abilities might be essential in reflecting one’s prowess.
758
759	“This app will make you aware of your own performance and change your bad habits, so that you can play an important role for the class as a whole. But… I don’t think that’s all there is to it. This is a personal speculation, but I think that a year from now, students whose overall strength are lower than a certain level will be given some kind of ‘penalty.’
760
761	“Penalty?! No way, will it be dropping out…?”
762
763	“There’s a possibility, but like I said, it’s only my speculation. It won’t necessarily apply. However, it’s better to think that the closer your overall strength is to grade E, the higher the risk of dropping out.”
764
765	Ike and Airi, who are at the bottom of the list at the moment, have been evaluated close to grade E according to their overall strength.
766
767	If you continue to spend this year like how you did in the last, then it won’t produce a pretty result.
768
769	“Some of you may be dissatisfied with the difference between your own self-assessment and the school’s evaluation. However, this is the current ‘evaluation of yourself on the school’s side.’ If you are dissatisfied with that point, show that you have a higher evaluation than the one given by the school. Convince them that you’re not as low as they think you are.”
770
771	“But how can I do that, sensei?”
772
773	Ike, who has the lowest overall strength, rose his hand in a hurry.
774
775	“For students who are doing club activities, your physical ability can be increased. For those who are not, I suggest you joining a club to boost your confidence. Participation is better than not participating at all.”
776
777	In more situations, students who appeal to the school will basically receive preferential treatment. That said, on a case-by-case basis, it is likely to become a problem if the appealing process goes poorly.
778
779	“It’s like an individual battle.”
780
781	Chabashira-sensei did not miss Horikita’s remark, who muttered so.
782
783	The introduction of the app will most likely increase each student’s abilities to some extent. This will greatly increase the odds of winning in the battle that – not just D-class, but every class in every school year – has been fighting so far.
784
785	It’s not just Horikita who had such an impression.
786
787	“It’s both a mistake and a correct solution. The new school system, which will be introduced this year, has been officialised by the school, which was conceived by the student council president, Miyabi Nagumo.”
788
789	Nagumo’s dream of creating a system where each individual’s abilities can be evaluated has been officialised. That first step probably took a lot of time an effort before the introduction of this app. Actually, the president had been making small movements ever since last year.
790
791	“But as ever, what is required as a class remains in the core concept. Just remember to work on that point every day.”
792
793	After installing and explaining the app, the first hour of class ended. As it was break time, each student began to stare at the screens of their phones. In addition to my own evaluation, the grades of my classmates and students in other classes are something that I would like to see.
794
795	“I don’t like the fact that my common sense is lower than Kouenji’s!”
796
797	Sudou, who was staring so hard at his phone as if he was affixed onto it, shouted so and glared at Kouenji.
798
799	I went to check Kouenji’s evaluation after closing my ear to block Sudou’s loud shouting, and so it seems what Sudou had been ranting about turns out to be true.
800
801
802
803	 		 			 2-D Rokusuke Kouenji
804
805
806
807		 			 First-year Results
808
809
810
811		 			 Academic Ability
812
813			 B (71)
814
815
816
817		 			 Physical Ability
818
819			 B+ (78)
820
821
822
823		 			 Critical Thinking
824
825			 D (24)
826
827
828
829		 			 Social Contribution
830
831			 C (25)
832
833
834
835		 			 Overall Strength
836
837			 C (53)
838
839
840
841
842
843	Kouenji, who demonstrates his unusual behaviour and abilities in class and exams, is highly regarded for his academic and physical ability.
844
845	“So? I don’t really care all that much. Your physical ability is higher after all.”
846
847	Kouenji spills his retort without a hint of envy despite his physical ability evaluation being lower than Sudou’s, which should actually be higher.
848
849	“That’s because Kouenji isn’t serious about it. I don’t want to admit it.”
850
851	As Sudou said, Kouenji’s physical abilities are indeed very high. It seems to have the same potential as Sudou, but there is a big unevenness because it depends on the mood in P.E class and their participation in club activities. If you aren’t interested in those, then you’ll skip it, and sometimes you could even throw the towel on it.
852
853	It is not uncommon to procrastinate or just be a lazy person as a whole and not move your body in the first place. Sudou, on the other hand, is always serious about any issues and is producing top-class results. Is it natural to have a big gap in their evaluations even if they have similar physical abilities?
854
855	It was the social contribution part that Sudou lacks.
856
857	In other words, it’s about manners and morals.
858
859	He is a problem child who does not take things seriously, compared to Sudou who is putting in effort to change his ways.
860
861	Even though it’s only a slight difference, he doesn’t seem to like being below.
862
863	I don’t know what Sudou wants to appeal about, though.
864
865	The reason why Kouenji has a higher evaluation than Sudou is because Kouenji didn’t cause as much trouble as Sudou did. Even if he did, most of the time Kouenji’s actions are well hidden, compared to Sudou who usually expresses his rage in a very outwardly manner.
866
867	It’s true after all, Kouenji’s personality is different from Sudou’s; one is arrogant yet calm, and the other is sporty but wild. Due to that, Sudou keeps getting penalized for his rude actions, which led his score to be under Kouenji’s by a slight bit.
868
869	Kouenji was quiet as he listened to Sudou’s rant, but he never dealt with it any further than that.
870
871	He didn’t even try to touch the OAA, which everyone is crazy about at the moment.
872
873	After more than a year worth of school life, Kouenji may be the person who has changed the least.
874
875	At any rate, the students will be able to visualize their grades over the next year.
876
877	This action on the school’s side is both a merit and a disadvantage for us.
878
879	For example, because there is an item called overall strength, a certain and strong ability ranking was made for a while.
880
881	If an inconvenient special exam happens now, it won’t be necessary to answer who’s going to name the candidate for the penalty (a.k.a. dropping out). They’ll all focus fire on the students with the lowest overall strength.
882
883	I don’t think I’m worried about Ike nor Airi at the moment, which have both been placed at the bottom of the rankings. Only time will tell their stories.
884
885
886
887	* * *
888
889
890
891	Part 2
892
893
894
895	The second hour of class began with the topic of the introduction of OAA not getting any colder.
896
897	And perhaps, this time the full-fledged ‘story’ will be spread.
898
899	The thoughts in the student’s minds came true.
900
901	“I will now explain the outline of the special examination”
902
903	As if to start the class normally, Chabashira-sensei broke the story out like that.
904
905	“The first special exam you'll have in your sophomore year, it's an unprecedented trial that will be adopted. It's the introduction of an app.”
906
907	Is it the influence of Tsukishiro? The school system seems to be changing drastically.
908
909	“It's important to note that it's a written exam where the freshmen and the sophomores are partners.”
910
911	“First-year students and... Partner......?”
912
913	Until now, it has hardly been possible to do anything beyond one’s own year.
914
915	There are exceptions such as training camps, but it was natural because of the mechanism of fighting against the class.
916
917	Is that the wall that was removed by the introduction of OAA?
918
919	“In this special exam, written exam and communication skills will be greatly tested.”
920
921	Studying and communication skills.
922
923	Items that do not seem to intersect at first glance.
924
925	“I don't have to explain the importance of written exams, but classes have not been able to interact with other grades aside from sports festivals and training camps. Therefore, I judged that the communication skills of the students were lacking.”
926
927	“But we're competing with the same grade, aren't we? You’re saying something's wrong?”
928
929	Ike showed a little dissatisfaction with the involvement of the first-year students.
930
931	“It's not that I don't understand, but it's about thinking objectively. It is not possible that a new graduate who becomes a member of society will only interact with other new graduates. Some of them are in their second year, and some will fight in the same world as veterans who are 20 or 30 years old. Sometimes an older opponent will be a rival.”
932
933	“It's... Well, I can somehow imagine it.”
934
935	“As the world shifts to meritocracy, many Japanese companies continue to be bound by seniority and lifetime employment. It's strange to do something with your kouhai, it's strange to do something with your senpai. Those who felt that way when they heard of this special exam should change their perception once more. A single example to help comprehend this is skipping grades. It is a system that is taken for granted in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and so on. It is not uncommon for small children to study in conjunction with high school and college students. Can you imagine and accept a situation where there are elementary school students who learn the same way in this classroom?”
936
937	Classmates were encouraged by Chabashira-sensei to use their imagination. And I’m sure they couldn’t understand it. It must have felt impossible or strange.
938
939	Certainly, there are few cases where the skip class system is used in Japan. There are certain conditions, but many people do not know that it is actually possible to jump. The fact is that this system does not fit at present in Japan where learning is side-by-side and does not necessarily accept the system of jumping class in itself. The white room had no side-by-side learning, so I can understand this point well.
940
941	However, it is certain that what Chabashira-sensei says is not everything.
942
943	Everything shouldn’t be imitated from foreign countries.
944
945	Nothing is just to follow other countries. In Japan, education that matches the culture of Japan is also important. Chabashira-sensei probably knows this herself, but has to follow instructions from above to explain it this way.
946
947	“In the future, there will be cases where you will compete with first and third graders. But this time, it's just about working together, and it's about remembering that.”
948
949	Is this why this is a special exam that requires both written and communication skills? A student who cannot imagine the rules tilts his head.
950
951	“To make people understand, it's best to remind them of last year's special exam. It's easy to understand if you think it's an improved paper shuffle that was a way to find a partner among your classmates.”
952
953	Paper shuffle.
954
955	That is, classmates are paired and partner to challenge the examination.
956
957	The point is that it is not a classmate, but partners between second years and first years.
958
959	It feels like that's the only difference, but this is very different from the last time.
960
961	“There is personal freedom to work with anyone in any class of the other year. The exam period is at the end of the month, in about two weeks including today. There is time to carefully select partners and to work on our studies.”
962
963	For this special exam, one can agree to the installation of the OAA app at this stage.
964
965	It’s natural that the first years do not know the faces and names of their upperclassmen in detail.
966
967	It’s natural that the second years do not know the faces and names of their underclassmen in detail.
968
969	The paper shuffle between classmates that was done before was done within our group, so I was able to coordinate things and partner with a free partner.
970
971	In other words, it was easy for someone to support the students who could not study and survive. However, this exam is different. It runs on the premise of finding excellent partners. Moreover, the partner is not a student in the same grade but in the lower class, meaning a weak relationship. First years are in first year, and second years are in second year.
972
973	Above all, it takes a reasonable amount of time to build a relationship of trust from zero.
974
975	If you want to build a relationship like this without an app, two weeks would not be enough at all.
976
977	However, in OAA, the name and face can be recognized, so some shortcuts are possible.
978
979	Moreover, since it is easy to roughly grasp the present academic ability, it can be used as reference when deciding.
980
981	“On the appointed day of the exam, the exam will consist of 5 subjects. The score for each subject is out of 100 points and the total score is 500 points. And a crucial rule is… this time, there are two types of wins, one for each class and one for each individual.”
982
983	Chabashira-sensei with her fingers on the blackboard displayed the special examination outcome.
984
985	Class Wins or Loses by Grade
986
987	Compete with the average score derived from the scores of all the classes and the scores of all partners.
988
989	From the order of the highest average score, classes will get 50 points, 30 points, 10 points, and 0 points.
990
991	Individual Wins or Losses
992
993	Scored with points combined with your partner.
994
995	The top five pairs will receive 100,000 private points each as a special reward.
996
997	10,000 private points will be paid to the top 30% of the pairs.
998
999	If the total score is 500 points or less, the second-grade student will drop out, and the first grade will not be transferred individual points for three months, regardless of the class points held by the first year.
1000
1001	In addition, students who are judged to have manipulated or lowered their scores, such as intentionally making a mistake in the problem, will be expelled regardless of grade. If a third party forces a lower score, the same shall be dropped from school.
1002
1003	“I'm sure you'll understand somehow. This exam will be good for students with a high reputation for academic ability.”
1004
1005	If there was no OAA, it was not possible to see even details, but the ability of the student was completely naked by the introduction of this app. The lower the academic achievement assessment, the harder it is to find a partner.
1006
1007	Students who are worried about their academic ability will see a tendency to remain unsold.
1008
1009	Smart students naturally work together with smart partners to aim for high-ranking results. Students who are concerned about their academic ability also seek smart partners to survive. If students of lower academic ability who overflowed to the end of it work together, 500 points may be divided. If that happens, the harsh reality of dropping out of school awaits the second grader.
1010
1011	The second graders understand how the structure of the school works, and in the class, friendships are growing.
1012
1013	If you ignore the top rewards, you will be able to move to help your classmates.
1014
1015	However, if it is the first-grade student, the unity of the class etc. is not able to be done yet. In that case, students who are not great friends do not consider that it is so important that private points are not transferred for three months and do not think it is a big thing. Just like a year ago, when a lot of people in this class tried to get rid of Sudou… not anymore.
1016
1017	“Partners are approved by each other and completed by registering within the OAA. It's possible to work together from this very moment today, but once you've found your partner and agreed to it, you can't break the pair for any reason after that.”
1018
1019	If you say that, it will be difficult to make an immediate decision unless the other person's academic ability is very high.
1020
1021	A cheap decision can cause regret later.
1022
1023	The monitor will update to display information about your partner.
1024
1025	How to decide on a partner and rules
1026
1027	You can apply only once a day to the desired student using OAA (if they do not accept it, the application will be reset at 24 o'clock).
1028
1029	If the other party accepts the application, the partner will be confirmed and it will not be possible to cancel it thereafter.
1030
1031	This is excluding unavoidable troubles such as withdrawal or major illnesses.
1032
1033	Both partners will not be able to accept new applications at 8 a.m. the next morning, when the information will be updated on the OAA at the same time.
1034
1035	It does not specify who the partner is.
1036
1037	Because of this rule, it is not possible to send a large number of application emails as appropriate, even if you send it to a specific person, it is possible that the application will be wasted because it will be at 8 o'clock the next day that it is known that the person has partnered with another student on the same day.
1038
1039	Well, I don't know if there are any students who will receive applications from students they don't know well.
1040
1041	Perhaps this rule is a measure to make it difficult to know who was working with who. The reason is that the analysis of the strength of each class can be easily done if it is reflected from the partnerships made.
1042
1043	“Sensei! There's no kouhai who wants to work with me!　I don't think an idiot like me can do anything with my communication skills!?”
1044
1045	Such lamentation by Ike was reasonable.
1046
1047	The probability that low-academic students will be needed is low until there are not enough students to want to assemble.
1048
1049	It’s just a matter of a straight-forward approach.
1050
1051	“Don’t worry. No matter how many remain, it does not become a situation that a pair cannot be assembled. If you can’t pair up until the special exam, you’ll be randomly selected at 8 a.m. on the day.”
1052
1053	This relief measure let the feelings of Ike get comforted.
1054
1055	“But we can't treat students who couldn't find a partner in the same line as the other students. Therefore, the pairs created by the time running out have adopted a mechanism to get a 5% score penalty from the overall score.”
1056
1057	For a moment there was relief, then the class complained at a 5% penalty.
1058
1059	It's not a situation where you can't take the special exam, but it’s still a pretty painful handicap to burden.
1060
1061	“Sensei, we have three dropouts in our second year. Won’t there eventually be three first-year students left over?
1062
1063	To such a trivial question by Yosuke, Chabashira-sensei answered indifferently.
1064
1065	“For the remaining three, they are compensated by doubling the student's points. However, there will also be a penalty of 5% as well, so few people will be willing to be alone.”
1066
1067	It's simply one person with a two-person role. It seems that there will be no problems if three first-year students with high academic ability remain unpicked. However, in this special exam, I cannot just worry about Ike and Sudou in this special examination.
1068
1069	For me, it's definitely going to be a very difficult special exam.
1070
1071	The reason for the high difficulty is that if the total score is 500 points or less, you will drop out. In other words, it’s essential the partner in completing a special exam must definitely score at least one point. Even if I get a perfect score in five subjects, if my partner scores 0, I can't avoid dropping out.
1072
1073	Normally, this is a very sharp rule and dangerous. First-year students don't have the risk of dropping out, so if they get out of hand and get a low score, you'll be forced to drop out unreasonably. However, there is a rule made by the school to observe this.
1074
1075	“Students who are judged to have manipulated or lowered their scores, such as intentionally making a mistake in the problem, will drop out regardless of grade. If a third party forces a lower score as well, the person will be expelled as well.” This can be said to be extremely important because this special examination is approved as justifiable.
1076
1077	Measures to prevent fraud, such as threatening to cut corners and demanding private points. When this happens, the test will not be able to get out of hand. This ensures that the general class is strongly following the rules.
1078
1079	But rules that are normally well-followed are not enough to ensure
1080
1081	Why? -- because White Room students are a different story.
1082
1083	Because the other side is set up to assume that you will drop out, this rule is not a deterrent.
1084
1085	If you succeed in pairing with me, you'll get zero points without forgiveness.
1086
1087	In other words, if I choose a White Room person for my partner, then I’m out. At the beginning of the special exam, there is a chance that I will be expelled from school by more than 1/160.
1088
1089	Originally, if a partner is expelled due to fraud, the pair's students will not be penalized and will be treated as a pass. But as far as I can hear now, there is no such guarantee anywhere.
1090
1091	The reason no one pursues this point is due to the self-assured belief that there should not be a student who takes action which makes it to drop out purposely. No, that's not all.
1092
1093	In the unlikely event that such a student appears, the school will probably deal with it in a hurry.
1094
1095	It would be quite severe to be expelled due to the involvement of a student who cheated. However, if I’m the one cheating, my partner will have to take serious actions to avoid dropping out.
1096
1097	It will be my mistake to pair up with a student who doesn't take the exam seriously.
1098
1099	A small number of holes are provided in the rules so that it can respond flexibly.
1100
1101	It’s Tsukishiro who flickers in my mind. It's definitely the rules that he thought and built up.
1102
1103	I can't miss the opportunity for this special exam. If I go back and choose another partner, the possibility of being with the person from the White Room will increase.
1104
1105	It would be nice if I could act quickly and work with students who I don't think are White Room students, but my academic ability evaluation by OAA is C. I'm not in a position to choose as many partners as I want.
1106
1107	Even if I try to choose a student with extremely low academic ability, the first grader will not be able to wipe off the anxiety in me having an academic ability of C, and will not give permission to pair.
1108
1109	In this case, it is likely that I will safely find a partner with academic ability C, but in anticipation of that, it is possible that the opponent is ambushing near the evaluation
1110
1111	At the stage of explanation of the rules, it is certain that the hurdle is higher than any other test so far.
1112
1113	“Sensei. How difficult is the exam?”
1114
1115	Horikita raises her hand and listens to Chabashira-sensei’s important points for other students
1116
1117	“Without covering it up, there are a lot of very difficult problems. It's definitely the most difficult exam you've ever taken. But… that’s the case when aiming for a high score… Even students whose academic ability is near E can get more than 150 points without preparation. If you study for a few days, 200 points will be safe. And this is just a guide, but---”
1118
1119	Saying that, Chabashira-sensei displays the prediction score table by academic ability.
1120
1121	Academic ability E: 150 points to 200 points
1122
1123	Academic ability D: 200 points to 250 points
1124
1125	Academic ability C: 250 points to 300 points
1126
1127	Academic ability B: Around 350 points
1128
1129	Academic ability A: Around 400 points
1130
1131	“If you prepare properly, you'll get around this score. But don't forget that if you neglect your studies with pride, you may naturally get a score of less than this.”
1132
1133	Chabashira-sensei adds that you do not over-trust the contents reflected on the monitor.
1134
1135	“And if you look at the part where the students with academic ability A are around 400 points, I’m sure in this exam, students who do not get a perfect score or exceed 90 points in each subject will not appear at all”
1136
1137	It seems to be directly connected to the part where it said that it is the most difficult.
1138
1139	At any rate, if students in the vicinity of academic ability E become paired, it is simply a risk of withdrawal.
1140
1141	“This is an overview of the special exam to be held in April. Try to brace your spirits and challenge.”
1142
1143	After that, a verbal explanation of the scope of the test is done.
1144
1145	Chabashira-sensei says that if you carefully study the topics learned in first grade, you will seemingly be well prepared.
1146
1147
1148
1149	* * *
1150
1151
1152
1153	Part 3
1154
1155
1156
1157	During break time, many students inevitably began to gather around Yousuke.
1158
1159	Immediately after that, Horikita also stood up and joined them.
1160
1161	I'll just listen to you too.
1162
1163	“Damn, what should I do Hirata!? Because my academic evaluation is an E, I’m in a big pinch!”
1164
1165	Ike asks Yousuke for help while holding his head.
1166
1167	Yousuke looked over the whole class as he asked Ike to settle down.
1168
1169	“Let's calm down first, then solidify our policy.”
1170
1171	Yes, there's no need to panic.
1172
1173	“Ke, but--!”
1174
1175	“It’s certainly not an easy exam. In order to get at least 501 points, students with academic ability E must pair up with first-year students with academic ability B or higher. It can be said that it is a very safe exam if you work with these students.”
1176
1177	To calm down his classmates, he explains that to pass the exam is not so complicated.
1178
1179	“And we've been working together on similar exams for a year. It's not something that you can't get any more than 250 or 300 points if you work together and work on your preparations as before.
1180
1181	“Yes. Horikita-san is right. If we work together, we should all be able to finish the exam safely.”
1182
1183	The words of Yousuke and Horikita were in accordance and overlap, and the movement of the surroundings gradually calms down.
1184
1185	“The important thing is not to decide on a partner lightly. The only time you can make a quick decision is if you tell me that a first-year student with academic ability B or higher will join you.”
1186
1187	It is certainly impertinent to find a partner soonest, but we will not be able to change until the end of the exam.
1188
1189	We need to make sure with our partners we can definitely score 501 points or more.
1190
1191	“After that, if you have more than a B+ academic ability, don't rush to see the situation. It may be important to leave a certain number of students who can study to save everyone. At any rate, regardless of who can't study, be sure to consult with me or Hirata-kun when there are any developments.”
1192
1193	Horikita tells only the minimum, and hopes that they do not panic and make a fuss carelessly. Honor students such as Keisei and Mii-chan also showed their attitude to cooperate without hesitation. It's not like we're going to be able to negotiate for the whole class together, but it's going to be difficult to get a partner out smoothly. We have to fight against time because we compete in the face of rivals.
1194
1195	“For the time being, I'm going to negotiate with a kid who came into the football club. Some students seem to be able to study, and they might be able to become partners.”
1196
1197	Yousuke, who was listening to the story, also called out to Horikita. Human-wave tactics are also an important strategy.
1198
1199	“I wonder if you can ask, I’m glad to have your help.”
1200
1201	Moreover, it is a part that Horikita cannot do if it becomes through club activities. Yousuke smiles gently and nods.
1202
1203	“And I think students with academic abilities lower than C should be interviewed in case of an emergency.”
1204
1205	“It's the right decision. Let's work together to find a partner.”
1206
1207	At the very first stage, just being able to explain the policy to the whole class will be very different. You can follow the weak parts and get a sense of security that no one can abandon you.
1208
1209	“Horikita-san, and another one--”
1210
1211	“Some students with academic ability C or higher are not good at interaction. I'm also going to follow people who struggle to create partners in parts that are different from academic ability.”
1212
1213	Even without a detailed discussion, two people with quick thinking were able to understand.
1214
1215	Perfectly breathed in with the minimal amount of conversation required.
1216
1217	“Thank you. It would be helpful if you would do that.”
1218
1219	Horikita and Yousuke will continue to talk without hesitation, and will sort out the situation in a way that both parties are satisfied with.
1220
1221	The two of them once clashed head-on, but they are able to work together incredibly well.
1222
1223	The reason is that of Yousuke's flexible way of thinking more than Horikita's roundedness.
1224
1225	“By the way, what about Sudou-kun and the basketball club? First graders are coming in, aren’t they?”
1226
1227	Horikita asks Sudou who is passionate about club activities.
1228
1229	However, Sudou diverted his gaze as if he had a bad case.
1230
1231	“Oh, oh. But...”
1232
1233	“But?”
1234
1235	“It's been a few days since the club activities started, but it's quite spartan, I'm sure... It's because I'm doing it.”
1236
1237	“Do you mean that you’re intimidating?”
1238
1239	“Well, it might be like that. Basketball is real.”
1240
1241	The point is that he may have already become a person to be disliked.
1242
1243	Of course, it's because he’s serious about basketball.
1244
1245	Seniors who are strict in practice are likely to have a big split in their likes and dislikes.
1246
1247	“It's okay. For the time being, concentrate on your studies and don't think about the special exam.”
1248
1249	“Oh, yeah.”
1250
1251	Because it was counterproductive to swing at a peer, Horikita bit her nail firmly.
1252
1253
1254
1255	* * *
1256
1257
1258
1259	Part 4
1260
1261
1262
1263	After lunch break, I was called to Horikita and went to the hallway.
1264
1265	“It's not something we talk about in the classroom, and if someone comes here, we'll know.”
1266
1267	“So? It's about the next special exam, isn't it?
1268
1269	“Yes. Chabashira-sensei said that the next special examination will be a test with a considerable degree of difficulty. It's a challenge for students with low academic ability, but it's an ideal development for me and you to compete.”
1270
1271	First of all, whether we were going to finish our argument, I broached it.
1272
1273	I and Horikita have made only one promise during spring break. To compete in one subject in the written exam, with the higher score. If I win, Horikita will join the student council, and if Horikita wins, I'll generously use the ability I've been hiding for a year for the class. It has been declared that it is difficult for students with an A evaluation to get more than 90 points per subject. If it is such a high difficulty level, it will not be a development of a poor draw between perfect scores.
1274
1275	“You don't have any complaints, do you?”
1276
1277	Check for objections to the next written examination.
1278
1279	“Of course.”
1280
1281	Because it is not beneficial if it is dragged out, we accept it as a matter of course.
1282
1283	“That was good. Then we'll be able to move on to the next discussion right away.”
1284
1285	For the time being, I was satisfied with the reconfirmation of the promise and took out my cell phone.
1286
1287	And launch the OAA that just installed this morning.
1288
1289	“In the first year, I checked the number of students with academic ability B or higher as honor students. There were 17 people in Class A, 13 in Class B, 13 in Class C, and 11 in Class D.”
1290
1291	54 people in total. It can be said that it is a reasonable percentage.
1292
1293	“There are only four people in our class who fall into the E category. There are 12 students in total, including students with academic ability D. First-year students have complete strength and are fully competitive.”
1294
1295	“The question is, how many of the honor students can be drawn into our D class.”
1296
1297	Even if it is said that there are 54 people, a scramble is inevitable. If there’s an opportunity, everyone will be taken away.
1298
1299	“Yes. Of course, the class that has secured a lot of these 54 people has the upper hand, and on the other hand, a class with a lot of D+ and below students are simply disadvantaged.”
1300
1301	The app introduced now combines extremely useful features.
1302
1303	The class that masters these features will be the closest to winning.
1304
1305	“Sakayanagi-san, Ryuuen-kun, and Ichinose-san. Each class should start moving from today.”
1306
1307	Among the leaders, Sakayanagi, who is in Class A, will attack immediately.
1308
1309	All you have to do is to take advantage of the class with the least number of students anxious about their academic ability, and work hard to bring smart first-year students to your classmates. Even if you’re the junior, you can see the stability of Class A as soon as you look at OAA. If you cooperate, you will be able to get higher rewards.
1310
1311	On the other hand, we don't.
1312
1313	“First of all, I'm going to give priority to helping my classmates with academic ability E and D.”
1314
1315	Horikita agreed and nodded lightly.
1316
1317	“It's hard to say 100 points yet, but I've made a partner priority list. After all, I think it's best to sort them out first.”
1318
1319	“Wait a minute. It's true that Sudou's academic ability is an E-judgment, but what about the reality?
1320
1321	Sudou's grades at the beginning of his entrance were so bad that he was evaluated as E as a result.
1322
1323	However, in the second half of the first year, his academic ability began to improve little by little.
1324
1325	In a word, it is not strange if it is increased a little now.
1326
1327	“Well, I guess... It's certainly much better than before. Even during spring break, Sudou-kun was being a hard-working person to catch up.”
1328
1329	“Have you been doing study sessions all the time?”
1330
1331	“No way. I'm not free enough to go out with him every day. To some extent, I've learned the ability to learn alone. I was just monitoring his deliverables that came up once every few days.”
1332
1333	“Hey...”
1334
1335	I thought it was Horikita's effort, but that's something to be honestly impressed with.
1336
1337	“To be honest, Sudou-kun is a little higher rank than me... Compared to other students, it's a feeling of coming from D to D+.”
1338
1339	Of course, it's just over-optimistic calculations.
1340
1341	However, from someone that knows Sudou from a year ago, it is huge growth.
1342
1343	“I’m sure that before when Sudou heard the contents of the special exams, he would panic and would be in confusion. Now he was very calm.”
1344
1345	That said, Sudou was noisy just now about the fact that Kouenji’s social contribution score is higher than his.
1346
1347	“Even though it’s more than academic ability D, he is still a higher priority than Ike.”
1348
1349	“His personality and appearance are a big influence. And I was caught up in the high-pressure attitude in club activities I was talking about this morning.”
1350
1351	It seems that Sudou’s evaluation isn’t good, after analyzing it properly.
1352
1353	“As a freshman who knows nothing - Sudou-kun or Ike-kun, which is easier to partner with?” On the surface, it's exactly the same result.”
1354
1355	“Well, it's likely to be Ike after all.”
1356
1357	Sudou, who has large height and red hair and a harsh tone, has a scary impression.
1358
1359	If you want to work with someone at the same level, I would like to work with Ike who is still easy to communicate with.
1360
1361	“It may be more difficult to find a partner than to have a poor academic ability.”
1362
1363	That's why I've designated him as a student I want to assign first.
1364
1365	“I understand. If I could, I'd like to partner with a first-year student with academic ability B or higher.”
1366
1367	“Yes. I think I'll be able to get through it. I want to move quickly; can you help me?
1368
1369	“Cooperation? I don't think there's anything I can do.”
1370
1371	“You can just say what you think to the person by your side, and it’s good to have someone you trust keep it close.”
1372
1373	“I mean, do you trust me?”
1374
1375	“I trust all my free-going classmates.”
1376
1377	It’s an expression I'm not sure if it's high or low.
1378
1379	“Or do you feel uneasy if you haven't studied for as long as a minute to win the game with me?”
1380
1381	The provocation is rather counterproductive.
1382
1383	It's like having prepared an escape to let me study in my room because I'm worried.
1384
1385	“I'm very anxious--.”
1386
1387	When I was grateful to use the escape, the phone vibrated.
1388
1389	The reason is that the second year Class B leader, Ichinose Honami, messaged the chat provided in the app. And the content is--
1390
1391	“From 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. on the day of the event, I got permission to hold an exchange meeting between first- and second-year students in the gymnasium. Students who have the time should come together.”
1392
1393	A student who is worried about how to get in touch with a freshman, says that it will be a helping hand.
1394
1395	“As expected of Ichinose-san. It’s not just about ourselves, it’s about thinking of the whole thing and acting on it.”
1396
1397	It's not clear how many participants there are, but it's a good idea that there will be a reasonable amount of people.
1398
1399	It is also highly conceivable that a partnership will be established on the spot.
1400
1401	However, far from being pleased, I could see a little impatience in Horikita's expression.
1402
1403	Maybe she was imagining a similar strategy.
1404
1405	“What's the matter? The special exam has just begun.”
1406
1407	“Yes, that's right. First of all, we decided what we would do first.”
1408
1409	That would mean participating in this exchange party after school.
1410
1411	And before I know it, I'm supposed to cooperate.
1412
1413	Well, it's not that much if you just follow...
1414
1415	As if she knew it, Horikita turned her eyes to me and tried something.
1416
1417	“Okay, I'm going out with you.”
1418
1419	“Oh, are you sure you're going to give me a hand? I thought I had been avoided recently, but... You've become a very supportive person.”
1420
1421	It’s true to call me brazen, for a guy that was aware he was being avoided.
1422
1423	“I was just going to see what kind of fight you were going to do nearby.”
1424
1425	“I see. It was too early to use words of cooperation.”
1426
1427	Horikita was more than satisfied with that. But it’s a test that I’m forced to survive this time. It is sometimes easier to act with Horikita.
1428
1429	“Then I’ll be talking to you as if I were talking to myself. It’s a big task to raise Sudou-kun’s and Ike-kun’s exam scores above the passing threshold, since this exam is based around more intelligent students. Of course, there is also Ryuuen-kun and Sakayanagi-san… In other words, we have to be careful about our strategy.”
1430
1431	She’s saying it as a matter of course, but I’ve never felt that way in Horikita before.
1432
1433	She would’ve focused only on Sudou and show neglect towards the enemy’s strategy.
1434
1435	This time, however, she has a strong sense of vigilance from the start of the battle.
1436
1437	“Of course, at this stage, I don’t know the details of what those two are plotting, but I think the usage of ‘private points’ holds the key to victory.”
1438
1439	Money. Horikita thought that the power of private points will come in very useful in this special exam. There have been no interactions between the first-years and the second-years at the moment. In other words, using private points will be the quickest way to finish the story.
1440
1441	“I don’t know how much points there are in A-class or C-class, but if we were to compete for students, this strategy involving money will surely be used.”
1442
1443	“That’s right. Private points are the easiest things for first-year students to understand.”
1444
1445	Everyone can imagine the flow of getting points and responding with their studies. However, our private points will be depleted in no time if we don’t strike at the right time and person. Especially since D-class has been sluggish in their accumulation of private points recently, it is clear that amount of private points – that is, the amount of money – is significantly inferior to other classes.
1446
1447	“Normally, we should also put in some points to secure a certain number of students.”
1448
1449	Basically, the only way to fight with money is through money itself – just like fighting fire with fire. It is essential to play this game of cash to see who is more loaded.
1450
1451	However, the fact that I was feeling impatience with the whole chat that Ichinose sent a while ago still remains.
1452
1453	“First of all, I guess I’ll be lurking around the shadows at the exchange party. If I see a chance, then I could act on the spot, but I’m not going to rush it. I wonder if that’s alright.”
1454
1455	“Ayanokouji-kun, do you think it’s okay to find a partner on your own?”
1456
1457	“Let me ask you back. If you were a first-year student looking for a partner, would you choose to partner up with me?”
1458
1459	“Even if you judge it objectively, your academic ability is C. Basically, there shouldn’t be any problems with anyone. It’s just a matter of putting your differences aside, isn’t it?”
1460
1461	“Then, I’ll ask for your help when I’m in trouble.”
1462
1463	First-year students who decide to work with Horikita and Yousuke can be excluded from the possibility of them being a White Room student. In a sense, it is not possible to use the technique of just asking to be one’s partner, and then splitting to find another partner instead.
1464
1465	But, if all the information is leaked to the other party, then I’m certain that I’ll be contemplating on that choice. Since the research is solely a background check, it will be difficult to avoid that White Room student 100% of the time. I won’t be glad if I were forced to make a change of partner from the judgement of Horikita and Yousuke, and I won’t easily admit I can see through the White Room student above all.
1466
1467	“You’re better off not being the one to make the first move. It’s not that there is no material to be concerned about, but the 5% penalty this time doesn’t come cheap.”
1468
1469	That’s right.
1470
1471	I’m not going to make the first move, but I’m still worried about the student from the White Room. It will be problematic if I run into that student.
1472
1473
1474
1475
1476
1477	[ 3 ]
1478
1479
1480
1481	THE PROBLEMATIC GROUP OF FIRST-YEARS
1482
1483
1484
1485	Dozens of first- and second-year students gathered in the gymnasium. Most of them are first-year students rather than second-years. After all, there are many students who see this exchange meeting as an important opportunity to form a group. I’m not familiar with the names and faces of the first-year students, so first, I'll look at the second-year students who are participating.
1486
1487	I can't see the leader of class A, Sakayanagi. I don't know if it could be called a substitute, but I could see the figure of Masayoshi Hashimoto could. Sakayanagi's legs are bad, her range of action is narrow and slow. She has great leadership skills to make up for it. As far as I can see, Hashimoto is the only one from Class A. There is no indication that he is trying to talk to anyone.
1488
1489	Who will come into contact with whom at the exchange meeting, and the spy is the kind of person who guesses?
1490
1491	About half of the Second-year Class B boys and girls including Ichinose are present. There was also the figure of Kanzaki who supported Ichinose by the side. However, there is no impression that they are biased toward other special abilities or students who are likely to be anxious about academic ability. It seemed that they simply chose social students. On the other hand, at first glance, there is no sign that C class students are participating It is as if there were no exchange meetings in their eyes from the beginning Even if you take this place alone, you can see the whole second-year’s thoughts. Today, however, it is not the second grade that is important to Horikita.
1492
1493	Rather the first-year students, who are all strangers. First-year students who have just entered the school shouldn’t know the right or left.
1494
1495	Under such circumstances, many students may not be able to keep up with their thoughts because they are suddenly paired with a second grader. It is also a group of good students who are participating while shrinking.
1496
1497	Looking at the situation, Ichinose tried to expand her circle from self-introduction and casual chat without mentioning anything about the special examination. Of course, no one can be immediately open to it.
1498
1499	Ichinose, who understands this, proceeds slowly, without rushing and gently smiles. And, it melts the heart which was hard and closed like ice. Just a few minutes, I was looking at this exchange party and the scene ahead seemed to come to my mind.
1500
1501	“She didn’t give priority to special exams, but to build trusting relationships with each other first. It's a very Ichinose-san way. It's a dazzling way that just anyone can't do.” Horikita gave her first impression of this gathering.
1502
1503	It is unknown to what extent this strategy can be used, but it is very important. What Ichinose is doing will benefit both first and second years.
1504
1505	Horikita describes Ichinose as trying to show such a success.
1506
1507	From that profile, the strategies that you may have begun to think about appear faint.
1508
1509	“Are you thinking of a similar strategy?”
1510
1511	“...... That's right. The strategy centered on the private point is heavy on our D class. Therefore, I thought that it was important to build a relationship of trust with the first graders. But I'm not very good at it like Ichinose-san. Or rather, that kind of strategy is her strong point.”
1512
1513	You need something to get recognized as a partner. The”something” can be related to points, trust, friendship and favor.
1514
1515	“Most of the first-year students have already known the name and face of Ichinose Honami in the second-year Class B. Students who are anxious will surely come to her and she will meet their expectations.”
1516
1517	“Yes.”
1518
1519	They will not bother to come to second-year Class D.
1520
1521	“But even if you can’t use a dazzling way like her, there's a way to do it.”
1522
1523	It seems that Horikita got some hint at this exchange gathering.
1524
1525	The key is probably in the part where she was observing the stats of the first-grade students with the OAA app.
1526
1527	There is no sign of returning yet, and Horikita continues to observe the first-year students.
1528
1529	I'm not the only one who was watching it by the side. A large shadow moves next to her.
1530
1531	“It's just those guys who always seem to be weak”
1532
1533	Next to Horikita, Sudou, who was watching the first years, voiced such an impression.
1534
1535	Sudou offered to accompany Horikita because the request to hold the exchange meeting of Ichinose was admitted, and it was decided that it was urgent to use the gymnasium until 5 o'clock though it was planned to be a club activity straight on the other hand today.
1536
1537	He seemed to have been told that it was unnecessary, but he came to the gymnasium anyway.
1538
1539	“ Don’t glare at them unnecessarily. There's nothing you by scaring them.”
1540
1541	“I’m not glaring at anyone. It’s just how my face has been from birth. Well, it's okay to take your time. Isn't it possible to take a smart junior from Ichinose?　You don't have to talk to me, do you?”
1542
1543	Sudou said that it is better to go to the voice early, and Horikita told him not to be impatient. Even if a student other than class B in the second-year talks to a first-year student at an exchange gathering, Ichinose will not get angry. Rather, I can see her being happy.
1544
1545	“What will you do?”
1546
1547	I was also concerned about Horikita's behavior, so I asked her about it.
1548
1549	“Do you think we can compete in this place with second-year Class B in terms of sociability and win?”
1550
1551	Ichinose places more importance on the relief of the first-year students than on the victory of her class.
1552
1553	Class B seemed to be trying to deepen friendship with first-year students without leaving anyone out.
1554
1555	It will lead to a relation of trust with the first-years.
1556
1557	“I don't think so at all.”
1558
1559	I don't know if Yosuke or Kushida could do it, but, I, Horikita, and Sudou lack the ability.
1560
1561	We came to this place while knowing that.
1562
1563	Horikita starts to act when the discussion begins.
1564
1565	“Let's go.”
1566
1567	It's not about participating in the social gathering, it's about
1568
1569	Horikita had no intention of taking the first-grade students to make allies at this exchange gathering from the beginning.
1570
1571	“Is that fine, Horikita?”
1572
1573	“More than half of the students are not at this social gathering. I will negotiate with them.”
1574
1575	In other words, the aim is to target first-year students who didn't listen to Ichinose's voice.
1576
1577	However, it will be difficult at the same time.
1578
1579	Students who can get a partner with their ability even if they can't give a helping hand, or those who don't have the courage to attend an exchange gathering. Or a student who has already developed a strategy. In any case, it is thought that there are a lot of students who have one or more reasons.
1580
1581	“Let's hear the reasons.”
1582
1583	“There are two reasons. As far as I researched, the percentage of students who came to the exchange party had a high percentage of people who were more concerned about their academic ability. What we are looking for immediately is students with at least B or greater academic ability. In other words, an immediate fighting power with confidence that they can fight without coming to an exchange party.”
1584
1585	I see. Certainly, it makes some sense to stay away from this exchange gathering.
1586
1587	“Our top priority is not to work together with students with Academic ability A. Our goal talk to students who have the ability to follow-up with the low ability students to ensure that there are absolutely no dropouts.”
1588
1589	However, even if the second year B class rescues a lot of people, the first-year students will naturally overflow. Moreover, Ichinose should give priority to saving low-skilled students than students with high academic ability in the position. Though there is a possibility to pick up students with a high degree of academic ability.
1590
1591	Is it the second reason, or is there another hidden motive?
1592
1593	“And there was a specific bias about the academic ability of the first-years who showed up at the exchange gathering”
1594
1595	“Bias?”
1596
1597	“The first year Class D class students didn't participate at all.”
1598
1599	Not participating at all.　Well, it might be an interesting bias indeed.
1600
1601	“You seem to understand.”
1602
1603	“What the hell? What does it mean that the 1st year D class doesn't participate?”
1604
1605	Not understanding the meaning, Sudou tilted his head.
1606
1607
1608
1609	“There are 40 people in one class. Some of them are bad at studies, while others are not good at communicating. However, there were no participants from the first year D class. It's clearly a reflection of the intention of the class.”
1610
1611	 It's clear that someone is controlling the class and leading them to non-participation.
1612
1613	It can be said that it an extraordinary thing, given that they haven’t been in school for many days.
1614
1615	“In other words, there's already a leader in the first-year Class D, and he rejected the exchange party...”
1616
1617	“If you can negotiate on a class basis, you don't have to bargain individually.”
1618
1619	In other words, a strategy to cover students in the second-year class D and the first-year class D
1620
1621	“It's a good plan, but then, won’t we lose?”
1622
1623	It's not a bad idea to avoid dropping out, but it's going to be impossible to beat another class on the overall score.
1624
1625	“That's right. In that sense, I'm not going to play a class fight this time.”
1626
1627	“I'm not in a position to ask this, but is this fine?”
1628
1629	“Yes. No problem at all.”
1630
1631	Horikita says that clearly. The direction of the strategy is the same as Ichinose though the way of fighting is different. The idea of throwing away the chance to get a class point with the opportunity of a valuable special examination.
1632
1633	 Hashimoto of Class A had already left the gymnasium. I wondered if the reconnaissance of the exchange gathering of Ichinose had been completed.
1634
1635	Horikita heads to the exit of the gymnasium to follow Hashimoto like that. We also follow her.
1636
1637	But just before I left, I looked back at Ichinose once. Ichinose is talking to first-year students with a smile without noticing our presence. Whether your academic ability is E or D, Ichinose will give a helping hand without hesitation.
1638
1639	A battle to give up the victory of the special exam and avoid expulsion from their class. The way is different but it’s the same as what Horikita is trying to do now. But is it really the same in terms of essence?
1640
1641	“Yo”
1642
1643	When we left the gym, Hashimoto called out as if he was waiting for us.
1644
1645	“Ichinose is the same as usual”
1646
1647	“She seems to be thinking best about saving her classmates and first-year students.”
1648
1649	“That's it. Ichinose is not threatening at the moment. Do you know the disadvantages of attracting idiots?　It's like throwing away the game.”
1650
1651	Hashimoto talks as if he was. Hashimoto must not have noticed that Horikita’s strategy is the same. He didn’t think Horikita has the idea of throwing away the game.
1652
1653	“If you know, you shouldn't set up a place like this from the beginning, right?”
1654
1655	“Oh, I see. That's true, too.”
1656
1657	“You Class A guys... Sakayanagi-san knew without even looking at the exchange party. The reason you didn't participate was because you had already anticipated what kind of students would show up in this place.”
1658
1659	Well, that's right. Nevertheless, only Hashimoto was sent for reconnaissance.
1660
1661	“So how are you going to bring honors students to your side?”
1662
1663	“It depends on the princess's idea; I just follow the instructions.”
1664
1665	Hashimoto walked away, saying he was satisfied with a light conversation.
1666
1667	“What that Hashimoto bastard says is that I don’t trust you, Suzune-”
1668
1669	“It goes without saying. Or rather, are you familiar with Hashimoto-kun?”
1670
1671	“No, not at all.”
1672
1673	He answers in a dignified manner
1674
1675	“...... Right. Well, Class A has a big advantage of Class A. To some extent, people will come together naturally.”
1676
1677	If you enter this school, you will sooner or later realize that class A is the best. Even if you don't know the fact now, you will soon come to realize.it.
1678
1679	“Let's hurry. At this time, the students in class D should be left in the school.”
1680
1681	Horikita goes to the first-year classroom. It is to explore the state of the first-year Class D.
1682
1683	She decided that now was a good opportunity, while the eyes of other classes were on the exchange gathering.
1684
1685
1686
1687
1688
1689	* * *
1690
1691
1692
1693
1694
1695	Part 1
1696
1697
1698
1699	We went to the first-year floor that we had used daily until last month. Considering the students who went to the gym, there are not many students left.
1700
1701	From Class A to Class C, we’ll look at the situation without calling out, but the students who have found the senior students will turn their heads to look. You can’t suddenly come to the first-year floor and be welcomed.
1702
1703	Few students don't care, and most students will hate uncomfortable places.
1704
1705	It will be the same after tomorrow. Some students will call out to first graders in the morning or noon to find a partner as soon as possible, but this is a dangerous bet that can be counterproductive.
1706
1707	However, there are still students who are chatting in the first-year classrooms as we peep.
1708
1709	Do they feel that there is no need to panic about this special test, or do you still not see the special exam as a big deal?
1710
1711	“After all, the remaining students seem to have a lot of children who have enough ability to pass the exam.”
1712
1713	“It's okay. I'm in a big hurry.”
1714
1715	For first-years, only three months of private point suspension if the score is less than 500 points. Of course, it must be a big loss, but the first transfer of points after the entrance ceremony may have made the sense of danger thin.
1716
1717	“Kuku. You’re rather slow”
1718
1719	After inspecting the first-year Class C, Horikita heard voices and moved towards the source.
1720
1721	There was a figure of second-year Class C Ryuuen fearlessly standing there.
1722
1723	The first-year class D is right ahead, and it seems he came to see it.
1724
1725	“Ryuuen-kun, are looking for first-year students?”　You didn't show up at the exchange gathering.”
1726
1727	“The only people who gathered in the gym were idiots, right?　Not even worth seeing.”
1728
1729	It was the same as Horikita's strategy, Ryuuen also came to look for students who had not attended the exchange gathering.
1730
1731	From the way he is talking, is he also aiming for the top students of the first-year?
1732
1733	The difference in time between our and Ryuuen’s arrival is only about 20 or 30 minutes.
1734
1735	If he had that much time, he could have already succeeded in several getting several students.
1736
1737	It is 8:00 a.m. the next day that you can see if each student's partner has been decided.
1738
1739	“Don't worry. I haven't made a move yet.”
1740
1741	The two people here will not believe the word easily.
1742
1743	Until the app is actually updated it won’t be known whether second-year Class C has decided on their partners.
1744
1745	“I don't believe it, that's what’s written on your face.”
1746
1747	“At least I'm going to listen to half of what you're saying here.”
1748
1749	“I see You’ve become very wary of me.”
1750
1751	“Oh, I've never been wary of you, have I?”
1752
1753	“Kukuku, that's right.”
1754
1755	As if not liking Ryuuen’s funny conversation with Horikita, Sudou glares at him.
1756
1757	A normal human would be afraid just by seeing his sharp gaze, but it would not work on Ryuuen.
1758
1759	“You chose a brainless guy as a bodyguard.”
1760
1761	“What the hell?”
1762
1763	Horikita lightly controls Sudou, who is about to lose his temper.
1764
1765	“Oh, do you need a brain to be a bodyguard? And you can't talk about others, can you?”
1766
1767	While holding the hand, Horikita retorts without diverting her gaze from Ryuuen.
1768
1769	“Are you going to threaten the first-years? That attitude of yours is counterproductive.”
1770
1771	The sight of Ryuuen striding down the corridor arrogantly will naturally scare the first-year students.
1772
1773	“If I threaten them lightly, I think they'll cooperate with me immediately.”
1774
1775	Horikita stared at him, but Ryuuen didn’t seen to be joking around.
1776
1777	“...... You're kidding me. You think that's way will be acceptable?”
1778
1779	“Agree or disagree. I wonder if there is a problem with threatening a little. During the explanation of the rules, I’ve learnt that compelling a low score will be penalized but I didn’t hear anything about threatening partners for cooperation.”
1780
1781	“You don't have to say it in the rules. If it's a problem, it's you who's going to have to deal with it.”
1782
1783	“Then, make it a problem first and show it to me. Well, I'm not going to be stupid enough to get fooled.”
1784
1785	It is a bullish statement as usual.
1786
1787	Declaring that threatening is possible enough, it just should not be revealed to the school.
1788
1789	Regardless of whether this is true or false, Ryuuen must have recognized that Horikita always went down the road.
1790
1791	“Well, then you have to do what you like. But if the evidence comes out, I'll raise the complaint without forgiveness.”
1792
1793	It might not have worked on Ryuuen though it might be advice for deterrence.
1794
1795	“So?　Are you trying to pull someone in?”
1796
1797	No need to answer. Horikita closes her mouth.
1798
1799	“You got something by spying on the exchange party, didn't you?”　So, did you come in a hurry to check the rest?”
1800
1801	“Maybe it's the same as you?”
1802
1803	“Kuku, maybe so.”
1804
1805	Ryuuen continues to talk to Horikita just to make it interesting.
1806
1807	“Then I'll tell you what's good for you who have the same idea. This year, even though they’ve just entered the school, the first-years going to settle down quickly. In other words, it's more likely that the people on the school side are talking about the school's mechanics to some extent with the new students.”
1808
1809	If it's true, it's unexpected information. At the stage of April, we knew nothing and were playing as much as we wanted. Of course, the other A and B classes were calm, but that was probably because of the difference in background.
1810
1811	What Ryuuen is saying here is not only about a specific class, but about the whole school year.
1812
1813	I wonder if it's a good place to partner with second-years from the start.
1814
1815	Or is there another idea in the school?
1816
1817	“Isn’t it just that this year's freshmen were just better, and we were just particularly dull?”
1818
1819	“Some of them are trying to put together a class at this stage. It's too early.”
1820
1821	Even if you start acting from the day the special exam was announced, there is no way that it will be settled immediately.
1822
1823	Ryuuen says that this will not happen unless they act soon after enrollment.
1824
1825	“What are you aiming to achieve by telling me this?”
1826
1827	“Nothing. You can't take the measure to kill your opponent in this special exam. But in order to win overall, I think we will need to do various things.”
1828
1829	With this special exam is not easy to expel students from other classes. The difficulty is relatively high because of the concealment and name of who the partner is. It's pretty hard to figure out who you've partnered with on the app unless you're listening to it or collecting information. Even if you can assign a student with low academic ability to a rival class and identify it, it is almost impossible to cut corners from it.
1830
1831	I guess. If you get a low than is expected of your academic ability, you will be considered intentional, and even if you are a first-year student, you will be expelled. In the end, only the ability of the first grader and the student in the class will influence the victory or defeat. What you can do with a strategy is to draw as many high-academic first graders into their classes as possible. It's not easy for Class C, which seems to be low in overall strength, to take first place.
1832
1833	There is no chance of winning even if you compete with Class A with power of private points, and the basic academic ability of the class is different. No matter how much money is put into the first grade and pulled in the first-years, a severe result awaits. In that case, it is necessary to throw away the first place in the overall place and aim at the reward which is given to the top 30% in individual scores.
1834
1835	Of course, Horikita does not touch that point. If Class A and C don't compete in general, we'll be in trouble. Rather than making it easier for Class A to take first place, I hope they will be able to do it in a large scale and wear then out, even a little.
1836
1837	“I’ll do my best and work hard.”
1838
1839	“That's what you can say. It's none of your business.”
1840
1841	“Kuku, that's bad.”
1842
1843	After that, Ryuuen left the floor of first-years immediately.
1844
1845	It's too short of a time to get anything done.
1846
1847	“The first graders may be feeling a lot more resistance to us than we thought.”
1848
1849	If you recognize that in this school, you must fight with others to the bitter end, it is a natural course of action.
1850
1851	“If that's the case, shouldn't we negotiate as soon as possible?”
1852
1853	“Well, I guess... of course you should. but...”
1854
1855	Horikita stares towards the end of the corridor.
1856
1857	You can see the classroom of the first-year Class D there.
1858
1859	“Let's go quickly.”
1860
1861	“I wonder if it is that easy?”
1862
1863	It seems that Horikita also noticed it during the discussion.
1864
1865	 From the time Ryuuen appeared from first-year Class D until he left.
1866
1867	During that time, no one has seen anyone coming out of the classroom.
1868
1869	Even if I get close, I can't hear a sound.
1870
1871	When I arrived, I opened the door of first-year Class D and I was convinced.
1872
1873	“What's going on?”
1874
1875	In a hurry, Sudou looks over the classroom from end to end.
1876
1877	“It might be a lot harder than I thought, to negotiate with the first-year Class D.”
1878
1879	There is not a soul inside the classroom. It is completely empty.
1880
1881	The 40 students, who did not show up at the exchange gathering, seemed to have disappeared suddenly.
1882
1883	“It might be a more troublesome class than you think.”
1884
1885	However, it is not possible to worry about it forever.
1886
1887	This is because it is necessary to act before the other class begins to move in earnest.
1888
1889	 The game starts tomorrow. From the point of contact with the first-year D class, the battle of Horikita begins.
1890
1891	 When I return to my room, I will memorize the names and faces of all first-years through the OAA app.
1892
1893	Horikita has her fight, and I have my fight.
1894
1895	On the day that the special exam began, a total of 22 partners were decided.
1896
1897
1898
1899	* * *
1900
1901
1902
1903	Part 2
1904
1905
1906
1907	It was the end of the lunch break of the next day that the situation began to develop rapidly.
1908
1909	It happened when everyone had finished their meal and was waiting for the afternoon class in their classrooms.
1910
1911	“Oh, there are some first-years here!”
1912
1913	It was my classmate Miyamoto that shouted so.
1914
1915	The special examination is only possible with the cooperation of the First- and Second- year students. I don't think it's usually surprising, but apparently, it's not.
1916
1917	“It takes a lot of courage to come to the seniors' floor.”
1918
1919	Hirata Yosuke, who was in the classroom, taught me what I was wondering about
1920
1921	“If we want to go to the third-grade floor, we should take care of ourselves.”
1922
1923	“Certainly...”
1924
1925	 It’s a different story if there are many seniors with close relationships, but that’s not the case for the first-years.
1926
1927	There must be a lot of students who feel like getting into enemy territory.
1928
1929	In such a situation, it might be a surprising event that some people are coming.
1930
1931	Yosuke goes to see them, and I follow him.
1932
1933	 Horikita and Sudou followed shortly afterwards.
1934
1935	The first thing that caught my eyes was a large man.
1936
1937	There were several reasons to stand out. Is he as tall as Sudou?
1938
1939	But more than that, it was very impressive to see him walking majestically in the middle of the second-year floor.
1940
1941	The opposite phenomenon is that the second-year who passed by escapes to the edge. A female student walks a little behind the tall male student.
1942
1943	Realizing that it wasn't just an action to seek a partner, Horikita comes out in front of the male student to stand by. Sudou also follows.
1944
1945	When I met two first-year students, the first thing that they saw for some reason was me.
1946
1947	Shortly after that, his gaze departed and moved to Horikita.
1948
1949	I recalled the data that I learned from OAA yesterday.
1950
1951	It seems that Horikita will encounter that class at unexpected time.
1952
1953	“What's her name?”
1954
1955	“Wait a minute. ...... I'll check.”
1956
1957	The girl, who had been operating her cell phone for a short time, soon showed the screen.
1958
1959	“Second-year Class D. Horikita Suzune. Academic ability A.”
1960
1961	The girl was speaking in a polite tone unlike the man, so it felt like a strange combination.
1962
1963	 After that, he turns his eyes to Sudou who stands by Horikita.
1964
1965	And in the same way, the girl repeatedly used her cell phone and showed it to the man.
1966
1967	“Ken Sudou. ...... Huh”
1968
1969	After seeing Sudou's data, the man snorted at him.
1970
1971	“My name is Nanase Tsubasa, a first-year Class D student. He is also of the D class.
1972
1973	“Hosen Kazuomi”
1974
1975	They give each their name. If you supplement, a large man is said to be a Hosen Kazuomi, and the woman is Tsubasa Nanase.
1976
1977	Both of them are true first-year D-class students, as they have called themselves.
1978
1979	A student in the D class who we were not able to meet yesterday. It must have been a surprise that they suddenly appeared, but Horikita is both lucky and unlucky. In this situation, where there are other classes, it is impossible to start negotiations with the first-year Class D blatantly.
1980
1981	“For a freshman, you've done a lot of things. I'll buy you that courage.”
1982
1983	“Ah? What do you buy?
1984
1985	“You look great, aren't you? Don't be impudent.
1986
1987	It enters in between by the way Sudou interrupts Hosen Kazuomi who was rushing Horikita.
1988
1989	Although he is about the same height as Sudou, but because of his large physique, Sudou looked a little smaller.
1990
1991	“Academic ability E+, looks like a stupid fool.”
1992
1993	“What the hell!?”
1994
1995	“Well, It's just right. I'm sure there's only D class in here anyway. It's convenient.”
1996
1997	What does that mean?
1998
1999	“You guys D class is a bunch of fallout. If we don't nominate our D class, you can't even form a decent pair. So, I'll lend a hand to you incompetent fools. You know what’s left, right?”
2000
2001	Hosen Kazuomi says something as a test.
2002
2003	“In other words, do you want to partner with us?”
2004
2005	“Oh? Isn't that position asking you to join me?”
2006
2007	If it is similar and different, Hosen rushes to Horikita.
2008
2009	“Oh, let’s get together quickly, lower your head.”
2010
2011	While suppressing Sudou, who is getting irritated, Horikita strengthens her words without regard to the physique difference.
2012
2013	“You seem to be mistaken about something. We're both on an equal footing.”
2014
2015	“Are you on equal footing?”　Don't let it get to you to be stupid.”
2016
2017	“You're the same D class, nothing different from us.”
2018
2019	“You don't understand. If I'm interested in it, I'll do as many things as I can, right?　You don't want to bother me, do you?　Then you should know what you are in as a position to ask.”
2020
2021	Apparently, a student named Hosen is already aware of a special weapon that only first-year students have.
2022
2023	“What kind of hand can you use?”
2024
2025	Perhaps Horikita knows, but I dare to ask him back to bring it out as a word.
2026
2027	“You know that, don't you?”　There’s a way to forcibly lower your score here.”
2028
2029	When Horikita heard his words, she bit her lips a little stronger.
2030
2031	“Ha? It's been a year since you've been playing around with it. If don’t pass the exam, you're going to drop out!”
2032
2033	“Don't show your bad habits, Sudou-kun, don't be caught right away.”
2034
2035	“But...”
2036
2037	I understand the feeling of wanting to be angry at being so silly.
2038
2039	But what Hosen is saying is not a lie.
2040
2041	“It's certainly a rule to drop out if you fail the test. But the penalty for not finding a partner until the time runs out is another. So only you second-years are in trouble, right?”
2042
2043	Random partner confirmation if time runs out.
2044
2045	As a result, it receives a deduction of 5% from the overall score.
2046
2047	Second-year students who are likely to drop out are more likely to suffer more damage from penalties.
2048
2049	“Oh, that's the way it is!”
2050
2051	Unbelievable, Sudou showed Horikita a look to ask for confirmation.
2052
2053	The only answer to that question is ye
2054
2055	“Isn't it the same thing to hang yourself with that? Are you going to lose your money just after you enter the school?”
2056
2057	If you get a penalty, your chances of scoring 501 points or more will naturally decrease.
2058
2059	“Compared to you second-years, it’s not going to hurt me very much. Hey, what's up?”
2060
2061	Hosen checks with Nanase standing behind him.
2062
2063	“Yes. It is said that private points will not be transferred for three months, but at most 240,000 points. I don't think it's going to be a fatal problem.”
2064
2065	“Do you understand the situation, Horikita-senpai?”
2066
2067	Hosen says that as if he is senior to his senior Horikita.
2068
2069	Sudou who was watching it, may have been unable to endure as expected.
2070
2071	He stood in front of Horikita in a way that strengthened his intimidation, without being able to hold on to his hands.
2072
2073	“What?”
2074
2075	Hosen said so to Sudou without hesitation.
2076
2077	“Don't get on with it.”
2078
2079	“Don't lose your cool, Sudou-kun. You know this school well, don't you?”
2080
2081	First-year students don't have to know, but the corridor is naturally under the school’s surveillance.
2082
2083	 The surveillance camera is always working, and if there is a problem, they will be able to dig up the video.
2084
2085	“I know...”
2086
2087	Sudou was repeatedly reminded, and Sudou withdrew, despite being slightly irritated.
2088
2089	It's certainly a problem to get excited at once, but it's enough just to hear Horikita's words.
2090
2091	 At the point where Horikita took his eyes, the big hand of Hosen in front of him pushes Sudou's chest.
2092
2093	“Wa-”
2094
2095	 At that moment, Sudou, who had lost his balance, put his hand on the floor to break his fall.
2096
2097	“Is it only the height that's big? I just touched you lightly, didn't I?”
2098
2099	I couldn’t hide my surprise even after watching the reckless action of Hosen.
2100
2101	It is because it is too bold action to be taken as an act of violence now.
2102
2103	If you know the difficulty and risks of violence in this school, you can't do it.
2104
2105	This year's first graders seem to be more familiar with the school situation than usual.
2106
2107	If the situation of yesterday is certain, I have to say that this is reckless.
2108
2109	Do you really understand school rules more than you think?
2110
2111	No, it doesn't look like that. If so.......
2112
2113	“Teme---!”
2114
2115	Sudou, who was about to regain his composure, understood what he had done, and almost burst into anger that had accumulated.
2116
2117	However, a man who had seen it in the distance jumped in earlier than that.
2118
2119	“What are you doing!”
2120
2121	 It was a second-year Class C student Ishizaki Daichi. He is in the bad category, but he has a good heart. Seeing how Sudou, a student of the same grade, was treated, he seems to have lost patience.
2122
2123	“It sprang up like a cockroach one after another.”
2124
2125	 The girl who called itself Nanase stops it lightly against Hosen, who laughs with fun.
2126
2127	“Didn't You come here for discussion?”　If you come here to use violence, I'll go home.”
2128
2129	“Is it violence?”　I just touched it with the feeling of patting the cat. I'm sorry Sudou.”
2130
2131	He spat out, as if to throw away the second-year student.
2132
2133	“Don't be stupid, too, Oi!”
2134
2135	Ishizaki stretches his arms with the intention of grasping his chest.
2136
2137	The moment he saw the extended arm, the corner of the mouth of Hosen slightly rose.
2138
2139	“If you don't want to die, don't do it, Ishizaki.”
2140
2141	The arm which extended from Ishizaki is stopped on the verge of grasping the chest hold of Hosen.
2142
2143	It was Ryuuen which seemed to have been watching from the corridor.
2144
2145	“Why are you stopping me!”
2146
2147	Ishizaki showed confusion at the actions of the Ryuuen, who had restrained him.
2148
2149	What surprised me was that Ibuki, from Ryuuen’s class was also there.
2150
2151	“What do you mean by stopping?”
2152
2153	This kind of trouble is basically a welcome to Ryuuen, not the type that hates it.
2154
2155	Whether there is a surveillance camera or not, he would push ahead without hesitation.
2156
2157	That's probably why he was so surprised to stop the fight.
2158
2159	Ryuuen lowers Ishizaki and approaches the Hosen himself.
2160
2161	“You’re my opponent this time?”　Sudou there seems to be weaker than an idiot.”
2162
2163	Hosen, who saw Ryuuen whose physique was not large at all, gave his evaluation...
2164
2165	“I know you very well. It was a little celebrity in the local area when It was Hosen. I didn't think he looked so stupid.”
2166
2167	Ryuuen responded to Hosen, which repeatedly referred to Sudou as a fool, with the same words. It seems that the area is indeed like Ryuuen. Ryuuen is usually an enemy of other classes, but it is encouraging to come out with this kind of trouble. In fact, Sudou also succeeded in enduring his anger because the atmosphere of the place changed.
2168
2169	“And, what is it that you know, Ryuuen-san?”
2170
2171	“Ryuuen?”
2172
2173	The expression of Hosen, who heard the name, changed, and he laughed with his big mouth open.
2174
2175	“Hey, what the hell. It’s a rainy day. I’ve heard enough of your rumors to dislike you”
2176
2177	“It looks like you have the intelligence to remember people's names.”
2178
2179	Apparently, they have known each other for a long time. The first-year Class D Hosen seems to be a person close to Ryuuen.
2180
2181	However, it seems to be good even if it is said that it is a complete revival apparently to see the relation between Ryuuen and Ishizaki and Ibuki. At one time, he was withdrawn, but did he start leading the class C for second-year again?
2182
2183	“But that rumored Ryuuen had such a poor body. It's surprising.”
2184
2185	“You seem to be able to make your muscles up to your brain as you can imagine”
2186
2187	“I was going to kill you when I went on a few expeditions, but the only thing I couldn't see was because I was scared and hiding, right?　Did you just let the soldiers work and run away?”
2188
2189	“Kuku, you've been saved by the meeting. If you had met me, you wouldn't have had such a big attitude by now. Luckily, I’m still losing.”
2190
2191	“I thought I was running away with my tail wrapped around me. If you don't, can I put it black and white here now?
2192
2193	 Hosen holds a big fist fist and shows room.
2194
2195	 If you know Ryuuen in junior high school, there is probably no big difference between the impression that our second graders have. Don't you think of it as someone you don't want to turn to the enemy?
2196
2197	“Don’t stop. I’m not going to beat the gorilla in a rewarding situation.”
2198
2199	Despite being provoked, Ryuuen declines the offer.
2200
2201	Of course, you can’t fight in such a place.
2202
2203	Ishizaki and his colleagues probably thought that they would show their stance to take it even if they changed places.
2204
2205	“Is he so terrible? He is bigger than Sudou, but...”
2206
2207	“Let’s go
2208
2209	Ryuuen laughs a little before giving directions, as if there is no intention of answering here.
2210
2211	I'm going to bring it up.
2212
2213	“Are you okay with being licked in a year?”
2214
2215	Ibuki also knows that jumping to anyone is like Ryuuen.
2216
2217	I put such a word involuntarily.
2218
2219	“Ha. It's not settled, it's always on.”
2220
2221	Ryuuen just replied quietly to Ibuki.
2222
2223	It’s good if it ends with this, and Hosen walks the distance is packed in Ryuuen.
2224
2225	“Is that woman your soldier, too?”
2226
2227	Hosen, who was watching such an exchange, asks Ryuuen.
2228
2229	“Well, that's it.”
2230
2231	“Huh?　Who?　Don't make it your own soldier.”
2232
2233	“Ryuuen, which even women use for soldiers.”
2234
2235	“You're the one who's always taking a soldier with a pretty and cute thing.”
2236
2237	In a similar way, Hosen also has a student named Nanase on the side.
2238
2239	“He's not a soldier. Well, it doesn't matter. Let's play Ryuuen”
2240
2241	No matter how many times he is provoked, he won't ride it.
2242
2243	As if to symbolize it, he turned his back and showed his will to retreat.
2244
2245	“That's right. If that's the case, then...
2246
2247	I felt that Ryuuen, which didn't come to eat, was not interesting, but the arm of the movement which extended from Hosen. The arm was directed at the Ibuki. Ibuki tries to pay it lightly.
2248
2249	But...
2250
2251	The arm which tried to pay extends quickly and powerfully just before, and grabs Ibuki's neck straight up.
2252
2253	“Eh!?”
2254
2255	Ibuki tries to pull off the arm in a hurry, as if a dangerous signal was sent from the brain waves.
2256
2257	 However, Hosen’s arm does not budge, as if it were made of steel.
2258
2259	 Ryuuen looked back captures the figure of Ibuki which was tightened up.
2260
2261	Ibuki tries to escape by using his hands and feet skillfully, but Hosen doesn't get let go.
2262
2263	“Huh. Get out of here. Or you can call on all of you who are watching there.”
2264
2265	Absolute self-confidence, rather than fear, is visible on his face.
2266
2267	But it's certainly not a situation where you can easily get your hands on it. The school naturally smells if the commotion is caused in such a place. In a situation where the brake seems to be applied inevitably, the only unbound Ryuuen moved while being amazed. A movement to help Ibuki rather than to give a blow to The Hosen. The dive slips into the bosom of the hosen. However, while holding Ibuki's neck, Hosen makes a light kick from Ryuuen in a restricted motion situation.
2268
2269	“Teme~!”
2270
2271	There, Ishizaki, who was once stopped, also participates in the war.
2272
2273	 It was beginning to become a commotion which could no longer be thought to be the corridor of the school.
2274
2275	“It's okay. Even if you ever went to a school like this.”
2276
2277	A full-fledged fight may break out in the future.
2278
2279	In such a situation, Nanase, who was watching from beginning to end, opens her mouth.
2280
2281	“Please stop Hosen-kun.”
2282
2283	Hosen, who was showing a movement that did not feel the handicap that was catching Ibuki against Ryuuen and Ishizaki, but he was called out to his classmate Nanase and stopped the movement.
2284
2285	“Did you say anything?”
2286
2287	Rather than listening to the advice, he shows irritation about what she has said.
2288
2289	“My seniors have been concerned about the surveillance cameras from a while ago. Judging from that situation, I decided that there is no benefit in going wild here.”
2290
2291	“I know what it's like. I know and play.”
2292
2293	He says he was aware from the beginning that this was a surveillance camera that restricted his behavior.
2294
2295	If that's the case, then the series of actions after the appearance of Hosen is still puzzling.
2296
2297	Then, ignoring the advice from Nanase, he tried to resume the fight.
2298
2299	Nanase further strengthened her words.
2300
2301	“If you know, it's even more so. If you're going to waste any more, here's your idea. We also look at making 'that' known here.”
2302
2303	The movement of the treasure fountain stops again by receiving the abstract word of ‘that’.
2304
2305	After showing a bored face, he let go of his hand holding Ibuki and sat down on the floor coughing.
2306
2307	“It's not good, but if you don’t meet my expectations, I won’t forgive you even if you are a woman”
2308
2309	“At that time, I will accept it.”
2310
2311	Even though she was threatened by Hosen, Nanase said that without any shaking.
2312
2313	 It seems to be calm that it does not feel even a little dust, such as being on the floor of the second grade.
2314
2315	Anyway, this man named Hosen is not free. There are not a few students in the second grade who are proud of their hustle and bustle. If it is a man, it is so of Ryuuen, Sudou, and Albert. However, while Hosen is a freshman, he can see that he is a very talented person. Even if I faced him, he wouldn't be an easy opponent to keep in control of. I can't read what would happen if I did my best as much as I could make you feel that way in one piece. The purpose of Ryuuen's attempt to stop Ishizaki from being careless was probably because he decided that the simple strike was disadvantageous. A terrible first-year has come.
2316
2317	“Don't do that. The purpose is fulfilled and I’ll go back, Nanase.”
2318
2319	“Yes. That's wise.”
2320
2321	Hosen looks back at Ryuuen again, wondering if he was satisfied outside of the fight.
2322
2323	“If you're going to sit on me, can we pair up, Ryuuen?”
2324
2325	“Unfortunately, I only work with humans. I’m not going to work with a wild gorilla.”
2326
2327	“That’s a shame.”
2328
2329	However, this happening does not end here.
2330
2331	In addition to Hosen and Nanase, a first-year student had been watching the situation for a long time.
2332
2333	Whether that was a hind sight of The Hosen, the target is finally turned to the first grade.
2334
2335	“Are you just looking at the sights? And you?”
2336
2337	“Don't get too close to Kimiko. Do you know such a word?
2338
2339	The boy of the first-year answered so while receiving it refreshingly to Hosen who glared at him.
2340
2341	“It's fine to have a chat, but it's not a good idea for Hosen-kun to make a fuss here anymore. First of all, I think that it is necessary to go down first. Is it wrong?
2342
2343	 An adult finally showed up here with the word which can be taken with such advice.
2344
2345	“What is Hosen doing?”
2346
2347	 A man in a suit appears as if to spare the hustle and bustle of the students.
2348
2349	At the same time, many of the second-year students who were watching ran into their classrooms.
2350
2351	“Hosen, I know how you feel about it, but the rules of the school must have been so hard that your ears hurt.”
2352
2353	“I know that.”
2354
2355	“If you know, get out of here. Fighting is not a traffic thing.”
2356
2357	“It's not even a fight like this.”
2358
2359	Laughing with his nose, Hosen put his hands in his pockets and turned his back.
2360
2361	 Surprisingly easily, Hosen withdrew, telling Nanase to retreat.
2362
2363	“Then, I’ll come again, Horikita.”
2364
2365	I went out of my way to take the trouble to take the trouble of Horikita No, Hosen, who refers to the second-year class D.
2366
2367	“I apologize for the fuss.”
2368
2369	At the end, Nanase bowed her head, the place returns to normal.
2370
2371	And Nanase, who raised her face, looked at my eyes again when she left. Eyes when I first had eyes when I first showed up on this floor. An exploring eye that seems to want to know something.
2372
2373	However, as soon as she caught my gaze, she diverted her eyes and chased after Hosen.
2374
2375	“I'm sorry, you guys. The students in my class caused trouble.”
2376
2377	 The teacher apologizes to Horikita, who was watching over the situation by his side.
2378
2379	“No...”
2380
2381	“By the way, let's introduce ourselves lightly. Shiba Katsunori, who will take on the D class in the first year. I've just arrived at this school, but I'll ask for your best regards after that.”
2382
2383	He takes a light self-introduction, and Shiba-sensei returns to follow Hosen.
2384
2385	Then, the boy who showed composure bowed to the second-grade student as he changed.
2386
2387	“My classmate, Hosen-kun, seems to have troubled my seniors. I apologize on behalf of the year again.”
2388
2389	It was different from the previous one, and it seemed to be a student who seemed to be able to communicate.
2390
2391	“We first-year students don't understand the special exam well yet. We apologize for the inconvenience, but thank you, seniors.”
2392
2393	After both the apology and the words that served as a dusty and dusty, the student who called himself Yagami also showed the lifting and abetted.
2394
2395	At that time, Yagami suddenly notices something.
2396
2397	It’s just a few Class D girls who seem to just have returned from lunch.
2398
2399	There are four people, Matsushita, Kushida, Sato and Mii-chan.
2400
2401	One of them, the rice field, looked at the rice field and looked surprised.
2402
2403	“It's kind of noisy. What's going on?　Horikita-san”
2404
2405	While recognizing the existence of Yagami, Ta tries to learn about the situation mysteriously.
2406
2407	It's not something you care about.
2408
2409	“Is that right?”
2410
2411	When she tells her that it's nothing, she tries to go back to the classroom with the three of them.
2412
2413	“Um… maybe you are, Senpai?”
2414
2415	“What?”
2416
2417	Ta recalls receiving such a voice. To know the name of the field, I wonder if Yagami was also an acquaintance of Ta? That's what I thought.
2418
2419	“Eh?”
2420
2421	Even if the other party is seen, it seems to be mysterious, and there is no air of acquaintance.
2422
2423	“It's me. Don't you understand?　But it's not unreasonable. I’m Yagami Takuya.”
2424
2425	Kushida listened to his name and thought a bit, but she seemed to get a point right away.
2426
2427	“Yagami...” Oh, my God!　Eh, that Yagami-kun!?
2428
2429	“Yes, that is Yagami. It's been a long time!”
2430
2431	“Yagami-kun was in this school, too. It's a great coincidence!’
2432
2433	“I never thought I'd see My seniors again here.”
2434
2435	“Do you know each other?”
2436
2437	When Sato asks mysteriously, Kushida nods.
2438
2439	“Yes. However, there were few contacts. Takuya Yagami. I have an impression that he’s incredibly smart. I didn’t talk so much because my grade was different.”
2440
2441	“Then do you know that too?”
2442
2443	When I whispered to Horikita, I immediately got an answer.
2444
2445	“No, I do not know.”
2446
2447	“In your case, you don't even seem to remember your classmate's face.”
2448
2449	“I don't deny it. I didn't have enough time to look at people I wasn't interested in.”
2450
2451	Apparently, I really remember...... No, it seems that he didn't even recognize it.
2452
2453	Even classmates can't even remember their juniors in suspicious situations.
2454
2455	Well, even if you don’t remember the field, boys will never forget the field once they see it
2456
2457	It has since been the appearance to attract people much.
2458
2459	“I'm lucky to be able to go to the same school again with my longing for senpai
2460
2461	“That's ...”
2462
2463	Kushida is humble. However, if it was the same junior high school as Yagami, it comes out to be worried a little.
2464
2465	“As an example, do you know Yagami as a junior?”
2466
2467	The example is of course, Kushida’ past.
2468
2469	When Kushida was in junior high school, she had the experience of destroying his class.
2470
2471	And, Horikita who came from the same school which knew the fact faced strong hostility from Kushida. I felt it was dangerous to be known to be the kind of person who would break my class, and I wanted to eliminate it.
2472
2473	If he’s from the same junior high school, it's no wonder Yagami knows the story.
2474
2475	“It's no wonder I know. But there's no guarantee that you'll know.”
2476
2477	The existence of Yagami is not a safe existence for Kushida.
2478
2479	 It's not strange to come into the lower class, just like some of the students from the same school in the same grade
2480
2481	“It's sudden, but if you're a senior, you won't complain. Can you partner with me?”
2482
2483	They had just reunited, but Yagami made the proposal while showing his smile.
2484
2485	Is this an appeal that you don't know anything about the past, or is it an appeal that doesn't matter if you know it?
2486
2487	“Is it okay with me?”　If you're a Yagami-kun, you'd better work with someone who can study harder.”
2488
2489	Yagami’s academic ability is perfect for Class A. Kushida is not just being humble.
2490
2491	Horikita, who was operating her cell phone next to me, was also about to check it with OAA.
2492
2493	“I don't know right or left. In that case, I would like to partner with someone I can trust.”
2494
2495	On the app, even if you can know a certain amount of academic ability, you cannot know the human nature.
2496
2497	In that case, it is a judgment that it is better to have an acquaintance who can be sure that he will leave a solid result.
2498
2499	“Um, can you let me think a little bit…?”
2500
2501	“Did you watch out for Yagami, or is it another reason?”
2502
2503
2504
2505
2506
2507	“Of course. I'm going to wait for Kushida-senpai’s reply. She decided to hold onto the partner’s offer without teaming up with anyone for a while.”
2508
2509	With academic ability A, there is no need to rush to find a partner.
2510
2511	 Yagami accepted the hold in Kushida’s reply.
2512
2513	“Damn, that's okay. If I were you, I wouldn't hesitate to team up.
2514
2515	It seems to be envious of Kushida which can choose the option of holding it if it makes it to Sudou of the academic ability E+.
2516
2517	“If so, you have to work harder.”
2518
2519	“Oh...” I'm going to do better.”
2520
2521	It’s not being mean, but an envy of ambition.
2522
2523	I take the distance from Horikita's once.
2524
2525	The reason is that it was seen that the wave was beckoning in the position which was a little away.
2526
2527	The members of the Ayanokouji group, Akito, Airi were all present.
2528
2529	“Su, I was so scared.”
2530
2531	As soon as we joined, Airi expressed her impression of Hosen.
2532
2533	“This year's first-year students also felt that they were like Sudou-kun and Ryuuen-kun.”
2534
2535	Haruka, who had seen the commotion from a distance, said with amazement,
2536
2537	Akito, standing next to him, stares at the end of the corridor from where Hosen le
2538
2539	“Miyachi, what's wrong?”
2540
2541	“A ridiculous guy came in. This school may be quite rough from now on. He's... In terms of strength, Hosen is not weaker than Sudou or Ryuuen.”
2542
2543	“Do you know something, Miyatchi?”
2544
2545	“I've never seen it directly. In my hometown, Ryuuen and Hosen were quite famous people.”
2546
2547	Apparently, Akito lived in a place close to the junior high school where Ryuuen and Hosen attend.
2548
2549	“At my school...” In short, there was a strong number of pride or a noisy, but one day it suddenly disappeared and it became a commotion. After that, I was two years younger than me, and I was in the first year of junior high school, and I was sent to the hospital by Taiman and sent to the hospital.”
2550
2551	“Be, captain?　There's something like a bad comic in real. Maybe I'll pull it a little bit.”
2552
2553	“I used to live in an area famous for the gathering of bad guys.”
2554
2555	“Hey...”
2556
2557	Haruka is a little confused by the words she doesn’t understand.
2558
2559	“That's how Hosen shut the junior high school around him from the very bottom.”
2560
2561	“Ryuuen-kun was famous too, wasn't he?”　It was like they met for the first time.”
2562
2563	“It was like they didn't happen to meet you.”
2564
2565	“By the way, was Miyachi bad too?”
2566
2567	“I'm... That's what I quit. I'm a good student right now.”
2568
2569	“I mean, it was bad.”
2570
2571	“...... It was until the second year of junior high school that it was rough. From there, I'm doing it with just one archery.”
2572
2573	“That means it was bad, right?”
2574
2575	It was pursued by Haruka in a strange place, and The Akito scratched his head as if he were in trouble.
2576
2577	“If so, I’m not sure if it's ok.”
2578
2579	“Are you different? It's rather cool - it's not the past.”
2580
2581	“It's really cool.”
2582
2583	The reason why he is familiar with the quarrel situation is that Akito himself was on that side. Certainly, there was a place where the courage was put up for a long time, and the quickness of the slight movements.
2584
2585	“What if I shut down the Hosen as a bad source?”
2586
2587	“Let's be kidding. Even if you fight, you choose the other party. I don't want to fight Hosen in particular.”
2588
2589	With the Akito who raises the white flag before fighting. Rather than his own weakness, he acknowledges the strength of Hosen.
2590
2591	 Ibuki also had some sense of fighting, but she couldn’t do anything.
2592
2593	Overwhelming body disparity. Moreover, it is not sure to be able to meet the enemy if it comes to be a speed.
2594
2595
2596
2597	* * *
2598
2599
2600
2601	Part 3
2602
2603
2604
2605	After school, I'm called out by Horikita, just like yesterday.
2606
2607	When the two of us tried to leave the classroom, Sudou was eager to accompany us. Horikita, who tried to reject him as he did last time, seemed to be pushed by the enthusiasm to help him until he found someone to be his partner. Start acting on the condition that it does not interfere with club activities and study. I had to admit that Horikita was unexpectedly kind.
2608
2609	 However, there might be a good reason for it.
2610
2611	There are about ten days until the special examination. If you think about the difficulty of the written exam, it is better to be able to have time and environment where you can concentrate on your studies even a little. However, you are always concerned about Horikita's trends, he will lack concentration. She wants to find Sudou's partner quickly and make time to concentrate on studying, and I can see through Horikita's idea.
2612
2613	Horikita firmly understands the human being named Ken Sudou, but there is one important thing that she cannot understand. That's Sudou's thoughts on Horikita. Doesn’t she realize that you just want to be by the side with a reason?
2614
2615	 Of course, I don't bother to tell her. This is also an important driving force for Sudou.
2616
2617	Horikita decided not to go to the first-year classroom, but to the Keyaki mall.
2618
2619	 I wonder if it's because the first graders went to the second-year area in the daytime today and got into trouble.
2620
2621	 Because it does not necessarily become a similar development, it is a form that consideration.
2622
2623	Or did Horikita change her mind because the first-year Class D student Hosen was a problem child?
2624
2625	You'll soon find out about it.
2626
2627	“Even so, I'm not doing any good. It's been a year, and I’m making a lot of noise around there.”
2628
2629	 As soon as he entered the mall, Sudou poked his little finger in his left hand into his ear.
2630
2631	A frank impression of the first graders who spread in the field of view.
2632
2633	“There are certainly a lot of students getting carried away.”
2634
2635	 They’re talking about what we're going to buy and what we're going to eat, talking happily here and there.
2636
2637	“I'm seriously looking for a partner.”
2638
2639	It's not good for first graders as well as second graders to spend days to decide on a partner. However, there is a big gap between the first and second graders.
2640
2641	It is a difference in perception of the special examination.
2642
2643	Like the first graders after school yesterday, few students have a sense of crisis.
2644
2645	When we went out of the school, it was more apparent.
2646
2647	“It's no wonder. It was the same situation when we were in the first grade.”
2648
2649	“Yes...”
2650
2651	The students were playing around every day with a large sum of money that had been transferred immediately after entering the school.
2652
2653	 Even if it is class A, the situation does not change much.
2654
2655	Aside from the use, it is the same that they enjoy this incredible school.
2656
2657	 What's most annoying is that there's a difference in penalties for first and second grade students.
2658
2659	If we fail, we must drop out of school, and the first grader loses only three months of private points.
2660
2661	“It's a carefree thing, it's like, it's a lot of fun.”
2662
2663	“You don't say that, Sudou-kun. Have you forgotten what you were a year ago?”
2664
2665	“Well, I haven’t forgotten that. I regret it.”
2666
2667	Because he was a student who was confirmed as the first dropout early on.
2668
2669	Of course, it is not possible to use the relief measures which were used at that time any longer.
2670
2671	The privilege of being a beginner has long been exhausted.
2672
2673	“For now, let's talk to one group.”
2674
2675	 Horikita said that after finding three first-year boys sitting on a bench and chatting.
2676
2677	The name is Kakaga, Mikami, Shiratori. All three of them are students who are in the one-year D class and whose academic ability is B or higher. Before calling out, Horikita confirms it through the app just in case.
2678
2679	Is she still aiming at the students of the first year D class?
2680
2681	“Isn’t it a bit better?”
2682
2683	“...... What is it?”
2684
2685	It would have been clear as soon as they saw that the seniors had called out to them.
2686
2687	The expression which seemed to be happy disappeared and it changed quickly to the appearance that it was wary.
2688
2689	“I'm looking for a partner to work with in this special exam. You're still unpaired, aren't you?”
2690
2691	“Well, yes. I haven't worked with anyone yet.”
2692
2693	“If it’s fine could you let me talk on the premise that we're going to work together?”
2694
2695	“Of course, it's fine. What's that?”
2696
2697	After receiving the proposal from here, I nod as if the three of us had shown it together. I felt a little wary with a good feeling than I expected.
2698
2699	Sudou also shows a surprised face that the attitude of the three people is serious.
2700
2701	“I'm just very sorry, but what we're looking for is the top priority right now.
2702
2703	“You're looking for a partner to help people with low academic ability from dropping out, aren't you?”
2704
2705	It seems that the hand is already widespread among the first graders.
2706
2707	“Yes. If you understand, it saves time.”
2708
2709	“Uh... That's right... Should I partner with Sudou?”
2710
2711	The other side also checked our profile on the mobile phone, so there is no hesitation in the story.
2712
2713	“That's right. He's one of them. There are a few others.”
2714
2715	“Oh, I see. Is Sudou senior academic ability E+? This is awkward, isn't it?”
2716
2717	It was mildly worded, but it's clear that he pointed out his poor academic ability.
2718
2719	Sudou seemed to be dissatisfied though it was true, but it was still great without putting it out to the last minute.
2720
2721	[TLN: Who is this white bird? Swan” 白鳥 / Hakucho]
2722
2723	“If you're a white bird, you can afford it, can't you?”
2724
2725	Two people who waved to the first grader named the swan who was sitting on the right edge.
2726
2727	“I have an A evaluation in Academic ability.”
2728
2729	“That's right. I wouldn't say it’s impossible for us to work together.”
2730
2731	“Then---How about this?”
2732
2733	The swan spread his hand, made a par, and suggested it to Horikita.
2734
2735	For a moment, Horikita looked at us without knowing what it was.
2736
2737	“It's not. You want me to partner with you, don't you?　Then it's decided, isn't it?”
2738
2739	Horikita also understood the words.
2740
2741	“...... I wonder if it’s about private points.”
2742
2743	“It's natural. If I can team up with a smart person, I can aim for the top. It is natural that it becomes such a flow because it throws away the reward which can be obtained in the upper rank and it is made up with the person with low academic ability.”
2744
2745	“What's the point? And 50,000... It's too expensive.”
2746
2747	For Sudou, who is always living a life of lack of money, he presents an exceptional amount of points.
2748
2749	“Senpai, please stop joking. You can't take it for 50,000.”
2750
2751	“Ah?”
2752
2753	“It's half a million. If you give me half a million points, I can partner here now.”
2754
2755	“Five hundred thousand!?”
2756
2757	“It's hard to get a dropout from class, isn't it?”　We're studying a lot, too.”
2758
2759	It seems to be very different from the time of admission from the time of admission from ours last year.
2760
2761	They have begun to understand the structure of this school from an early stage and understand their own value.
2762
2763	Then, I do not know which is senior and which is junior.
2764
2765	It's a situation that seems to be able to take it like that.
2766
2767	“It's natural to get a reward as long as you have a team with someone with low academic ability.”
2768
2769	“Oh, it sounds like- you don't have half a million?”
2770
2771	“I know, just shut up.”
2772
2773	Three first-year students laugh bitterly when they hear about the purse situation that they leaked carelessly.
2774
2775	“It's natural to want points, but it’s not good to just follow the short-term greed, is it?”
2776
2777	“What do you mean?”
2778
2779	As a representative of the three, the swan asks Horikita back.
2780
2781	“If you sell our favor to us here, we might be able to help in a similar situation in the future.”
2782
2783	Horikita explains that it is advantageous later if you make a favor other than a private point.
2784
2785	“I don't think that the senior who came to Horikita who is academic ability A can be useful to the senior Sudou and Ayanokouji?”
2786
2787	“That's not necessarily the case. This school is not just about studying. Sometimes physical abilities are required.”
2788
2789	Especially when it comes to Sudou, it's the only physical ability A+ in the second grade.
2790
2791	Horikita's aim was to use that point as a weapon.
2792
2793	“I know. But after all, it's D class, isn't it?　If I sell my favor anyway, I'll make it A class or B class.”
2794
2795	The white bird that judged calmly and objectively answers so.
2796
2797	If you look at this situation, you will understand Horikita.
2798
2799	“...... Right. That's what I'm talking about.”
2800
2801	It is not until you think deeply about the smooth acceptance of this invitation and the amount of points you have presented.
2802
2803	“What do you mean?”
2804
2805	“Before you seniors, we were approached by another class in of second-year.”
2806
2807	“I'm not going to sell my academic ability at a low price. What's that?”
2808
2809	“Yes. Please think that we can't make it up unless we get a reasonable point.”
2810
2811	In front of these swans, Horikita continues to talk without losing her composure.
2812
2813	“Certainly, you can't sell yourself cheaply. But did you really talk to me?”
2814
2815	“What do you mean?”
2816
2817	Swan showing a slightly displeased face. It seems that the pride of academic ability A was hurt to some extent.
2818
2819	“You're the same D class as us. I don't think the upper class will talk to you easily.”
2820
2821	This is Horikita's Bluff. if the academic ability is high, even if it is D class, you’ll have a lot of value in this special exam.
2822
2823	 A word to confirm where and how much the voice is coming from.
2824
2825	 The swan rebutted Horikita in a slightly rough tone whether the pride was stimulated.
2826
2827	“It's true. I'm invited by my seniors to Hashimoto in class A for two years. Also, I've been asked to work with a good point from the second-year C class. Hey, what's up?
2828
2829	 That's right, two people agree.
2830
2831	“We're not the only ones. Most smart people are calling out to me.”
2832
2833	As Horikita read, it was the two-year A-class and the second-year C-class that began to act.
2834
2835	“Yes...” In that case, we can't live up to your expectations now.”
2836
2837	“Oh, but if you give me a point, I won't refuse. I'm going to watch it for about a week. In the meantime, if you give me half a million points, I'll be happy to put it together with Sudou-senpai.”
2838
2839	 The amount of points to be able to prevent withdrawal surely is 500,000 private points.
2840
2841	 Of course, it is expensive, but if you change your perspective, you can buy safety at that point.
2842
2843	But there’s no way to make a quick decision here.
2844
2845	“By the way... How much did you ask Hashimoto-kun to cooperate with you?”
2846
2847	I want to know the specific amount of points, but the white birds are not so sweet either.
2848
2849	“It's an unspeakable promise. But if it's half a million points, I'll just cooperate with my seniors.”
2850
2851	“All right. Let's consider that point. So, I'd like to ask you a favor. Can you introduce some students in the same Class D?”
2852
2853	“Introduce?”
2854
2855	“We are ready to cooperate to some extent. But it takes time and effort to talk to each person and explain the same way from the first. If I can, I want you to gather people and have a concrete discussion there.”
2856
2857	While the cooperative relationship is flickering, she does not mention what to cooperate on.
2858
2859	The three of them look at each other, but they look bad somewhere.
2860
2861	“It's... It's a little difficult to be entrusted with that kind of role. ...... Then, right?”
2862
2863	“Ah. If you do that without permission, you'll be scolded by Hosen-kun, right?”
2864
2865	 The name ‘Hosen’ comes out of the conversation between the three of us.
2866
2867	It can be seen from the words and attitudes that a student named Hosen is afraid of.
2868
2869	“Excuse me, senior, can you hit others like that...”
2870
2871	After all, it becomes that man who holds the key of the D class in one year.
2872
2873	He sensed that the air had clearly changed and decided not to pursue Horikita deeply.
2874
2875	“Thank you. I'll talk to you again when I need it.”
2876
2877	“Yes, yes. I'm waiting for you.”
2878
2879	We walk away from the bench and start moving to the cafe on the second floor. Looking back, the swan appeared to be calling somewhere in a hurry with his cell phone in his hand.
2880
2881	“I've got the information, but it's hard to say that I’ve made progress. The only thing that is certain is that if it's a ridiculous amount of 500,000 points, you'll never cooperate with me right away.”
2882
2883	“Don't make a silly request, let's look at your feet.”
2884
2885	“It's definitely a silly amount of money. But it's true that you don't have to sell yourself cheaply.”
2886
2887	If you're getting an evaluation of academic ability A, it's even more so.
2888
2889	It's much more right as a way to earn than to get the top score in the exam and aim for 100,000 points.
2890
2891	“So, I guess the only way to help out is to pay private points to someone after all?”
2892
2893	“It's not easy to say that there are students who take it free of charge.”
2894
2895	The air that it is already approved by the point has spread. It's better to think that the whole first grader knows about the exchange of private points, not just the swans anymore. This may be one of the strategies of Sakayanagi, and Ryuuen. The exchange by the usual point is an act that I want to back off. It's the theory to do it secretly. However, by making a big deal of acquisitions, they are aware that free service is a loss.
2896
2897	However, there was a thing to be worried about in the conversation of the swans earlier.
2898
2899	 Swan said he would wait for a week, even though he had already been approached. Even if it is a period to catch the point, it is worrisome that three people match in that direction from the beginning. Some students want to be safe by finding a partner early.
2900
2901	I wonder if those three are just bullish by chance, or.
2902
2903	“Even if I ask the dark clouds as it is, I think they will give the same answer.”
2904
2905	It was good until I looked at the D class in the first year, but it's a problem beyond that.
2906
2907	It may be said that if you do, you will make Hosen angry.
2908
2909	From that utterance, there is no doubt that Hosen is the only person who controls the entire First-year class D.
2910
2911	“Perhaps Hosen is giving instructions to his classmates. You are free to work with anyone anywhere, but you can only make more than 500,000 points immediately, put on hold if it’s an A-class.”
2912
2913	“But if you do that, wouldn’t only first-year Class D remain unsold?”
2914
2915	“It means that they are looking to eventually sell off”
2916
2917	“Ah? I don't know what that means.”
2918
2919	“It's the second-year students who are afraid of penalties for not having a partner. He thinks he can use that penalty as a weapon and eventually get a private point.”
2920
2921	If honors students other than the first-year D class are sold out, they will eventually have to cooperate with them with a large amount of money even if they don't like it. Even if it was a million, two million.
2922
2923	“It's a reckless strategy that doesn't think about the future.”
2924
2925	“Tell me the specific policy of how to fight again.”
2926
2927	 The policy and strategy of the one-year D class have already come into view. Based on that, what do you think about, Horikita?
2928
2929	Since the two-year A-class and C-class extreme acquisition competition has begun, do you take the form of breaking into here, or build a relationship of trust by accepting a lot of lower-level students regardless of the class, such as Ichinose, Do you go with a policy of appealing for cooperation to honor sores?
2930
2931	“When I got an overview of this special exam, I decided to set three goals.”
2932
2933	“Three goals?”
2934
2935	Sudou seems to be interested in it very much, and he blurts out.
2936
2937	“The most important thing is not to drop out of class, and this goes without saying.”
2938
2939	Sudou nods.
2940
2941	“And then, in class-specific battles, we aim for third place or higher overall.”
2942
2943	“Third place? You mean you throw away the first place or the second place from the beginning?”
2944
2945	“No one would tell you to throw it away. I just said I was in third place or higher.”
2946
2947	It is true that the word ingress first and second place, but it doesn't seem to be that way.
2948
2949	And perhaps it's also related to the third goal.
2950
2951	“The third is not to participate in money games. We're going to fight these three principles.”
2952
2953	“Eh…? But…”
2954
2955	“I know what you want to say. If we don't compete on private points, we can't win first. But even if we fight with the points of our two-year D class, the risk and return are not commensurate. Even if the overall rank is the first place, the class point obtained is 50 points. Even if you convert it in one year, you can get a class at only two million.”
2956
2957	It takes 39 people of 5000 points per head a month, and 2145000 private points will be spent on the remaining 11 months, except for the transfer in April that has already passed.
2958
2959	“If we were to pull one person out at 500,000 points, it would be red when we pulled in more than five people. It's not a sweet battle to catch and win the first grade of academic ability A by about four people, is it?”
2960
2961	4485000 private points for the next two years, that is, even if you anticipate graduation. The maximum number of people can be retracted. Moreover, this is a prerequisite that it is possible to draw surely in 500,000 or less, and to be able to take the first place in the overall ranking by grade. If you look at the risks, it is more likely to be more efficient to wait for future special tests and release private points there.
2962
2963	“Private and class points are not equal. I know there's more to pay off. But I thought that even if we put all the points here, we shouldn't overdo it if we didn't win well. I wonder if I'm wrong, Ayanokouji-kun”
2964
2965	“No, your decision is correct.”
2966
2967	 The difference between the overall value of the academic ability originally possessed by the second-year D class and the overall value of the two-year A-class is obvious. When I thought I was going to win overall, I don't think it would be an advantage to draw 11 people. Of course, Horikita came also will move flexibly. If you have a student who can help you with 5.1 million, you can give him a private point. It is said that it does not do only the fight by the bill bundle to the last.
2968
2969	“In order to achieve our three goals, I think we should still aim to negotiate with the D-class for the first year.”
2970
2971	“Why is that. You can't join them for less than half a million under the instructions of Hosen, can you?”
2972
2973	“That's true for honor students. However, there are many students in the first year D class, both before and after academic ability C, and many students who are less than or less. What do you think would happen if we left it as it is?”
2974
2975	“What's going to happen...”
2976
2977	“Students who were supposed to be saved by the point of view are questionable by the penalty.”
2978
2979	When I answered, Horikita nodded and continued to say.
2980
2981	“There's no way they are going to throw away the private points I get every month. In other words, Hosen must break his current attitude somewhere.”
2982
2983	Even if all honor students sell for half a million, others will not follow. As a matter of whether or not a dropout from the second grade or not, Hosen will take the back of the fight of the first grade.
2984
2985	“If he's looking to win, there's always a chance to get in.”
2986
2987	It seems that Horikita is going to face the one-year D class that everyone wants to avoid.
2988
2989	“That said, it's dangerous for all 39 people to try to get into Hosen-kun's class. We have to spread out the risk as much as possible.”
2990
2991	When negotiations are not settled, students with low academic ability will see crying.
2992
2993	“Now that the exam has just begun, it's no wonder that there are children who can work together under exceptional conditions.”
2994
2995	“I hope so...” I don't know if it exists or not.”
2996
2997	“At any rate, the only way to find a good partner is to talk to a lot of people.”
2998
2999	“Well, if you’re looking for a good partner, I’m here.”
3000
3001	When we climb the stairs and aim for the cafe on the second floor, we hear such a voice from behind. When I turned around, a female student from the first floor was looking at us with a big smile on her face. As soon as my eyes met, she slowly came up the stairs.
3002
3003	The first person to show a suspicious face came to Horikita.
3004
3005	“Did you listen to me?”
3006
3007	“I just called out to my senior, because I happened to hear. Uh—”
3008
3009	We set a point of view on Horikita, who spoke to us without looking at us.
3010
3011	“Senpai, what is your name and academic ability?”
3012
3013	“..... I'm Horikita from 2nd year class D. I've got an A judgment on my academic ability. So?”
3014
3015	“Hey, you’re smart.”
3016
3017	“What's your name?”
3018
3019	“I'm a year A class Amasawa Ichika. It's the same as Horikita's senpai, and my academic ability is A.”
3020
3021	She is a smart student who doesn't look like a gal.
3022
3023	Just in case and Horikita confirms in the app.
3024
3025	“If you're going to aim high, why don't you team up with me?”
3026
3027	Amasawa said such a thing without hearing anything about the background here.
3028
3029	 It is not impossible to take the first place if two people of the academic ability A team up. As for Horikita, I have deliberately lowered the score for the past Sudou, and considering that, it is not exaggerated as a real A judgment.
3030
3031	It's an unexpected form, but first, Horikita can decide a partner before of Sudou and others.
3032
3033	It's a coincidence, but the students of Academic A reached out to us.
3034
3035	If you ask students who have low academic ability here, there is a possibility that they will be shunned.
3036
3037	“Thanks, but I’m not looking for a partner right now. Can't you rather partner with Sudou-kun?”
3038
3039	Horikita introduces Sudou in a way that takes the risk.
3040
3041	Sudou was a little puzzled, but lightly bowed down.
3042
3043	“Well, what is your academic ability of Sudou-senpai?”
3044
3045	“E+. I can't say it's a good result.”
3046
3047	Far from being, they are competing for the bottom of the list throughout the school year.
3048
3049	Amasawa should already understand it through OAA.
3050
3051	“I see. In other words, Horikita was helping me find a partner to stop her from leaving school.”
3052
3053	The situation is gripped, and Amasawa looks at Sudou.
3054
3055	“Academic Ability E+. If I get together, I'll be halfway below the middle rather than aiming for the top.”
3056
3057	“That's right. There's little benefit to you.”
3058
3059	I thought that the story of the point will come out from Amasawa, but there was no such sign.
3060
3061	“Well, if you ask me, I wouldn't refuse to cooperate with you.”
3062
3063	It's clearly better than the previous three people.
3064
3065	She turned her eyes towards me.
3066
3067	“What about you, senpai? Looking for a partner in the same way?”
3068
3069	“He's an academic ability C. I'm not in a hurry to get a partner for him. If Sudou-kun doesn't work, I'd appreciate it if you could partner with him at worst.”
3070
3071	“No, that's—”
3072
3073	It was the kindness of Horikita, but I must put a stop her plan here.
3074
3075	[TLN: Ayanokouji needs to find out the identity of the White Room student before he can decide on a student to pair with]
3076
3077	 I can't decide on a partner now without any thought.
3078
3079	“Do you have any complaints?”
3080
3081	“That's not the way it is, but...”
3082
3083	“Ah, hey. I haven't said I'm going to work together yet, have I?”
3084
3085	 Amasawa stops us, seeing the story going on without permission.
3086
3087	“Do you need any conditions to work with either of them?”
3088
3089	“Conditions, conditions? Well, I have the right to put it out like that.”
3090
3091	By cutting out from Horikita here, we must try to draw the condition from Amasawa.
3092
3093	The basic policy of avoiding competing with other classes at private points will not change, but if it is cheap, there will be room for consideration. After that, I pray that it is not a high point unlike the white bird tori as before.
3094
3095	“I like strong people”
3096
3097	Amasawa laughed like a little devil, saying something that seemed to have nothing to do with this exam.
3098
3099	“What the hell are you talking about?”
3100
3101	Horikita, who thought she was going to change from a study story to a point story, frowns suspiciously.
3102
3103	“I was wondering what to do with this special exam. I'm going to study hard for the rest of my life, and I'm going to work with people in the vicinity of academic ability A like Horikita-senpai to get to the top. Or do you want to clear it with some ease? So, if you want to clear comfortably, I want to team up with the person you like anyway?”
3104
3105	It's certainly more likely than teaming up with a nasty guy or a guy who doesn't care.
3106
3107	“I like strong men.”
3108
3109	Now, Repeat the story that I just cut out.
3110
3111	Horikita spins his head to try hard to understand.
3112
3113	“In other words, you're asking if Sudou-kun is strong or not?”
3114
3115	“Correct. It's not about mental, it's whether you're physically strong or not. Well, if you look at your physique, you'll get a good feeling of sports and stuff.”
3116
3117	It is Amasawa who turns the fingertip to Sudou which might not be unrelated to the student of the academic ability A judgment.
3118
3119	Sudou, who has confidence in his body, nods and appeals while being a little shy.
3120
3121	“Would you like to partner with me?”
3122
3123	Amasawa reaches out and touches Sudou's cheeks.
3124
3125	“Well, if it was Academic A, it would be the best form for me. Are you sure?”
3126
3127	“If you're really strong.”
3128
3129	After that, the thin fingertip is made to crawl on Sudou's chest plate, and Sudou is fascinated by a bewitching sign.
3130
3131	“I’m strong, I am”
3132
3133	“I don't hate people who are full of confidence.”
3134
3135	“What does that mean if you're strong?”
3136
3137	Horikita, Sudou's watcher, asks questions about Amasawa's unknown story.
3138
3139	“I like strong people in the same way. That's why strong people are good.”
3140
3141	“I think I’ll live up to your expectations. I guarantee Sudou-kun's skill.”
3142
3143	“You can't convince me just by words. After all, I have to see it directly.”
3144
3145	“… Do you want to see it with your eyes?”
3146
3147	“I'm trying to get a strong guy in the second grade and hit each other, so I'm going to partner with the strongest person.”
3148
3149	“Are you kidding me?”　You can't do that.”
3150
3151	“Why?”　I've been talking seriously since the beginning.”
3152
3153	“Let's go, the bell has rung sound. It's a waste of time to be here.”
3154
3155	Sudou also cut out so whether it did not seem that Amasawa was seriously saying here.
3156
3157	Try to lick yourself as you are about to be deceived by Amasawa's appeal even for a moment.
3158
3159	“I just can’t listen to this story”
3160
3161	If you ask her, this is just a bonus game.
3162
3163	Certainly, I don't go out of my way to work with E+ academic ability.
3164
3165	Because it is perfect in both the class ability if it is Amasawa, the buyer will be able to attach as much as possible.
3166
3167	A situation that can be called a kind, good luck. If you receive a talk, Sudou will have the right to partner with students of academic ability A. It's not like there's a penalty in the place where we couldn't make it.
3168
3169	“You're not talking about it in a playful way, you're serious about it, aren't you?”
3170
3171	Horikita's eyes were serious.
3172
3173	“Of course.”
3174
3175	“Yes, it is. In that case, I'll get serious about it and tell you what I'm talking about.”
3176
3177	“Oh, hey Suzune?”
3178
3179	“It's OK. I want to work with strong people.”
3180
3181	“Yes, it is. Then Sudou-kun, you should accept this offer.”
3182
3183	“Well, wait, Suzune. There's no way this school can allow you to be a bit of a jerk. It was last year, and even in the daytime of today, it was pretty bad just to make a little noise.”
3184
3185	Last year, Sudou developed into a big problem due to the class of Ryuuen and a stir.
3186
3187	And today, the fact that Hosen came, and it became a commotion.
3188
3189	“Certainly, a quarrel is not a compliment. But if the two sides agree, there will be no inconvenience. Don't you think so?　Ayanokouji-kun”
3190
3191	I think instantly about what I had heard in Horikita.
3192
3193	If you say there is no problem, the answer is obviously no.
3194
3195	Whether you win or lose, the school will not admit that you deserve a duel, even if you decide not to object.
3196
3197	However, Horikita dares to respond in a way that accepts the battle.
3198
3199	“That's right. There's no way school officials would agree to fight, but if students are convinced and fight, it's not going to be any more problem.”
3200
3201	I dared to answer as if there was no problem.
3202
3203	“Oh, hey Ayanokouji!”
3204
3205	“Besides, no one can beat Sudou-kun if he's a fighting skill, no matter who comes out in the second grade.”
3206
3207	“That's it.”
3208
3209	Sudou doesn't understand, but I and Horikita alternately throw the ball together to establish a conversation.
3210
3211	The important thing here is not to affirm the quarrel.
3212
3213	It is to show with confidence that Sudou is the strongest even if he does not fight.
3214
3215	“It's a chance to say clearly, Sudou-kun. If you think about it normally, it's extremely difficult to get you together with a student with academic ability A. But is It's okay to be a partner?　Moreover, it competes for the strength of the fight that you are better than anyone else. You should take it without hesitation.”
3216
3217	 There is no way that second-year students who are familiar with the rules of this school will take a careless battle.
3218
3219	Moreover, if the other party becomes Sudou, the result is more obvious than seeing the fire.
3220
3221	In other words, even if you accept here, you won't actually have a fight, and even if you have someone to challenge you, you can get back on it.
3222
3223	“It's okay. I'm kind of excited.”
3224
3225	Amasawa, who has just entered the school, will not understand that.
3226
3227	You can't understand things that are different from ordinary junior high and high school.
3228
3229	“But can you promise me one thing first?”　If there are no participants other than Sudou-kun, you would become a partner with Sudou-kun.”
3230
3231	Horikita wants an important arrangement here.
3232
3233	If Amasawa doesn't agree here, the story won't move forward.
3234
3235	“That's right. I promise you that. The fact that no challengers show up is a win-win.”
3236
3237	Horikita nodded as if she was satisfied with her wording.
3238
3239	“Okay? Sudou-kun”
3240
3241	“--Oh, if you don't have a problem with Suzune, I don't have any problem at all.”
3242
3243	He strongly clenched his fists.
3244
3245	The proposal from Amasawa might have been a product of chance, and it was a value thousand money if it made it to Horikita
3246
3247	“Then, I'll be recruited in the whole chat of the app. If you're confident in your skills, please send me a direct email to me that you're going to be entering today.”
3248
3249	“Heh. Whoever comes, I'll give it back.”
3250
3251	Conveniently, Sudou doesn't understand Horikita's idea.
3252
3253	Therefore, I am excited that I might fight for nothing.
3254
3255	“I wonder if I can specify the place here. I want to avoid places that are inadvertently visible to school”
3256
3257	“Yes, it is. I think my seniors understand better, and I'll leave that to you.”
3258
3259	I'll get the last confirmation before I send it to you if I've finished writing.
3260
3261	“Then, it's about the formation of an arm-battle. That's nice?”
3262
3263	In return, When Horikita nodded, Amasawa slowly saw the three of us.
3264
3265	Then, the screen of the mobile phone is darkened, and it puts it in the pocket.
3266
3267	“Yeah, I did”
3268
3269	I thought it was a sudden change of heart, but it doesn't seem to be so.
3270
3271	Judging from that expression, you should see that the other side was also trying and measuring.
3272
3273	However, both Horikita and Sudou panic in a change of heart in Amasawa.
3274
3275	“I wonder why.”
3276
3277	“I've been recruiting, but I don't think the other party is going to come. Looking at Sudou's physique and the attitude of Horikita-senpai and Ayanokouji, I found that he is strong in the top class among the second graders.”
3278
3279	 I understood that there was no need to make a fight and compare it.
3280
3281	The play that Horikita and I played, and Sudou of the element. These effects seem to have gone out too much.
3282
3283	If Horikita had noticed after the recruitment, Horikita would admit to cancel.
3284
3285	Horikita reveals his dissatisfaction because she cannot be made for acting here.
3286
3287	“Did you make fun of us?”
3288
3289	“Hey, that's not the case. It's not interesting just to be clear. I just want to see it with my own eyes and see it and have fun. So, don't get angry like that, senior.”
3290
3291	Well, Amasawa thinks while pressing her index finger against her lips.
3292
3293	“Give me a chance and forgive me.”
3294
3295	Horikita intends to control it, but is swayed by the unique pace of Amasawa.
3296
3297	It doesn't seem to go very well with this type of thing.
3298
3299	“I like strong guys, next to men who can cook.”
3300
3301	“Cooking?”
3302
3303	The new proposal from Amasawa was also completely unrelated to this special examination.
3304
3305	“Sud-senpai, how about you cook for me?”
3306
3307	“Te-Teryori-an!?”
3308
3309	[TLN: Don’t ask me what that means]
3310
3311	Sudou, who was full of confidence until earlier, is surprised to be overdoing an unexpected proposal.
3312
3313	“It's delicious, of course, on the big premise, and I'll have you cook the food I requested.”
3314
3315	“No, no, I've never cooked since I was born.”
3316
3317	“Is that so?”　Well then, I wonder if I could take the chance and go around.”
3318
3319	In order not to let that happen, Horikita is interrupted the story.
3320
3321	“I wonder if it's ok to replace of Sudou-kun.”
3322
3323	“That's not good. I told you, didn't I?　I like men who can cook. And there's no point in partnering unless it’s a person who can cook.”
3324
3325	In other words, when you are a woman, no matter how much you cook, you exclude it
3326
3327	“If I give up on Sudou-senpai and find a senior who can cook?”　Oh, even if you can find it in a hurry, you won't be able to work with Sudou-senpai, will you?”
3328
3329	Ichika laugh like a little devil.
3330
3331	“From now on, do you want to make Sudou-senpai a culinary master? But I wonder if I'll be able to make it in time. I'm popular, so maybe I'll decide on a partner if I don't do it early.”
3332
3333	just a warning. Not long before she is, she will decide on a partner.
3334
3335	 There are many excellent students besides Horikita in the second grade.
3336
3337	You don't have to take the risk of working with Sudou.
3338
3339	So to speak, the whim sly, just playfulness that a girl named Amasawa showed.
3340
3341	 If you change your mind even a little, you’re done.
3342
3343	However, he is a classmate, has low academic ability, and is a boy and is good at cooking.
3344
3345	At this point, there are no substitutes that come to mind.
3346
3347	Then, the order from this Amasawa might be only negative for the D class.
3348
3349	It is more meaningful to give up and attack another student.
3350
3351	When here did not give an answer, Amasawa added:
3352
3353	“All right. Then special service. It's a place where you can partner with a man who's going to cook well, but... If you're satisfied with my tongue, you can team up with Sudou-san, who's a strong person.”
3354
3355	A little concession from Amasawa is proposed here.
3356
3357	Amasawa wants to partner with a man who has a strong fight or a good cook.
3358
3359	Indeed, Amasawa's taste is satisfied.
3360
3361	“It's like working with someone who's a good cook or working with someone who's strong in a fight.”
3362
3363	She said that even other boys could partner with Sudou if they could satisfy.
3364
3365	How will Horikita respond to Amasawa’s wishes?
3366
3367	But the problem is that I don't know that student.
3368
3369	There is a big lack of time to prepare from now.
3370
3371	“Ayanokouji. Surely, you’ve boasted to me that you were good at cooking before?”
3372
3373	Horikita asks me about my cooking skills a dignified manner.
3374
3375	I've never talked about such a thing, even if I'm not proud of it.
3376
3377	It's easy to deny, but it seems like we need to keep it together.
3378
3379	There is not much possibility that Sudou can partner with a student with academic ability A.
3380
3381	“It's not an exaggeration to say that cooking is my only area of expertise.”
3382
3383	“That's right. If Amasawa-san forgives me, I wonder if you’ll be fine with Ayanokouji?”
3384
3385	“If I were a boy, anyone would be fine. But are you really good at it?　You can leave it from your mouth, but the screening is pretty strict, right?”
3386
3387	“Of course, it's okay. Right?”
3388
3389	“Well, that's right.”
3390
3391	As soon as I affirmed it, Amasawa immediately clapped her hands.
3392
3393	“Well then, you’ll have to show me your skills right now”
3394
3395	Deployment too steep. However, this might be the one like the sealing hand of Amasawa.
3396
3397	In order not to give time to learn cooking by giving grace time.
3398
3399	 She’s trying to figure out if I'm really a good cook.
3400
3401	As it is a lie to keep Amasawa together, Horikita cannot answer yes here.
3402
3403	Even if I cook with my current skills, I know how good I am.
3404
3405	Even if it is not strictly judged, I will definitely drop out.
3406
3407	“I want to do that, but I wonder if I'll have some time. I and Ayanokouji-kun are in contact with the first graders in order to find a classmate's partner. There are many other students who need to help besides Sudou-kun. If you get ahead of another class, you'll get a painful damage. Even at this very moment, our rivals are running around looking for a partner.”
3408
3409	You know that, don't you? and explain the situation.
3410
3411	“If I could, I'd like to have time until after school on Friday.”
3412
3413	Saying that, I can kick the wish of Ichika that I want you to behave the dish on the same day.
3414
3415	I tried to give him a few more days after school on Friday.
3416
3417	It is a suggestion that you can make some time on the weekend.
3418
3419	“I see. It's certainly not good for me to take too much time alone.”
3420
3421	Then, Amasawa makes a new proposal.
3422
3423	“I don't mind if it's late today night? Then it's fine?”
3424
3425	“A first-year student entering and leaving the second-year dormitory in the middle of the night, and if it’s a boy’s room, it’s a major problem.”
3426
3427	“I see. But waiting until the weekend is a bit. I'm going to lose the chance to work with another senpai. Right?”
3428
3429	 After all, the proposal to wait until the weekend does not pass easily.
3430
3431	This time, a severe reply comes back from Amasawa.
3432
3433	“But this is also something, and I'll just wait for one day. If you say you can't cook homemade food after school tomorrow, I'll let you do it without this story.”
3434
3435	Perhaps this is the line of cooperation that is the conclusion of the last minute that can be drawn from Amasawa.
3436
3437	If you want it, it's a sign that you're going to pull yourself away right away.
3438
3439	I've come to Horikita, but I have to misunderstand the bargaining.
3440
3441	“That's right. There is no denying that it will impose a burden on you. And you don't want to give me time to practice cooking badly, do you?”
3442
3443	“No, I'm not thinking that far.”
3444
3445	“...... That's okay. Can you ask for that?”
3446
3447	The preparation period is only one day. However, it is not possible to get cooperation of Ichika if we do not agree.
3448
3449	It can be taken as a bitter measure, but Horikita announces the decision…
3450
3451	“It's decided.”
3452
3453	There was no dissatisfaction after school tomorrow that I had said, and Amasawa readily consented.
3454
3455	“However, it is not necessary to make it to the contrary in the middle as if it were a little noisy. We're not playing either.”
3456
3457	“It's funny. I promise. If I decide that I'm sure of my cooking skills, I'll partner with Mr. Sudou at that time.”
3458
3459	 Although it was a verbal promise, Amasawa answered with a simple nod.
3460
3461	“Please, Ayanokouji. Grab my partner by your cooking skills!”
3462
3463	I'll do that in this place, but I don't think it's going to be like this.
3464
3465	“Then, maybe I can meet you in front of Keyaki mall at 4:30 after school tomorrow, Ayanokouji-san.”
3466
3467	“Keyaki mall?”　It's not a dormitory, is it?”
3468
3469	“What you make is a secret, and of course you have to buy some ingredients, don't you?”
3470
3471	I see. What is the subject of the examination from the purchase?
3472
3473	“Can I go with you?”
3474
3475	Horikita offers to offer advice so as not to be well found out.
3476
3477	However, it is not the other party who goes so easily.
3478
3479	“That's not good. I can send you advice, even if you’re blind. The judging process is strict.”
3480
3481	In other words, tomorrow, I have to do something by myself.
3482
3483	“You're okay, aren't you Ayanokouji-san?”
3484
3485	“Oh, no problem.”
3486
3487	For the time being, I'll take it obediently, but this has become a serious thing.
3488
3489	“Then I'll see you tomorrow.”
3490
3491	Amasawa goes down the stairs with satisfaction.
3492
3493	“Horikita, I think you know.”
3494
3495	“Shut up now. I'll think about the strategy.”
3496
3497	Even if you think about the strategy, the time is only one day.
3498
3499	I have only the minimum cooking skills, so how far can I do?
3500
3501
3502
3503
3504
3505	[ 4 ]
3506
3507
3508
3509	ICHIKA’S EXAM
3510
3511
3512
3513	The special examination entered its third day today. Wednesday is approaching.
3514
3515	When the OAA was updated at 8:00 A.M, the options were inevitably narrowing down.
3516
3517	“34 more pairs were formed?”
3518
3519	This is 56 pairs when combined with those from Monday.
3520
3521	With a maximum of 157 pairs, more than 30% of the students have decided on partners at an early stage.
3522
3523	It was Second-year Class B that added to the number of pairs. In other words, Ichinose was involved in a lot of them.
3524
3525	Apparently, the first-year students from the exchange party decided to think carefully and work together with Ichinose.
3526
3527	Basically, it can be confirmed that many of the first-year students with low academic ability are working with Ichinose and others.
3528
3529	After that, it is presumed that the point trading etc was successful as the name of some first-year honour students disappear from the list, and the name of several students disappeared in the second year C class. Five students from our class, including Kushida, had decided on a partner. If you check the page of the First-year Class B on OAA, Takuya Yagami has also made a decision about the partner. He might have teamed up with the Kushida.
3530
3531	What's strange, however, is that no one in the year D class has decided on a partner.
3532
3533	This is no other class in the first or second school year without a single pair.
3534
3535	If I don't move in earnest, I'm going to get stuck very soon.
3536
3537	Looking at my grades objectively, a few students might come up and say, 'Let's team up'. Whether they’re a student with academic ability or not, it's natural that they want to work with smart students. Unlike the second graders, who have come to be able to act for the benefit of their classes, first-year students will not be able to afford to look out for others. Even classmates are more aware that they are rivals.
3538
3539	At least I'll be postponing my actions till the top scores decide on their partners.
3540
3541	Tsukishiro most likely show any mercy in this exam. I’m going to wait and see if the white room student asks me to become their partner.
3542
3543	Of course, students who ask me to work with them, and students who easily allow me to work together, are dangerous signs.
3544
3545	However, if I hesitate without deciding on a partner forever, the possibility of being teamed up with the spy of Tsukishiro will increase. I need to be sure that I do not pair up with that student, but it's probably not going to be easy.
3546
3547	It’s hard to imagine what kind of persona they will put on after entering this school.
3548
3549	I learned everyone's face, name, and grades at OAA, but of course there are no hints to get from it.
3550
3551	If all 160 freshmen were my opponents, it will be a sure-fire attack and I won’t be able to escape...
3552
3553	I thought of such a stupid thing, but I don’t think that Tsukishiro has the power to go that far.
3554
3555	No, he definitely doesn’t.
3556
3557	The important thing is to think about how to survive, even if everyone is an enemy.
3558
3559	At any rate, I need to find a safe student from the 104 unpaired people left now.
3560
3561	Children raised in the white room are not more biased by gender. Basically, a gender equality policy is set out, so it is impossible to narrow it down from that direction.
3562
3563	Then, how can you narrow down the possibilities? One of the criterions is ‘physique’.
3564
3565	The food in the white room comes out with everything that is managed in every detail. It is basically impossible for children who grow up in that environment to become obese. In other words, if you choose a student of an obese child, you can avoid white room students. A simple diagram comes to mind.
3566
3567	However, this is not absolute. It's possible that the White Room students have been preparing for me to drop out for some months. It's not impossible to be in a plump or thin shape if you feel like it. If you've endured a tough curriculum, it's easy to get by.
3568
3569	However, even without that, the doubt remains in choosing the student whose body shape has deviated from the standard at any time. OAA doesn't show the whole picture, so I can't say for certain, but only two students are blatantly obese.
3570
3571	The possibility that both of them are students sent by Tsukishiro cannot be ruled out. It is assumed that there are not only white room students but also thugs who have been found it from the general public.
3572
3573	Tsukishiro would have offered them a better life if they can get me to drop out.
3574
3575	Next, whether it is possible to narrow down from academic ability. It's also difficult.
3576
3577	If you're a white room student, it is not difficult to get a perfect score on the entrance exam, they could have gotten A or A+ on academic ability. In other words, you can also control their grades freely.
3578
3579	I'm sure they have heard about the introduction of OAA. It would not be surprising even if they had academic ability E/
3580
3581	In the same way, it is impossible to narrow down the A class or D class by affiliation class.
3582
3583	I know, but there is no material to narrow down from any.
3584
3585	What I’m going to do from now is.
3586
3587	To directly look at the students with their own eyes to confirm the truth. If I’m sure that they’re not an enemy, I can pair up with them.
3588
3589	I set one rule for myself.
3590
3591	I'm going to school today, eating lunch, and having after school. In such a day, I call out to the first grader in the order in which I saw it. Then, start with the students and get the cooperation of first-years. Since there is no way the opponent will send in a student who can be found out by observing, there is no choice but to fight with the element that cannot be intervened by chance.
3592
3593	My academic ability C is not high enough to be a weapon, but it does not mean that there are no students willing to team up with me.
3594
3595
3596
3597	* * *
3598
3599
3600
3601	Part 1
3602
3603
3604
3605	I went out of the dorm and headed to school.
3606
3607	I found two first-year girls talking to each other.
3608
3609	Their names are Kasuga Kurihara and Tetsuko Konishi. Both of them are first-year Class A students. Seeing them made me remember Kushida as they were very similar in appearance.
3610
3611	Unfortunately, both of them are excellent students with academic ability that confirmed their partners on the first day. It is impossible to invite them as partners.
3612
3613	Well, it’s not like I was looking for a partner, so it doesn’t matter.
3614
3615	I thought about talking to the girl about working together to help our class…but it was hard to approach her.
3616
3617	Talking to them under the pretext of partnering up for the special exam is one thing, but how does a second-year boy look like if he suddenly went and barged into their conversation? I thought of such a thing.
3618
3619	It would be another thing if it was Hirata, he would be able to talk to them easily since he’s quite popular.
3620
3621	In any case, there is no reason for me to rush.
3622
3623	It’s not advisable to compromise here, that’s what I decided. But I didn’t have much time as we were nearing the school building. Rather than interrupting their conversation, I decided to wait for their talk to end.
3624
3625	“Good morning, Ayanokouji-senpai!”
3626
3627	When I was looking at the situation, I was called out like that from behind.
3628
3629	The first-year student I saw today was Tsubasa Nanase, who was acting with Hosen the other day.
3630
3631	She gave me a carefree smile.
3632
3633	“Oh, good morning.” I replied
3634
3635	I wasn’t expecting her to call out to me, so I was a bit slow to answer.
3636
3637
3638
3639
3640
3641	“Do you have some business with those two girls?” Shall I call them for you?”
3642
3643	Nanase, who is a first-year student, suggested that, but if you do so, it is likely to be a discussion with three girls. It's going to be a hard time for me if that happened.
3644
3645	“No, it's okay.”
3646
3647	“Is that so?”
3648
3649	Nanase walks at almost the same speed while looking a bit curious as to why I said that.
3650
3651	The conversation with Nanase started unexpectedly. Well, I was thankful to meet Nanase at this timing.
3652
3653	It cannot be said that the development of being called out by a first-year student is coincidental There's a good chance she was waiting for me to go to school and timed it should be wary of Nanase and other first-years who initiate a conversation. It is just like yesterday’s event, then it was Ichika Amasawa who called out to us instead of it being the other way around.
3654
3655	“I'm sorry that Hosen-kun was rude the other day.”
3656
3657	“No, you don’t have to apologize for it. It didn’t affect me in any way.”
3658
3659	“But there's no difference in the trouble I've caused. While I was following the way to stop Hosen-kun from acting like that, I felt a certain lack of strength.”
3660
3661	Unlike the rough Hosen, Nanase is very sociable and has a polite tone. Her academic ability is also high at B, and she is perfect as a partner. It shouldn’t be strange if many second-graders already approached her for the special exam, but on the third day of exam, she was still unpartnered.
3662
3663	However, it seems that this is probably because of the first-year Class D policy.
3664
3665	In addition to academic ability, physical ability, decision making ability, and social contribution are also well-balanced and high grades in C+ or higher. At first glance, there are no problems. That's why the question comes to mind, what is the reason why Nanase Tsubasa is in the D class? The image of the D class is basically that the students with some problems to be assigned to it. For example, Yosuke and Kushida seemed to have no defects on the surface, but when their shell cracks, you will be able to see what their true natures are.
3666
3667	In other words, the possibility that Nanase has such a hidden problem cannot be denied. However, there is no guarantee that the same trend applies to this year’s first-year class D.
3668
3669	As far as I’m concerned, it’s okay if there are some problems in personality and values Whether it wishes as a partner or as a co-worker, the only important thing is whether Nanase Tsubasa is a person on the side of Tsukishiro
3670
3671	I'm worried about that eye-catching look that I showed with Hosen when we first met. His eyes are lurking in the ring, and his natural eyes are turned to me.
3672
3673	“Have you decided on a partner or candidate for the upcoming special exam?”
3674
3675	I decided to ask a few questions to get to know the person named Nanase.
3676
3677	“Me? No, I haven’t decided.”
3678
3679	“Then, has anyone asked you to become their partner?”
3680
3681	“That's right. I've been asked by seniors in the 2nd year A class and the second year C class and offered private points, but I refused.”
3682
3683	It is still within expectations for a student with academic ability B.
3684
3685	“Why are you holding off on deciding on a partner?”
3686
3687	I decided to be a bit more aggressive.
3688
3689	I'm sorry, but I can't answer that.
3690
3691	Nanase said that while bowing her head in apology.
3692
3693	“What you don't want to be asked is not answered, it's a correct answer, you don’t need to apologize.”
3694
3695	It is difficult to decide at this point whether it is a problem of Nanase individual or first-year D class as a whole.
3696
3697	In that case, let's attack from a slightly different angle.
3698
3699	“If you like, why don't you work together with second-year class D to find the right partner?”
3700
3701	I made such a proposal including myself. Horikita also thinks of the 1st year D class as the key, and Hosen also has some feelings for the second-year D class. It wasn’t a bad suggestion.
3702
3703	“Cooperation between classes... Is it?”
3704
3705	“Ah. Many students are trying to team up with highly academic students for their grades. But then, students with low academic ability will inevitably be unelected and overflow. Both first-year and second-year students are exposed to the risk of withdrawal if they work together with students with low academic ability.”
3706
3707	“Yes. I understand that. I want to avoid it if I can.”
3708
3709	“That's right. To do that, you need to find the right balance. You have to find a partner who can't get higher but won't get a red point.”
3710
3711	We are D class. It is overwhelmingly inferior as a brand. That is why there is a possibility that the one-year D-class, which is in the same order, will come to talk.
3712
3713	“How about it?”
3714
3715	“I agree, too. If I can, I would like to cooperate with Ayanokouji-senpai. It's just...”
3716
3717	“Just…?
3718
3719	“I don't know how much the people in my class can help me. And some of the students who are confident in their studies are already deciding on a partner.”
3720
3721	Many of the key students in this exam have begun to aim for top performers by choosing a good partner. The two girls walking in front of me are just like that.
3722
3723	The reason why we have not established our partners is that there are other problems, such as point aspects.
3724
3725	The most important point in this test is that the top 30% will be rewarded. The act of rescuing a student with low academic ability also leads to abandoning the reward.
3726
3727	“We don't need everyone's cooperation. Perhaps with some adjustments, we can get through the special exam without having to get too much help.”
3728
3729	Even if some of the students in the class are taken, there will be no major problems.
3730
3731	“That's right. But it's not that there's no other problems.”
3732
3733	The proposal itself was accepted by Nanase, but she showed a dark expression.
3734
3735	It was not difficult to think of the reason and it soon occurred to me
3736
3737	“I'm sure it's Hosen... is not agreeing? He seems to be showing a big presence in class D.”
3738
3739	In addition, I put my hand in the inside situation of the first-year Class D.
3740
3741	From the contact with the white bird taking the other day, I got the information that seems to be almost certain.
3742
3743	“Yes. Many boys and girls have already begun to follow Hosen-kun's instructions in a quiet way.”
3744
3745	What was only speculation turned into conviction.
3746
3747	Hosen seemed to already have gained control over the class.
3748
3749	It may be a strategy of Hosen to not allow anyone from first-year Class D to choose a partner.
3750
3751	If that’s the case, Hosen is not only a student who has a big body, but also has the insight, observation and calmness to observe his surroundings.
3752
3753	“Is Nanase in a special position? You don’t seem to be afraid of Hosen”
3754
3755	“I will never give in to violence.”
3756
3757	Such powerful words which cannot be imagined from her appearance came back.
3758
3759	Her remark doesn’t seem to a bluff, so I assume that it is backed by something.
3760
3761	I could see that kind of confidence coming from her pure eyes.
3762
3763	“Senpai...... What do you think of violence?”
3764
3765	“Violence…huh”
3766
3767	“Is it a good thing or a bad thing?”
3768
3769	If that's the question of what you think of Hosen's approach, the answer is one.
3770
3771	“If I had to choose from those two, it's an advantageous thing.”
3772
3773	I told her that.
3774
3775	I thought that she would say something back soon, but it was silence that came back. When I turned only my eyes to Nanase and checked my expression, the quiet face had disappeared.
3776
3777	She had the same eyes as she did when she was looking at me when she left yesterday.
3778
3779	After a few seconds of waiting for Nanase's reply.
3780
3781	“I also have the same opinion.”
3782
3783	The answer which does not feel the wave of feelings which can be taken as a true and a lie has returned.
3784
3785	A strong will not to yield to violence was present in Nanase, and she stayed by his side?
3786
3787	No… Not necessarily.
3788
3789	At that time, Hosen was strongly responding to the word ‘that’ that Nanase spoke.
3790
3791	There is no guarantee that Hosen is necessarily stronger as a human being than Nanase.
3792
3793	I was curious about that, but I'm sure it's not something to ask here and now.
3794
3795	She does not look like the type of person who’d say unnecessary things.
3796
3797	I shouldn’t be wary of Hosen yet.
3798
3799	Should I leave it at this now? There will be a chance to attack again with Horikita.
3800
3801	“In any case, if it's Hosen that decides the class policy, this matter seems to be difficult.”
3802
3803	I started to think about contact with other classes while continuing my talk with Nanase.
3804
3805	“Well, it’s not a bad idea. Should we set up a meeting at once?”
3806
3807	She answered that because she had judged the proposed cooperative relationship as a good proposal.
3808
3809	“That's a welcome offer, but is it really good for you guys?”
3810
3811	“Yes. However, I don't know how many people will cooperate with me, so I can't make an absolute promise. At worst I may be alone, but do you mind?”
3812
3813	“It’s fine. I’ll leave it to you”
3814
3815	For the time being, it is important for me and Horikita to get more involved with the First-year Class D, even if a little.
3816
3817	“Of course. I'm sure Horikita will be happy too.”
3818
3819	“Is Horikita-senpai the leader of the 2nd year Class D?”
3820
3821	“Ah. She's the one leading the class.”
3822
3823	I decided to tell Horikita that it would be better to have a discussion with class D under the cooperation of Nanase. Speaking directly in the classroom would only make things worse by standing out too much.
3824
3825	“Ah...” I may not be able to reply to you soon. Is that Ok?”
3826
3827	“All right. I'll try to make adjustments as soon as possible.”
3828
3829	“Yes”
3830
3831	I agreed to exchange contacts with Nanase and get in touch with her later.
3832
3833
3834
3835	* * *
3836
3837
3838
3839	Part 2
3840
3841
3842
3843	After confirming that Horikita had not yet arrived at the school, I decided to wait at the entrance for a little while.
3844
3845	If you talk about this in the classroom or the corridor, you'll be worried about the public eye.
3846
3847	Horikita, who showed up soon after, looked at me strangely, not realizing that I was waiting for her.
3848
3849	“Good morning. You're meeting someone?”
3850
3851	“It's kind of like a meeting. The one I was waiting for has arrived.”
3852
3853	“Yes.”
3854
3855	She turned around lightly and turn around when she realized that there is no one I know., she looked back at me
3856
3857	“Me?”
3858
3859	“Ah. There's something I want to talk about quickly.”
3860
3861	“If you have been waiting for me, I wonder if it is something important.”
3862
3863	We start walking together.
3864
3865	“Important... Let's see. I think it's going to be important. I had a chance to talk with Tsubasa Nanase of the D class for one year. So, I made a little suggestion over there.”
3866
3867	“Oh, what kind of proposal?”
3868
3869	“I tried to approach the one-year D class and the second-year D class to see if they could join hands.”
3870
3871	“You've done something that is completely unlike you.”
3872
3873	Horikita herself has wondering about ways to work together with the first-ear Class D.
3874
3875	I was prepared for her to be angry because I made such a proposal without her permission.
3876
3877	“Have you seen the partner status of the first-year class D?”
3878
3879	“Oh, no one has decided on a partner yet. I'm sure that Sakayanagi will also have to hold on.”
3880
3881	It is a natural flow that the withdrawal concentrates on the honour student of the upper class who cooperate at a reasonable amount of point amount rather than pulling out with a lot of money.
3882
3883	“I'm sure that's not all. It takes a certain amount of effort to deal with Hosen-kun's sharp policy. It's just more time to spend time in a higher class.”
3884
3885	“Maybe”
3886
3887	“Did you propose to Nanase-san after you found out how hard it was to face Hosen-kun? Or did you call out to be a secret cooperative through Nanase-san so that Hosen-kun wouldn't be able to be know?”
3888
3889	“What do you think?”
3890
3891	I dared not answer it deeply and asked Horikita. If you no longer have a plan to work with the first-year class D, you can only let it go.
3892
3893	“I've re-analysed the situation of this special exam again; can you hear it?”
3894
3895	“I'm not sure I'll be able to give you the right advice.”
3896
3897	“I’m not expecting anything.”
3898
3899	She just wants to share her thoughts.
3900
3901	This may have something to do with the first-year class D that I brought up today.
3902
3903	“When you first look at the whole first grade, it's natural for the students with excellent academic ability to be popular.”
3904
3905	“That's right. Nanase said that the two-year A-class and the second-year C-class are bringing up the contract story by the point.”
3906
3907	“But the swans were all on hold for answers. We don't know how many points we've come to terms with, but the half-million points we've presented to us are too expensive.”
3908
3909	Given that the top 5 groups are awarded 100,000 points and the top 30% are rewarded 10,000 points, even 200,000 points is overkill.
3910
3911	“I wonder how many points were offered by Hashimoto-kun?”
3912
3913	“Yes. But it's a good idea to think that it's far from half a million.”
3914
3915	Unless you can find out from one of the negotiating parties, it’s an answer you’ll never know.
3916
3917	“I’m convinced that the points offered by Class A and Class C do not differ much. No, Class A may have offered less.”
3918
3919	This reasoning is probably based on the updated OAA data from this morning.
3920
3921	Between Second-year Class A and Class C, the one with greater number of decided pairs is Class C.
3922
3923	“If it's Class A and Class C, the A class is naturally superior in terms of brand value. As long as there is no difference in the points, there are many people who will choose A class. What we can think of is that
3924
3925	class A is trying to win over the first-years by their class value and private points, while class C is trying to increase the amount of points as they lose by brand strength.”
3926
3927	I nod lightly to affirm.
3928
3929	“What's a little strange is the way of thinking of Ryuuen-kun. In order to win, it is a minimum requirement to bring the top team to the side, but it is inevitable that it will be a fight against Class A. If we play in a money game, there's no chance of winning no matter how you think about it, and you're going to have no chance to win the overall first place.”
3930
3931	He was going against Class A but it was a poor fight.
3932
3933	“Even if you drop the level a little, you should aim at the students who are not bad in academic ability.”
3934
3935	There are also many students with academic ability B and C+. It is safer to aim for second place overall.
3936
3937	“Well, it's a mess to read his thoughts, but... I'll move on. The remaining B class is trying to build a relationship of trust with the first graders by drawing them into their group regardless of academic ability as relief for the weak. Many of the students who have academic ability D or lower, excluding the 1st year D class, are saved by Ichinose-san.”
3938
3939	After looking back once and making sure that no one was eavesdropping, she continued:
3940
3941	“The aim now is the middle class of each class, the students in terms of academic ability B to C+.”
3942
3943	The students in that area will not be able to ask for a lot of money, and there are still a lot of students left.
3944
3945	It's a good thing to talk them while Class A and Class C are competing for the upper teams.
3946
3947	“Then, do you mean that the strategy focused on the one-year D class is withdrawn?”
3948
3949	“No, I'll continue. Rather, should I say their value as partners has increased?”
3950
3951	“What do you think about throwing away the middle tier of another class?”
3952
3953	It can be said that this judgment is too reckless. Our second-year Class D is behind the other classes, so we get as many reliable partners as early as possible.
3954
3955	“It's not that I'm not doing anything. It's going to be a bit mean, but I'm going to make time by setting up a fake money game. Unlike honours students, the middle level children don't think they'll be offered a lot of points. I’m going to delude these middle level students. I think that we will be able to a little bargaining afterwards.”
3956
3957	“Is it an aim to make Sakayanagi and others use points not only for the upper layer, but also for the middle level students?”
3958
3959	“I don’t know how effective it will be, but I can attract some attention. And in the meantime, I'm going to cut into the one-year D class. So, I’m glad that you brought up the matter. I was just thinking of contacting Nanase-san.”
3960
3961	“But I'm afraid Hosen is looking for a point deal, isn't he?”
3962
3963	“That's true. But I wonder if he really wants only the points. When I got into the second-year area, he said to me: “If we don't nominate our D class, we won't be able to form a decent pair. That's why I'll give you a hand to the stupid and incompetent.” That his aim was our D class. If he was only after private points, he wouldn’t have said it like that.”
3964
3965	Horikita asserts that there should be room for negotiation other than the private points.
3966
3967	“The last thing Nanase said to him, 'that,' also made me suspicious.”
3968
3969	“That's true. I'm sure that Hoosen is paying attention to the second-year D class.”
3970
3971	Instead of throwing away the top spot in the overall, Horikita has set three propositions: “Don't drop out, don't participate in money games,” and “aim for third place or higher overall.” It's not easy, but that's why we have to work with first-year Class D.
3972
3973	“That said, we can expect that Hosen-kun will be tricky. I have insurance.”
3974
3975	It seems that she has been doing other things that I don't know of.
3976
3977	“I’m currently wondering if we can work with a part of the first-year Class B.”
3978
3979	“Speaking of one-year B class... You’re from the same junior high school as Kushida and Yagami.”
3980
3981	I remember that Kushida and Yagami had already decided to partner at the OAA this morning.
3982
3983	“Yesterday, Kushida and Yagami-kun joined hands. Unfortunately, I didn't remember any of my juniors, but he could be the key. He seemed to have a lot of faith in Kushida. We’re already negotiating and hopefully we can gain a few more people.”
3984
3985	That's good news, but it creates a point of concern.
3986
3987	“Are you acting with Kushida?”
3988
3989	There remain questions as to how seriously Kushida, who dislikes Horikita, will cooperate with us.
3990
3991	“I think I understand well that it's difficult right now. That's why we're talking about Hirata-kun in between.”
3992
3993	“I see. In that case, Kushida won’t be able to act half-heartedly.”
3994
3995	If Kushida brings together some students to negotiate with Yagami, the second-year D class will be able to solve some of the partner problems and concentrate on their studies.
3996
3997
3998
3999	* * *
4000
4001
4002
4003	Part 3
4004
4005
4006
4007	“Good morning Horikita-san. Do you have a little time?”
4008
4009	During the break after the homeroom, Yosuke moved to Horikita's seat.
4010
4011	I look at the situation from my seat.
4012
4013	“Yesterday, I talked to a lot of people, but after all they don't cooperate easily. There was a child who told me that it was ok to team up.”
4014
4015	It seems that it did not smoothly because it was the soccer club. And it's hard to be completely friendly with a freshman who has just joined the club, even if it is Yosuke.
4016
4017	“Did the first-years ask for private points?”
4018
4019	Yosuke affirmed, so Horikita continued.
4020
4021	“It's not surprising since it is a chance to sell yourself high.”
4022
4023	As you can imagine, the problem of point acquisition has spread throughout the first-year.
4024
4025	“After being asked to be a partner in class A for the second year, he asked me to work with him because he would pay for points from class C for the second year. Not only that child, but almost all the students who were called to Class A came from class C.”
4026
4027	“Smart students have a high rate of competition, so it's natural.”
4028
4029	Horikita had already predicted that.
4030
4031	However, the next thing Hirata said was different.
4032
4033	“That's why some of the students whose academic ability as C and D seem to have been called out. I've also heard people offering them a lot of points.”
4034
4035	“In other words, they're not necessarily inviting students with high academic ability as a priority, are they?”
4036
4037	“As far as I’m aware of.”
4038
4039	“Yes, can I ask you for the name of the student?”
4040
4041	“Of course.”
4042
4043	Yosuke tells Horikita the name of a freshman who has been found to be being solicited by Class A. When Horikita examines it, she soon understands.
4044
4045	The students who were called out were students who had excellent characteristics even if their academic ability was low. His physical ability is high, his ability to think quickly and his dedication to social contribution have been evaluated.
4046
4047	“I see ... I guess it's true ...”
4048
4049	“Perhaps they are looking at the long-term benefits instead of just this special exam.”
4050
4051	This is not the only special exam to cooperate with first-year students. Of course, if that happens, you will need skills other than academic ability. The idea is to save students who are concerned about their academic ability and make them useful in their areas of expertise later on. There's no doubt in that direction.
4052
4053	What's interesting, however, is that the C class led by Ryuuen is following even that.
4054
4055	Rather than aiming only for students with high academic ability, they are exactly following Sakayanagi.
4056
4057	“I wish we could do the same...”
4058
4059	“It would be difficult.”
4060
4061	We are in Class D. And Sakayanagi is in Class A.
4062
4063	Students who have just entered the school already know which brand is better.
4064
4065	If you think about the future, it's natural to be biased towards a good class if you want to get help...
4066
4067	“Thank you. Can you continue to talk to the first-year students?”
4068
4069	“Yes. I'll report it again if I know anything.”
4070
4071	Yosuke sent a refreshing smile to Horikita and returned to his seat.
4072
4073	Soon after, a Horikita talk to me…
4074
4075	“That's what it is.”
4076
4077	I see, she seems to have noticed that I was eavesdropping.
4078
4079	“Hirata-kun is really reliable.”
4080
4081	“I guess.”
4082
4083	He was once against Horikita but that has been resolved now.
4084
4085	His presence will be useful for the class.
4086
4087	Communication skills and intelligence are, of course, a weapon of Yosuke, but the greatest strength is trust.
4088
4089	He has enough achievements to prove his trustworthiness.
4090
4091	That's why Horikita can also discuss the strategy without hesitation.
4092
4093	“Being in Class D is handicap in itself. It's a tough fight.”
4094
4095	“You still have to do it, hang in there.”
4096
4097	“I'm going to have you play a part.”
4098
4099	“It's about the matter of Nanase, isn't it?”
4100
4101	“Yes. May I ask for an answer at once? I can go there at any time.”
4102
4103	This should move quickly, such as hitting while the iron is hot.
4104
4105	Otherwise, other classes will have more and more talented people.
4106
4107	“But it's after tomorrow. The first step is to get rid of that problem.”
4108
4109	“Of course, I know.”
4110
4111
4112
4113	* * *
4114
4115
4116
4117	Part 4
4118
4119
4120
4121	There is no response from Nanase even after school ended.
4122
4123	Even if I got a reply, Horikita and I wouldn’t be able to move today.
4124
4125	There is a recent problem that needs to be dealt with immediately.
4126
4127	It is the promise for cooking for Amasawa that was suddenly made. It is a beautiful story that if you get a passing score, you can get her to partner with Sudou, but the hurdles are not low.
4128
4129	Ten minutes before the appointed time, I arrived at the entrance to Keyaki mall, and It seemed that Amasawa had not arrived yet. Instead of using my mobile, I watched the students going to the mall. From the first grade to the third grade, the students swarmed into the mall while chatting. It seems to be warmer than usual this morning, but the evening is getting closer and colder. The temperature is likely to drop a little more toward the night.
4130
4131	Amasawa showed up just before the appointed time.
4132
4133	“It's perfect, Ayanokouji-senpai”
4134
4135	As soon as she arrived, she nodded and smile several times as if she was satisfied with something.
4136
4137	“What are you talking about?”
4138
4139	“You were at the meeting place before the girl and weren’t doing anything unnecessary.”
4140
4141	I noticed that she was unexpectedly observant of trivial things.
4142
4143	The unnecessary means that you were probably not messing around with your cell phone or making a phone call.
4144
4145	From now on, it’s like a challenge from Amasawa, that is, cooking, but if you think about it, you can look at various recipes to the last minute and set up measures. In short, on the day of the written examination, is it easy to understand if you say that you are staring at the textbook just before the bell rings? Of course, it does not violate the rules that Amasawa demands.
4146
4147	However, it is thought that it is reflected as a person who does not have confidence in cooking.
4148
4149	Even on the phone. You may be perceived as having that kind of conversation with someone. That's why I dared not to do anything unnecessary.
4150
4151	He intended to plant them unconsciously in Amasawa, but that he was spotted at the first stage.
4152
4153	“Then, let’s go, Ayanokouji-senpai.”
4154
4155	As soon as we met up, Amasawa said so and immediately went to Keyaki mall.
4156
4157	“Would you like to buy some ingredients?”
4158
4159	“Yes. There’s that, too. I have to buy something for my senpai to make. Do you have any money?”
4160
4161	“Somewhat.”
4162
4163	It's really just that way.
4164
4165	I won’t say something unnecessary to my junior.
4166
4167	“Good, then I won’t hesitate. Well, I heard from my classmate that they sell a lot of things we need. I wonder where the shopping basket is.”
4168
4169	Amasawa didn’t go straight to the supermarket and instead steps into a ‘Humming’ store which specializes in daily necessities. We found a blue shopping cart near the entrance.
4170
4171	[ TLN: Don’t ask me what a ‘humming’ store is. It’s probably the name of the store.]
4172
4173	What bothers me is that she said, There’s that, too.'
4174
4175	What we're going to do is cooking, but is there anything else you need to do other than buying ingredients?
4176
4177	Amasawa stops at a corner full of kitchenware.
4178
4179	Looking back, when I first entered the school, I went through several times and bought what I needed here.
4180
4181	In addition to the students, teachers, cafes, and adults working in the cafeteria also use a lot of this kind of item, kitchen utensils have a special large corner, I remember that I could not immediately find what was where and where I first came.
4182
4183	While I haven't come for a while, it seems that a lot of new products have been added.
4184
4185	The fact that Amasawa dropped in here meant that she was going to buy some specialty equipment. There are countless peelers, graters, mortars, and utensils. Of course, there are some that I do not have. What's weird, though, is that I don't get any confirmation of coming here. It's normal to talk about what you have and what you don't. If you think about the loss of time, you can confirm enough while walking ...
4186
4187	I am satisfied with the feelings I want to confirm and let Amasawa lead.
4188
4189	I decided to talk about something unrelated to cooking utensils...
4190
4191	“Doesn't Amasawa cook by herself?”
4192
4193	“Me?” Not at all. I'm not the type that’s good at cooking. I'd rather be fed than feed others.”
4194
4195	While talking, we reached the destination as Amasawa stopped and looked around for what she was trying to find.
4196
4197	The flow until I came here was very smooth, and when I took my eyes off, I faced the product shelf.
4198
4199	For a few tens of seconds, I think about whether I'm worried about something or folding my arms.
4200
4201	Then, once she made the decision, she nodded once and muttered.
4202
4203	“First of all, it's a cutting board? A kitchen knife? Then there's a bowl and a whisk, and a pot and a ladle.”
4204
4205	While saying such a thing, she throws them in the basket one after another.
4206
4207	The last thing thrown in the cart was the lade.
4208
4209	“Wait a minute. I don’t have some of them, but the others are in my room.”
4210
4211	I'm going to tell her so in a hurry because I had a premonition that I might have.
4212
4213	“It's okay. I'll just buy it for my own use., you’ll only be buying them”
4214
4215	Just buy them for her…? Even the cutting board is better than the one I'm using in my room right now. It seems to be made of Hinoki Cypress wood and costs a bit more than 4000 points. All the other tools are also high-end. From there, there is another item or start moving, and then we go to the next shelf. There, she didn’t even hesitate and picked up a fruit knife.
4216
4217	“If you say that you are a good cook, you definitely need a good knife.”
4218
4219	She threw it into the basket while saying that in a light tone. I'm an amateur who didn't even know that a fruit knife was called a petty knife. By the way, it is the petty knife, but the price is high to nearly 3000 points. Next to this knife, you can see that several cheaper ones are also sold. The only difference in price is whether it's made in Japan or not. This also seems to be a luxurious choice.
4220
4221	If you're a cook, it seems to be normal to use this kind of small kitchen knife.
4222
4223	“I'd like to ask you, but the payment...”
4224
4225	“Of course, I'm sure that you will pay, Ayanokouji-senpai.”
4226
4227	I knew that, but the total amount is lightly over 15000 points. When this happens, it might be better to throw away the cheap things I am using now. If you think you can use high-quality equipment when you cook by yourself in the future, somehow.
4228
4229	“Oh, as I said earlier, it's only for me, so don't use it every day and wear it out, ok?”
4230
4231	“Devil”
4232
4233	As I gave this remark, she looked disgusted.
4234
4235	“Do you want to call it quits?”
4236
4237	She held the edge of the shopping cart and said such a provoking thing.
4238
4239	It's good that I can't refuse because I'm holding the weakness here, she has the upper hand.
4240
4241	If we want to get a student with academic ability A and save Sudou, there’s no other choice but to do this. If the point expense is to great, it is possible to divide it.
4242
4243	“No, I understand. I'm going to pay, so don't hesitate to buy what you like.”
4244
4245	“Do you think I'm a bad woman?”
4246
4247	“No, that's not true.”
4248
4249	Amasawa looked into my eyes for a moment before laughing.
4250
4251	“That's good, senpai.”
4252
4253	I'll have to buy all the pots, ladles, and so on.
4254
4255	All of them have the terrible label of ‘Amasawa’s use only.’
4256
4257
4258
4259	* * *
4260
4261
4262
4263	Part 5
4264
4265
4266
4267	After that, I went to the supermarket to buy the main ingredients.
4268
4269	As a result, the private point expenditure reached about 20,000. Of course, it is the first time that I bought such a large amount, and the weight of the plastic bags I held in both hands was biting into my fingers.
4270
4271	It is not possible to narrow down everything Amasawa thinks about and what to make from ingredients. This is because we were buying vegetables, meat, fruits, and even buns.
4272
4273	But there are some dishes you can imagine. A typical example is nampura and chili pepper.
4274
4275	However, if you're going to use all the ingredients, it's still fine, but it's possible that you're harassing and mixing fakes. When I saw Amasawa's actions and actions today, I couldn't help doubting it. It may be thought that it is practically impossible to narrow it down at this stage.
4276
4277	“All right, this is perfect. Why don't we go to your room, senpai?”
4278
4279	It's as if she's coming to her boyfriend's room to play, but there's no way she'll be shards of that feeling. If Amasawa is not satisfied with the dish, this deal would be broken. It’s an abstract task to make a delicious dish.
4280
4281	If this is an exam that you don't intend to pass from the beginning, you're just wasting your points and time. But now we have no choice but to accept this development in a quiet way.
4282
4283	From the judgment of Horikita, it would be heavy and troublesome if we failed here.
4284
4285	I didn't negotiate with the material cost, but I'd like to discuss the cost of the cost with Horikita and Sudou later.
4286
4287	And so, I push this matter of points away for the time being.
4288
4289	I decided to ask the question that I wanted to ask Amasawa to accept this situation as obediently as possible.
4290
4291	“In the first place, it's strange that you want a strange man to cook rice and eat it. You usually have a strong sense of resistance, don't you?”
4292
4293	It's my own way of thinking, but I usually feel a strong resistance.
4294
4295	Meals are not seen but carried into the mouth and poured into the stomach.
4296
4297	[TLN: Some basic biology]
4298
4299	I'm worried about who makes it and how it is made, not only about taste but also about hygiene.
4300
4301	It is natural to get to know the other person, which creates a relationship of trust and gradually decreases the sense of resistance.
4302
4303	“Is that so? Isn't it similar to eating at a restaurant? A stranger cooking in the kitchen, so you don't know what's going on behind the scenes.”
4304
4305	Certainly, we don't know how it is made specifically even if it is the cafeteria of the school.
4306
4307	However, it is only the same on the surface, and it is actually very different.
4308
4309	“Even if you hold one rice ball, hygiene management is thoroughly maintained. Isn't it completely different?”
4310
4311	“Is that right?” Rather, I think that it is good to be able to see various environments where you can see the food being cooked. You can see the facial expressions and movements of the person. I know that's what you care about hygiene. On the other hand, depending on the shop, there is a place where you can't see the kitchen at all, right? There are some unsanitary shops that are super dirty and insect-like.”
4312
4313	Amasawa develops a theory that if you can see the food being cooked, it’s ok even if it is cooked by a stranger.
4314
4315	“And I think I somehow understood how this school works. If the point goes to zero, you'll have to live a simple life, right? But if your senpais cook for you, you don’t have to worry about it”
4316
4317	I see. In other words, if the food tastes delicious this time, it's not going to end with just this once.
4318
4319	The aim is to secure a place to eat in an emergency.
4320
4321	It's a good opportunity for me to improve my cooking, but will you pay for the ingredients?
4322
4323	“Is it obvious? My way of thinking.”
4324
4325	“Somehow”
4326
4327	Amasawa laughed while showing her white teeth.
4328
4329	However, the question remains whether it is best to ask a second-year boy. I think it would be easier to ask a better classmate or a member of the same sex.
4330
4331	Well, I'm not dissatisfied because I'm trying to get the benefit of that.
4332
4333	“But if you’re so picky about the taste. If I don’t make something delicious, this won’t work, right?”
4334
4335	“I know. Cooking is not the goal.”
4336
4337	It's not a low hurdle in that respect, but you have to do everything you can.
4338
4339	What becomes important here is the cooking instructions from Horikita, which I was taught overnight.
4340
4341	How much can I make the use of what I learnt in a few hours yesterday after we received a proposal from Amasawa?
4342
4343	However, it will not be easily to mislead Amasawa with poor cooking.
4344
4345	The ability to test your skills can be seen strongly from the materials.
4346
4347	I arrived in front of the dormitory soon.
4348
4349	Amasawa put her hands over his eyebrows and looked up at the dormitory, avoiding the sun.
4350
4351	“I'm a little nervous about going to the second-year dormitory.”
4352
4353	Amasawa says such a thing, but she doesn't seem very nervous.
4354
4355	Rather, she seemed to be enjoying the feeling of going to play normally.
4356
4357	“Oh, but cooking is exactly the same.”
4358
4359	Then I looked at the exterior and looked around the lobby and thought about Amasawa.
4360
4361	“That's right.”
4362
4363	I'm not afraid to say it, but I've never been to a dormitory in another grade.
4364
4365	When I pass a student from another class, I get a little gaze.
4366
4367	It is natural that the second-year student brings a first-year girl (and also picks up ingredients).
4368
4369	Amasawa waved at the senior but I want you to stop it because it stands out.
4370
4371	I hurried into my room with Amasawa before a strange rumour came up.
4372
4373	“Pardon the intrusion. Oh, it's so neat and clean.”
4374
4375	“I'm just rushed to clean it last night because I'm going to invite my junior.”
4376
4377	Don't let it smell like you've studied cooking in the middle of the night.
4378
4379	Well--the steps from here are extremely important.
4380
4381	Once you put a bag with ingredients and kitchen utensils on the floor in front of the kitchen, you start with the process of boiling water in an electric kettle. We head to the living room together and prompted Amasawa to sit down.
4382
4383	You can sit in a position where you can't see the kitchen, but I don’t dare to say that.
4384
4385	If you look at it, it is important to let the appearance of this place be positioned so that it can be seen from the side.
4386
4387	“I’ll make coffee. You can watch TV if you want to watch it.”
4388
4389	“Thank you, senpai.”
4390
4391	Then, in a few minutes, I brewed coffee in boiling water and told her to wait.
4392
4393	Amasawa picks up the remote control from the table and turned on the appropriate channel.
4394
4395	It's not absolute, but there's a good reason for me to make a sound.
4396
4397	It was correct to guide her to watch TV and keep the remote control nearby.
4398
4399	Then she immediately heads to the kitchen to appeal to the movement. If you try to watch by your side poorly, you have to stop it, but as expected it does not seem to do so.
4400
4401	“Oh, it's a foul to look up on your cell phone, ok?”
4402
4403	While looking at this, I warn you so.
4404
4405	“It's tough. I use the phone most of the time when I’m cooking.”
4406
4407	“You're not confident in your cooking?”
4408
4409	“That's not it.”
4410
4411	“I hope so. People who can cook are people who have recipes in their heads, is how I think of them.”
4412
4413	It has not been explained at yesterday's stage, but obediently obey.
4414
4415	That degree of demand is already in the calculation.
4416
4417	“Then, leave your cell phone on the bed.”
4418
4419	I inserted the charging cord into me cell phone and put it on the bed.
4420
4421	Amasawa nodded and picked up a cup of coffee.
4422
4423	“I want to start right away before it's late, what food do you want me to cook?”
4424
4425	“Then I'll announce it. The dish that my senpai has to cook is Tom Yamkung!”
4426
4427	[ TLN: トムヤムクン (Tomuyamukun) ‘Tom yum goong’ refers to a famous Thai dish that has a pungent and sour taste, with a distinctively complex aroma. From here on, it will be referred to as “Tom Yamkung”]
4428
4429	“Tom Yamkung...” I don't know about this dish.
4430
4431	It seems that nampura and pepper, which seem to be indispensable for Thai cuisine, were for this purpose.
4432
4433	“Can you make it?” Please, Senpai.”
4434
4435	“Tom Yamkung” is a dish of the problem that was given by Amasawa.
4436
4437	Of course, I've never made it.
4438
4439	In the first place, I can hardly hear it, and I have never eaten it.
4440
4441	This kind of food was never served in the white room.
4442
4443	It is the knowledge of the degree that I have seen on television as much as being popular among women.
4444
4445	If it were to be made only by the ability from here, it would not be completed properly.
4446
4447	Not only do I don't know the specific material, but I have no idea what the procedure is.
4448
4449	So, what on earth was I doing last night with overnight practice?
4450
4451	I was not trying to memorize a lot of recipes of traditional and east-west dishes.
4452
4453	And I was not mastering royal cuisines.
4454
4455	It's quite nonsense to take the time to remember a recipe, even though it could allow you to see the recipe.
4456
4457	After deciding to cook, Horikita taught me two things.
4458
4459	The first thing is the basic technique of using a basic kitchen knife.
4460
4461	Sliced, shredded, chopped or chopped.
4462
4463	I took the time to practice the part where I could clearly understand the skill.
4464
4465	Still, of course, I can't show off his professional skills.
4466
4467	To the last, it is a level that I am not ashamed to say that I am good at cooking as a general person.
4468
4469	It is impossible for ordinary people to master it in half a day, but they were confident in the speed of their skill acquisition.
4470
4471	At least a few times a week, the human skill to cook, could have reached that area.
4472
4473	It's a result because I didn't spend even a second on how to make the recipe.
4474
4475	However, if that happens, you will not know how to make the problem dishes that were naturally served.
4476
4477	Then, it is the turn of the second trick to be prepared. How it uses your mobile phone to check recipes in real time. But Amasawa did not allow me to use my phone, and my cell phone is hostage in bed.
4478
4479	Even if I had prepared something like a tablet hidden, I wouldn't have had a chance to see it.
4480
4481	In fact, Amasawa occasionally looks at me for surveillance. All of them are on the calculation. From
4482
4483	Amasawa, take out the one less than two centimetres from the right pocket which becomes the blind spot.
4484
4485	At first glance, it looks like an earplug, and it is put in the ear hole on the right side which cannot be seen by Amasawa.
4486
4487	And then, I coughed a little as a signal.
4488
4489	Then, then-
4490
4491	“I could hear the content of the story. I never thought you’d have to make Tom Yamkung.”
4492
4493	Horikita's voice can be heard from a small wireless earphone that fits into my right ear.
4494
4495	It is a strategy to listen to cooking methods in real time through Horikita, who is in a situation where she can operate a computer freely in her own room. The bag I put at my feet has with Sudou's cell phone. And this wireless earphone transmits voice from Sudou's mobile phone. I used to call Horikita before I went shopping.
4496
4497	While shopping at Keyaki mall, Horikita came home and was in perfect condition.
4498
4499	This wireless earphone was bought yesterday, too.
4500
4501	By any chance, if Amasawa shows up in the kitchen, I can put the wireless earphones in my pocket while shaking my head. The reason why the other side is monitoring here is that it is in the state to be able to monitor the other side, too.
4502
4503	Now I can cook without having to worry about recipes. I've decided on a few cues if the explanation of Horikita’s procedure is too early, or when I want to hear the explanation again.
4504
4505	However, the cooperation with Horikita becomes extremely important from here.
4506
4507	Even if I know the materials and instruments I use, I don't have any visual information.
4508
4509	The reason is that it is necessary to make the dish named Tom Yamkung which has good taste.
4510
4511	It is important to be able to give specific instructions and reproduce them only by talking about something.
4512
4513	“By the way, there is something I want you to check with Amasawa first.”
4514
4515	I change the question from Horikita which is transmitted through earphones into words and convey it.
4516
4517	“Amasawa. You don't need a whisk for Tom Yamkung, and you don't have to use a petty knife. If there's anything else I'd like you to make besides Tom Yamkung, I'd like to ask you now.”
4518
4519	If you are served additional dishes later, it will be troublesome, so ask them to go ahead as instructed.
4520
4521	“I was going to ask you later, but I thought I'd have the apple peeled off.”
4522
4523	It seems that Amasawa was going to place an additional order later on, as she was in this place.
4524
4525	“The leftover ingredients are very good for my senpais. The tools I don't use are to be used the next time I come to see them again.”
4526
4527	Petty knife, which was suspected to be used, had its own use, but some of it was in the storehouse for a while.
4528
4529	“It was right to confirm. I taught you how to use a fruit knife yesterday, so you can do it, right?”
4530
4531	I don't know how far the technique learnt overnight will work, but it will probably be all right.
4532
4533	“The cooking time is between 15 and 30 minutes, which is good.”
4534
4535	Well- how well can I make it?
4536
4537
4538
4539	* * *
4540
4541
4542
4543	Part 6
4544
4545
4546
4547	Tom Yamkung, which had passed the scheduled time a little, I was able to make it roughly according to the instructions.
4548
4549	The time has come to serve the finished homemade dish to Amasawa.
4550
4551	I only met with recently, yet I would be serving my cooking to women.
4552
4553	I laced Tom Yamkung on the table and immediately returned the apple.
4554
4555	I’ll need to show my knife skills Infront of Amasawa.
4556
4557	“I usually peel it with a kitchen knife, so on the other hand, there may be some things I'm not used to.”
4558
4559	It tried to peel the apple once by making such a statement.
4560
4561	“Wow, it's amazing. It's all done. It's a pass for a kitchen knife.”
4562
4563	It's not like you're a professional loser, but at least you don't have to see the kind of misery you'll ever touch for the first time.
4564
4565	Then I arranged the finished apples.
4566
4567	“By the way, when it comes to Tom Yamkung, you have an image of Pakchi, but don't you like it?”
4568
4569	Pakchi was not included in the ingredients I bought today.
4570
4571	“It’s not like I don’t like it. But I thought that if I bought pakchi, you’ll find out about Tom Yamkung.”
4572
4573	It seems to have decided to pull out Pakchi out of alertness. It seems that she was still paying some tricks. It is understandable that it is because it does not show the gap here, but it is a very luxurious story.
4574
4575	“Can I start cleaning up first?”
4576
4577	I ask her as I returned the petty knife and board that I used to cut the apple to the kitchen.
4578
4579	No good. Just sit here and wait for the judge's decision.”
4580
4581	Saying that, I'm demanded that I sit right in front of her.
4582
4583	I couldn't go against it, so I followed the instructions and gave up cleaning up, and then I went from the kitchen to the living room again.
4584
4585	“Then I'll have it.”
4586
4587	She slowly brought the hot Tom Yamkung to her mouth.
4588
4589	Even if she is being watched as she eats, there seems to be no resistance at all.
4590
4591	I'm the same as Amasawa, and I'm a person who doesn't resist that area.
4592
4593	After that, Amasawa, who had finished eating slowly, put her hands together as if satisfied.
4594
4595	“It felt like a feast.”
4596
4597	She seems to have eaten up beautifully, and the food seems not to be a thin one.
4598
4599	[TLN: o.O ]
4600
4601	Well...... I tasted it, but I don't know if it tasted right.
4602
4603	I don't think there's any problem because there are no mistakes in the amount.
4604
4605	Still, if Amasawa says that she is not convinced, then this battle is over.
4606
4607	It ends in the form of defeat here.
4608
4609	“My senpai’s Tom Yamkung-”
4610
4611	The judgment from Amasawa who gave a little time goes down.
4612
4613	“Yeah, it was a reasonable. It wasn't special, but it was good enough to eat again.”
4614
4615	Whether it passes or rejects, we don't immediately touch on the parts we care about.
4616
4617	“For now, I'll put these away.”
4618
4619	Amasawa says that and heads to the kitchen with a bowl and spoon in Tom Yamkung in his hand.
4620
4621	She didn't just put away the dishes but started to clean up the dishes in earnest.
4622
4623	“I’ll do the cleaning.”
4624
4625	“I'm okay. I forced you to make it so let me do this. I'm going to do it. Senpai should sit down and relax. I'm good at cleaning at cooking because I've been offering money to my mother by cleaning it up.”
4626
4627	“Then I’ll take your word for it. By the way, it's the result, but what about it?”
4628
4629	Amasawa remains silent for a while as she is cleaning up.
4630
4631	Only the sound of the evening news coming from the television echoes indoors.
4632
4633	“That's right. I have to announce it soon.”
4634
4635	While voicing her thoughts, Amasawa did not like the position of the ribbon on the right side of her hair, using the reflection of her mobile phone like a mirror, she began to remove it once and put it back on.
4636
4637	Soon after the re-attachment of the ribbon was over, Amasawa gave a general comment.
4638
4639	“I said a little while ago, but it was fine. It wasn't bad.”
4640
4641	“So, it’s a pass or a fail?”
4642
4643	“I'm very picky about cooking.”
4644
4645	While saying that, Amasawa laughed when she saw me once.
4646
4647	“Whether I here to eat again will depend on my senpai’s efforts”
4648
4649	It was not a level that I wanted to go up frequently and ask to eat food.
4650
4651	Is this severe, as I have described as a second-rated point?
4652
4653	“Then, what about the matter of Sudou?”
4654
4655	I was a little hesitant to step here, but I decided to ask.
4656
4657	“I can't say that you passed the exam, but it was true that you could cook. I have to thank you for the amount that I made you buy a lot of expensive things and ate it for free. This time, I'll work with Sudou-senpai, in return for my senpai's efforts.”
4658
4659	It seems that It was not a satisfactory result, but for the time being, Amasawa seems to have admitted it as a minimum.
4660
4661	The good news in the place where I was beginning to think whether it was a little difficult, I patted my chest down.
4662
4663	“I'll be done cleaning up almost, so wait a little while.”
4664
4665	I couldn't stand and keep starving at the sight of her working to clean up, so I decided to wait while watching the news coming from the TV.
4666
4667	Amasawa came back soon after the clean-up was finished. After that, she immediately showed me the screen of her mobile phone and applied as a partner to Sudou. If Sudou corresponds to the request today, the contract is surely established.
4668
4669	“Sudou is in the club, so I'll have him approve it later. ok?”
4670
4671	Of course, it’s true that I actually have Sudou’s cell phone, but I can’t use it right now in front of Amasawa.
4672
4673	“It's okay. Well then, it'll be bad if I’m late, so I’ll head back now. See you later, Ayanokouji-senpai”
4674
4675	The development progressed rapidly, and Amasawa went to the entrance to return.
4676
4677	“Amasawa. Thank you for partnering with Sudou. Horikita, and I were also helped by you.”
4678
4679	“It's OK, you don’t need to thank so much, right?”
4680
4681	While wearing shoes, Amasawa returns words with a light feeling.
4682
4683	“There's something I'd like to ask you about.
4684
4685	As I tried to convey the contents, Amasawa looked back as she finished wearing her shoes.
4686
4687	“Would you like me to act as an intermediary with Class A?”
4688
4689	I'm not taking Class A, not just students with academic ability A.
4690
4691	Basically, the rotation of the head is not lost in the content to speak fast.
4692
4693	“That's right. There are a lot of students who are having trouble finding a partner like Sudou do in Class D. It would be helpful if you could introduce me to students who would help us.”
4694
4695	“Sorry, I can't do that.”
4696
4697	She lightly put her hands together and apologized. My request bounced off from Amasawa.
4698
4699	“Oh, isn't it bad for Ayanokouji-senpai to move without asking Horikita-senpai? I'm starting to think I can trust you. But I don't get along very well with my classmates. When I met my senpais yesterday, I was alone, right?”
4700
4701	“That's right.”
4702
4703	At that time, while many students went to Keyaki mall with their friends but Amasawa was alone.
4704
4705	“I'm going to say I don't have any delicacy, or I'm going to say what I want to say. It’s hard to make friends with that kind of personality. So, I can't help you, I'm sorry.”
4706
4707	“No, I'm satisfied enough just to have you team up with Sudou. If you have any trouble, please rely on me. There might be something I can do to help.”
4708
4709	“Thank you very much. Well then, see you later.”
4710
4711	I failed to get involved with Class A, but for now I'll say this is enough.
4712
4713	“Somehow a paragraph, isn't it?”
4714
4715	I cut off Sudou's cell phone call and called Horikita's cell phone from my own.
4716
4717	“Thank you very much. It seems to have worked out somehow.”
4718
4719	As soon as I answered the phone, the words of the labour jealousy from Horikita flew.
4720
4721	“I felt like I was saved by Amasawa’s gentle judgment.”
4722
4723	“Even so, this solved Sudou-kun's problem. It's a huge achievement.”
4724
4725	It was bad to use a method like this to fool Amasawa, but this saved us.
4726
4727	All that's left is to accept the partner application on time and return Sudou’s phone.
4728
4729	It's about time to him to come.
4730
4731	“Why did you ask Amasawa to act as a bridge for first-year Class A? Aside from her personality and the number of friends, you could imagine that our two-year D class would have difficult negotiating with them, right?”
4732
4733	Horikita did not say that she would contact the first-year Class A for this special exam.
4734
4735	The reason is simply that it is difficult to build a cooperative relationship.
4736
4737	“In a way, it’s a good thing. It's true that our second-year Class D is struggling to find a partner, and it's not unnatural to put that in words.”
4738
4739	If you don't have anything to do, you're going to talk with a feeling of clinging to straw.
4740
4741	Not having that idea is probably because they are pushing another strategy.
4742
4743	“In other words, … We gave up the capture of the entire A class a year from the beginning, aimed only at first-year Class B and D, didn’t we want to realize that?”
4744
4745	In fact, Horikita had the two classes in mind, so we didn't even consider the capture of Class A using Amasawa.
4746
4747	It was decided from the beginning that it was good to be able to combine it with the peony tanta mochi from the shelf and Sudou do.
4748
4749	“We don’t know what Amasawa is like, because we know that today is leaking into another class of the year, or even the whole two years. It may be difficult to carry over. ''
4750
4751	Horikita, who was listening to me, fell silent for a while.
4752
4753	“What's the matter?”
4754
4755	“Your way of thinking is... What do you say, things are very calculated and smart?”
4756
4757	“It's not a big deal, is it?”
4758
4759	“No, it's a big deal. Even if you don’t think so, it is a different story whether the idea that you had time to think about first. I think I understand a little why my brother was paying attention to you. But until recently, you would not have told me such a specific thing. Why?”
4760
4761	A question from Horikita who was concerned about the action that can be taken even if it changes the mind.
4762
4763	“I don't have any other intentions. Next is the question of the students who remain. I'll tell you when I hear from Nanase.”
4764
4765	“Yes, that's right. I'll be waiting for you.”
4766
4767	After the call with Horikita, I checked the situation in the kitchen.
4768
4769	Cleaned-up kitchen. Not only did she finish the washing, but the sink was also carefully polished, and it was cleaner than when I came to this room a year ago. The cutting boards, plates, kitchen knives, petty knives, pots and ladles are also neatly stored. That's all right.
4770
4771	Although it was a Horikita-led proposal, it was the first close contact with a freshman. If Amasawa is a white room person, it wouldn’t be strange if she had set something up, but there was no sign of it.
4772
4773	Although I was very cautious…
4774
4775	Her had knowledge as a matter of course is as a high school student, including words and actions.
4776
4777	Having just left the White Room, it would be difficult to take a tense attitude like Amasawa's.
4778
4779	“Above all, Amasawa has paired up with Sudou, and the suspicion of being a white room student was gone, wasn't it?”
4780
4781	That's what happens if you're judging by the information you have now, including other first-year students who already have a partner. No, is it urgent for anyone to give such an answer?
4782
4783	It seems that partnering with me is the shortest ticket to drop out, but that doesn't mean that strategy is one of them. There is a possibility that another chance is looked at by dare to miss a big bait.
4784
4785	Knowledge as a high school student that cannot be acquired overnight is also a different story if there is time.
4786
4787	And it was not that I was not bothered by Amasawa's behaviour and movement.
4788
4789	I may not need to worry about it, but it's better to crush all the causes for concern.
4790
4791	Nothing is limited to Amasawa. It is also the case with Hosen and Nanase, who are expected to come into contact in the future. Among all the second-years, the person they looked at first was me.
4792
4793	Students who are close in contact should suspected, whether or not there was a conversation with them.
4794
4795	From here on, we're going into dangerous areas to find potential partners.
4796
4797	And this night, I received a message from Nanase.
4798
4799	‘I can meet you after school tomorrow.’
4800
4801
4802
4803	* * *
4804
4805
4806
4807	Part 7
4808
4809
4810
4811	One the same day when Ayanokouji was preparing a dish for Amasawa.
4812
4813	At the Keyaki Mall café, second-year Class A students Sakayanagi, Kamuro and Hashimoto gathered to talk.
4814
4815	“Furthermore, it seems that there was an invitation from the C class to the student we were talking to. Moreover, it seems they proposed to give 10,000 points unconditionally if they reject the invitation of Class A.”
4816
4817	Kamuro, which was contacted by Hashimoto on her mobile phone, reports to Sakayanagi.
4818
4819	“I'm not stupid to give out 10,000 just because someone decides to not partner with us.”
4820
4821	Kamuro relayed further information from Hashimoto.
4822
4823	If you join the second-year Class C, 100,000 points will be given in advance. After confirming that the combined score of the pair is greater than 501, additional 100,000 points will be provided, making it 200,000 points in total.
4824
4825	“Huh. It seems that Ryuuen-kun is trying to compete with me with all his heart.”
4826
4827	“What are you going to do?” Will you respond by offering points to the first-year students?”
4828
4829	“If we're a financial game, we won't lose. But don't you think it's a lack of art to win with the same strategy?”
4830
4831	“It's not about the trick... Shouldn't we give 100,000 or 200,000 if we need it? It's obvious that even first-year students know the benefits of getting points.”
4832
4833	The story has already spread as an examination in which first-year students are in an advantageous position, and the honour students are being obtained as partners by offering them points.
4834
4835	Sakayanagi smiled and did not agree with Kamuro who advised her.
4836
4837	“Can I lose to Ryuuen?”
4838
4839	“In the class of us and Ryuuen-kun, there is a huge gap in academic achievement in the first place. In order to surpass it with the help of first graders, he has to pull out a considerable number of talented first-year students. His victory is not absolute.”
4840
4841	“Maybe so. But it's not like we can always win, right?”
4842
4843	“That's right. If Ryuuen has gathered students with academic achievement A, I wonder if it's finally going to be an even match with us.”
4844
4845	However, it is possible to lose once in two times if it turns the other side.
4846
4847	Kamuro doesn't raise the amount of heat that makes him want to win.
4848
4849	The reason is that it did not think that Sakayanagi who sits in front of me does not do anything as it is.
4850
4851	“What do you think would happen if we were to pay the same amount?”
4852
4853	“What's going to happen, isn't it that Ryuuen will pay even more?”
4854
4855	“That's right. It will be increased to 200,000 or 300,000 points.”
4856
4857	“But I can make sure that smart students join us.”
4858
4859	“The price we lose for that is a significant amount of points. You don't have to risk losing millions of points. Don't you think so?”
4860
4861	“Even if the amount presented by us here is less, can we win over the first-year students?? I don't think first-year students deeply understand the value of Class A.”
4862
4863	Despite the worries of Kamuro, Sakayanagi showed no signs of joining a financial battle.
4864
4865	“I understood that Ryuuen-kun was going to take first place in the overall class. He seems to have changed his policy completely from last year when he made that point contract with Katsuragi-kun.”
4866
4867	“He was planning to save 20 million and win, wasn’t he?”
4868
4869	“There must have been a big change in his mind. Did he realize the importance of class points? No, should I say he wants to win with the class?”
4870
4871	Sakayanagi and Ryuuen have never had a face to face confrontation in a special exam.
4872
4873	However, it seemed as if they were talking to each other and hitting each other with strategies.
4874
4875	“So... It's okay, isn't it? I don't have to present my private points.”
4876
4877	“Kamuro. Did I ever said that you will not have to present private points?”
4878
4879	“Eh...? But didn’t you say a while ago that it was boring to fight with the same strategy?”
4880
4881	“Tell the first-year students. I'm ready to prepare the same amount off points as Ryuuen-kun.”
4882
4883	On this mysterious command from Sakayanagi, Kamuro tightly presses her lips.”
4884
4885	“However, even if the first-year students are convinced, don't sign a partner contract.”
4886
4887	“What? I don't really know what that means.”
4888
4889	“Hufufu. Ryuuen-kun, your strategy is rather convenient for me.”
4890
4891	“To me, what is it...”
4892
4893	“Isn't it good?” The Princess’s idea is interesting.”
4894
4895	Hashimoto, who was listening to the conversation between the two over the phone, says it with interest.
4896
4897	“…Whatever.”
4898
4899	Sakayanagi 's instruction that even if the first-year students agree with the amount of points, the partner is not to be decided…
4900
4901	While Kamuro does not understand, I tell Hashimoto known my intention again.
4902
4903	Sakayanagi, staring at such a Kamuro as if to love her, seemed to reflect a little on the fact that she was too mean.
4904
4905	She started explaining to give her a hint.
4906
4907	“Ryuuen-kun's big acquisition strategy is not a bad thing in itself. By doing so he succeeded in forcing me to participate in the money game. However, the strategy to keep aiming at the same students as much as possible is a clear blunder. Class C that are inferior in overall strength should first only aim at students with high academic ability in the future.”
4908
4909	However, Ryuuen does not do it, and tries to reach out to the student with non-academic skills, which Class A will need in the future.
4910
4911	“Does he mean he's saving a lot of private points?”
4912
4913	“Well, what about that? Even if you have the points, the amount that can actually be moved may not be so much?”
4914
4915	“No, it's funny. Don't you think you can propose acquisitions one after another because there are points?”
4916
4917	“If you just make a suggestion, you can do it penniless. All you have to do is pretend that you have something on hand.”
4918
4919	Kamuro couldn’t immediately understand what benefit Ryuuen would get from doing that.
4920
4921	“If it were not for Ryuuen-kun, we could attract many talented first-year students with only the A-class brand. However, by bringing in the acquisition, we have also strengthened the money game. And what to do next? It's about fishing your forehead and letting us use a huge amount of points for class A as much as we can.”
4922
4923	“That's right... I see.”
4924
4925	As a result, even if Class A students can be hired, it would be better for a second-grade fighter to pay 200,000 private points instead of 100,000 and 300,000 private points instead of 200,000.
4926
4927	“But isn't we at a disadvantage at the moment?” His pull-out is successful one after another.”
4928
4929	“We're not in a hurry. Just a few people were acquired by Ryuuen-kun. I have to give him some leeway. There are just a few things he makes mistakes. The brand power of A class that we have is temporary, and he think that can be destroyed if it makes it lose and it is made to fall. And he’s mistaken that if you give money, you can have as many collaborators as you want.”
4930
4931	“I'm not sure, but I just need to follow your instructions, right?”
4932
4933	“Yes. That's enough for now.”
4934
4935	“I don't like it, but I feel like we’re being involved in Ryuuen's strategy. What will happen if we get stuck in this way?”
4936
4937	“Rest assured, it won't. I will win this game without any problems.”
4938
4939	Again, Kamuro can't keep up with the answer of Sakayanagi, which she can't understand, and sighs.
4940
4941	“It doesn't make sense to turn your head full at this stage, so don't be swayed by Ryuuen-kun. This special examination is not a battle to the last. We are looking into each other's stomachs while we are trying to control each other.”
4942
4943	“It's about giving up on trying to understand.”
4944
4945	“But... I don’t want it to be settled easily. It won’t be fun if that were to happen.”
4946
4947	Sakayanagi looked out the window and prayed that the enemy coming to her was a worthy opponent.
4948
4949
4950
4951	* * *
4952
4953
4954
4955	Part 8
4956
4957
4958
4959	On the same day that the conversation between Sakayanagi Kamuro and Hashimoto, two more hours later.
4960
4961	Ryuuen was in one of the karaoke rooms with Ishizaki and Ibuki.
4962
4963	“It looks like a first-year Class B student who had has been persuaded at 200,000 asked for points, Ryuuen-san.”
4964
4965	Ishizaki, who received instructions on his cell phone, reports to Ryuuen.
4966
4967	“Why? He wasn’t satisfied with 200,000 points?”
4968
4969	“No, it seems that Sakayanagi said she would give the same amount of points.”
4970
4971	“They don't want to lose to us either. Can we keep playing this game and win? We are at a disadvantage.”
4972
4973	“I think Class A has quite a lot of private points. We are really at a disadvantage.”
4974
4975	Even after receiving such a report, Ryuuen does not seem to panic only but only plays with his mobile phone.
4976
4977	“Ryu, Ryuuen-san?”
4978
4979	“Calm down. I know what to do.”
4980
4981	As Ryuuen looks at the empty glass, Ishizaki hurries to pour water in it.
4982
4983	“Say you're going to pay 100,000 in advance and 200,000 after the exam.”
4984
4985	“Well, seriously?”
4986
4987	300,000 in total. A larger amount of points will be spent.
4988
4989	“Anyway, I couldn’t do much for the rest of the first-year. I'm looking forward to the addition of Sakayanagi.”
4990
4991	“It's not that we're waiting for our self-destruction at the end.”
4992
4993	If the funds are short, there is nothing we can do about it.
4994
4995	“It's impossible to compete with Sakayanagi after all... It's better to aim for the second place here.”
4996
4997	“I think so, too. If they were to offer the same amount, we would lose by the brand value.”
4998
4999	Ryuuen laughs after hearing the analysis of Ishizaki and Ibuki.
5000
5001	“Ha. I'm sure Sakayanagi already has a triumphing face.”
5002
5003	“You just know how to do it. Even if you get a good game with private points, there's a difference between brands.”
5004
5005	“A-class brands are just a decoration for the time being. The more people who are trusting the brand, the more trust they lose when they collapse is immense.”
5006
5007	“Even so, what about the point?” If it increases to 300,000, it's not very good, we can't pay everyone.”
5008
5009	“You don't have to pay. I'm not going to team up this time with a guy who requests points without knowing the ceiling.”
5010
5011	“...... What?”
5012
5013	“That’s not what I'm trying to do this time. I'm just researching what kind of people are in this year. The guy who cooperates with the money is the one who can always be made an ally by offering money. The only way to defeat Class A is to keep increasing the points.”
5014
5015	“Then you're just working to see if he's falling with a lot of money?”
5016
5017	“It was obvious from the beginning that we could catch points. But there's a student who's already partnered with our class. Why do you think they chose to work with C class?”
5018
5019	“Eh...” Now that you mention it, why?”
5020
5021	The first points presented were 50,000 in advance and 50,000 after the exam.
5022
5023	Some were already working with Class C, even though it wasn't too expensive.
5024
5025	“You always see each other one-on-one before you sign a partner's contract...Are you threatening them?”
5026
5027	“Well, it's a good idea to threaten lightly.”
5028
5029	He was caught by a large sum of 300,000, but at the end of the interview by Ryuuen, he succumbed to it.
5030
5031	After all, the amount to pay on the agreement is far less than the surface.
5032
5033	“I'm judging the one-year guys to understand that I'm better than Sakayanagi.”
5034
5035	The selection of people who are not bound by points and brands, but who instinctively see through the class that wins.
5036
5037	That's what I'm really looking for in this special exam.
5038
5039	The goal we have to look forward to over this year is to drag down the Sakayanagi’s class A.
5040
5041
5042
5043
5044
5045	[ 5 ]
5046
5047
5048
5049	D-CLASS WITH D-CLASS
5050
5051
5052
5053	It is Thursday and the weekends are approaching. After school, I took Horikita to the library.
5054
5055	I am going to talk to the students in the one-year D class that Nanase will bring to meet us today.
5056
5057	On the way, Horikita and I had a conversation.
5058
5059	“Have you looked through today's update yet?”
5060
5061	“There are 17 groups formed at the moment. That's a total of 73 pairs.”
5062
5063	The number of pairs itself is not something to worry about, but one thing that differs is from the previous two updates.
5064
5065	Two students from the first-year D class decided to partner up.
5066
5067	That was a sign of activity from the first-years D class which so far has not done anything.
5068
5069	“I'm a little impatient. I though Kazuomi-kun would do something about his class partners. I talked with some students in the first-years D class during lunch break, but I was treated lightly when I asked them about it.”
5070
5071	“It's at a point where they’re acting like prisoners locked up in a jail.”
5072
5073	It might be because Hosen ordered them to keep quiet and not talk about their class problems with students from other classes.
5074
5075	“That's right. Anyways, it's good news that I decided to meet Nanase-san after this. She might be able to hear about that as well.”
5076
5077	Horikita has never had a proper conversation with Nanase, only once when we met her together with Hosen.
5078
5079	Nanase, who was still standing by the side of Hosen, stood out as a student who seemed to be able to communicate.
5080
5081	When I talked to Nanase, I got a strong impression of her being an honest student.
5082
5083	We arrived at the library and stepped inside.
5084
5085	“Oh, that's rare. It’s a customer.”
5086
5087	The first person to welcome us was Shiina Hiyori, who was in the second year C class, not Nanase.
5088
5089	As a bookworm, she seems to have been visiting here as soon as school finished.
5090
5091	“We might make a little noise today. We'll be discussing about this special exam with some first-graders.”
5092
5093	“Is that so? Then, I think that the seat at the end is good. I'm pretty sure even if you make a little noise there no one will be disturbed. And when the first-graders whom your meeting with enters the library they'll be able to see you guys right away.”
5094
5095	We took her advice and went to the table.
5096
5097	“Is the C class doing well?” Horikita asked Hiyori.
5098
5099	“It's alright, things are going well I guess.”
5100
5101	It's hard to be able to talk normally because it's a class we compete with. We exchanged only simple words and said goodbye, and since we arrived first, we decided to keep our seats.
5102
5103	“Nanase-san aside, it's a question if Hosen comes or not to this meeting.”
5104
5105	“That's right. It seems this meeting will change greatly if Hosen comes.”
5106
5107	It is not necessarily important but Hosen will most likely be the one talking the most since the other students are intimidated by him and there are no restrictions to whether he could come or not.
5108
5109	If that's the case, we'll have a big problem if he actually decides to tag along.
5110
5111	“May I ask you to listen to me before the actual discussion? Are you studying?”
5112
5113	“Well, there's still time before the test. What's wrong with that?”
5114
5115	“I was wondering if you could find time to study in a favourable situation where I narrowed down the subjects to only mathematics.”
5116
5117	“I haven't started studying.”
5118
5119	“No way. You're not so kind as to let go of a game on your own favourable conditions. It's a game you have to win.”
5120
5121	Still, she seems to be worried whether I am studying or not.
5122
5123	In other words, I'm worried about making excuses so I told her that I was busy dealing with special exams that I couldn't get a hard time studying.
5124
5125	“You've been spending a lot of time putting together the second-year D class.”
5126
5127	“I'm always facing my studies; I don't have any problems.”
5128
5129	She seems to have confidence in her daily studies.
5130
5131	“Don't worry. I'm not going to lose.”
5132
5133	“That's fine, but......”
5134
5135	She doesn't seem to be taking the test seriously because it doesn't look like she has been studying at all.
5136
5137	In connection with that, there was one thing I wanted to ask from her.
5138
5139	For Horikita, in addition to putting together our class, she often has to do her own study and has to teach Sudou how to study. Whether or not she would make it at this pace. As I was about to hear about that, Nanase appeared alone in the library. As soon as she saw our table. She bowed her head from a distance and approached us. It seems that Hosen was not going to show up for the first discussion.
5140
5141	“I'm sorry to have kept you waiting, senpai.”
5142
5143	“We just got here a while ago.”
5144
5145	When Nanase sits in the seat opposite of Horikita, the discussion begins with a small greeting.
5146
5147	“Thank you for making time for this discussion.”
5148
5149	“Likewise, thank you for your help again erm...Its Horikita Suzune.”
5150
5151	“I have done nothing to receive thanks from my senpai's. I'd rather say thank you.”
5152
5153	We have the same classes that is D-class. It is normal to have this mutual relationship.
5154
5155	Horikita, who replied to her greeting, immediately began talking about the main subject because She was talking to Nanase.
5156
5157	“I'm going to cut to the chase and talk to you about the main reason why we're both here.”
5158
5159	“Of course.”
5160
5161	“First of all, I would like you to tell me about the policy of the first-year D class. It was not until today that two students confirmed their partners in your class, but the remaining 38 remain to have no partners You're one of them, aren't you, Miss. Nanase?”
5162
5163	I don't know if it's Hosen's doing or someone else’s but it's clearly obvious that someone is controlling your class.
5164
5165	“That's right. I thought you'd be asked that question. You asked a similar question to Hagiwara today as well, didn't you?”
5166
5167	Hagiwara is a student who is in class D for the first year. It seems that Nanase already knows that Horikita came into contact with a student in the 1st year D class during her lunch break. If so, should we think that she knew we would come in contact with her from the very first day we met?
5168
5169	“I'm surprised. It seems you have done your research.”
5170
5171	“Many of the students are already following Hosen-kun's instructions.”
5172
5173	Nanase admits that Hosen is leading D-class without a single bit of ambiguity.
5174
5175	“Did you follow him because he's strong?” No, I did not follow him because his strong.
5176
5177	Nanase shows a gesture to think a little.
5178
5179	“I'm very sorry, but I can't answer any specific questions. It is a method that Hosen-kun thought to put together the class. I don't know if it's right or wrong, but it's a betrayal to leak it to an outsider.”
5180
5181	“That's right. You're right.”
5182
5183	Answering Horikita's question like that, Nanase bowed her head lightly, saying thank you. Just because you're a senpai doesn't mean I have to talk to you about everything. As I thought, Nanase is a hard person to crack through and will remain as a loyal member of the D class for the first years.
5184
5185	“Then I'll talk about the main subject. I wonder if it would be nice to think that we could partner with the D class for the first-years like the two of the people who decided to partner up yesterday.” If we presented a certain number of private points to have this relationship with your class would you guys accept?”
5186
5187	After all, this relationship of ours would not spark even a dent of interest from Hosen.
5188
5189	I guess that a high amount of points was paid from the two people in the first-years D class to partner up.
5190
5191	“But what I'm asking for today is a different contract that is I pay points for you guys to accept this relationship.”
5192
5193	“I know. I have heard a little from Ayanokouji-senpai, but it is a cooperative relationship that covers students who are concerned about their academic ability, right?”
5194
5195	“Yes. The fact that you came to talk with me after understanding means that there is room for negotiation.”
5196
5197	“I want to think there is.”
5198
5199	Nanase's face clouded. As she continued talking.
5200
5201	“There is a through individualism at the root of Hosen-kun's way of thinking. And that is by doing things with force. At this rate, students with low academic ability will not be able to find a partner and will be left behind. It's not a big problem yet if you can't get private points for three months, but it’s still a problem you have to deal with for three months. I'm afraid I'll be rated as a student who couldn't find a partner.”
5202
5203	Horikita listens to Nanase and predicts the future of one-year D class in her head.
5204
5205	“That's right. If there is no one that can help our class, the fight by individualism will naturally increase. If the situation continues, no one will show up even if someone in our class asks for help. And if our class faces an exam that will be played together with other classes, we will not be ready to fight.”
5206
5207	That's why Nanase seems to be avoiding the negotiations with Horikita. It’s because of Hosen.
5208
5209	Aren't you afraid of Hosen-kun?
5210
5211	Yes, I am
5212
5213	She gave an immediate answer without hesitation And Nanase, who didn't look at me so far, looks at me. It's the same eye she's shown twice. She said, 'I won't give in to violence.' It's not that much to worry about, but Nanase might be the only other person that can lead the first-years D class.
5214
5215	If this is a chance to make Hosen change his way of doing things, I would seriously thank you.
5216
5217	“Then I'll ask you a little bit of a question. How many students are currently struggling to find a partner in class D in the first year. Please tell me to the extent you can answer.”
5218
5219	The OAA app tells students who hasn't decided on a partner, but of course it's not clear if she's going to find a partner.
5220
5221	She was thinking for quite a while and then finally told us.
5222
5223	“At the moment, nearly 15 students find it difficult to find a partner on their own.”
5224
5225	“Fifteen people...” It's more than I thought.”
5226
5227	However, the second-year D class also has many students who have not decided their partners.
5228
5229	There is room for negotiations if you think about the combination well.
5230
5231	“Nanase-san, if you’re allowed to I would like to make a contract with you.”
5232
5233	“Is it a big contract?”
5234
5235	“I want Nanase-san and I to combine 15 pairs of partners in both our classes and finish them all at once. It doesn't matter whether their academic ability is E or A. Of course, there is no point in the relationship. It's an equal partnership to help the students who are struggling to find their own partners.”
5236
5237	In other words, it is a relationship that benefits both our classes.
5238
5239	It was Just the conclusion of this contract will greatly reduce the chance of a dropout.
5240
5241	Even though, this is a good deal but. But both Horikita and Nanase knows that it will not be so simple.
5242
5243	“This is a big premise if you can sign the contract, but there is no guarantee that the other students from your class will be able to save people in the vicinity of the academic ability E who are in our class. Most of the students are troubled because they can't get a partner are also focused on their academic ability that is D and C.”
5244
5245	If the maximum academic ability is C, there is a big risk to have them partner with students of academic ability E. It can be said that it is almost impossible for us to both benefit from this.
5246
5247	“I really need you to do your best so that it doesn't happen.”
5248
5249	Then again, I think that the contract is not a very good one.
5250
5251	Nanase does not deny and admits.
5252
5253	“Kazuomi-kun would never help you guys free of charge especially now.”
5254
5255	The second-year A-class maintains a high amount of class point from the time of admission, and has a lot of money. Even though the C-class spread out an amount of private points from the plan of Ryuuen, Hosen would still choose to work with Class-A rather than any other classes. Considering the situation in which such two classes are competing for students at a high amount of private points, it is better to choose the class that will be paying more to be partnered up with Nanase's class.
5256
5257	In other words, the idea, policy and Hosen’s way of doing things are also correct.
5258
5259	However, even if the price is put, it is certain that the first-years D class has higher number of students compared to other classes That is also proportional to the lack of students who will be partnered.
5260
5261	Even if it's good for the class?
5262
5263	It is a minus that the private points which was originally supposed to be given to everyone cannot be obtained by the students who cannot be assembled by their partner. You should know that without having to explain it.
5264
5265	“There are a lot of parts that I want to do.” But Hosen won't let me.”
5266
5267	Apparently Nanase herself is taking Horikita's proposal favourably.
5268
5269	But.
5270
5271	Hosen. “After all... I don't think Hoizumi-kun will accept this proposal free of charge.”
5272
5273	After she said that, an empty silence filled the table. I somehow could guess what Horikita was thinking.
5274
5275	“I've only found out about one thing. Hosen doesn't just accept any deal proposed from any class.
5276
5277	What do you mean?
5278
5279	“I thought the only thing that would spark Hosen's interest is by using a high amount of private points. However, if that is the case, we should be looking at applying lower-level students more aggressively. In other words, you can say that you're going
5280
5281	“That's true. Three months' worth of private points can't be fooled. If you don't want to get expelled you can save the private points for your own selves and it seems like Hosen is doing that for his class.”
5282
5283	I felt that continuing on like this won't bring the conversation anywhere.
5284
5285	“It is as you say Ayanokouji-senpai. Hosen-kun doesn't get anything in return from helping his classmates but instead he like to impose rules and controls the class using violence.”
5286
5287	The students who decides to not listen to Hosen will be abused and if we decide to help, he will use violence on us as well.
5288
5289	Therefore, I can't accept your proposal even if I wanted to, I just can't.
5290
5291	I knew from the beginning that it was meaningless to negotiate with the first-years D class from the moment they decided to not attend the exchange party.
5292
5293	“Can't you control even a small number of highly academic students in your class?”
5294
5295	Horikita's proposal has no flaws in any way. It's just a way to save each other's classmates.
5296
5297	Unlike the second graders, there is naturally little feelings for our classmates and friends during the first semester. It's impossible develop a feeling of wanting to help your classmates after a week or two after entering the school
5298
5299	Unless their class had someone who is similar to Yosuke or Kushida, there was no way they would develop those feelings so fast.
5300
5301	“I talked to some of them, but none of them really cared for their classmates and only cared about themselves.”
5302
5303	“The reward is a big premise, isn't it?”
5304
5305	“Wouldn't it be possible for a few people in your class to sign the contract.”
5306
5307	If the stance is to aim for the overall point, such as class A and C, a huge amount of money will be required to recruit a large number of students. However, if you limit it to a small number just to prevent you from leaving school, you can save money.
5308
5309	“Well, I guess...” If there really is no way for her to accept this proposal. We'll just have to try another way.”
5310
5311	After saying that to me, Horikita immediately turned to Nanase's face.
5312
5313	“What shall I do?”
5314
5315	“Now, the way of fighting in the first and second graders are different. First-year students don't have a risk of leaving school, so you're in a higher position. But this relationship will surely not last forever. The day will come when you guys will have to fight at the risk of leaving school.” Even if you teamed up with other classes there's no guarantee everyone will have enough points to save themselves.”
5316
5317	Some students will be saved, and some students can't be saved.
5318
5319	“That's why We want to sign an equal contract without creating a vertical relationship with points. And I want to build up a relationship of trust. A special relationship of trust that can be done only because the grade is different.”
5320
5321	Horikita explains that when a student in a first-year D class needs help, he or she can consult with her in an equal position. In short, it is a strategy that emphasizes the same trust as Ichinose.
5322
5323	The only difference from Ichinose is that we partner with only the first-years D-class rather than with all the first-year classes.
5324
5325	Instead of appealing to the whole first-year classes, we focus on working together with only the first-year’s D class.
5326
5327	The special test has already entered the fourth day. We don't have much time to spare.
5328
5329	Nanase should have fully felt Horikita's spirit.
5330
5331	Still, her heavy expression does not lighten up.
5332
5333	“I understand what you want to say. But I don't think you understand it yet. Many first-year students are already eager to save private points. They will see it as a loss to partner up with someone without getting paid.”
5334
5335	I guess I'll just take the time to understand the school system.
5336
5337	“Currently, there are two big barriers to working with the first-years D class. It is necessary to persuade the honour students who still haven't found a partner yet. In other words, we have to establish this relationship by working together with Hosen.”
5338
5339	“If you look only on the surface, the first-years D class has many walls that have yet to be crossed by Hosen, so the merit of establishing a relationship where the first-year students will only be getting points is not beneficial at all. But if he decides to work together with us, we can cooperate in future Special Exams and will be able to help each other when we need it.”
5340
5341	Is Nanase really aware of that fact?
5342
5343	“Let me have a discussion with Hosen-kun.”
5344
5345	Horikita decides that it is impossible to proceed without the presence of Hosen so she decides to end the conversation.
5346
5347	If only you were him. Anyways, I'm ready to talk to him.
5348
5349	“I understand. I'll try to call.”
5350
5351	Nanase took out her cell phone and went straight to the entrance of the library.
5352
5353	“It seems that Hosen-kun's control is bigger than I thought.”
5354
5355	That's right.
5356
5357	“My policy of working with the one-year D class is... not wrong, am I right?”
5358
5359	“Building relationships with a view to the future is not a bad strategy. It is a bigger premise than Sakayanagi and Ryuuen. If only Sakayanagi and Ryuuen tried to build a relationship of trust with talented people in all classes in the first-year through a plan and not by using private points, they would be a much bigger threat than any other classes. Ichinose is building a solid relationship of trust by saving the weak, although there is no point. And you're similar to Ichinose, but you're trying to create a cooperative relationship that focuses on only one class? You're becoming a leader enough to compete with the three of them.”
5360
5361	Horikita whispers a little after listening to my words. “The rest is whether the negotiations can be put together well.” As We waited for Nanase's return, I saw Nanase calling me with a beckoning cough while bowing from the entrance.
5362
5363	I wonder if something has happened.
5364
5365	“Would you like to go?”
5366
5367	The two of us left the library and joined up with Nanase.
5368
5369	“Excuse me, senpai... Kazuomi-kun is connected on the phone.”
5370
5371	Nanase holds out her cell phone to Horikita.
5372
5373	After receiving the mobile phone, Horikita takes on the challenge of talking with Hosen in Speaker mode.
5374
5375	I'm sorry to have kept you waiting.
5376
5377	“Yo. I heard the story from Nanase.”
5378
5379	“If possible, I'd like to meet him in person and explain it to him.”
5380
5381	“You don't need to. I don't want to see you.”
5382
5383	With a laugh, Hosen said so.
5384
5385	“It's. Are you not even going to negotiate?”
5386
5387	“That's what it is. I didn’t even need to take this phone call, but Nanase made me do it.”
5388
5389	“But, Hosen-kun, I think it's OK to consider it.” Nanase said
5390
5391	“Your annoying. What authority do you have?”
5392
5393	“I don't want to be killed, but please meet Horikita-senpai once.”
5394
5395	“If you can't get the private points ready, you'll never hear from me again.”
5396
5397	It seems Nanase was trying to keep her word, but Hosen immediately ended the call.
5398
5399	Nanase tried to recall him but he did not accept her call.
5400
5401	“.... I’m sorry!”
5402
5403	With her head down, Nanase apologizes to Horikita and me.
5404
5405	But there was nothing Nanase did wrong.
5406
5407	“Raise your head. My policy and Hosen-kun's policy are completely different, so it's not going to work easily. I'm so grateful to you for helping me like this.”
5408
5409	“That's it...”
5410
5411	“Let's leave it this far for today. In order to have a discussion with Hosen-kun, I'll have to think about something. But I'd like to put on a meeting by the end of this week.”
5412
5413	If it's going to be more than that, Horikita will have to look at things other than the first-year D class. That said, I just pray that it won't happen. It can be quite a bit of work to take the remaining students from the three classes that have already been devoured been the other factions.
5414
5415	“I'm very happy that my senpai's hasn't given up yet. But....
5416
5417	Nanase was a bit sad and said. You can't have an equal cooperative relationship with Hosen, because even if this relationship is established, he will end it when he feels like it.
5418
5419	“At least I could tell Hosen-kun what I wanted to do. That's enough for now.”
5420
5421	As time decreases, Horikita still finds it hard to conclude this conversation to Nanase.
5422
5423	Horikita suggested that we go back to the dorms together, but Nanase wanted to stop by somewhere.
5424
5425	And, she left wanting to meet again in the library tomorrow.
5426
5427	Maybe she went to see Hosen.
5428
5429	“Let's go home. We're stuck with plans for the rest of the day.”
5430
5431	After returning to the dorm, we saw Sudou and a few other people that seemed to be holding a study session in the dormitory.
5432
5433	“Oh, and I wonder if you'll be able to make it clear about your partner soon. Just whether you move on your own or not you have to tell me. It may have an impact in the future.”
5434
5435	If negotiations with Hosen begin, it will be necessary to adjust the number of people needed during the negotiations.
5436
5437	“There is a candidate who I think is okay to form a partnership with.”
5438
5439	“It's not based on his academic ability, it’s based off a specific person, isn't it?” I wonder who it is.”
5440
5441	It's a secret.
5442
5443	“What a secret...” ... Is there any reason why you are hiding this from me?”
5444
5445	“I only know that person only on the surface.”
5446
5447	I thought I would decide if I saw him a bunch of times but I'll judge him within the week.” Well, at the latest.
5448
5449	“I hope so, but...” I don't know if you’re going to find a partner or not, and if you don't make it, you'll risk getting expelled.”
5450
5451	“Keep it in mind. I was so sorry to hear that earlier, but are you in good shape?”
5452
5453	“.... Are you worried about me?”
5454
5455	“You don't have to worry about my studies, I still have quite a bit of time before the special exam so you should worry about yourself.”
5456
5457	If you don’t find a partner at the end of the game, there is a possibility that it will affect your results in the written exam during the day of the test.
5458
5459	In addition to the study sessions with Amasawa every day, yesterday, I devoted my time to cooking measures against Amasawa until late at night.
5460
5461	It is clear that fatigue is gradually accumulating.
5462
5463	“I'm sure I'll get tired. But I don't have time to rest now. I'm not going to fall until the special exam is over.”
5464
5465	Not to mention Yosuke and Shibata, students with excellent academic ability such as Keisei and Mii-chan have offered to cooperate with Horikita from the beginning. On top of that, Horikita decided to proceed with a plan based on the premise of working with the first-years D class, considering the possibility of facing another Special Exam that involves both the first and second-years. With everyone working so hard I guess I'll try a little harder.
5466
5467	It is an important question for how the second-year D class will settle in the fight against time.
5468
5469
5470
5471	* * *
5472
5473
5474
5475	Part 1
5476
5477
5478
5479	It was a little chilly, that night. Standing in the kitchen, I cooked my dinner that I bought from the supermarket.
5480
5481	Tom yam, the name of a Thai cuisine, is a combination of three meanings of boiling, mixing, and Spicing.
5482
5483	“It's a unique taste, and it wasn't too bad.”
5484
5485	The spice and acidity spreads through the room and the smell will penetrate through the nose. It was so strong that it was addictive.
5486
5487	After cleaning up, I turn the ventilation fan to drive out the smell that filled the room. I didn't notice the sound of the ventilation fan being drowned out, but I noticed that my cell phone was vibrating on the bed. I thought I'd call back later, but It did not want to stop at all, so I answered the phone.
5488
5489	“Your slow to answer the phone.”
5490
5491	It was the first time I received a phone call from someone since the special examination began.
5492
5493	It was a complaint she gave out after I answered the phone.
5494
5495	“You're the one who told me to call you at this time.”
5496
5497	“Sorry I was busy eating. So, have you been able to find out what I asked you to do this morning?”
5498
5499	“I've checked it out. Isn't there something you should say to me first.”
5500
5501	“I'm grateful.”
5502
5503	“You don't feel like your grateful at all...” Well, that's fine. According to the clerk, there is only one selling since April of this year. It doesn't seem to sell that well compared to other similar products, so they said it would be nice if they could sell it soon. But, you know, there was a freshman who tried to buy it.”
5504
5505	“One of the buyers almost sold it to the Freshmen, but we should be more concerned about the freshmen who tried to buy it.”
5506
5507	“He didn't buy what you wanted him to buy.”
5508
5509	It’s quite expensive and I believe most of the first-years in D class already used up all their allotted points this month and even if they didn't who would buy a knife that expensive.
5510
5511	I don't think the freshmen's this year will be that stupid.
5512
5513	“I asked him about it. Then, he said another student called out to him immediately after the accounting was finished, and she seems to have stopped him from buying it and returned it.”
5514
5515	While listening to the details that Kei is giving out, I sort out the situation.
5516
5517	What I originally thought of is a him buying the knife without someone stopping him from doing so.
5518
5519	I didn't expect that person to be involved in this matter as well.
5520
5521	Do you know who prompted him to return it?
5522
5523	“Well, I don't know. But I do know that the one who stopped him from buying it is a girl.
5524
5525	Even if you know the name of the purchaser who presented their student ID card, don't you know who stopped him?
5526
5527	“No”
5528
5529	Did you find my information useful?
5530
5531	“Ah. It's going to be a lot more useful than I thought.”
5532
5533	“Heh, I'm capable. Thank you very much, but why did you get me to look into that?
5534
5535	“Hey?”
5536
5537	I was thinking of an excuse to come up with but the situation was not what I was hoping for.
5538
5539	I tried changing the subject.
5540
5541	“Now that you mention this, I hear you've decided on a special exam with your partner.”
5542
5543	“Ah, yes. I believe it was Shimazaki of the First year B class.”
5544
5545	Now that I've done this, I'm going to change the subject a little more.
5546
5547	“I don't think your partner is bad, but how are you progressing on your studies.”
5548
5549	“Not too good, anyways I heard you still haven't found yourself a partner.”
5550
5551	“Is that true? I haven't seen you go to the class study group either.”
5552
5553	“This exam is not completed by a single person. Kei's academic ability is D-. If you don't think about doing studying this exam, you might risk getting dropped out. Therefore, I suggest you join the class study group.
5554
5555	“What, if I were there, would I be able to study hard?”
5556
5557	.. Well, I'm going to show you that I'm working as hard as I can in front of my boyfriend.”
5558
5559	Whether it's true or not is subtle, but it's still way too early to be confident.
5560
5561	“If so, tomorrow... Let's see. Can you come to my room at six?”
5562
5563	Since I have to consider the amount of time needed for the meeting with Nanase tomorrow.
5564
5565	“Can I go out with you guys as well?”
5566
5567	“It's not about playing, it’s about our studies.”
5568
5569	“What?”
5570
5571	“I'll teach you what to study tomorrow.”
5572
5573	First of all, I need to measure Kei's academic abilities to be able to understand the level she's at right now.
5574
5575	On top of that, if participation in additional study sessions will help her, I will also need to encourage her to attend as her boyfriend.
5576
5577	“Are you worried because I'll be in trouble if I drop out of school?”
5578
5579	Suddenly, I heard such a thing in a happy voice from Kei as she said that.
5580
5581	“It's natural. We just started dating and it would be bad if one of us dropped out so soon.”
5582
5583	“Oh, that's right. That's true! Well, I can't help it!”
5584
5585	Saying this made her much more motivated.
5586
5587	It's honest, and a small price to pay if she can move forward with this.
5588
5589	“What should I bring?”
5590
5591	“All I need is you to be in my room tomorrow. I am a little busy so I’m gonna hang up.”
5592
5593	“Hey, wait and wait!
5594
5595	Apparently, Kei wanted to continue chatting with me and I decided to continue talking for a bit longer.
5596
5597	After that, we didn't talk about the Special Exam nor studies and just chatted for quite a while.
5598
5599
5600
5601	* * *
5602
5603
5604
5605	Part 2
5606
5607
5608
5609	Finally, 81 people have decided on partners, and students who have narrowly exceeded their majority began to finalize their partners on Friday. The number of students who were able to partner up with someone was beginning to increase including the second-year D class.
5610
5611	The same goes for those close to me. Yesterday, Kei was one of them, and 2 members of the Ayanokouji Group confirmed their partners as well. It was Shibata that was the driving force behind them. It was nice that he cooperated with Yagami, and introduced a part of the student from the first year B class. However, this is not going to solve everything. Yagami seems to not be the leader of B class, and is just helping out the students struggling to find a partner. They don't have enough students to cover all of the students struggling to find a partner in our class.
5612
5613	Yagami has put out only one condition in cooperation that is to become Shibata's partner.
5614
5615	It happened yesterday, as it was announced in the OAA app.
5616
5617	Shibata seems to be the type of person that would cut to the chase and immediately find a good partner even though he was high academic abilities but it seems that there was no sign of dissatisfaction from Horikita when they were partnered up. Because There are still talented cards, including Horikita herself, Keisei, Mii-chan, Matsushita, and so on in our class.
5618
5619	In any case, just because you have a partner doesn't mean you can feel safe.
5620
5621	Studying hard is a way you can reduce the chance for dropping out.
5622
5623	But most students will most likely start studying only after finding their partners.
5624
5625	There was also a sense of unity in our class and everybody was working together to help students with low academic ability to get partners.
5626
5627	This was only possible because Yosuke and Horikita had worked hard to get this class together from scratch.
5628
5629	That's the way it is
5630
5631	A student from the D class stood up and started walking home.
5632
5633	As if she was waiting for that timing, Horikita goes out to call him.
5634
5635	“It seems you haven't found a partner yet, Kouenji-kun.”
5636
5637	“What's wrong with that?”
5638
5639	He is the only interference in the class and the only person who is not participating in this sense of unity in our class.
5640
5641	As a classmate, I thought I should listen in on the conversation
5642
5643	But Kouenji didn't say much in the conversation with Horikita.
5644
5645	“You're smart. I don't even think it's possible for you to drop out.”
5646
5647	“Of course.”
5648
5649	“That's right. Even if you team up with students with similar grades to Ike-kun, you'll get nearly 400 points by yourself.
5650
5651	Originally, I would like Kouenji to work as one of the precious cards for the class. But It will never happen because of his attitude towards other students.
5652
5653	“Huff. I'm not going to do anything in this special exam. The important thing is that my partner gets around 150 points. It's easy for me to get a score that exceeds the passing criteria, even if it's the minimum requirement.”
5654
5655	The test says that the first-years need to get at least 150 points in their test. It's unlikely that his partner will score 0 points unless intended like the white room student that's out to get me.
5656
5657	However, the point is that we still have to trust our partners.
5658
5659	“And there is no need for me to go out of my way to talk and take steps to build a relationship with someone who might be my own enemy in the future.”
5660
5661	“I mean, since you’re not worried about who you're going to partner with, can you let me decide who to partner up with you? I think it's safe to work with anyone, but it's best for you not to get a 5% penalty.”
5662
5663	It was a simple proposal that is to leave things to Horikita and it was a proposal with only benefits.
5664
5665	“That's a good deal. But I'll refuse.”
5666
5667	“...Can I ask you why?”
5668
5669	Because I am who I am.
5670
5671	“The point is that I don't want you to bother looking for a partner for me.”
5672
5673	Kouenji is Kouenji I guess.
5674
5675	“Are you satisfied?”
5676
5677	It is not possible to force someone like Kouenji to do anything if he is the type of person who prefers working alone and not cooperating with the class.
5678
5679	“Yes, for now. But It can't stay like this forever. When the time comes when the class can't be united, I'll need your help to persuade him.” She says to me.
5680
5681	It's not just about this special exam, it's about looking ahead to the future as well.
5682
5683	Horikita seems to have wanted to keep her forefront.
5684
5685	“I know you want to rely on me perfectly, but I'm sure I won't be able to do much.” I said to her.
5686
5687	Kouenji has no interest in our class affairs and It is close to impossible to getting him to help the class.
5688
5689	“You can't force Kouenji.”
5690
5691	Even though she knew, she was depressed.
5692
5693	“He's serious about moving classes through collecting points, and it's hard to think that we would be losing one of the most important trump card our class has.”
5694
5695	Nothing is more troublesome than a secret weapon that can't be used.
5696
5697	It is because of the expectation that will turn into despair when the person does not meet that expectation.
5698
5699	“I'll try not to count him as a member in our class.”
5700
5701	If you think of Kouenji as just a statue, it would be easier to think of the future.
5702
5703	I won't give up.
5704
5705	“Right....”
5706
5707	Well, it's good to be motivated, although it won’t be much to persuade Kouenji.
5708
5709
5710
5711	* * *
5712
5713
5714
5715	Part 3
5716
5717
5718
5719	As soon as we stepped into the library on the weekend, I saw a different atmosphere than the other day. Many first and second graders gathered. And most of the students are spreading out their tablets and notebooks to do things like study sessions.
5720
5721	It seems that a lot of students have begun to study without being proud of the fact that their partner has yet to be decided.
5722
5723	I remember that we also held a study session in the library a year ago.
5724
5725	“It's a bit of a hassle. I don't know” Will our existence stand out when the number of people increases at each table?”
5726
5727	“If that's the case, maybe it's better to take a little bit of a look.”
5728
5729	Fortunately, the seats we used yesterday are available at the back of the library.
5730
5731	I turn my eyes to a certain position to find an amusing situation.
5732
5733	She noticed my glance and started waving her hand.
5734
5735	“Ayanokouji, I thought you'd be coming soon, so I left a seat for you.”
5736
5737	“Are you sure it's okay.”
5738
5739	It's a large library filled with people after all.
5740
5741	“Please take a seat.”
5742
5743	“She is somewhat quite kind today.”
5744
5745	Why though?
5746
5747	The table was located at the same place as yesterday. She took out her study tools and started studying while waiting for Nanase.
5748
5749	But there was no sign of Nanase coming anytime soon.
5750
5751	“Nanase sure is late.”
5752
5753	It was about 4:30 pm after school. And the time is already 5 o’clock and still there was no sign of Nanase showing up.
5754
5755	I've sent her messages for a few times, but there's was no sign of her reading it. I was thinking about going to find her but I have no clue where she would be right now.
5756
5757	“Would you want to follow me to check the first-years classes to see if she's there?”
5758
5759	At the point where she was about to do that, Nanase, who looked like she was in a hurry, showed up.
5760
5761	When she saw us from the entrance, she approached us with a short of breath.
5762
5763	“Sorry, I'm sorry. I've kept you waiting for quite a bit...!”
5764
5765	“That's fine, I was worried because I thought something had happened.”
5766
5767	“I was negotiating to see if I could somehow bring Kazuomi-kun to follow along.”
5768
5769	“The result seems to have been bad seeing that his not here.”
5770
5771	There was no sign of anyone coming from the entrance other than Nanase.
5772
5773	“But didn't he stop you from going to talk to us today?”
5774
5775	“That's not it, because he knows I won't be able to decide anything by myself.”
5776
5777	No matter how much Nanase does, the final decision is for Hosen to decide.
5778
5779	With that much confidence, there is certainly no need to stop Hosen's way of doing things.
5780
5781	“It seems like we have to forcibly meet him then.”
5782
5783	“That is....”
5784
5785	“I already know that it's not that simple to get together, but unless I get to talk to him face-to-face, I may be able to come up with a proposal that benefits both parties.”
5786
5787	It seems that he didn't even want to bother coming here today.”
5788
5789	`` That's true...”
5790
5791	“Horikita-senpai wants to build equal relationship with the first-years D class. Is there any lie in that idea?”
5792
5793	“Yes, of course.”
5794
5795	“If so ... could you hear out my idea?”
5796
5797	Nanase seemed to have come up with an idea.
5798
5799	“It is quite obvious that even if you propose to have equal cooperation with Hosen, you will be rejected. I think that it would be the same if Horikita-senpai met and talked directly with him. Then What about negotiating with me? ''
5800
5801	“Negotiating with you...?”
5802
5803	“Yes”
5804
5805	Here, Nanase makes an unexpected proposal.
5806
5807	“I decided that Hosen-kun's way of doing things would be bad for the class if it continued. Before that happens, I want to take countermeasures. By that I mean I would like to compete with Hosen for the position of the class-D's leader. And I need to help of the second-year D class student to help me out.
5808
5809	Horikita as well as I never assumed that such a proposal would be made.
5810
5811	A proposal about removing Hosen and making Tsubasa Nanase becoming the first-years D class leader.
5812
5813	If this were to happen, the equal relationship that Horikita is aiming for can be immediately created
5814
5815	“But we don't have the material to judge whether Nanase-san or Kazuomi-kun is suitable for the class leader. But one thing I can say for sure is that we don't much time.
5816
5817	A special test that is about one week away.
5818
5819	“Many of my classmates disagree with Hosen-kun's way. In fact, yesterday and today I gave the proposal to 7 of my classmates and they agreed to cooperate because they were struggling to find their own partners.”
5820
5821	“Is it okay if it's mostly students with low academic ability.”
5822
5823	“Yes. It’s okay. Plus, there’s 3 students with B academic ability among them.”
5824
5825	“…So that's it”
5826
5827	Horikita thinks a bit. Although it is not perfect with three people, if the number increases a little more, it may not be a bad result to form a cooperation based on Nanase's proposal.
5828
5829	`` Wouldn't it be troublesome if Hosen found out.”
5830
5831	“It's would be quite a problem. But I am not concerned.”
5832
5833	“But it would be difficult to get students who can study on your side.”
5834
5835	There is no way that a well-educated student would want to build a relationship of trust rather than getting paid private points for being someone's partner.
5836
5837	“You’ll make up for that. Students who are not good at studying will not have to take a three-month penalty by having Horikita-senpai pay them. In other words, points will be given.
5838
5839	Originally, I wanted to pay points and pull well-educated students to my side, but the strategy is that students who are not good at studying will also ask me to pay them points for their cooperation.
5840
5841	“This will not bother Horikita-senpai. Of course, Hoizumi-kun would be angry after knowing this fact, but I'll take full responsibility if one of the students in my class get injured due to helping me.” Nanase said.
5842
5843	“It's a proposal that is risky and dangerous.”
5844
5845	“I'm okay. I don't want to lose the trust I have with Horikita-senpai and Ayanokouji-senpai.”
5846
5847	If your classmates went over to your side, it would be much easier for you but Hosen is currently in control and I am sure their all afraid of him.
5848
5849	“Even if I'm not recognized as the class leader, this proposal will still save Horikita-senpai's class.”
5850
5851	Considering only the proposal she gave only had benefits, the proposal from Nanase is not bad.
5852
5853	Now, how will Horikita return in response to this?
5854
5855	“This is clear. I want to work with the first-years D class.”
5856
5857	“But there are other ways to do this without getting anyone hurt.”
5858
5859	“I can solve all of the problems of the first-year D-class by just getting Hosen on our side. You don't need to be a leader. If Hosen-kun came over to our side, then everyone will surely cooperate with us.”
5860
5861	“That's yeah, yes.
5862
5863	“And if you conflict with Hosen, the first-years D-Class could be divided into two rather than one, and I can't let that happen. So, could you help me?”
5864
5865	Apparently, Horikita thought of an idea after having this conversation with Nanase.
5866
5867	Once Hosen comes over to our side, all subsequent problems will be solved.
5868
5869	“It's a dangerous bet. And if it fails, the first-year D-class and second-year D-class may never work together in the future ever again.”
5870
5871	“I'm prepared ...... I think there is a possibility this would work but I would need more people to help.”
5872
5873	“Well, I need to get going soon.”
5874
5875	Nanase understands what Horikita was saying. And there was no need to use such a risky strategy for just a single person.
5876
5877	“Today, my intuition was correct by having this meeting with Horikita and Ayanokouji-senpai.”
5878
5879	I wonder what you mean. Didn't I reject your proposal.?”
5880
5881	“No, I haven't been rejected. It is just I and Horikita-senpai have a similar way of doing things.”
5882
5883	“It means ... you were thinking about persuading him from the very beginning?”
5884
5885	“Yes”. Apparently, Nanase's proposal that she would become the class leader was a false proposal to test what Horikita would do.”
5886
5887	If Horikita chose the choice to neglect the future of the first-years D-class for immediate benefit of the second-year D class. It seems she would have stopped cooperating with us.
5888
5889	“We don’t have much time as Horikita-senpai said earlier, but I can't move forward unless I make sure I can trust you guys. By Tomorrow, I'll be sure to bring Kazuomi-kun to meet Horikita-senpai face-to-face.”
5890
5891	Nanase’s proposal does not seem to be a lie, Nanase lowers her head and asks Horikita.
5892
5893	The date was Sunday and we were going to meet Hosen at a Karaoke bar in Keyaki mall.
5894
5895	Horikita nodded her head with the meaning of confirmation.
5896
5897	“I believe in you. I look forward to seeing Hosen on Sunday tomorrow.”
5898
5899	“Yes ...... always. We just want to avoid places where people can see. People might take unpredictable actions if they saw us together.”
5900
5901	“Well, karaoke may be the place. Yeah. If Hosen wants it, then we should meet there. Night as well because there are many students at the karaoke bar during the weekends.”
5902
5903	If It's on a Sunday night, there’s definitely less risk in being seen.
5904
5905	“I understand. I will meet you guys there.”
5906
5907	When the direction of the talk began to converge, Horikita's mobile phone rang.
5908
5909	Horikita sighs after reading the message.
5910
5911	“What happened”
5912
5913	“It looks like the study session for our class is a bit out of hand without me being there.”
5914
5915	I noticed it was already 5.30.
5916
5917	“Can you send me the full details of the meeting to my phone?”
5918
5919	“Sure.”
5920
5921	Horikita lightly bowed to Nanase, and quickly got out of the library to go to the class study group.
5922
5923	Horikita must always help the whole class to make sure nothing ever happens.”
5924
5925	“Horikita-senpai's Quite a busy person huh”
5926
5927	“Because she needs to put the class together.”
5928
5929	“I hope one year later, I can become good friends with you senpai's.
5930
5931	`` You didn't tell Horikita in detail, but how do you intend to call Hosen? ''
5932
5933	“It will be fine no need for concern. Can you tell me a little bit about yourself Ayanokouji-senpai?”
5934
5935	“About me?”
5936
5937	The sun outside started to set and the sky turned orange.
5938
5939	“Horikita-senpai is the class leader, but Ayanokouji-senpai is different, right?”
5940
5941	“The only explanation here would be you and Horikita-senpai dating but that doesn’t seem to be the case.”
5942
5943	“What kind of person are you Ayanokouji-senpai?”
5944
5945	I did not answer her question, Nanase puts her arms on the desk. And stared deep into my eyes.
5946
5947	“Would you please answer me?”
5948
5949	“It seems that what Nanase wants to hear isn't what it's related to Horikita.”
5950
5951	But it was something different. That is asking what kind of person I am.
5952
5953	“I believe Ayanokouji-senpai is an evil and naughty person.”
5954
5955	It was a very drastic, intense word. And contrary to the wordless content, Nanase is too straightforward and she stared into my eyes saying that. I don't know what I look like in your eyes but I am far from evil. In the contacts I have made so far, she was the first person to call me evil after meeting me a few times only.
5956
5957	There was a reason why she would think I’m evil.
5958
5959	Dropping him out of school is the most important proposition, I will not do it administratively. I will surely be in close contact and observe this man named Kiyotaka Ayanokouji.
5960
5961	If I had to drop a student like Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, I would surely think that way. However, the chances of her being the white room student is quite low due to the direction of this conversation. It seems to be different.
5962
5963	“As long as I'm in contact with you like this, Ayanokouji-senpai looks like a normal person.”
5964
5965	`` That means, you see me as an unusual person? ''
5966
5967	“That’s not the case.”
5968
5969	Nanase denied, but is it really true?
5970
5971	Me and Nanase met four times, but in all of them she always gave me a strange gaze. I felt like I touched upon something I shouldn't have and her response was fleeing.
5972
5973	“I'm sorry I forgot what I wanted to ask. Anyways, the important thing now is whether we could work with each other or not.”
5974
5975	We stood up and started walking to the entrance of the library side by side.
5976
5977	In the flow of dissolution, I remembered something I wanted to ask Nanase
5978
5979	“Speaking of which, Nanase said before, when you were talking about private points not being transferred for three months, you said 240,000 points. Why is that?”
5980
5981	Nanase's face was questioned.
5982
5983	“If you keep 800 points of class points given after enrolment for 3 months, it is simply calculated as 240,000 points.”
5984
5985	Nanase wonders.
5986
5987	Apparently, this year's freshman has a different start line from ours last year.
5988
5989	“We were first given 1000 class points last year.”
5990
5991	“Huh? So does that mean that you guys only lost 200 points in your first month here.”
5992
5993	“No, we were given only 800 points since the first day we arrived.”
5994
5995	“That's what it is. Then what about A-class and B-class for the first-years?”
5996
5997	“I think their also at about 800 points right now. Shiba-sensei explained that.”
5998
5999	The first-years starting line is a lot different from ours.
6000
6001	“Do you know that our attitudes in the class will affect the class points we have.”
6002
6003	For the first-years, Dr. Shiba, the D-class homeroom teacher, talked about that.
6004
6005	“The school rules must have hit their ears painfully.”,
6006
6007	“Yes. Lateness, absences, and tardiness in class can affect class points.”
6008
6009	Is there any possibility that class rules after May will be considered by disclosing such rules first because the number of class points has been reduced? In the OAA app, we can see that the social contribution is important, and even if it is hidden, students will be careful.
6010
6011	I was trying to convince her, but Nanase thought a little
6012
6013	She showed something on her face for a moment as if she came up with something, but soon it disappeared.
6014
6015	She did a little gesture trying to remember what she came up with.
6016
6017	However, as long as Nanase does not want to talk about it, I will refrain from pursuing it.
6018
6019	We reached the entrance of the library and left the library.
6020
6021	“I’m sorry about this, again.”,
6022
6023	“Nanase. Thank you for letting me know about your class points, but have you heard of ‘Protection Points’?”
6024
6025	When we were splitting to go our separate ways, I stopped her by asking her that.
6026
6027	“Protection points.”
6028
6029	“This point is used to protect a student from being expelled but one point can only be used once.”
6030
6031	“I see, but why are you telling me this.”
6032
6033	“I got information from you. I thought it would be better to give back some.”
6034
6035	After saying that, I left Nanase.”,
6036
6037	I'm going to try to see if I can make use of Nanase's skills to make a good story.
6038
6039
6040
6041	* * *
6042
6043
6044
6045	Part 4
6046
6047
6048
6049	It took a long time, but thanks to Nanase's dedicated cooperation, it was decided we were going to meet on Sunday with Hosen. But the situation is unpredictable, but it can be said this was a step forward to reaching our goals.
6050
6051	Shortly before 6 pm, the room doorbell rang.
6052
6053	It was Just after returning to the dormitory, Kei was in her uniform rather than her normal clothes.
6054
6055	“Sometimes, there's a lot of people coming in and going out this time, so I was really concerned about using the stairs.”
6056
6057	There are not many girls who go in and out of a guy's room alone.
6058
6059	It would rarely happen unless the man and the woman were dating.
6060
6061	“So let's start right away”
6062
6063	`` Eh, isn't there something more? ''
6064
6065	With that in her mind, Kei gives up a request to chat with me and started taking out her study tools.
6066
6067	Time is finite. The more time we waste, the less time you will spend studying.
6068
6069	“If there is no problem with your studies, we can go on more dates afterwards.”,
6070
6071	“Right Yeah..........”
6072
6073	“First, we need to figure out what you are good at and not good at.”
6074
6075	`` How do we determine that.”
6076
6077	“This is how.”,
6078
6079	I took out five test papers. It was created by Keisei for the group to check their strengths and weaknesses. It is a very useful thing that carefully selected the number of questions considering the time it took to get started. This is also used in the study sessions of Horikita and Yosuke.
6080
6081	“Most of our classmates have already checked this.”
6082
6083	“Oh really?”
6084
6085	“The time limit is 10 minutes per sheet. Start immediately.”
6086
6087	Ah!
6088
6089	Kei begins the test while replying in a shock.
6090
6091	Then, 50 minutes later, Kei fell down on the desk as if she was about to die.
6092
6093	“Oh, I’m so tired.”
6094
6095	“That's okay, you were able to concentrate surprisingly well.”
6096
6097	“Because day and day I studied harder than before.”
6098
6099	While listening to such her short story, I finish the scoring immediately.
6100
6101	“I see. Kei's ability is well understood.”
6102
6103	“How was it? ''
6104
6105	Perhaps because she doesn't know her own capability, her eyes look mixed with expectations and anxiety.
6106
6107	“It's decided you don’t need to attend Yosuke's study session starting tomorrow.”,
6108
6109	`` Yeah! ''
6110
6111	“You're doing pretty well considering if you can keep this up.”
6112
6113	“Your partner was Shimazaki, was it? Is he doing okay?”
6114
6115	“The score required for this special exam is 501 points. According to your result, you should score around 200 points, Shimazaki would probably score around 350 points. I don't think that 550 points is in the safe zone. And Shimazaki study hard. So, I would recommend you keep up your studies and try to get around 300 points.”,
6116
6117	If you do so, you'll have a higher chance to not get expelled.”
6118
6119	“I’m suddenly quite scared.”,
6120
6121	“It's important get at least 250 marks to not burden your partner too much.”
6122
6123	“If you study this efficiently, you might be able to make it into the top 10 smartest students in our class.”
6124
6125	“Here’s a little question.”
6126
6127	“Question?”
6128
6129	“Since your trying to teach me, your academic ability is not actually C is it?
6130
6131	“Mmm, yes.”
6132
6133	“If you could get high results, why bother hiding it?”
6134
6135	“I don’t want to stand, so I don't get very high marks instead I get about average for every subject.”
6136
6137	“Well, then, how many points would you get if you were serious?”
6138
6139	“I do not know”
6140
6141	“Tell me I’m not gonna be easily deceived by you!”
6142
6143	She pushed my shoulder a lot when smiling at me.
6144
6145	“If you come to the study session properly starting from tomorrow, I'll answer it.”
6146
6147	“Aside from how many points you can get, you decide how many points you want to get?”
6148
6149	“Well, what the hell?”
6150
6151	All 5 subjects. In the first subject, that is mathematics I had a bet with Horikita so I have to get a bit serious for that one.
6152
6153	However, as with all subjects, if I did my best, I would stand out and the evaluation of my surroundings would change so I rather not do that.
6154
6155	“400 points”
6156
6157	“At the very least,400 points are certain.”
6158
6159	“It is equivalent to Academic A”
6160
6161	An area where only a few honorary students, such as Horikita and Keisei, can reach in class.
6162
6163	Exactly 400 points, probably not necessary. So I'll make it a bit lower, I guess.
6164
6165	“Can you really do it?”
6166
6167	“Naturally, there are no problems that I thought I couldn't solve ever since the very first exam this school has given me.”
6168
6169	I don't know how difficult this exam, but it's a good place to test my learning capability that learned during the white room.
6170
6171	“Well ... let's study a little more and you can go home.”
6172
6173	“It's just 7 o'clock. Is not it? Yeah, but it's bad to stay here for too long especially since you’re a girl and if your seen we would be in a not so amusing situation.”
6174
6175	“It would be useful to tell Hirata about your situation tomorrow.”
6176
6177	“Okay, so let's start right away.”
6178
6179	“What?! So fast.”
6180
6181	Kei puts her hand on the floor and looks at me face to face.
6182
6183	“Tell me what to do next.”
6184
6185
6186
6187	* * *
6188
6189
6190
6191	Part 5
6192
6193
6194
6195	An hour and a few minutes later....
6196
6197	I was studying in my room while teaching Kei.
6198
6199	Basically, she knows the basics of every subject so it's not that hard for her learn faster than other people.
6200
6201	She needed to study more than other people because she could not receive a legitimate school education due to the bullying she received when she was in her middle school.
6202
6203	“I wasn't able to learn the basics during my middle school years, so I struggled in my studies.”
6204
6205	“Considering that, I can say that I'm doing pretty well.”
6206
6207	It is the right decision to give her my personal guidance to studying.
6208
6209	“If you feel that studying is not that much of a pain, then you might be able to grow as much as Sudou.”
6210
6211	“Hah...”
6212
6213	“What’s wrong”
6214
6215	Kei gazed at the floor.
6216
6217	I thought she was just staring at the floor for no particular reason but then her hand reached out to me.
6218
6219
6220
6221
6222
6223	I wondered if it was some dust or a small piece of trash I left on the ground by accident.
6224
6225	“What?”
6226
6227	Saying that, she sticks her arm out in front of me and shows me what's on her hand.
6228
6229	It's was a long piece of reddish hair.
6230
6231	“This is a girl's hair, isn't it?”
6232
6233	Kei's expression hardened as she looked at me like a demon.
6234
6235	“Red Hair! And Long Hair! No Matter How You Look at It, It's a Girl's Hair!”
6236
6237	“That is true. This length is physically impossible for my hair.”
6238
6239	Naturally the hair colour is completely different from mine as well. Then, I remembered the day Amasawa came over to eat at my room.
6240
6241	“Who did you bring in your room!?*
6242
6243	I thought of coming up with a lie but I thought that it would be pointless since she won't believe me anyways.
6244
6245	“Are you jealous?”
6246
6247	“Is that bad! I'm Kiyotaka's Girlfriend, after all!”
6248
6249	This is the first time I've heard her get so mad over me.
6250
6251	After a girl comes into my room, I should clean it thoroughly.
6252
6253	I learned that, but the calamity continues. Suddenly, the doorbell to my room rung and I went to check who it was.
6254
6255	I looked through the monitor.
6256
6257	Then, I saw a figure of Amasawa waving.
6258
6259	It was not me who reacted first, but it was Kei gripping the red hair in her hand tighter than before.
6260
6261	“Red hair, and a strange woman hm.”
6262
6263	It's like she's trying to solve a mystery.
6264
6265	Before I pressed the button to talk to her, Kei extended her hand and held the button and said.
6266
6267	“Yes!
6268
6269	A voice that contains outright anger and of course Amasawa was shocked.
6270
6271	“Ah, Ei isn't this Ayanokouji-senpai's room?”
6272
6273	I forcibly pulled Kei's finger away from the button.
6274
6275	“I'm sorry. What can I do for you?”
6276
6277	It is a visitor without a prior mention, but it is not possible to drive her away like this because she might spread rumours of a girl being in my room.
6278
6279	“Oh, is someone there?” Should I come back later? I wanted to bother you because I lost something kind of important to me”
6280
6281	Kei stared at me, but I gestured her to return back to my room without turning back.
6282
6283	It seems that she wanted to be sure that it was Amasawa's hair.
6284
6285	“No, it's okay. Come on in.”
6286
6287	I press the release button of the auto lock and let Amasawa in.
6288
6289	“Are you sure? The other student inside might be mad at me if I came inside.”
6290
6291	“...Oh, my God!”
6292
6293	Apparently, Megumi was about to explode upon hearing that.
6294
6295	It is Kei who suggested we keep our relationship as a couple a secret from everyone else.
6296
6297	Anyhow, rumours will start to raise if we don't explain our situation to her properly.
6298
6299	“Well, now.”
6300
6301	She heard the voice of Kei anyways, and driving her away is not going to be very effective.
6302
6303	Rather, she would just spread some unnecessary rumour.
6304
6305	I was thinking about how to handle things for about a minute, and Amasawa rang the doorbell again asking if I was there.
6306
6307	“I'll let you in, so wait a bit.
6308
6309	“Okay, I got it.”
6310
6311	I opened the front door and welcomed Amasawa.
6312
6313	“I'm sorry I suddenly came over Ayanokouji-senpai.”
6314
6315	Ichika Amasawa looks at the extra pair of shoe on my doorstep and turned to look at me.
6316
6317	“There’s another girl here.”
6318
6319	“Girl?”
6320
6321	She laughs and I straightforwardly asked her.
6322
6323	“What can I do for you?”
6324
6325	“I came here cause I forgot something in Ayanokouji's-senpai room.”
6326
6327	“You forgot something in my room.”
6328
6329	“It's my favorite hair rubber, but I can't find it for a moment.”
6330
6331	She noticed that it was missing, and decided to visit my room.
6332
6333	“Then, come on in.”
6334
6335	“I can't a guest stand here forever.”
6336
6337	It seems it would be a more efficient way if Amasawa were to explain why her hair was on the floor in my room to Kei.
6338
6339	“Sorry for intruding.”
6340
6341	Amazawa goes into my room without worrying about Kei. Whether she was at school or going home, she always kept her bag close to her. And she met Kei who has been sitting and waiting.
6342
6343	“Ah, konnichiwa I am Ichika Amasawa from 1-A, Nice to meet you.”
6344
6345	“Nice to meet you.”
6346
6347	She had an obvious grumpy face , but she was enduring her anger.
6348
6349	“You're a senpai?, aren’t you? I'd like to know your name.”
6350
6351	“It's Kei.... Karuizawa Kei.”
6352
6353	“I'm Karuizawa-senpai. Oh, I guess you guys were studying together. Sorry for intruding.”
6354
6355	I was suprised Kei was talking to her in a surprisingly normal tone.
6356
6357	“What is the relationship between you two?”
6358
6359	Amazawa overlooks the room and was asked that question by Kei.
6360
6361	“Wait for the answer to that question. Well, you don't mind if I had a quick look , would you senpai? I might have left it rolling around here somewhere.”
6362
6363	Kneeling down, Amanzawa didn't mind Kei staring at her at all. and kneeled down and look under the bed. Then, she lifted up her buttocks to look under the bed.
6364
6365	“Ah.. senpai, stop looking at my butt you naughty boy.”
6366
6367	Her tone of voice was done on purpose as if to make Kei ever angrier.
6368
6369	Kei reacts to what she said, and stared at me angrily.
6370
6371	“I'll try to find it as well.” I said to Amasawa.
6372
6373	So I help her search for her hair rubber under the bed as well.
6374
6375	“Well, to answer your question just now, Ayanokouji-senpai is like my personal chef?”
6376
6377	“What? What does that mean?”
6378
6379	Kei looked at me again as if she doesn’t undestand what Amasawa was saying with an even scarier look then before.
6380
6381	“Sudou.. She's Sudou's partner and I had to cook for her one time for something.”
6382
6383	“I'm sorry I don't understand. Why did you cook for Sudou's partner.”
6384
6385	Certainly, it is natural that she would not understand what I was saying since I was only talking about the outline of the story.
6386
6387	I continued looking for her hair rubber under the bed and re-explained it to Kei.
6388
6389	“Can I see the kitchen for the time being?” I might have removed it when I washed it. Oh, senpai can you search your closet after your done with the bed.”
6390
6391	“All right.”
6392
6393	I didn't find anything under my bed, so I started looking in my closet.
6394
6395	“What are you guys looking for.”
6396
6397	“She lost her hair rubber when she was in my room so I’m helping her find it.”
6398
6399	Kei, asked me that me that question and asked me again to explain my relationship with Amasawa.
6400
6401	“I told you. I've only cooked for her once that's it.
6402
6403	“Hey, that's really it, right.”
6404
6405	“Yes.”
6406
6407	“....Really?”
6408
6409	Even if I explain the reason I had to cook for her that one time, she wouldn’t believe me either way.
6410
6411	I grabbed Kei's arm when she was trying to stand up.
6412
6413	I used my index finger to cover her lips from asking anything else until Amasawa leaves.
6414
6415	After doing this, Kei stopped asking question while her face got a bit redder.
6416
6417	“You can look for it too.”
6418
6419	“Okay!”
6420
6421	“Even if you don't understand what I mean, just start helping me search for her hair rubber.”
6422
6423	“Ah! Ayanokouji-senpai I found it.”
6424
6425	Amazawa's voice resounded from the kitchen.
6426
6427	Me and Kei went into the kitchen at the same time, and Amasawa was holding her hair rubber on her palm.
6428
6429	“It seemed to have fallen under the refrigerator in the kitchen.”
6430
6431	She gave a small laugh and put the hair rubber into her pocket.
6432
6433	“It looks like I’m bothering you guys, so i'll come back later senpai.”
6434
6435	“I'm sorry if I upsetted you.”
6436
6437	“No. I’m sorry as well, I didn't know what your relationship was so I got mad for no reason.”
6438
6439	With her bag on her hand, Amasawa went to the doorstep and put on her shoes.
6440
6441	“Sorry for teasing you, senpai'
6442
6443	After saying that, she told Kei to join us the next time we ate together in my room.
6444
6445	“Its's no fun if only the two of us were eating together senpai.”
6446
6447	“Of course.”
6448
6449	“Now, we'll be eating together with Karuizawa-senpai. Then, goodbye~~”
6450
6451	Amasawa came in like a storm and left like one.
6452
6453	“Looks like you know a pretty cute kouhai huh, Kiyotaka”
6454
6455	“No matter what I say now, you won't believe me either way.”
6456
6457	It no longer had the air of studyjng, but I will have no choice but to explain the truth repeatedly until Kei is satisfied.
6458
6459
6460
6461	* * *
6462
6463
6464
6465	Part 6
6466
6467
6468
6469	Friday is over and It is Saturday today which means there's no school today.
6470
6471	The five days of the week were affected by the special exams, so I had many opportunities to get involved with my kouhai's. From the encounter with Amasawa from the first-years A class, I had to challenge Amasawa to a cooking contest to secure a partner for Sudou, and discussions with Nanase to conclude. The first-year and second-year D class contract. And, Kushida talked with Yagami in the first-years B class for partners for our class including Kei. With things progressing this fast, I'm assuming all our classmates will have partners by the time of the test.
6472
6473	Even though, the white room student is hiding from me. I had talk to many first-year students from mutiple classes so it would be normal if I were to be seen by the white room student sent by Tsukishiro.
6474
6475	And exchanging meeting with first-year students
6476
6477	The first-years A-Class does not have a definite leader at the moment, and each of the student in the class has a strong influence to the class and they don't need a leader at the moment. One of the reasons is that the academic ability of the whole class is high. The number of students who have B or higher academic abilities is the largest among the four classes. Many high-skilled students negotiate independently and have point contracts with second-year A-class and second-year C-class. There are also students who are categorized as academic ability D but, of course, but because they excel in versatility, they have been picked up by A-Class for the second-years. 34 out of 40 from the A-class have already confirmed their partners.
6478
6479	The first-year B-class is similar to the first-year A-class, by that I mean by classes not having a class leader. And high-skilled students sell themselves and for private points for other students as partners. The difference is that the first-years B class has partnered up with more C-class students instead of partnering up with Sakayanagi. Is this the effect of Ryuuen's offering more points than Sakayanagi? Details are unknown at this time. And Currently 33 people have decided partners.
6480
6481	Hosen controls the class in the 1st year D class with a strong influence. This is almost the same as Ryuuen's way of doing things last year. Both our classes have the least amount of people who currently have partners and if things goes well we might be able to get everyone in our class partners. Well we'll have to see on Sunday if the deal goes well.
6482
6483	And finally, the first-years C class. It's the only class that I've never been involved with in the past week. Even though, a few of the students in C class have high academic ability, the C class has not been mentioned from Horikita. Why is she not bothering with that class? This is probably because many students in c-class have signed a partner contract with the second-year B class during the exchange meeting led by Ichinose and she successfully saved their classmates by using the meeting. There probably is a class coordinator, and there are no students below D academic ability in the C-class-. In other words, almost everyone can secure a safe position. There are around 10 people left in the first-years C class unpartnered.
6484
6485	In the afternoon, I launched 0AA, watching partners being formed.
6486
6487	“Partner that are formed at the moment is 105 pairs, nearly 70% of the first and second-year students.”
6488
6489	If you look at the number of people in the library yesterday, you can see that most of the students wanted to find a partner by the weekend. It seems that there were movements from the first-years D class, a total of eight people have confirmed their partners. Did they get inpatient during this weekend or did Hosen order them to get themselves partners.
6490
6491	Anyway, the remaining students who doesn’t have partners are 55 in the first year and 52 in the second year.
6492
6493	The probability of the white room student being unpartnered is quite high.
6494
6495	To be honest, there is no guarantee that I won't make a mistake by teaming up with the white room student.
6496
6497	Of course, that's because the other person doesn't emit any odor. I was hoping to come up with something that can put me on the safe side. But I'll have to make a decision soon for my partner.
6498
6499	Although the negotiations with the first-year D class is near, I would still like to prepare measures.
6500
6501	I decide to go to the Keyaki Mall after noon on Saturday to expand my possibilities.
6502
6503
6504
6505	* * *
6506
6507
6508
6509	Part 7
6510
6511
6512
6513	The Keyaki mall on Saturday is naturally overflowing with many students.
6514
6515	In particular, mostly sudents who have identified their partners for the special exam were at the mall, they were either studying with friends for the next week's written test or were out with friends for fun. Most of the first-years were at the mall, and there was a possibility that the white room student would be nearby trying to blend in with the crowd to follow me.
6516
6517	The only way for the white room student to team up with me is by either meeting Nanase or directly asking me to be their partner. But If they were to directly ask me I would know immediately if they were from the white room or not.
6518
6519	I would be able to sense if the person was from the white room. Anyhow, It would be hard for him to blend with the first-years.
6520
6521	1 year ago. When I entered this school, it was a bit similar.
6522
6523	There are disadvantages and advantages of growing up without knowing the outside world.
6524
6525	He wouldn't know what a”student” would mean.
6526
6527	Because in the white room, we were forbidden to talk and they did not plan to enroll us into schools.
6528
6529	So in a short period of time, I decided to”perform” and make a character.
6530
6531	I try to talk more than I usually do and change my tone.
6532
6533	As a slightly cheeky student with a somewhat engrossing perspective.
6534
6535	Well...... After all, I felt it was tiring to act all the time so I decided to return to my real self.
6536
6537	The reason for it is to understand that it is possible for me to become a 'student' in this school without concealing my true nature. However, the person who will have been sent this time is different.
6538
6539	He would be able to mimic other students and act like them so that I would not be able to notice. I don't know whether he would choose the path to be a student who doesn't stand out or choose the path of a student who stands out a lot especially by being a class leader.
6540
6541	This is an overwhelmingly disadvantaged situation, even though I am confident that I am winning on terms of individual skills. All he has to do is to drop me out of the school in any way, but all I can do is see how he will try to become my partner in this exam.
6542
6543	When I was leaving Keyaki Mall, On the way I met Sakayanagi.
6544
6545	“Well if it isn't Ayanokouji-kun, I see you have been interacting with a lot of first-years recently.
6546
6547	“The students with poor grades in my class will immediately be dropped out if we don’t help them. I'm just working with Horikita to find a partner for studen
6548
6549	“I see. If they catch a bad first-year student, they'll drop out of school immediately.”
6550
6551	Sakayanagi showed a certain level of consent, but that was not the end.
6552
6553	“But, is that really it?”
6554
6555	“What do you mean?
6556
6557	“I thought that a freshman from the first grader was sent to drop you out of school and if you end up with that student. He'll intentionally score 0 and you'll both drop out together.
6558
6559	I pretended to not show any expression on my face, but Sakayanagi knew that Tsukishiro sent a student from the white room to drop me out.
6560
6561	“If your not concerned, then he may be able to use that to his advantage and drop you out. And ruin your”precious peaceful school life”.
6562
6563	“Don't worry about it.”
6564
6565	`”Hmm Why?”
6566
6567	“I'm going to take this exam seriously so don't worry about me drooing out.”
6568
6569	Continuing school life is a top priority for me and if someone were to harm it, I would show no mercy.
6570
6571	Well that's good if you kept half-assing things you might regret it.
6572
6573	“I see. I've already shown some of strength to Mashima-sensei and a few others, so it would be more convenient for me to just reveal everything completely.”
6574
6575	Sakayanagi listens to my story and showed a smile.
6576
6577	“If you haven't decided on a partner yet, why don't you help me save time? I have a few students who I think can team up with you and won't harm you in any way.”
6578
6579	It seems that there were a few students left in the first-years A class unpartnered as determined by Sakayanagi.
6580
6581	“It's a generous offer from me. So don't be afraid.”
6582
6583	“Do you have anything against my judgement.”
6584
6585	“Well you should make your decision soon.”
6586
6587	If you end up dropping out then you may come to regret not accepting my offer.
6588
6589	“Don't worry I know how to handle my own problems.”
6590
6591	“Is that so? If that's the case, I won't say any more. I’m going to see how Ayanokouji-kun fight from a distance. I'll look forward to the day when we'll have our rematch again.”
6592
6593	After saying that. Sakayanagi bowed her head and walked away. In a way, Sakayanagi and I have somehow gain quite a bit of trust from each other.
6594
6595
6596
6597	* * *
6598
6599
6600
6601	Part 8
6602
6603
6604
6605	On my way back from Keyaki Mall.
6606
6607	“Excuse me, may I have a word with you?”
6608
6609	I heard a voice calling out to me from behind.
6610
6611	I looked back and I saw the figure of a man and a girl. The girl seemed to glacing at me while holding her cellular phone.”I am Sakurako Tsubaki of the first year C class and he is in the same class as me his name is Riku Utomiya.”
6612
6613	“You are the second-year D class Ayanokouji Kiyotaka, yes?”
6614
6615	Although the screen displayed on her cell phone is not visible, I could tell she had the OAA app open.
6616
6617	“Can we talk a bit about the special exam?”
6618
6619	“About partners huh.”
6620
6621	“Yes. I'm currently searching for a senpai who can help partner up with me for the special exam.”
6622
6623	It's too much of a coincidence, as if she's been waiting for me for a while.
6624
6625	Are these people that have come into contact with me dangerous or is Sakurako truly looking for a partner?
6626
6627	No, I can't assume someone is dangerous just because they came in contact with me.
6628
6629	“I was struggling because I couldn't find a partner for this past week.”
6630
6631	The OAA app shows a student's face, name, and grades, but of course it won't show the personality of the student. That's why you need to meet in person to determine if you can trust each other.
6632
6633	“By the way, Utomiya-kun already has a partner, but I don't.” Since her academic ability is not as high, she wants to work with a second grader who has the academic ability of C or higher.
6634
6635	In the second grade, there are mutiple students with academic ability C. It would be too much of a coincidence if she chose me out of all of them. Is she really looking for a partner?
6636
6637	“Rather than standing and talking, how about we go to a coffee shop?”
6638
6639	Utomiya proposed that idea to me and I accepted it.
6640
6641	Certainly, it is not reasonable to judge someone when we just met. So, changing the place would be a good idea for me to get to know them better.
6642
6643
6644
6645
6646
6647	Although it was crowded, there was an empty table by the corner of the cafe.
6648
6649	“Can you hear her out?”
6650
6651	Utomiya gave Tsubaki a signal to talk.
6652
6653	“I don't like borrowing or owing someone something, so I just want to have an equal partnership.”
6654
6655	Tsubaki said while looking at her nails.
6656
6657	Academic ability C with academic ability C is about the same.
6658
6659	There is hardly any superiority or inferiority.
6660
6661	“Can I ask you something.”
6662
6663	“Of course.”
6664
6665	“The percentage of students who have academic ability C and above are quite high. So why did you talk so long to decide on your partner.”
6666
6667	There should have been some students who were willing to partner with Tsubaki in second-years.
6668
6669	“That's –
6670
6671	Utsunomiya was a little bit jammed with words
6672
6673	When Tsubaki looked at Utomiya, He naturally looked back at her and said.
6674
6675	“I'm to blame. I’m sorry I didn't say anything.” Utomiya said.
6676
6677	Starting with such words, Utsunomiya started saying.
6678
6679	“At first, Tsubaki didn't consult anyone about finding a partner. And on Friday, Nagisa started to get impatient, and for the first time, she asked me to help her find a partner.”
6680
6681	So, in a hurry, I decided to help Tsubaki to find a partner.
6682
6683	“Many of the C class students seemed to have found their own partners.”
6684
6685	Even though the exam is still a week away, it may be reasonable to rush things as it may disrupt her studies.
6686
6687	“A 5% penalty can prove to be quite a problem for Tsubaki's academic ability.”
6688
6689	That seems to be the reason why she wanted to be my partner.
6690
6691	If this was under normal circumstances, I would have gladly accepted but.
6692
6693	But I have a reason to why I can't make an immediate decision. It's when I heard the rules of this special exam. And the white room student may still be one of them.
6694
6695	The student who was most likely to team up with her, would be another student with academic ability C.
6696
6697	And this was why she wanted to partner up with me.
6698
6699	I just got to know Sakurako and Utomiya , so I didn't really know the personality of the both of then.
6700
6701	“I'd like to ask you a question, when you said you were searching for a partner and were calling out to them. How many people called out before me?”
6702
6703	I was going to start asking starting from that part, but an unexpected reply came back from Utomiya.
6704
6705	“I'm sorry, I lied. Your actually the first one we have called out to Ayanokouji-senpai.”,
6706
6707	Utsunomiya has apologized so much as if he was tryjng to break down my speculation.
6708
6709	“If Ayanokouji-senpai doesn't want to partner up with Tsubaki, Then we will look for another person.”
6710
6711	“But I happened to be the first one to call out to you.”
6712
6713	“It's a coincidence, but there's also a reason why I called out to you first. I thought that if I asked from among the second-year A-class or second-year C-class, they might demand private points.”
6714
6715	I see. It is true that the first graders are being bought by the second graders right now.
6716
6717	“It would not be strange if they demanded private points for partnering up with Tsubaki. That is true but, not all the students would demand private points. There are still many students, so there is still a possibility that some students would be willing to cooperate for free.”
6718
6719	With that being said, it's a bit weird to say,”I don't know anyone in the second year, so I’m just going to team up with anyone if they don't offer me points.”
6720
6721	Objectively, there is no reason for me to reason for me to reject this proposal.
6722
6723	However, the options available were very limited.
6724
6725	“I haven't decided on a partner, but I found a student who I think is perfect for teaming up with me. I'm going to talk to him for a few times to see if we can actually work together.”
6726
6727	Half of what I said was a lie, but there was not way they could affirm it.
6728
6729	And, if I became Tsubaki partner, there is a chance she would be the white room student and plan to intentionally score 0 marks to drop me out.
6730
6731	“Yes, I see.”
6732
6733	Utomiya glances at Tsubaki, with a sorry look.
6734
6735	“Well, why not!?” Why are you not gonna team up with me?”
6736
6737	As she learned that there was a potential partner that she could team up with here, Tsubaki did not back down.
6738
6739	“For reference . Who are you going to team up with in the first grade?”
6740
6741	Utomiya asked me that question as if he understands Tsubaki's motive.
6742
6743	“I can't say that right now, But one thing for sure is that the student is not in your class.”
6744
6745	By saying this, they'll get what I’m trying to say without asking for further details.
6746
6747	As they heard what I said, they understood that I could not reveal any personal information to other classes as they may be my enemy in the future.
6748
6749	“Let's go Utomiya-kun. It would be bad if we were to take up Ayanokouji-senpai's time.”
6750
6751	“... That's right”
6752
6753	“I'd like to thank you for calling out to me, but I'm sorry I couldn’t make an immediate decision.”
6754
6755	The information I had on the student called Sakurako Tsubaki were low.
6756
6757	“This is my contact number.”
6758
6759	I was given a piece of paper written by Utomiya with his contact information, which he had prepared in advance.
6760
6761	“You seem to be unsure at the moment, but if you turn down your partner, you can call me. If you still think it's OKAY to work together at that time of course. I give you my regards.”
6762
6763	“I understand. Thank you.”
6764
6765	“Let’s go.”
6766
6767	In Utsunomiya's words, Tsubaki folded her arms and got up and left
6768
6769	Then, she bowed her head lightly and left with Utomiya. It looks like their going to find another candidate other than me.
6770
6771	“Sakurako Tsubaki and Riku Utomiya huh. I'll have to remember their names.”
6772
6773	But I will surely regret my decision in the future, If I ended up partnering up with the white room student.
6774
6775
6776
6777	* * *
6778
6779
6780
6781	Part 9
6782
6783
6784
6785	On the same exact day, two girls from the second-year D class were walking side by side.
6786
6787	I'm Karuizawa Kei and this is my friend Sato Maya. Until just a few months ago, we use to often hung out together. But recently our relationship has dropped a lot. It was until the point where we didn't even talk to each other. Because I became guilty unconsciously, which made it difficult to get in touch with her.
6788
6789	“Sorry, Karuizawa-san I suddenly called you out.”
6790
6791	“Not at all. I wanted to play with Sato-san as well. Why didn't we hang out recently?”
6792
6793	“Yeah, that's right. At the beginning of the school, we hung out a lot just the both of us.”
6794
6795	I walked in front a little and turn my head back to look at Sato and said.
6796
6797	“What should we do it's still a little early to have lunch?”
6798
6799	The time has just turned around 11 in the morning.
6800
6801	Sato suggested that we walk around for a little longer in the mall.
6802
6803	However, when we were near the entrance of the mall. Sato called out to me and said.
6804
6805	“Hey, Karuizawa-san.”
6806
6807	“What?”
6808
6809	“Hey, do you want to go?”
6810
6811	Sato, who was bored of walking around the Keyaki Mall, pointed to the road leading to the school building.
6812
6813	“School? Do you have anything to do there? But I’m sure you can't wear plain clothing into the school can you?”
6814
6815	“It's not like I want to go to the school building. I just want to go to a place where there are no other people around.”
6816
6817	I frowned a bit not understanding what Sato meant.
6818
6819	No, I had a feeling that maybe just maybe.
6820
6821	But I tried to push it into the corner of my head, and I was trying to convince myself that it wasn't going to be that way.
6822
6823	I kept pretending to not notice anything.
6824
6825	“What's the matter with You, Sato?”
6826
6827	“I have something I'd like to ask you.”
6828
6829	I agreed and we left the Keyaki Mall and headed to the school building.
6830
6831	Obviously, there were no people around as it was a Saturday.
6832
6833	“Don't hesitate to talk, we're friends, aren’t we?”
6834
6835	Her words were scaring me a bit.
6836
6837	I was aware but I couldn't speak.
6838
6839	My name is Kei Karuizawa and I have been the second-year D class leader for about a year.
6840
6841	A self-cheering person who does not think too deeply about other people's feelings and only focuses on herself.
6842
6843	Otherwise, the image I created up till now would be destroyed.
6844
6845	“Sato, the image I have is in class is just as I have just said.”
6846
6847	“So don't be discouraged or angry.”
6848
6849	I thought if I did something wrong that might have made Sato angry but I thought of nothing except one.
6850
6851	Maybe she knows, but I'm sure I didn't make it obvious.
6852
6853	Don't be afraid to avoid having a bad relationship with me.
6854
6855	But Sato did not stop.
6856
6857	`”Karuizawa... Why did you break up with Hirata-kun? ''
6858
6859	“Did I not say why.”
6860
6861	Not directly, but my heart started racing when I thought about the fact that she knew I liked Kiyotaka.
6862
6863	Still, I'm not that experienced with lying so I might have given a hint to her that I like Kiyotaka.
6864
6865	“I heard the reason before from you, but I don't believe it one bit.”
6866
6867	“Well, I guess it was a bit wasteful huh, maybe you were aiming for Hirata-kun's seat in the class huh?”
6868
6869	Sato was no longer able to control herself.
6870
6871	I denied what she said. However, my words did not reach Sato's ears.
6872
6873	“Karuizawa-san you broke up with Hirata-kun, is what you said really the only reason? Or is there another reason?”
6874
6875	Sato knew all along. The fact that I like kiyotaka that was the reason why our relationship changed.
6876
6877	“What do you mean,”
6878
6879	Until now, I had forcibly calmly reply to her questions.
6880
6881	In the future, If Kiyokata and I broke up the situation may be even worst for me so I had to lie to Sato.
6882
6883	Whatever questions she asked, I would lie no matter one.
6884
6885	I was determined.
6886
6887	“...Karuizawa-san, Are you dating Ayanokouji-kun?”
6888
6889	“What.........?”
6890
6891	That was an unexpected question. I was delayed to respond as if I was attacked from behind.
6892
6893	The delay I had to respond to Sato's question may have been fatal.
6894
6895	I could practically see through her mind right now.
6896
6897
6898
6899	Do you like him? I'm sure I could have endured that question if she asked that.
6900
6901	But Sato's question went even further.
6902
6903	“So, how long have you been dating?”
6904
6905	`` Cho, eh, no, why ?! ''
6906
6907	“Of course not. Your going to deny everything I ask.”
6908
6909	I could not admit the fact that we were dating.
6910
6911	“Me and him? Why?”
6912
6913	My words were denied by Sato and she got even madder then before.
6914
6915	Her eyes were mad and it looked like she was about to cry.
6916
6917	No wonder. Mr. Sato trusted me and with talking about her relationship with Kiyotaka.
6918
6919	And I cooperated by hiding the fact that I was attracted by Kiyotaka. After all, if I was in Sato's position, I would be mad as well.”
6920
6921	I could not longer deny it, and with this Sato was sure I was going out with Kiyotaka.
6922
6923	“When I was aiming for Ayanokouji-kun, and when I asked you for advice. Did you like him before that?”
6924
6925	“Cho, wait a minute. I'm ...”
6926
6927	I felt like I had received an arrow has pierced into my heart.
6928
6929	“When I.... I talked to Matsushita-san. She said that you broke up with Hirata-kun because you liked Ayanokouji-kun. When she said that I was convinced.”
6930
6931	I have already heard about Matsushita's doubts about my relationship with Kiyotaka from Kiyotaka.
6932
6933	It was a situation I could no longer escape from.
6934
6935	“Speak honestly, or I will not be able to see Karuizawa-san as a friend anymore.”
6936
6937	She was on the verge of crying.
6938
6939	And this girl was going to be friends with me until the very end.
6940
6941	“That.... is.”
6942
6943	I scrutinized Sato's eyes seriously. And I couldn't betray her any longer.
6944
6945	“What do you want to know?”
6946
6947	No, I couldn't help but answer her questions.
6948
6949	All I can do here is give an apology. But even if I did that Sato-san would never forgive me.
6950
6951	“I ..... Aya... Yeah, it is as you say I am dating Ayanokouji-kun.”
6952
6953	When Sato heard the words, she started crying.
6954
6955	Once confessed and rejected, but Sato still liked Kiyotaka.
6956
6957	“I knew that you liked Kiyotaka. I’m sorry”
6958
6959	“When did you guys start dating?”
6960
6961	Her eyes were cold and shallow, I wanted to escape from her gaze but I couldn't.
6962
6963	“We started dating at the end of spring break.”
6964
6965	“What I want to know is when you started liking him.”
6966
6967	“... I don't know specifically, but it was before I was consulted by you when you asked me how to get closer to Kiyotaka.”
6968
6969	“I see.”
6970
6971	I don't think she was satisfied with my answer.
6972
6973	`”You are angry, right?”
6974
6975	I couldn't see the eyes of Sato-san, as she was about to cry.
6976
6977	“I didn't feel good. Even though I knew you liked him, I didn't tell you the fact that I also liked him.”
6978
6979	Nothing can be disputed in that regard.
6980
6981	After a short while, Sato pulled my left cheek.
6982
6983	“Karuizawa-san, I'm convinced with your answer.”
6984
6985	It was a little price to pay.
6986
6987	“One more time, all right”
6988
6989	I decided to extend my right cheek.
6990
6991	Even so, the pain that Sato suffered is still greater than me.
6992
6993	“No, it's... I don't think I'm brave enough to do it again. I mean I’m sorry I hit you.”
6994
6995	“No. I'm sorry. I kept it from you all this time....”
6996
6997	“I couldn't help it. Ayanokouji-kun looked so much cooler then Hirata-kun.”
6998
6999	Involuntarily, I hugged Sato with her arms wide open
7000
7001	“What, Karuizawa-san !?”
7002
7003	“.. I'm really sorry! ''
7004
7005	I wanted to say it.
7006
7007	I apologized a lot, but I still couldn't bear being happy.
7008
7009	It's hard to love the same people. And it also means only one person can be with him.
7010
7011	It's not about winning or losing.
7012
7013	Surely, more and more people will be aware of the appeal Kiyotaka has.
7014
7015	I will fight harder then before.
7016
7017	If I was in her position, I would take any opportunity I have to be with the person I love.
7018
7019	Maybe in the future, my biggest rival could end up being Sato.
7020
7021	“Can we go for some tea?”
7022
7023	Sato nodded in her head and forgave my selfish actions.
7024
7025
7026
7027
7028
7029	[ 6 ]
7030
7031
7032
7033	FOOTSTEPS OF THE DROPOUTS
7034
7035
7036
7037	It's after 8:30 p.m. on Sunday. The designated day came from Nanase. Today's discussion is likely to decide whether or not to work together with the one-year D class.
7038
7039	No, I have to move so that I can build up.
7040
7041	Most students other than the 1st and 2nd year D classes have already decided on partners.
7042
7043	If this discussion doesn't come together, there's also the possibility that we'll be forced to make big concessions to avoid penalties.
7044
7045	Horikita will accompany me to the discussion and Sudou at the request of a strong person.
7046
7047	There might have been some desire to be with Horikita, but the big part is to be to be wary of Hosen. Depending on the situation, it is expected that the woman will raise her hand without hesitation. escort to protect it. Of course, Horikita was not necessary, but Sudou fell. But this time, Horikita did not give Sudou permission no matter how many times he was asked. The reason is that it is expected to become a place of serious negotiation so much, and it is judged that Sudou's existence becomes a drag. However, I waited for the decision.
7048
7049	The reason for this is that Sudou will move on my behalf even if I happen to be in short supply. If it is Sudou's ability, it will be able to lick the place enough.
7050
7051	After all, Horikita allowed the companion on the condition that it was never sharp in the discussion.
7052
7053	“Oss!”
7054
7055	When I came down to the lobby of the dormitory, Sudou was already sitting on the sofa and waiting. Moreover, he shows me a cheerful and cheerful smile.
7056
7057	I have to correct it a little bit. It seems that there was a big desire to be with Horikita rather than a little.
7058
7059	“Are you doing well in your studying for the test?”
7060
7061	At this stage, if Sudou, who has an academic e-assessment, scores more than 250 points, it is already a great achievement. From next month onward, the academic ability judgment at 0AA may jump around C.
7062
7063	 He seems to be making an effort not only to show his self-confidence, but also to show his confidence.
7064
7065	The laziness is also greatly reduced, and the attitude you have in class in serious. It's a lot of change. You seem to like studying.”
7066
7067	But, there's a lot of fun when you can solve the subject. And it's because Suzune praises me and gives me the energy to study as much as I can”.
7068
7069	At the beginning of the school, he began to feel calm. It doesn't seem to be easy to get rid of the quick habit of getting upset, but if you can stay on the spot with a bell sound, it's a good point.
7070
7071	I couldn’t control Sudou. He kept getting nervous and looked at the wall to see his own reflection.
7072
7073	It might be the state of mind of such a boy who goes out on a date for the first time in his life.
7074
7075	Sudou, who noticed that I was watching”Ayanokouji” and when I was watching it, he whispered while watching the surveillance video.”If I confess at this stage, I think Suzune is going to be OK, and the expression that I looked at had changed to serious things before I knew it. I will not be able to answer Sudou appropriately.
7076
7077	But Maybe it's impossible?
7078
7079	“I know that Suzune herselff is not the type of person who willfall in love. But it's not just that. I don't know how high the chances of getting accepted right now.
7080
7081	So far, I've been getting along pretty well with Suzune and our classmates.”
7082
7083	“I'm working hard now, but I don't take it for granted that the burden on the class has been erased. For the next two years, I'm going to improve my strengths and then gradually eliminate my weaknesses. Then, I'm sure I'll be of use to the class by the time I graduate.
7084
7085	“ Maybe so.”
7086
7087	Sudou can be a bit stubborn sometimes but because Sudou has good physical abilities. It's useful for the class.
7088
7089	I've come to be able to look at myself calmly, which will make me grow into an indispensable piece like Yosuke and Shibata.
7090
7091	Because of Sudou, what I want to ask comes to mind,”If you make an effort, and you have become the most serviceable person in the class . If Horikita doesn't accept your confession, what will you do then?
7092
7093	When he learns that his efforts will not bear fruit, he has the potential to fall, especially because Sudou is trying to do his best for Horikita.
7094
7095	“Well, I'm going to want to stop you?
7096
7097	Maybe someone might want to hit you. But, if you actually do that, Suzune will be disappointed, isn't it?
7098
7099	 I'm sorry to say that.
7100
7101	“Of course, the intention would be real. But the real question is when it becomes a reality. No matter positive you are prepared to take passively, there are a lot of things that will change if the stress starts to strike.
7102
7103	That said, if you can say this much at this stage, don't you have to worry for the time being?
7104
7105	“Oh, it looks like he's here,”
7106
7107	I saw Horikita in the elevator. Sudou, who was standing still now somewhere floating, left the place once to calm himself down and turned his back to the elevator, and began to take a deep breath with his arms up from his front.
7108
7109	Soon, the elevator arrives on the first floor during a deep breath for Sudou.
7110
7111	Horikita showed a slightly strange face, but then Sudou immediately said,”It's a deep breath” and”sorry to keep you waiting.”
7112
7113	“What is Sudou-kun doing?”
7114
7115	“It seems to be a deep breath,”
7116
7117	Horikita, who showed a slightly confused face, quickly returned to her usual expression.
7118
7119	The desired meeting place is a karaoke place in the keyaki mall. It is popular as a place where you can play until late nights because it is allowed to use until 22:00 on both weekdays and holidays. Speaking of karaoke, it's a matter of course, but it's one of the entertainment facilities. It's often used to relieve stress and talk with friends, but it has another big role in this school. It's highly confidential.
7120
7121	It is a suitable place for private meetings without anyone eavesdropping.
7122
7123	We are going to have an exam next week, so I don't see much sign of people especially students this time of the day.
7124
7125	It can be said that it is the best time to have a secret discussion with Hosen.
7126
7127	“Hey. Is it really possible to be a friend of that cheeky year? If we don't think we can work together, we won't take the time from the beginning.”
7128
7129	It is because it judged that there is a possibility, and it is by going all out.
7130
7131	“At this point, most of the best first-year students have been secured by Sakayanagi and Ryuuen-kun. And Ichinose-san is helping the weak. The only way for us to get in is to fight on a wheel of trust.”
7132
7133	“That's it.”
7134
7135	“Yes. That's why Hoizumi-kun's presence is a pinch and a chance for us.” And, Hosen does not like Ichinose's way of doing things. That's why the possibilities come to us in Class D.
7136
7137	“How far can we sign a contract without making concessions? The more time we waste, the more impatient the second-years are. Since many students have already found a partner, it is inevitable that they will be disadvantaged.”
7138
7139	I don't have to worry about my classmates getting a penalty.
7140
7141	I'm sure you'll find out how to challenge the Treasure Fountain.
7142
7143	“By the way. It's nine o'clock, isn't it?
7144
7145	The time is still before nine o'clock, and there are about 30 minutes until the appointed time.
7146
7147	“It's okay. I want to get there first.”
7148
7149	There is no such thing as a slacking off to a person like Horikita. Sudou didn't know why but he felt that he needed to be wary of the year one students especially Hosen.
7150
7151	I received a piece of paper and a board with the room number from the clerk and entered the room.”Can you tell Mr. Nanase?”
7152
7153	“I know,”
7154
7155	I already sent a message to her telling her that we've entered the store.
7156
7157	I was not particularly surprised, and received a reply immediately saying that”I would arrive by the scheduled time”,
7158
7159	“Let's ask for a drink first”,
7160
7161	“I don't mind waiting”
7162
7163	After deciding, each of us starts look through the drink menu.
7164
7165	“You can ask if you need it anything.”
7166
7167	“Do You need anything?”
7168
7169	Then, some potato chips please.
7170
7171	Horikita orders the food and drinks through the landline built in the room.
7172
7173	Sudou felt a sense of tension from asking for a menu, and he holds the microphone.
7174
7175	“Well, then I'm free until time, so why don't two sing a song?”
7176
7177	I'm not singing,” Says Sudou
7178
7179	“I'm not going to sing as well,” I said
7180
7181	We got to karaoke first, and asked for drinks and food. It must have been because Sudou wanted to hear Horikita sing. Sudou looked a bit sorry because Horikita didn't want to sing and told him to not say anything unnecessary or rather not talk at all during the meeting with the first years.
7182
7183	Sudou didnt get the answer he wanted so he was discontent. He doesn't seem to like Horikita's answer, so he bit his lips, and when it's was time for the appointment, Nanase was the first one to show up.
7184
7185	“Senpai, I've kept you waiting.”
7186
7187	 [ T/N: ‘Dokeyo’ means ‘move’ ]
7188
7189	“Dokeyo Nanase” was called out from behind by Kazuomi Hosen who forced her to move for him to get in the room.
7190
7191	“You've come on schedule. I thought you'd be a lot late,”
7192
7193	Horikita tells Hosen that it would be nice to do not something that would irritate the other party.”If I decide to go somewhere I will go. It's just a little early, , and I don't care about the people who try to get into trouble. It seems you guys have arrived much earlier than that, but.
7194
7195	“Was it so disgusting that I was waiting for you?”
7196
7197	Saying that, Horikita tells Hosen to broaden his horizons.
7198
7199	On the desk had a few drinks and food. The table is arranged so nicely that you guys looked like you were having fun with karaoke just before we came.
7200
7201	“That's what it looks like.”
7202
7203	It is said that the bargaining has already begun.
7204
7205	“Good”.
7206
7207	Hosen sits comfortably on the sofa and showed a big body figure that doesn't seem to be a freshman.
7208
7209	“Spread around and sit”
7210
7211	“So Nanase's explanation she needed our class to help them.”
7212
7213	It's only been about two weeks since he entered the school, and in that amount of time he intended to put the D class under his control completely, but I didn't see any bearishness in his remarks.
7214
7215	[ T/N: Bearishness means resembling a bear in terms of toughness ]
7216
7217	“It's a little different. I'm saying we can join hands with your class. There is no top or bottom.”
7218
7219	There's only an equal relationship.”
7220
7221	It's a smart decision not to let that get to you senpais head.
7222
7223	Nanase only listens to Hosen's words and actions, and does not make any particular affirmation or rebuttal. Given that she serves as a bridge and that it is the only reason she is called here, it is certain that Hosen is buying Nanase. Did he buy her through a threat or violence from Hosen? In any case, there is a chance to get Nanase to our side.
7224
7225	“I know that there are a certain number of first-year students who are still weak-willed and don't care about their classmates. But if you look at us, you'll understand. I'm sure it'll come when I need the power of my classmates.”
7226
7227	If you're controlling your class well, it's convenient to use them as tools.
7228
7229	“Let's say that a lot of people obey me with one order.”
7230
7231	Hosen pierces his ears with his left-hand finger. Then, with his little finger up, Horikita turned to look at Hosen and said
7232
7233	“In the first place,”
7234
7235	“Would you stop it?”
7236
7237	Horikita's fist was trembling on her knee without turning her eyes away from him. Sudou keeps his advice and endures it even though he is glaring at Hosen.
7238
7239	For the first time, Nanase opens her mouth to Hosen for the first time.”I don't think there's anything to worry about Horikita's ability.”
7240
7241	“I wonder if you're the leader of the two-year D class?”
7242
7243	And they started talking.
7244
7245	“Then I'll give the leader some advice. I'm not going to cooperate with you people.As it is an equal relationship”
7246
7247	Its not going to be a one-way negotiation.
7248
7249	It is inevitable that a different deal will happen than the one we planned with someone like Hosen who wants to protect his classmates somehow and thinks it's OK to cut them down separately.
7250
7251	The original penalties are too different between dropping out and suspension for three months.
7252
7253	“Let's do that. Since that's the kind of person you are.”
7254
7255	I’m going to ask you,
7256
7257	“Listen Did you think I'd give you money to ask for your help?”
7258
7259	Despite the impuited disadvantage, Horikita did not make any slight moves and showed no concessions.
7260
7261	I'll put it down! 'll put it down! We’re not going to be to be getting out of here anytime soon, Nanase, it's water.”
7262
7263	Nods Nanase who whispers and orders water from the phone.
7264
7265	“It seems the deal has been repeated and the proposal is equal. I'm not going to give money or anything in return for this relationship.”
7266
7267	Everyone was ordered from Hosen to leave
7268
7269	Wait, Hosen-kun. I should listen to Horikita's story, and so she waited for it, Nanase, who was listening to a story from Hotikita.
7270
7271	“Are you listening?”
7272
7273	“It was unnecessary to have come here.”
7274
7275	He was getting ready to leave and saw off the negotiations early.
7276
7277	I don't think Hosen-kun's strategy is bad.
7278
7279	Each class continues to be on par like this.
7280
7281	I don't know anything, and Nanase doesn't seem to have caught the idea of leaving yet. And you're here, aren't you?”
7282
7283	Even if his strong u can make your own decisions, you may be forced to make concessions eventually. Some students may drop out if they don't wait for it.
7284
7285	Let's have a reason why we must keep the facts here. Our senpai's are desperate to protect their classmates, and we know what Hosen-kun wants to say. Horikita, sighs when she figured out Nanase fell in love with Hosen and rather than getting angry.
7286
7287	She said”Nanase. Are you stupid?”
7288
7289	This is not happening the negotiation I mean.
7290
7291	Obey me and leave the rats alone.
7292
7293	In order to make bargaining more advantageous, the fewer deadlines, the more valuable the two-year students who are left over will be over paying, even those who cant afford it.
7294
7295	“If you know, say the merit of reaching out to Horikita with this,”
7296
7297	and when Nanase looks at Horikita, Horikita answers this.
7298
7299	“Don't make me laugh a relationship of trust?”
7300
7301	“In this special exam, we certainly don't think we need to make any concessions. However, it might not necessarily be the same examination in the future.
7302
7303	If Hosen-kun were to turn all the second graders to his enemy, There is a possibility that he would fall into an unforeseen situation where no matter how many points he tried to prepare, his partner may end up dropping out.
7304
7305	It's still good if you just get penalty points, but what happens if the partner you've teamed up with holds u back?
7306
7307	Do you think there's a person in this school that’s ready to be with me?”
7308
7309	I hear that there is something called protection points in this school system.
7310
7311	This story is a topic I've discussed with everyone in the library on Friday.
7312
7313	Horikita was a little surprised, but she immediately grasped the situation and said.
7314
7315	“Yes. It's a special point to disable withdrawal only once.”
7316
7317	“It's not impossible to find information about it even though u just entered school.”
7318
7319	That's why you should know that if there was a similar test in the future, if your partner had a protection point.
7320
7321	.... In some cases, you can unilaterally force them to drop out.”
7322
7323	The more hated Hosen is, the more aggressive the method is taken to expel him from school.
7324
7325	“That's why we need to build a relationship of trust from this stage.”
7326
7327	You're getting ready to drive me in, aren't you?”
7328
7329	“ Of course, we put the first class D as our top priority. And, because they recognize Hosen-kun is a necessary existence, I do not want you to make a mistake by making a mistake in the future.
7330
7331	“They were in a situation that was at a disadvantage. The rest is whether or not the Nanase and Hosen listen to this advice after understanding.
7332
7333	I’m prepared for a later disadvantage, and I’m still gonna look for something in return.
7334
7335	“I'm sorry that you got your wisdom together, but I'm not going to tie your hands on equal terms.”
7336
7337	Nanase and Horikita spit out Jesus as a reply.
7338
7339	However, Hosen did not show any gestures to think.
7340
7341	So Sudou tried to throw a punch at him, and Horikita pulled his arm to hold him back.
7342
7343	“He hasn't left the negotiating table yet.”
7344
7345	It's not easy to negotiate with him.”
7346
7347	“But what are you going to do? I'll admit that I'm just holding it in my head.”
7348
7349	“But even so, I don't think it's an equal relationship, so I'm going to join hands if I have equal proof.” Well, that might be the case.
7350
7351	“ Why do you dislike the equal relationship condition?”
7352
7353	“We did something like giving them a relationship of trust, but it would be like using each other.
7354
7355	That doesn't mean I'm grateful to give it away.
7356
7357	It's a tearful story to say that the first years D-class next year may fall into a similar situation, it's a selfish prediction and not a sure future.”
7358
7359	Horikita's proposal supports each other on basic equal terms, but the two-year D class is seeking salvation.
7360
7361	Instead of having them drop out, they will save the disjointed situation of the D class for one year. It is insurance so to speak, and there is a lot of benefits in using it.
7362
7363	“Yes, it is. If you say so, can you tell me what you want for reference?”
7364
7365	Secure a million private points and give it to me in shape. If I'm in trouble and I rely on you guys on the two-year D class, I'll be happy to pay it back in full.
7366
7367	“However, if you do not have the one million points I will issue an insurance.
7368
7369	It means that the full amount of points will be in the pocket of Hosen.
7370
7371	“If its as you say, trust is going to be important in the future, isn't it a big deal?”
7372
7373	If there's always a time to ask for help, it's true that this is a good strategy for both classes.
7374
7375	The first thing that happened next was Hosen grasping Horikita’s arm. And Sudou who had been watching the man right next to him, and staring at Kazuomi intensely since the very beginning.
7376
7377	“Oi...” Don't hurt the woman.”
7378
7379	“ Calm down Sudou-kun”
7380
7381	“ It's okay. The negotiations have not yet been concluded, there is certainly no such thing as a”negotiation breakdown” from the mouth of Hosen.
7382
7383	“I'm going to do it with confidently.”
7384
7385	Do you even hold back on hurting a woman, or do you think you can hurt anyone you want.
7386
7387	Why don't you refrain from making statements that turn women in the world into enemies?”
7388
7389	I'll show you a good way. If you beat me in a fight, can we have an unconditional partnership?”
7390
7391	Hosen comes and says things like this.
7392
7393	“Then I'll do it for you. You're not complaining, are you?”
7394
7395	“Sudou, you are welcome.”
7396
7397	“It's okay Suzune”
7398
7399	If I win, the contract is concluded. I can't help it because I'm sick of this douchebag.
7400
7401	Sudou is reaching the limit of patience in the karaoke room and Hosen is not trying to release the arm which gripping Horikita for a long time now.
7402
7403	“It's too stupid to decide whether or not we can argree on a cooperative relationship in a fight.
7404
7405	Even if it's the only negotiating material, you shouldn't take it.
7406
7407	“There's no problem because it’s a good deal, Koizumi”
7408
7409	Horikita quietly says her thoughts without listening to Sudou's words.
7410
7411	“I thought you were a little smarter. The first time I showed up to the first-years D class as a sophomore, I felt that I wanted to join hands with class D.”
7412
7413	If we could have a class-by-class partnership, I could have agreed with that, which would have been great.
7414
7415	“Horikita took a deep breath and for the first time without thinking about anything.”Negotiation breaks down” Not from Hosen but Horikita announces the end of the negotiation in a way that withdraws herself
7416
7417	At that moment, Hosen, who seemed to be having fun from beginning to end, looked slightly into Sudou’s angry face for the first time. By releasing the hand on Horikita which had been gripped, Sudou also endured anger and sat down again.
7418
7419	From the cup that the big hand Hosen grabbed, he splashed water on Horikita's face and said,”You said that!” That's right ha ha yes, yes!”
7420
7421	I was about to jump out of the seat that I could get near the wall.
7422
7423	However, the situation started to move before Horikita spoke out, and Sudou held a fist out on his hand, and this might have been an action that Horikita had not foreseen.
7424
7425	It is because it was. Sudou, who had endured to the last minute of his limit, said,”Stop it!” when Horikita was watered.
7426
7427	No one can blame Sudou who gets angry at seeing a woman he likes being insulted, and he has made a fool out of her.
7428
7429	If it was one second later, it was Horikita who shouted to stop Sudou, whose fist would have hit Hosen's cheek.
7430
7431	“Sudou-kun... Don't get on his strategy carelessly.”
7432
7433	“If you were unhappy with the breakdown of negotiations, you should have said it sooner.”
7434
7435	However, did she judge that it was negative even if she subtracted any more relations?
7436
7437	Horikita took off her gaze off of Hosen as if to see through the karaoke room.
7438
7439	“Let's go home”
7440
7441	“Yes, let’s go.”
7442
7443	It was a surprise but it's Sudou who asked Horikita back.
7444
7445	“Ok let’s go!, Koizumi-kun”
7446
7447	Nanase also confirms will Hosen to leave about the same time.
7448
7449	“Ah?”
7450
7451	“I thought Horikita senpai's dog was going to come at me for revenge.”
7452
7453	It’s not like we're going to take the bait. I look at Horikita's appearance from the side.
7454
7455	The breakdown of the negotiations here is a great deal of damage. But Horikita's expression has not changed to disappointment yet. She still looked like she was still in the middle of negotiations.
7456
7457
7458
7459	* * *
7460
7461
7462
7463	Part 1
7464
7465
7466
7467	We left the shop with Horikita who has paid for the karaoke shop. We thought they were going to leave us alone, but Hosen and Nanase continued to followed.
7468
7469	Sudou occasionally looks back at him as if threatening him, but he doesn't even complain because the way they're going home is the same.
7470
7471	Do you understand the situation, or Hosen is trying to calling us out somewhere.
7472
7473	“Wait, let's not waste time. We're done talking.”
7474
7475	It seems that Horikita's had enough of talking with them.
7476
7477	“Horikita”, just like you said.
7478
7479	That day, I went to class D for two years. I knew right away that Class D was the lowest class in this school. I knew the quickest way was to join hands with the same D-to-D class than to be joining hands from another class.
7480
7481	“ Whether or not this is to form the same equal cooperation as Horikita is another matter but why was he doing it.”
7482
7483	“So?” So, isn't it really okay to break down the negotiations? Hosen said.
7484
7485	“As long as you keep making reckless demands on us, it won't change.”
7486
7487	 That's right. I'm going to be prepared to get a penalty if necessary.”
7488
7489	“All right. So what about this proposal?”
7490
7491	 Horikita, who did not remember resuming negotiations, Hosen began a one-sided talk.”I'll give orders to the class guys. But you have to give me two million points.”
7492
7493	“Two million? You've made it clear.”
7494
7495	“You're free to say whatever you say. But this is the only way to ensure that we wont be leaving school.
7496
7497	Many of the guys in the other classes have already decided on a partner and if you decided to go up.
7498
7499	 You don't get anything if you're reluctant to put out. Or do you want me to crush you?” Your going to crush us?
7500
7501	 You're just going to drop out because you don’t follow by the rules that you guys cut corners on tests.
7502
7503	“We don't not dare to break the rules.”
7504
7505	“Then, We'll just be prepared to score 501 points in any combination.”
7506
7507	“We reached a turning point between first and second graders.”
7508
7509	 Horikita, who stopped there, turned around and looked at Hosen as he says.
7510
7511	“Theres no such way to win unless you crush it with violence,” he says, holding his fist and laughing fearlessly.”
7512
7513	“Domination in Violence...”
7514
7515	“There are people everywhere who think about things like that.”Even if you don't like it, that's my way of doing things.”
7516
7517	Then, we stopped at a divided road to split apart. Then,we begin to walk again.
7518
7519	Horikita did not show a broken expression until the very last minute. Or rather, it might not have been possible to break against Hosen since he is a tough opponent.
7520
7521	 If she breaks it, she will never create an equal relationship with Hosen ever again.
7522
7523	“Wait, wait.” Hosen said
7524
7525	“Is there something u still want to say”? Horikita asked
7526
7527	At the end of the last minute, the words that I didn't think would come out came out of Hosen and said,”What do you mean?”
7528
7529	 Isn't it natural for us to negotiate to give us an advantage until the very last minute?”
7530
7531	“Then, do you mean you allow a completely equal partnership?”
7532
7533	“About that, since we got extra time. I want to change the place”
7534
7535	There is a possibility that we will be noticed.
7536
7537	It's almost 22:00 on Sunday.
7538
7539	 Most students should be home, but it's inevitable that someone might see us talking to them.
7540
7541	“Even so, I can't take Horikita into the dorm.”
7542
7543	Of course, there is no reason why we can't follow Hosen that looks very confident.”
7544
7545	We are now at the back of the dormitory, the terms better be good. Even now that we're losing
7546
7547	 time, we don't want to put it off.
7548
7549	 If you think about curfew, it's no longer a good time to have a meeting today.
7550
7551	“This way.” That's okay”. I'll only take 10 minutes of your time. He bought us to a dark and quiet place and there's no one passing by, and so the meeting place has been moved to the back side of the dorm. It is directed to the dormitory used by the third graders last year, and the dormitory used by the first graders this year.
7552
7553	“Then let's resume.That's fine, isn't it?”
7554
7555	 Well, the conditions I put out here have changed.
7556
7557	Hosen, who showed his thoughts, folds his arms once. As soon as he untied his folded arm, he put up his right index finger, middle finger, and ring finger.
7558
7559	“Three million. If you pay tribute to me, I'll bail out the idiots right now, and all the people here, including me, have to shut up and listen to whatever u guys want us to do.
7560
7561	 What are you talking about?
7562
7563	 Horikita sighs repeatedly involuntarily.
7564
7565	It was suppose to be about the negotiations that broke down early, but it has been a waste of time.
7566
7567	 It even seems that it is no longer a story of common sense.
7568
7569	“You don't know?
7570
7571	 You're telling me you're not going to team up for three million.
7572
7573	“I said that just now ask a joke. So,this way, I made a place for negotiation again.”
7574
7575	It was a bad judgment to have listened to Hosen calling us out. The little hope we had didn't come true.
7576
7577	“Wait. You think you can go home?”
7578
7579	 Hosen shows an intimidating attitude by lightly slapping his fist against the wall
7580
7581	“Since this place is unobtrusive, your going to communicate with your specialty”violence”?”
7582
7583	“At least I can kill you?”
7584
7585	“Then you'll have to accept the deal won't you?”
7586
7587	I don't think I'm going to take physical measures seriously. The body of the Housen moves as if foreseeing what the will happen from now on. Nanase who is standing by the side of Hosen turned her face away.
7588
7589	 Suzune”Suzune!!” Sudou, who shouted, rushes up and pulls Horikita's arm. The kick from Hosen went quickly through the place where Horikita stood until just before.
7590
7591	 And, a big huge body packs to Horikita at a stretch.”Once Horikita realized he was serious about hurting her. Sudou observes his body's movements of Hosen, and he receives the fists that come out of the hosen.
7592
7593	“Hahaha” What a good guy!
7594
7595	With a pleasant laugh, Hosen attacks Sudou. And, Sudou who exceeds the limit of patience and cannot
7596
7597	 hold it in any longer responds to it.
7598
7599	“What are you thinking and what are you thinking...”
7600
7601	 Horikita is upset by the fight that has really started.
7602
7603	No matter how much this place is not monitored, if it is found, they will be suspended from school, apart from the problem withdrawal act.
7604
7605	“Horikita-senpai, perhaps not because the situation is a little different from the previous years.
7606
7607	Nanase who is looking at this situation watching from somewhere nearby opened her mouth
7608
7609	“As you senpai's are familiar with things well until last year, We first-year students understand the current situation better than our seniors.”
7610
7611	 Several of first-year representatives were called to the student council room and explained directly by the student council president.
7612
7613	Starting this year, this school will become more meritocracy, so if we are going to create a free form,”
7614
7615	“Are you going to say that fighting is a free form?
7616
7617	“ I won't say that.
7618
7619	But as far as Hosen-kun confirmed, President Nagumo promised that some fights attached to the students would not be as strict as last year. Because the student council acts as an arbitrator for student-to-student trouble, if it is true that he tolerates a fights to some extent, it will certainly not become a problem if we're caught fighting.
7620
7621	As the conversation between Horikita and Nanase progressed, Hosen vs. Sudou was determined as soon as the superiority and inferiority began,
7622
7623	“Oraa!”
7624
7625	 While fighting, Sudou also showed the inevitable resistance in the pressure of pushing or to be pushed against wall, but on the other hand, it was a battle.
7626
7627	“Te, Mee!”
7628
7629	As he grasped Sudou with both hands, Sudou's feet moved away from the ground. He got pushed to the side against the wall and Sudou was able to escape from the pressure of Housen on both of his hands kneeling against the wall.
7630
7631	Even though Sudou had a good body but the body of Hosen crushes him.
7632
7633	 Sudou also grabs Hosen's arms and kicks his knee.
7634
7635	“Tsk!, you bastard!”
7636
7637	 It is added. There is a considerable difference that Sudou who had a lot of experience as a fighter because he has been through a lot of fights.
7638
7639	 The two people who seemed to be antagonizing before the fight, but Sudou got kiceked by Hosen which is about to be pass out from banging against the wall. Then, from the rear Housen hits Sudou's body directly.
7640
7641	 Sudou had high physical ability and his physique polished by playing basketball.
7642
7643	Until now, there are almost no enemies that can beat Sudou in a fight, but this student named Hosen is exceptional.
7644
7645	He can be compared with Sudou or even better.
7646
7647	The quick movement is so smooth that it makes me think he was born to be a natural fighter.
7648
7649	 Even Ryuuen has stopped fighting Hosen. Even though he has been through a number of quarrels and has escaped dangerous shambles.
7650
7651	 The difference in experience was obvious.
7652
7653	 And, the huge body and the rigid arm which does not feel like a first year's. However, Sudou tackles Hosen in the resolution of the decision death, he pushes him back to the wall side.
7654
7655	Still, Sudou doesn't fall down easily.
7656
7657	 Sudou, who is likely to have the strength of the strongest school year, would not sink in this degree.
7658
7659	However, he is attacked by Hosen everywhere on his body. The left and right fists of Housen strike Sudou.
7660
7661	 Even if you want to grab his hands hoping for a breakthrough he will receive more damage, if you try to turn to counterattack even a little because you receive a strong straight fist, the guard is quickly pierced, and Horikita's voice that's shouting cannot be heard.
7662
7663	 It's no longer possible to stop Hosen with words,
7664
7665	“No one will get hurt if you stop this!”
7666
7667	We're going to be caught. Horikita's voice has certainly reached Sudou.
7668
7669	For a moment, it's was a visible situation. I tried to get myself to protect him somehow.
7670
7671	“Uraaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa”
7672
7673	The tackle dealt to Hosen in the resolution of the death, pushed him back to the wall, and Sudou who is trying his hardest to defeat the opponent further
7674
7675	“Hou*!
7676
7677	“Do you want to compare our physiques?”
7678
7679	When he catches Sudou’s huge body from the front, Hosen grabs Sudou's body with a laugh and lifts it up.
7680
7681	“U, oh!?
7682
7683	Then he turned half way around and turned to the wall. He throws Sudou to the wall and provokes him.
7684
7685	“Was it cramped at the wall?
7686
7687	Sudou, who felt pain all over the place, yelled.
7688
7689	 It was Sudou who was going to lose and it was my turn this time, but he ignored me”Hey Sudou, look at Horikita's face. He said that he is the appearance of the demon, and Hosen who stopped his fist towards Sudou and looked at Horikita.
7690
7691	In the midst of the battle, such a defenseless act of Hosen. Involuntarily, Sudou, who was embarrassed to look at himself removed his gaze from the strong enemy in front of him and turned back.
7692
7693	Of course, Horikita doesn't welcome Sudou's fight. It is a cucumber, the appearance of the demon does not look so ugly. It's already too late when you realize that you've lost your face, when you realize that you've lost your face, worried about what to do and how you should be heinous. I could only shout to stop. Sudou's lost his spirit for a moment.
7694
7695	Sudou sees a powerful blow on his cheek without seeing the face of Kazuomi who laughed at the heinous Sudou, and banged by a complete surprise strike.
7696
7697
7698
7699	Even though Sudou was hit and strong, the blow would have been a painful one that he might had never been experienced before.
7700
7701	If he had been an average student who didn't train his body, he might have been fatally damage.
7702
7703	The big body flies backward, and it is not possible for Sudou to move passively anymore.
7704
7705	 But when I saw Horikita's bullish attitude, I found it difficult to do something.
7706
7707	He used the negotiating material, as an idea of working together with us.
7708
7709	“ It is my way of doing things from beginning to end” He said. And, as Horikita said to the D class as I had admitted earlier, When she first met Hosen, she first thought about what Hosen thought about and that's what she thought that would be challenged today's negotiations. I was sure.
7710
7711	In this current situation, Sudou faints and falls on the floor from the throw, although it seems to have been a matter of wondering what kind of person Kazuomi Hosen is. Not only the body but he was also mentally smart. Sudou's conciousness was put into a single trap.
7712
7713	 Hosen, who had been leading this plan from beginning to end without using dirty tricks, dared to whisper something into Sudou's ear before he passed out.
7714
7715	I understood that if we continued the negotiations, Horikita would give up working together.
7716
7717	However, Kazuomi still continued the aggressive attitude.
7718
7719	 First,he pours water on a woman's face, and even now his in a serious fight against Sudou. Why can you be so bullish when you are afraid of being suspended or dropped out?
7720
7721	I've been thinking about that.
7722
7723	 Do you really think violence can change the course of the negotiation?
7724
7725	No, I don't think this guy has such a stupid idea.
7726
7727	 If anything , What the hell is Hosen going to get from this fight?
7728
7729	“Well, the reliable bodyguard sank.
7730
7731	Who's next?”
7732
7733	Kazuomi, who played against Sudou, was not even tired from the fight.
7734
7735	“We... I'll give in to you because you are using violence.
7736
7737	If we refuse to do that, you'll just keep trying to use violence on us.
7738
7739	“There is no way that it is effective even if it is made to write something in such a form. You can pretend you fit in this place, but you will never.
7740
7741	The reason is that its not possible for me to yield to the way of Hosen.
7742
7743	“..... That's okay. I'll stop you.”
7744
7745	After deciding to prepare, Horikita showed her determination to fight on her own.
7746
7747	Oh, my God, it's going to be interesting.
7748
7749	“If you want to do it, you're welcome to do it.”
7750
7751	The other party was confused by Horikita’s actions.
7752
7753	 Horikita still can't understand why she was doing it.
7754
7755	And, Housen who did not care about anything extended his arm. After dodging it, Horikita aimed at the jaw of Hosen to get a blow.
7756
7757	“What a pretty good move.”
7758
7759	However, she got slapped from Hosen afterwards with huge arms, he slaps Horikita's cheek.
7760
7761	 Horikita should have tried to defend and avoid it, but there was no way to do it before the overwhelming speed of Hosen's slap.
7762
7763	Horikita's body blows away as if he had been hit on the cheek with his fist. She began rolling on the ground
7764
7765	 Suzune”Su, Suzune!” Sudou, who was about to get up while clenching his teeth, cried.
7766
7767	 But he still could not move nor stand up.
7768
7769	“Yo! Horikita. Sign a contract with me.”
7770
7771	“Five million. That's all going to fit in a circle, right?”
7772
7773	“I'm not kidding...”
7774
7775	“Ayanokouji-kun, someone, someone called the teachers...”
7776
7777	To get out of this place, there is no other way but to expect an adult's intervention. Or, if a lot of people gather, it is possible to solve the problem at hand even if it is Hosen.
7778
7779	“If you know you do not want to be my enemy... Well, that's going to happen anyways. Aren't you going to be suspended from school?”
7780
7781	“You son of a bitch!!”
7782
7783	“You're in the way!”
7784
7785	Sudou got up and jumped at Hosenagain, and he kicked him mercilessly and Sudou said,
7786
7787	“run away... Ayanokouji-kun”
7788
7789	“How long are you going to see Temee?”
7790
7791	 At the point there’s no point in holding back anymore.
7792
7793	 Hosen finally sets his sights me.
7794
7795	“Running away? If your going to run away, Horikita and Sudou's injuries will be several times worse than they are now. So what are you going to do?”
7796
7797	Did you really try to do a negotiation that you can't pass through without violence?
7798
7799	“Horikita. I'll give you a last chance. ... Any last words?”
7800
7801	“ I'll make you submit to me so get ready.”
7802
7803	 I didn't know what it was for a moment because of the darkness, but by removing the veil at the tip, a silver knife popped out.
7804
7805	“Oh, what are you doing...”
7806
7807	“You see this is a knife. A real one.”
7808
7809	It's a knife, it's undeniably real, and it's definitely not a toy or prop because the tip of the knife is extremely sharp.
7810
7811	If you say no to my contract,
7812
7813	I'll say,”Don't be silly!”
7814
7815	“Then, I will stab Ayanokouji.”
7816
7817	“Don't play around, You'll do this much to get a few million points?”
7818
7819	With a knife in his right hand, Hosen slowly faces me.
7820
7821	“I knew it, and I didn't know until the end but your ‘great.’
7822
7823	“Maybe I didn't have to take this risk and do something so risky but whatever.”
7824
7825	The flow of the previous reckless series of Hosen is something to be wary off, but he was serious about stabbing me with the knife.
7826
7827	One step, one step, one step, as he comes closer to me.
7828
7829	It was Nanase who stopped Hosen the girl who is in the same class as Hosen.
7830
7831	“Stop it anymore, I hate your way of doing things. ... I can't do it.”
7832
7833	Nanase breaks the distance between Hosen and I, and spreads her hands to stop him.
7834
7835	“Doke Nanase.”
7836
7837	She might have been just a guard to keep peoplefrom running away, but the guard is now fighting back against Hosen,
7838
7839	“I thought it was for the one-year D class, and I was going to lend my strength to Hosen-kun until the end. No matter how ugly the strategy is, I've been convinced. But it seems I have been wrong.” Nanase says.
7840
7841
7842
7843
7844
7845	“It was impossible to work with Hosen-kun from the beginning.
7846
7847	 Horikita says that after she got conscious again. She thought when she saw Hoizumi-kun showed up in the second grade class, she thought he wanted to enter into a cooperative relationship with her.
7848
7849	But.... It was only a way to do this from the beginning.
7850
7851	“ Even if you get a ridiculous amount of points you will still continue your method of doing things by using violence”
7852
7853	However, Horikita should not be further upset when she knows the truth of such a shock.
7854
7855	 It's not like the Hosen doesn't open by knocking on the door of negotiations. And this is not a mistake made by Horikita. The reason is that there is no one that exist on our side could have predicted this development. This series of information is probably given by the student council. There was some information given to Nanase and Hosen, but not to us.
7856
7857	 In such a state, a decent negotiation was not likely to be concluded from the beginning.”
7858
7859	“Your annoying.”
7860
7861	 In the first place, it would be you who should have left this to me.
7862
7863	“If we hurt Ayanokouji, our class will get plenty of money. It's clear how much better that's going to be better.
7864
7865	 But I still couldn't tell that I was the only student who had to be targeted.
7866
7867	“If you're going to stop me, I will use force if I have to”
7868
7869	“stay back!”
7870
7871	 House places his right hand on Nanase to intimidate her with his huge body.
7872
7873	As I looked at that scene, I arrived that this was the only answer here.
7874
7875	This made the point of everything.
7876
7877	“I'm going to go”
7878
7879	A clear weapon on the his right hand.
7880
7881	 Of course, it is the one to use it for me
7882
7883	“Ayanokouji-kun!”
7884
7885	While I felt my thoughts clear, I bent over in front of the knife that was swung at me to dodge it.
7886
7887	Getting closer to me, Hosen accelerates his arm to swing down, but I avoided it to prevent me from being stung.
7888
7889	He made a smile and said the other party is not a poor opponent, but a strong opponent though I thought he was just an average guy.
7890
7891	 But it's not insane to stand up a person with a knife.
7892
7893	 Of course, everyone would have thought that I was going to lose at that time.
7894
7895	Feeling me approaching, Hosen accelerates his arm as he tries to swing it down.
7896
7897	I use my left hand to block the knife that is about to stab me.
7898
7899	I did not try to grab or avoid Hosen's arm, instead I let him stab my left palm.
7900
7901
7902
7903
7904
7905“A—What!?”
7906
7907	My action was clearly not excepted by Hosen.
7908
7909	No one will not be possible to predict in action in advance either.
7910
7911	 The arm that tried to stab me stopped completely, and the smile Hosen had disappeared in a blink of an eye.
7912
7913	“Teme! Ayanokouji!”
7914
7915	Of course everyone will be puzzled.
7916
7917	 Everyone would have wondered why I would go out of my way to get stabbed.
7918
7919	 The action which seems to be desperation of going to be stabbed. Fresh blood scatters from the knife that penetrates the palm of the hand.
7920
7921	That knife, to be exact, is a petty knife, but it's something I bought.
7922
7923	What the Hell.......?
7924
7925	“You use the knife you own and stick it into my hand.
7926
7927	 All I have to do is make a fuss about being stabbed, and I'm going to make you drop out with my physical evidence.
7928
7929	If you look at the knife you are holding, it's clear that you tried to stab other person.
7930
7931	 The blade was left on to make it look like physical evidence.
7932
7933	“Ha--------ha, , just because you knew that you let me stab you. Your Crazy”
7934
7935	A slightly upset Hosen gave a dry laugh.
7936
7937	“This is the best way to stop you completely. It's like receiving a slight injury for you to drop out.”
7938
7939	Even though I know it's an effective strategy, it's dangerous and not for those who can't imitate.
7940
7941	 That's why you can insist to be stabbed if I did it to your hand.
7942
7943	“It looks like there's something like a special exam that's only given to a limited number of people in your first grade. And the content is”to drop me out” from the conversation with Nanase.
7944
7945	 It is a flow of somehow jumping out to this place, and developing into a forced fight.
7946
7947	 After that, Hosen who went up against Horikita and Sudou, who had been sore, were almost stabbed by the knife that he had hidden just in case of an emergency, and it was a strange plot to drop me out of school.
7948
7949	Even if you say you're tolerant of fighting, you've taken out a knife.
7950
7951	There is a possibility that it will develop into a criminal case and the punishment u will receive is far from dropping out.
7952
7953	True”I heard it's not free, but I honestly took the bait because you didn't give a strong sign at all.
7954
7955	I never thought you'd come to be stabbed by yourself. How did you know this knife was mine.”
7956
7957	“I've got some research on it.”
7958
7959	“As of yesterday, you bought a knife from the knife shop. If you have a knife, you'll definitely use it because that’s the way you do things”
7960
7961	It was easy to scrape a knife and grab get it in the hands of Hosen.
7962
7963	 However, it is not a fundamental solution if I did it.
7964
7965	 In the end, all you have to do is take the distance and re-arrange the act of thrusting the knife into your hand. That was the only way to ensure he is stopped to ensure that the strategy Hosen uses fails.
7966
7967	Hosen tries to release his hand from the knife, but I hold back the fist I grabbed with my grip.
7968
7969	“..... What Temee. . .”
7970
7971	Knowing my plan, the plan of Hosen so far has completely blown away.
7972
7973	“Well, what do will you do?”
7974
7975	“The knife owner is you and its you who stabbed me.”
7976
7977	“ Moreover, the investigation of the one that it was going to buy beforehand is attached, too.If you can't get away with it, you'll drop out of school.”
7978
7979	In this situation where you are stuck in your own palm, it is not easy to get away with it.
7980
7981	The strategy that he set up for us returns to the Hosen exactly as it is.
7982
7983	“It was an action that I saw through that much, and after Hosen made a dent, he let go of his hand holding the knife and forcibly took distance, leaving a knife stuck in my palm.
7984
7985	 This completely reversed the situation.
7986
7987	Horikita and Sudou also got up slowly in the meantime and started to recover their physical strength and said,
7988
7989	“Well, it's okay...” Ayanokouji-kun. Was it really necessary Ayanokouji?
7990
7991	“Don't worry.”
7992
7993	It's no wonder that my two classmates are confused by my situation, but now it's stopped.
7994
7995	It is important to keep Hosen in perfect control.
7996
7997	“Temee, how far did you plan this?”
7998
7999	“ I'm not talking about anything.”
8000
8001	The first thing that made me feel uncomfortable was when Tenzawa went to keyaki mall with me.
8002
8003	“Mr Tenzawa? he says he has something to do with this.”
8004
8005	“Ah. The clerk saw that Hosen was called out to the place when he was trying to buy a knife. I was the one who thought about this reckless operation, but it's Tenzawa who made it more perfect. If you buy a knife and use it to stab people yourself, you will naturally be examined in various ways and problems will come out. But he let me buy myself a knife, because the situation has the potential to change a lot.” He said.
8006
8007	The reason why I chose a high petty knife was because it had”Saya”.
8008
8009	If it were for Tenzawa or Hosen, it would have been this because the knife is the most convenient.
8010
8011	Of course, there are other ways to wrap the bare blade, but if you think about carrying it, its sure to be faster without the hassle to buy a pod. I found this knife from Tenzawa who was supposed to have come to my room for the first time that day, and it was a small sense of incongruity that I had for the knife he chosen for me.
8012
8013	That's the first catch. On Friday, he took a petty knife out of his room and offered it to Hosen. Because there was a possibility that he did not noticed, It was adjusted last minute to remove his fingerprints from the knife. Tenzawa came to visit the room saying that he had lost his hair comb was just a lie to take his knife out.
8014
8015	If we couldn't successfully carry out this plan, we probably had postponed the schedule to use the knife.
8016
8017	“It was a failure to cooperate with a woman I didn't know well.”
8018
8019	“If I were the only one, I’d have broken you up.”
8020
8021	“Ayanokouji”,”In any case, in the situation now you have the upper hand, I’m sure you've got an advantage, the blood got splattered onto the clothing of House
8022
8023	There is no way to escape. If you forcefully rob a knife and stab someone youself, you won't win.
8024
8025	Of course, even if I try to do that, I'll just do my best to stop myself.
8026
8027	It is likely Hosen is regretting the actions he took.
8028
8029	 What mattered was from here.
8030
8031	“This matter can be kept only to me, Horikita, and Sudou.”
8032
8033	“What are you trying to do? Why are you throwing away the chance to expel me”
8034
8035	“We're going to pretend like nothing happened here but there are two conditions.”
8036
8037	“Two”?
8038
8039	One of them, of course, is obviously known.
8040
8041	“I want you to have an equal cooperative relationship between Horikita and class D.”
8042
8043	“If you say no, you will drop out, so you'll have to obey. So, what's the other one?”
8044
8045	“As a partner in this special exam, I want you to work with me.
8046
8047	From the first time I saw Hosen, I thought that if I were in a position to choose my partner, It would be this guy.
8048
8049	There are several reasons for it, but the most important thing is the point that he does not look back on his problematic actions.
8050
8051	 If I had been in Tsukishiro's position, he would have made a remarkable imitation of the school.
8052
8053	 If this series of flows do not work favorably for us, I will be putting out instructions to bring out the condition in contact with Hosen individually. The negotiations with Horikita are in place.
8054
8055	“Temee!.....”
8056
8057	The man named Hosen Kazuomi has a firm pride. It is due to the pride that you are strong. Even if he wins with his strength, Ryuuen is far more superior then him as a person.
8058
8059	Above all, it is not acceptable that I was overtaken. If Hosen's Academic Ability is B+ and scores 0 points, then withdrawal is inevitable.
8060
8061	It's no surprise that you fell together and you've never had a shot at me. It is also true that it is not possible to say that Kazuomi Hosen is not a 100% white room student. It is not possible to figure who it is since there are so many first-year graders. However, the situation has changed here, too. Even if you cut corners in the test, the fact that you were stabbed remains here.
8062
8063	If there was a strange incident behind the scenes, Tsukishiro would not be able to drop out immediately.
8064
8065	If he somehow makes Hosen score 0 points. It will be discussed by other students.
8066
8067	No matter what kind of position Tsukishiro is in, if he was caught doing something risky behind the scenes he will drop out.
8068
8069	“It's OK, Ayanokouji-Senpai. This is the first time I've ever had such an exciting opponent. I know it's not fun to just screw you up with my strength. I'll kill you sooner or later, so look forward to it.”
8070
8071	Hosen had already switched his mind and shifted to the next battle.
8072
8073	“I will remain here”
8074
8075	 Do you have anything else to explain senpai?
8076
8077	“Ah, what are you going to do Nanase?”
8078
8079	“I decided this would be good for the year-one D class. The vigilance of the Ayanokouji-senpai and Horikita-senpai is already intensely suited to us.
8080
8081	In that case, I think it's better to pay attention to all the other classes.
8082
8083	I don't know the details yet, but Hosen accepted Nanase's proposal and returned to the dormitory as the first person who left this place.
8084
8085
8086
8087	* * *
8088
8089
8090
8091	Part 3
8092
8093
8094
8095	We were left behind together with Nanase.
8096
8097	One or two of stories is bound to spread if someone saw this scene, but there is something to be done first.
8098
8099	 It is to calm Horikita who lacks calmness by looking at the knife which was stuck in my left hand.
8100
8101	“What should I do? Well, I should pull the knife out first”.
8102
8103	“Are you okay”?
8104
8105	Horikita, who is usually cool and calm, is not calm at all right now.
8106
8107	“ I've never seen this situation before my eyes.”
8108
8109	There is a possibility of a large amount of blood will pour out if I pull it out poorly
8110
8111	“No, it is bad-looking for the time being, but it is better to remain stuck”.
8112
8113	“Compared to your injury, I'm as good as unscathed.”
8114
8115	“Oh...” I'm fine, too.”
8116
8117	When Sudou also walked beside me, he distorted his face when he saw the devastation of my left hand.
8118
8119	“How can you stay calm in such a state?”
8120
8121	I don’t know, I wonder why.
8122
8123	I'm did this on my own, and there's no special reason.
8124
8125	“Why didn’t you fight back, your strong.....”
8126
8127	“I couldn’t do anything so I took the knife by force.”
8128
8129	.... I didn't see it that way”
8130
8131	Sudou gave a frank impression between the encounter between me and Kazuomi earlier.
8132
8133	Horikita takes out her cell phone with her right hand and makes a phone call to Chabashira sensei.
8134
8135	“I have something to do with you. I'm behind the first-year dormitory, so could you hurry up?
8136
8137	 Confidentially, of course. Then bring me a bath towel.”
8138
8139	In the meantime, it's better for you not to move.
8140
8141	It's annoying to move to somewhere and let other students see this hand.
8142
8143	“I don't care” Anyway... Nanase does not show any upset when she sees this situation
8144
8145	She looks at the knife and scattered blood on my hand.
8146
8147	 I don't feel her being sorry for me at all.
8148
8149	“Can you tell me something Ayanokouji-senpai?” from Nanase.
8150
8151	“If we don't work together, it’s going to be a bad situation for our year-one D class.
8152
8153	“You were aware of this kind of development... Isn't that right?”
8154
8155	Ayanokouji says,”Yes, it was. The aim was to let Hosen stab me and make him drop out.”
8156
8157	You explained this in such a usual polite tone despite hurting yourself.
8158
8159	“Are you saying all of that negotiation was acting for this?”
8160
8161	“No, that's not true. It is true that I wanted to work hand in hand with Horikita and support each other's classes. Simply.. my strategy of getting Hosen as my partner was my top priority.”
8162
8163	Both Hosen and Nanase were going to be attached to the D class for two years because I was enrolled here.
8164
8165	“Why would you do that? Depending on the situation, I'm also thinking about reporting this incident to the school immediately.
8166
8167	“ Nanase tells Horikita that”. I think there was a problem with the way we did it, but it wasn't against the school's intention smattering to get Ayanokouji-senpai to drop out of the school. I still know only a few first-year students who knows about this, but I was told I could get a lot of points by expelling Ayanokouji.
8168
8169	“At last, the reason why I was targeted by Hosen becomes clear. We were told that Ayanokouji Kiyakata of the second year D class. Students who drop out of this person will be paid 20 million private points. That's the reason we were given such a special exam.”
8170
8171	“I can't understand what you're talking about. Who decided on such an unreasonable and stupid special exam?”
8172
8173	Nanase became quiet when she was asked that question.
8174
8175	... For the time being, I told you what I needed to tell you. Ayanokouji-senpai should be wary of all the first-year classes except us.”
8176
8177	Nanase does not talk much, but conveys the minimum information necessary to tell us. Not to mention Hosen and Nanase, Tenzawa also knows about this. If you think about it in order, you should know some of the students in the first year B class and the first year C class should already know about this.
8178
8179	“Are you not able to be convinced by such an answer?”
8180
8181	“It's okay. Even I could understand the situation, Nanase cooperated enough and said,”I cooperated with Hosen-kun knowing that it would be good for the one-year D class.
8182
8183	In fact, if the 20 million points were put into the hands of other classes, we would be at a disadvantage. I’m grateful.
8184
8185	If you think of it as a ticket to class A, it's only one.
8186
8187	 But considering things like this special exam, the more money you have, the more advantageous it is.
8188
8189	“But that's not the only reason I helped Hosen-kun.” I didn't think that Ayanokouji-senpai was the right person to drop out of this school.”
8190
8191	Soon Nanase bowed her head and left.
8192
8193
8194
8195
8196
8197	[ EPILOGUE ]
8198
8199
8200
8201	PROFOUNDING MYSTERY
8202
8203
8204
8205	On the following Monday, a discussion between nanase and Horikita was held and a cooperative relationship was established on that day on equal footing. On Tuesday, all 157 pairs were formed and everyone shifted their focus on the written test.
8206
8207	Rokusuke Kouenji did not show his willingness to cooperate, but when Nanase went directly and asked for the partner, he unexpectedly agreed easily. I was surprised at this point, including Horikita. The left hand was wounded deeply but it was worth it. There were many students who were surprised by the bandage on my left hand but it was.
8208
8209	In past two weeks, I had many opportunities to interact with the 1st year students but I am still unsure of the white room students. When I think of no any action after the special exam, I even doubt if they really exist. Everyone who is close at hand needs to be paid attention.
8210
8211	Normally, you may want to exclude Housen, whose middle school days are clear/known. But neither Ryuuen nor Miyake are acquainted with this person called Housen. In other words, it is possible that he is fake who came into contact with the real Housen and heard all about Housen past.
8212
8213	At first glance, Nanase doesn't seem to have any poison, but there are also elements that cannot be overlooked, such as how she close the distance to me, the attitude after the karaoke room, and the fact that the contact with me was calculated from the beginning.
8214
8215	Amazawa Ichika is a careful person who tried to drop me out of school by partnering with Housen, but this is also convincing range if you think it is for 20 million private points. No one has anything to associate with a white room student.
8216
8217	If you show a little gap, you may be eaten here, and such situation is going to continue for a while.
8218
8219	And……today, May 1st. The time has come to know the result of the special exam.
8220
8221	At the end of the day, the last 6 hours were set up to make the announcement.
8222
8223	“We are going to announce the test results of the special exam. It will be displayed on the blackboard, but it also displays it on your tablet so that you can see it in detail at hand.”
8224
8225	Even if you don't bother to stare at the blackboard, you can zoom in and check your favorite parts at hand.
8226
8227	You can see that Horikita's gaze is directed at me. There is no doubt that this special exam was the highest difficulty ever in terms of getting a high score. A tie is unlikely.
8228
8229	 On the day of the written test, the subject that Horikita designated as a match against me was “Mathematics.”
8230
8231	The screen switches and the test result is displayed on the tablet.
8232
8233	Most of the students didn't look at others number, and went to check their scores first.
8234
8235	On the other hand, I do not look for my score and I grasp the situation in the class.
8236
8237	The expelled students ... apparently managed to avoid them.
8238
8239	 Sorting, the lowest total score is 579 points. It seems to have managed to survive without danger. The students did their best, of course, but the school didn't hit the tremendous difficulty in the special exam in early April. The actual test problem was a problem that Ike and Sato could get more than 250 points without difficulty. In other words, the score table according to the academic achievement that was shown at the beginning was intentionally low.
8240
8241	You can hear a sigh of pleasure and a voice of joy from around you. Well, I’ll check Horikita's score. I sort by math items and display them in order from the highest score students.
8242
8243	This is the only subject specified for the game. Horikita scored 87 points. If you look at the fact that the next is 84 points of keisei, you don’t need to consider how much you were studying. After that, students whose academic ability is generally close to ‘A’ have followed, but 80 points are a big wall in all subjects. The remaining 10 points out of the 100 points were completely outside the scope of the year, and it was a substantial degree of difficulty.
8244
8245	It was a class full of delight, but I noticed that it gradually turned into a buzz.
8246
8247	Of course, it is not necessary to find out what the noise is. Chabashira-sensei glance and the eyes of the students who noticed the fact turned to me. It would be no wonder if you look at my name on Math test, engraved on top of Horikita’s 87 points
8248
8249	“Well, it’s a perfect score ... is this for real?”
8250
8251	No matter which subject is sorted; there are no students in class who scored more than 90 points.
8252
8253	Except for one subject, my math.
8254
8255	By the way, around 70 points were set aside for other subjects.
8256
8257	As a result, many students would not have understood the prominence of only 1 subject.
8258
8259	This written test was a few steps more difficult than I had expected. The risk of getting a perfect score was high, but I didn't dare to cut corners. It is inevitable that attention will be gathered throughout the school and classmates, but if you think about the behaviour of Director Tsukishiro in the future, it is safe to show the one side from here.
8260
8261	Rather, if it is a pre-emptive strike, then it is possible to finish the problem with less issue.
8262
8263	Sudou, who would usually make a fuss with Ike, stared at me quietly while being surprised.
8264
8265	The connection between my movement and the other day's HÅŒsen.
8266
8267	Based on these, the surprise may have been less than other students.
8268
8269	At any rate, the situation has begun to move greatly in April. Now, I'm sure the students who look at me have a strange look at me, and I'm going to have to be prepared to listen to them.
8270
8271	1
8272
8273	During class, no student could talk to me but, after school it was different.
8274
8275	It was not Horikita but the Keisei a member of the Ayanokouji group that approach me at the same time as chasbashira-sensei end the day.
8276
8277	“It's a little bit fresh, it's a little bit.”
8278
8279	It is not an exaggeration to say that keisei boasts the record of excellence in class D and understands the difficulty of scoring 100 points. There must be a lot of questions on his face.
8280
8281	“I'm sorry, but I wonder if you'll be able to do it later, YukiMura-kun. Can you lend me your face?”
8282
8283	It was Horikita who cut it in the form of pushing it away.
8284
8285	“Okay. I'm sorry, Keisei, leave me later.”
8286
8287	“Oh, yeah.”
8288
8289	In addition, I left the classroom with Horikita while attracting attention from many students, not only in the waves and ai-sato.
8290
8291	Horikita, who has been silent for a while, confirms that there are no people around her, and looks here.
8292
8293	“I don't make excuses. I did everything I could and got a satisfactory score.”
8294
8295	“Don't you want a rematch?”
8296
8297	“The last problem was that I couldn't even understand the written problem statement. I guess it wouldn't be possible for me to solve it now, because I couldn't even consider when I could solve it.”
8298
8299	“When it comes to measure theory and Lévesque integration.... Maybe it's going to be in college or something like that?”
8300
8301	The circumstances around here are not so detailed, so I can't answer the exact thing.
8302
8303	Even if I say that I have been learning since I was a child, it is not helpful at all.
8304
8305	“...... Okay, I heard that I was stupid.”
8306
8307	Like giving up something, Horikita sighs strongly and purposely, and looks at me with a glistening eye.
8308
8309	“It's frustrating, but I admit it. There have been two things that have happened in a row that I couldn't help admitting. If you eat any more, you'll only think of yourself as an idiot.”
8310
8311	Horikita who was doing well to the fullest, but it seems to have the opposite effect even if I praise her now.
8312
8313	“It's about the conditions you've said before.”
8314
8315	“Are you here, Ayanokouji?”
8316
8317	Horikita is probably trying to talk about the student council, but it gets in the way.
8318
8319	My homeroom teacher, Chabashira-sensei, seem to have come to look for me.
8320
8321	“What can I do for you?”
8322
8323	“It's a very cold reaction. Wouldn't it have been hard the other day without my help?”
8324
8325	“That's right. That was helpful.”
8326
8327	“I'm going home for today. Let me talk to you later.”
8328
8329	Horikita thought that she could not talk in front of Chabashira-sensei, so she showed her attitude to round it up.
8330
8331	Chabashira-sensei turns around to me after seeing off Horikita.
8332
8333	“It seems to have disturbed me, but I'm in a hurry. Tsukishiro, the Acting director is calling you. Follow me.”
8334
8335	“I see.”
8336
8337	It will be necessary to tell even if it blocks the talk.
8338
8339	Chabashira-sensei who is walking a little ahead talks to me without looking back.
8340
8341	“I’ll tell you, according to Mashima-sensei there was no change in the movement of Mr. Tsukishiro in the special exam.”
8342
8343	“I guess. I moved before the exam, because I was ready for it.”
8344
8345	I was just waiting for the results during the special exam.
8346
8347	“What are the chances of a hard-line tool in the future?”
8348
8349	“What do you mean?”
8350
8351	“It's not just about being stabbed with a knife. Isn't that your father moving?”
8352
8353	“This hand has nothing to do with it.”
8354
8355	We have not specifically reported this incident to Chabashira-sensei. Of course, the same is true of the 20 million private points. Perhaps Chabashira-sensei has not heard.
8356
8357	"I hope so, but I think I might be able to restrain him from forcing you out of school."
8358
8359
8360
8361	"We also need manpower.
8362
8363
8364
8365	“Don't worry about it. It's fine. I have to get you to help me. This time I got a perfect score in mathematics, and I was able to tell you were serious about aiming for class A.
8366
8367	It was a perfect score with many disadvantages, but there seemed to be only a few students who got a perfect score.
8368
8369
8370
8371	Soon I arrived in front of the drawing room.
8372
8373
8374
8375	Then, leaving behind Chabashira-sensei I went into the Drawing Room.
8376
8377	"Thank you for taking the trouble to meet me, Ayanokouji-kun.”
8378
8379	What do you mean, "I did it because you used my homeroom teacher”?
8380
8381	It does not put out to the way that Chabashira-sensei was drawn to this side.
8382
8383	It directs a mysterious situation that I was suddenly called by the director.
8384
8385	"I can't go to classrooms acting as the director.”
8386
8387	I was prompted to sit down, but I did not obey and stood still.
8388
8389	Confirming my actions, Tsukishiro began to talk.
8390
8391	"It's almost April, and did you get a chance to find out who was the student I sent in?
8392
8393	If you found the white room student, you'll have the upper hand.
8394
8395
8396
8397	"I don't know who's from the White Room.
8398
8399	"It's pretty easy, isn't it?
8400
8401	"I'm not sure. At least in this situation."
8402
8403	"I see. That child was able hide well.”
8404
8405	Tsukishiro whispers as if to admire the nod, and a satisfied face is made.
8406
8407	"I didn't feel any sign of the white room. You cleanly erased the child.”
8408
8409
8410
8411	"For the last few months, I've been working on becoming a high school student.”
8412
8413
8414
8415	Did you get the most out of it in advance? I did not.
8416
8417	"In exchange for that, you seem to have had a lot of trouble at the beginning of your school. Language, attitude, way of thinking, and how to spend. There was a lot of unnaturalness in all of them."
8418
8419
8420
8421	Tsukishiro laughs funnily as if he had seen all of it somewhere nearby. It looks like it's just teasing, and it's appealing that he was in control of everything.
8422
8423
8424
8425	"The reality of a typical high school student is only an imaginary image."
8426
8427
8428
8429	"For the time being, I can't see through Ayanokouji-kun. Let's just say that’s good because I was confirmed it that I don't mind going down with you.”
8430
8431
8432
8433	Tsukishiro urges me to leave the room in an attempt to end the conversation. There is no sign of anything rushing in with respect to the bandage wrapped around the left hand. I continue to talk with Tsukishiro without changing my position as it is.
8434
8435
8436
8437
8438
8439	"Deputy President Tsukishiro, did anything happen by any chance?"
8440
8441
8442
8443	"What the hell are you talking about?"
8444
8445
8446
8447	"It's already May. Didn't you say you wanted to settle it in April?"
8448
8449
8450
8451	“You don't have to be impatient. The grace I’ve given you is longer than I thought."
8452
8453
8454
8455	"Is that so? I thought that it happened due to “unscheduled” trouble.”
8456
8457
8458
8459	"You say interesting things. Do you have any grounds?"
8460
8461
8462
8463	"At least this special exam, I felt like I was well prepared to drop out of the school. All that's left is for the White Room student to come into contact with me and partner with me. However, there were no students in the first grade who showed such movement."
8464
8465
8466
8467	Of course, there was a possibility I already saw him at the assembly, but the contact of that degree is not included in the number.
8468
8469
8470
8471	"I don't think there are any white room students in the first grade, so I'm tempted to think so."
8472
8473
8474
8475	“Don't you think so too?”
8476
8477
8478
8479	“I knew through OAA that we wouldn't have a partner until the middle of the game. But you are a special person. It is until it is judged that it is dangerous to find out if you send the white room student as my partner that easily. I thought it would be wiser to aim for the timing of the next time special exam.”
8480
8481
8482
8483	"It's a long place to be."
8484
8485
8486
8487	"Maybe so."
8488
8489
8490
8491	"Contrary to the speculation of Mr. Tsukishiro, the person in the White Room did not follow the instructions. When I think about it, series of flows will be created."
8492
8493
8494
8495	"Not at all. You have an interesting idea."
8496
8497
8498
8499	Tsukishiro drinks tea from his cup that was prepared with his eyes narrowed for fun.
8500
8501
8502
8503	After a slight silence, he released the cup from his mouth and placed it back on the table.
8504
8505
8506
8507	 "I don't want to be asked to be credible in my words, but I admit it. It is true that this time I had a plan to make sure you dropped out. But he ignored it."
8508
8509
8510
8511	At first, it was Tsukishiro, who denied it, but he quickly changed his policy and admitted it was true.
8512
8513
8514
8515	His still a child, so if his in a simple rebellious period, his still cute, but if his not, you might not be able to get the last laugh.”
8516
8517
8518
8519	The student who was ordered and sent does not follow the instructions of Tsukishiro.
8520
8521
8522
8523	Certainly, it is true, i will not be able to laugh.
8524
8525
8526
8527	“Be careful, Ayanokouji-kun. I'm not the one who decided to send the White Room students this time. And there is a risk that he is beginning to act on his own without following my instructions."
8528
8529
8530
8531	"Isn't what he can do his own is limited?”
8532
8533	"Maybe so. However, the instruction I received is still your withdrawal. Even if he is used as a piece, he will still move to the end as instructed, and if he fails and he will be truncated. Until I go to the next phase."
8534
8535
8536
8537	Tsukishiro and White Room student were thought to be monoliths. However, it has emerged here that it might not be a very good relationship. But if this story is true, what's the point?
8538
8539	It is possible to increase the probability that it is possible to cooperate with him in dropping out Tsukishiro.
8540
8541
8542
8543	Or is it a fake to mislead me?
8544
8545
8546
8547	White Room Runaway. And behind the scenes, he's pulling the strings.
8548
8549
8550
8551
8552
8553	As for the probability, it might be a 50/50.
8554
8555
8556
8557
8558
8559	It is important to be conscious of the mocking Tsukishiro who is a man who deceives every person he knows.
8560
8561
8562
8563
8564
8565	At least this man is not impatient or upset.
8566
8567
8568
8569	"One last thing..." If he ignores even your father's wishes, in some cases, he might be happier to choose to drop out. The more you can't remove the white room's best work, the more jealousy and hatred you are about it. It's horrible just to imagine what you're going to do to convince him.”
8570
8571
8572
8573	On the back of this serious advice that can be taken as a joke from Tsukishiro, I left the drawing room.
8574
8575	Special Examinations and Overall Rankings
8576
8577
8578
8579	1st place, 2nd year A class points, 725 points
8580
8581	2nd place, 2nd year C class points, 673 points
8582
8583	3rd place, 2nd year D class points, 640 points
8584
8585	4th place, 2nd year B class points, 621 points
8586
8587
8588
8589	Class Points As Of May 1st
8590
8591
8592
8593	2nd year A-class 1169 points led by Sakayanagi Arisu
8594
8595	2nd year B-class 565 points led by Ryuen Kakeru
8596
8597	2nd year c-class 539 points led by Ichinose Honami
8598
8599	Two-year D-class 283 points led by Horikita Suzune
8600
8601	Postscript
8602
8603
8604
8605	In 2020, I was able to see you safely again this year. I am Shougo Kinugasa the author of classroom of the elite.
8606
8607
8608
8609	Happy New Year. Somehow safely, it became the first release of the second grade edition! It is also the release date of the second collection of real art books to be combined with the release of the first volume of the second grade. Thank you very much. From the end of the month, we are also going to have a second-year advance commemorative event, so we are looking forward to visiting the event venue from all over the world, and the advertisement is also sometimes sandwiched!
8610
8611
8612
8613
8614
8615	Well, it is in the new series to be commemorated, and it has started to move in various ways than ever. I'm going to attack Ayanokouji, who was just in the first grade. Shall I not come? It was decided to cut 1P for postscript on top of using. It often writes anyway, such as the appearance of the life of the last minute, and the change by becoming the maximum page second grade pupil as permitted by the standard, and the grade of the new arrival Hosen and others also come to be able to see the sign of growth here and there.
8616
8617
8618
8619
8620
8621	This time I was not able to talk a lot because the number of lines is small, but by that I can meet you again soon, thank you again. SEE YOU SOON NEXT TIME!
8622
8623
8624
8625
8626
8627	LOVE, SHOUGO KINUGASA
8628
8629
8630
8631
8632
8633	CREDITS
8634
8635
8636
8637
8638
8639	Awesome thanks to:
8640
8641
8642
8643
8644
8645	Halby, Senpai先輩ღ, ilovemyself, kirito, SithLibra.
8646
8647
8648
8649
8650	Join our Discord: