UJKgitWD

1												Classroom of the Elite Volume 2
2												  by Confused Translations
3
4Cover/Color illustrations: https://imgur.com/a/cA5mMIA
5
6
7															Prologue
8												  The Monologue of Airi Sakura
9
10
11I'm not very good at interacting with other people.
12
13I'm not very good at talking to other people while making eye contact.
14
15I'm not very good with crowded areas.
16
17I don't know when I started to be bad at those things.
18
19However, the one thing I'm know is that a person can't live completely alone.
20
21No matter how much I love being alone, I cannot possibly survive by myself.
22
23So, I came up with a solution.
24
25Putting on a facade, I live by hiding my true self.
26
27Only then am I no longer me, but rather, become me.
28
29In this dark, lonely world, I can continue to survive.
30
31The world is not a beautiful place. While it's common sense, everyone secretly wishes for a beautiful world. A bit of a contradiction.
32
33Anyone… anyone's fine, so tell me this.
34
35Is everyone putting on a facade like me?
36
37Or does no one bother to create a distinction, and show their true selves instead?
38
39Since I don't have any relationships with other people, there's no way for me to find out.
40
41So, I'm all alone today too.
42
43I'm alright by myself.
44
45I'm alright with being alone.
46
47I—
48
49I—from the bottom of my heart, want a person that can reach me.
50
51And so, the me today will continue to live quietly, with my eyes cast downwards.
52
53
54															Chapter 1
55											  The Abrupt Beginning of Turbulent Times
56
57
58It was the worst timing possible.
59
60While looking for places to take a selfie, I stumbled upon an incident. It was a tense state of affairs. The whole thing started a few seconds ago, when a trivial accusation provoked the other party and turned into a fist fight pretty quickly. No, saying fist "fight" is more accurate. Three male students were on the floor, covered in injuries. A red-haired boy was standing over them, looking down. It was a pretty one-sided fight.
61
62I saw blood streaks on his right fist from the wounds of the other boys. It was my first time seeing a real fist fight. In elementary school, I saw boys pulling at each other's clothes and pinching each other, but this was different. I could feel the weight of the tense situation.
63
64Even though I was afraid, I unconsciously took pictures of the scene. The shutter went off silently. I thought to myself, "What am I doing?", but in my panic, I couldn't think very clearly.
65
66I tried to leave the area as fast as I possibly could. But my brain wasn't functioning normally, and my legs wouldn't do what I told them to. Feeling paralyzed, I couldn't move at all.
67
68"Hehe, do you think… things will be over with this, Sudou?"
69
70The boy who was barely able to move his upper body desperately tried to resist despite his fear.
71
72"Are you trying to make me laugh? You three are in a sad state. Do you want to go at me again? I won't hold back next time."
73
74Grabbing the collar of the student who had lost his fighting spirit midway, Sudou brought the other boy's face a few centimeters away from his own. Looking as if he'd devour them at any moment, the defeated boys looked away.
75
76"Are you shocked? Did you think you could win if you had more people?"
77
78Laughing through his nose, Sudou-kun dropped him on the ground and picked up his bag.
79
80As if he already lost interest in the three boys, Sudou-kun turned around and started walking away.
81
82That instant, my heart rate shot up. Well, it's natural. Sudou-kun started walking in the direction of my hiding spot, after all. My routes off the rooftop are limited. The theory is to go down the staircase that I used to get up here. Losing the right timing to escape, my body isn't able to move as I want it to. When someone gets into an accident, I heard that their body tenses up and feels paralyzed, and that was the exact situation I was in right now.
83
84"That was pointless. Making me tired after practice, give me a break."
85
86The distance shortened. He was only a few meters away.
87
88"…The one that'll regret this later is you, Sudou."
89
90One of the boys called out to Sudou in a strained voice.
91
92My paralysis slowly faded away, as if a curse was being lifted.
93
94"There's nothing as shameful as the whining of a loser. No matter how many times you try, you won't win against me."
95
96He clearly wasn't bluffing; it was obvious that he had the confidence to back it up. After all, Sudou-kun was able to come out unscathed from a fight where he was at an overwhelming disadvantage.
97
98Tomorrow was the first day of July; it was starting to look like summer.
99
100Still not moving from my hiding spot, sweat started forming on the back of my neck.
101
102Without panicking, I decided to leave from my spot quietly.
103
104I just have to avoid being seen and getting involved in the situation.
105
106If I get involved, only a dark future awaits my calm and tranquil school life.
107
108Carefully but quickly, I moved away and left the place behind me.
109
110"Is someone there…?"
111
112Unconsciously wanting to escape, the air slightly changed. Feeling the change in atmosphere, Sudou peered into the location where I was hiding just moments ago. However, I was able to escape by a hair's breadth.
113
114If I was late by one or two seconds, he would've probably seen my retreating figure.
115
116(Illustration: https://imgur.com/vfQ8fUB)
117
118
119																1
120
121
122The morning was always lively in class D. It was because most of the students were far from being serious.
123
124But, today was louder than usual. The reason goes without saying. It was because we would most likely get some points ever since our entrance ceremony.
125
126The school I go to, "Koudo Ikusei High School", uses a novel system called the S system. I'll explain a bit about it.
127
128Taking out the mobile phone given to us by the school, I opened the preinstalled school app, and logged in using my school ID and password. I then clicked on the item that said "Remaining Funds".
129
130A lot of things can be done from this page. You can check your own points and the class' points. Also, you are able to give other students points from your own account.
131
132There are two types of points listed; the one at the end is listed as "cl". It stands for "class", and it lists how many points the class has. It isn't what everyone individually has, but rather, the points the class itself has. Next to our class, class D, it showed that we had "0 cl" since June. In other words, we don't have any points. Another type is "pr". It stands for "private", and it shows our individual points.
133
134On the first day of every month, cl times 100 number of points is deposited into our private account.
135
136These private points are for us to buy necessities, meals, electrical devices, or any other good; they serve the role of money and are very important.
137
138Because real money can't be used on campus, if we don't have any private points, we are forced to live day by day without any pocket money to use.
139
140Since class D's points are 0, we inevitably don't get any private points, and therefore have to make do without any money.
141
142However, at the start of the year, our class points were at a thousand.
143
144If we kept our points, we would be getting 100,000 yen every month. However, our class points fluctuate from day to day. Things like getting bad grades or whispering during class contribute greatly to the deduction of points. As a result, class D has no points by the time the first of May came around. It's sad, but that has continued until today, July 1st.
145
146In addition to our monthly allowance, the class points also determine our class' merit. In descending order of points, the classes are ordered from class A to class D.
147
148So, if class D got more points than class C, class D would probably become class C for the next month. And eventually, if we make it to class A, our dreams for high education and job opportunities would be fulfilled.
149
150When I first heard of this system, I thought it was important to keep our class points as high as possible. Saving private points wouldn't help at all.
151
152But my thoughts changed once we bought a point on the midterm.
153
154On the previous test, I was able to buy a point for Sudou, who had regrettably missed the cutoff by a point. When I saw the school readily agree to sell the point, I understood that Chiyabashira-sensei wasn't joking when she said those words.
155
156"At this school, there's nothing you can't buy with points."
157
158That is, holding private points means that you can make a situation more advantageous.
159
160If that's the case, it's probably possible to get more than just test points."
161
162"Good morning. Everyone looks more restless than usual today."
163
164As the bell rang for homeroom, Chiyabashira-sensei walked in the classroom.
165
166"Sae-chan-sensei! Do we have 0 points this month too!? When I checked this morning, I didn't even have a single point!"
167
168"Oh, so is that why you guys were restless?"
169
170"This month, we worked our asses off! We got past the midterms… so isn't it cruel to still be at 0!? We weren't late to class, weren't absent, and didn't whisper!"
171
172"Don't go off deciding things on your own. Let me talk first. Ike, you clearly worked harder than I've ever seen you try. We recognize that. Naturally, the school understands how you feel too."
173
174After being admonished, Ike closed his mouth and sat back down.
175
176"Well then, these are this month's point totals."
177
178The point results were listed starting from class A on the paper she put up on the board.
179
180Other than class D, all the classes were pretty close in points, and everyone had been awarded about 100 points.
181
182Class A was at 1004 points, slightly above the amount of points everyone started with.
183
184"…Not a very pleasing development. Have they already figured out how to reliably increase points?"
185
186My seat neighbor, Horikita Suzune, seemed to be concerned only about the other class' points, but Ike, along with most of the class, didn't care about the other classes. To them, is it only important that we have points?
187
188Written next to class D was—87 points.
189
190"Huh? Is that, 87… did we actually increase our points!? Woohoo!"
191
192After seeing the points, Ike jumped up and down in excitement.
193
194"Don't be so excited already. All the other classes increased their points about the same amount you guys did. The gap didn't get any closer. This looks like a reward for just passing the midterm. Everyone was paid about 100 points."
195
196"I see. I thought it was strange that we were awarded points so quickly."
197
198Horikita, who was aiming for class A, looked like she wasn't happy with the points we got, and wasn't smiling.
199
200"Are you disappointed, Horikita? Because the gap has slightly widened."
201
202"It's nothing like that. I got something out of it this time, after all."
203
204"What do you mean, you got something out of it?"
205
206る。
207
208Ike stood up and asked Horikita. Attracting the attention of the other classmates, Horikita sunk back into silence. Hirata Yousuke, after watching the situation unfold, stood up and answered for her.
209
210"The deductions we got during April and May… in other words, along with whispering and being late to class, there were no other deductions, is what I believe Horikita-san was saying."
211
212The quick-witted Hirata answered without any problems. That's impressive. Right on the mark, too.
213
214"Ah, is that so. If there were a lot of deductions, our 100 points would've been 0."
215
216After having understood the easy explanation, Ike raised his arms in celebration.
217
218"Huh? Then why didn't we get any points?"
219
220Returning back to the original question, Ike looked at Chiyabashira-sensei.
221
222If we didn't get 8700 points, it would be strange.
223
224"This time, there's a bit of trouble. The points for the first-years were delayed. Sorry, but you'll have to wait for a bit longer."
225
226"Eh~, seriously? Because the school is having trouble, shouldn't we get some kind of freebie?"
227
228All the students grumbled in discontent. As soon as they understood that they got points, their attitudes completely changed. Having 87 points and no points is a world of difference.
229
230"Don't blame it on that. The school decided it, not me. Once the trouble is resolved, you'll get your points. If there are any points left, that is."
231
232Chiyabashira-sensei's words hung in the air.
233
234
235																2
236
237
238Once it was lunchtime, everyone went off on their own to get food.
239
240Lately, however, I've been thinking that going out with friends during this time is the hardest thing about school life. Take Kushida Kikyou, for example. She's friends with a lot of girls and boys, and is immensely popular, so while she obviously gets invited in person, she also gets invited over email and phone all the time. Even though she has to refuse people at times, it looks like she has a life, going out to eat with a lot of friends.
241
242On the other hand, people who are unpopular with girls like Ike and Yamauchi seem to always eat with a close group of boys. Sudou and Hondou are part of that group.
243
244What I want to say is that I don't have anywhere that I belong.
245
246I'm friends with Kushida, and also friends with Ike and Yamauchi. Even though I would eat with them, it wasn't very frequent. Generally, it was a relationship where the other party would approach me and ask, "Wanna eat lunch" or "Are you free after school?".
247
248I didn't mind it at the start of the school year. Since it was before I made friends, it was only natural that I would be alone since there was no one else that I kenw.
249
250But now, it was a strange phenomenon of "being alone even though I have friends".
251
252This phenomenon… is a really uncomfortable experience. If there was a day where we decided on groups for a school trip and I was absent, it would be really likely that I wouldn't be invited by anyone. Do they think that I'm a low ranking friend, or is it that only I think of them as friends? I might be having a wild misunderstanding about our relationship.
253
254Feeling restless, I looked towards Ike's group. I'm over here, it's fine to invite me. It was a gaze of selfishness and faint anticipation.
255
256And then feeling bad about myself, I reminded myself that it was bad to not know when to give up and averted my gaze.
257
258These miserable events repeat every day.
259
260"You're still not used to it, I see. As usual, you're pitiful, Ayanokouji-kun."
261
262My neighbor looked at me with a cold gaze.
263
264"…You look like you're completely used to being alone."
265
266"I'm fine, thank you."
267
268It was meant to be sarcastic, but she responded frankly.
269
270Most of my classmates had already formed groups, but the number of people like her who were eating alone weren't few by any means, so I felt relieved.
271
272Koenji also spent most of the time by himself. At first, he was surprisingly spending a lot of time in the cafeteria with girls from other class and other grades, but since his points were running low, he started spending more time in the classroom.
273
274The only heir of the Koenji Conglomerate, one of the biggest companies in Japan, didn't prefer being alone, but rather, was a person that liked himself and held little concern for others.
275
276I felt respect for him because he didn't feel any anguish from loneliness.
277
278As usual, he checked his face with a hand mirror, and it looked like he found no faults with his own appearance.
279
280Other than him, though, there was a quiet girl wearing glasses. At one point, Ike was interested in her because he was going off about breasts, but since she was plain and didn't particularly stand out, no one had any interest in her afterwards. She was always alone, and she never talked.
281
282Like every other day, she was eating her bento alone with her back hunched. She was one of the few that made her own bentos.
283
284And then, my neighbor took out a bento from her bag and started opening it.
285
286Lately, Horikita hasn't been going to the cafeteria, and instead, brought homemade bentos.
287
288"Don't you need a lot of time and effort to make your own bento?"
289
290Although it's not a luxurious thing to do, but there are relief measures in the cafeteria for students who have used up all their points. Since it takes time and costs some points to make your own bento, the free meal seems like the better option.
291
292"I don't know. The supermarket also has free ingredients, you know."
293
294"You made this with free ingredients?"
295
296Without denying it, Horikita opened her bento. It didn't have a lot of meat or fried foods, but it looked pretty good.
297
298"Are you good at cooking as well? It doesn't really fit with your character."
299
300"Anyone can cook after reading books or looking things up on the internet. All the dorms have the necessary tools as well."
301
302Without bragging about her skills, she took out her chopsticks. I guess she replied like that because she thought it was obvious.
303
304"But why'd you decide to make your own bento?"
305
306"The cafeteria's loud. It's a lot calmer to eat in here, right?"
307
308A lot of students went to go buy bread or other meals at the cafeteria at the beginning of the year, but now that many students no longer had points, an overwhelming amount of students went to go eat the free meal. If you paid attention, only a few people would be left over in the classroom.
309
310Is this what Horikita prefers? At any rate, Ike and the others were no longer in the room.
311
312"Did I already miss the big wave…?"
313
314"You always gaze at the ocean, but you don't even have a surfboard nor the resolution to ride the wave. Even then, saying that you couldn't get ride the wave… you talk like some big shot."
315
316I wish I could argue, but she wasn't wrong.
317
318
319																3
320
321
322Unlike lunchtime, after school feels more comfortable since there's no need to be worried about personal relationships.
323
324Also, I don't really stand out if I try to go back to the dorms right after school since there are quite a few people who do the same.
325
326There's some merit in being able to disappear into the crowd like a ninja. If I stick to the back of a group of friends, I can pretend to be a part of their group.
327
328"…How sad."
329
330I was satisfied with myself for skillfully pretending that I had friends, but in the first place, there isn't anyone in this school that cares about who I hang out with.
331
332"Sudou. I have something to tell you. Come to the staff room."
333
334Sudou, who was trying to quickly leave the classroom, was stopped by Chiyabashira-sensei.
335
336"Hah? What business do you have with me? I have basketball practice now."
337
338Feeling listless, he opened his bag, grabbed his uniform and showed it to Sensei.
339
340"I already talked to your advisors. You don't have to come, but you'll face the consequences later."
341
342Sudou was on guard after Chiyabashira-sensei threatened him.
343
344"What the hell… Is this going to end quickly?"
345
346"That depends on you. Just by staying here, we're wasting more time."
347
348With those words, it looked like he had no choice but to follow.
349
350After clicking his tongue, Sudou walked behind Chiyabashira-sensei and walked out of the classroom.
351
352"I thought he changed, but I guess that Sudou is the same as ever. Wouldn't it have been better if he dropped out?"
353
354I don't know who it was, but I could hear someone in the class mumbling to themselves.
355
356After the last test, I thought that the class had become more united as a group. Somehow, that seems to have been my imagination; guess it was a lie.
357
358"Do you think so too? That it would've been better if Sudou-kun was expelled."
359
360While talking to me, Horikita was putting her textbook in her bag in order to return to the dorms. There probably aren't many students that take their textbooks back and forth to review and prepare for the lessons. It's a sad thought.
361
362"Eh, not really. How about you, Horikita? As the only person who helped out Sudou."
363
364"Hmm… Well, we still don't know how many positive points we'll get."
365
366My neighbor, Horikita, replied with an uninterested voice.
367
368When Sudou was on the brink of being expelled, she purposely lowered her own grades, and spent her points to buy a point on the test for him. I didn't expect that kind of behavior from her.
369
370At the same time, we both got up from our seats out walked out of the classroom together. I don't know when, but we started going back to the dorms together. Since we don't eat together, nor hang out, it's strange that it became this way. The only thing we had in common was that we were walking back on the same exact path. That's probably why we ended up walking together.
371
372"I feel a bit worried. About what Sensei said this morning."
373
374"About how our points were being delayed?"
375
376"Yea. It looks like there was trouble, but is that trouble on the school's part or from our part? If it's the latter…"
377
378"You're overthinking it. Lately, we haven't been making trouble. She said so herself. I doubt class D would've been the only class to not get any points. Simply speaking, it's the school's issue."
379
380If there was strong concern for worry, all first-years would've been delayed, so the probability that class D is involved is rather low. …Probably.
381
382"I wish that was the case. After all, trouble directly affects our points."
383
384Everyday, Horikita always thinks about how we can increase our points. She doesn't think about her private points, but rather, the class points so that she can reach class A. Of course, it's not impossible, but even then, it's pretty far from our grasp.
385
386However, there's still hope. If Horikita is able to find a reliable way of increasing our points, it'll become a great advantage for class D. Furthermore, our classmates will trust Horikita more and she'll be able to make more friends. A win-win situation.
387
388"Oh, right, you should join the chat. You're the only one who hasn't participated."
389
390Taking out my phone, I opened the group chat application.
391
392After the test, we invited Horikita to the group chat. Kushida thought that Horikita, who hated interacting with other people, would be able to participate if it was a group chat. However, her efforts were in vain, and Horikita hadn't participated at all.
393
394"I have absolutely no interest. I also keep my notifications off."
395
396"Is that so?"
397
398Well, it seems like she had no intention to participate in the first place. She probably didn't delete the app because it'll send notify the rest of the group.
399
400Whether or not she participates is up to her, so I didn't pursue the subject. I don't really have the right to do so either.
401
402"Ayanokouji-kun, you're also more talkative lately."
403
404"Really? I thought I was always that way though."
405
406"It's only a slight difference, but you've definitely changed."
407
408Although I didn't mean to change, I must've changed without having noticed myself. I must've gotten used to it.
409
410Especially, I feel like I get along with Horikita—wait, no, we definitely don't get along, but strangely, I don't feel awkward around her. If it were some other girl, I wouldn't be able to converse normally, and would probably be flustered.
411
412That's why I only talk to people close to me.
413
414More than anything, I'm grateful that being silent doesn't make the mood worse.
415"Is there anything that made you change?"
416
417"I wonder… If I had to come up with a reason, it would be that I simply got used to school life and made a few friends. Also, Kushida was probably a big factor as well."
418
419If it's only a group of boys, then no one really says much and there's a lot of silence in the conversation.
420
421If Kushida's there, though, someone's always talking at a given time, and the atmosphere feels more lively.
422
423"You seem to be getting along with Kushida-san. Aren't you concerned, especially knowing about her other side?"
424
425"I was surprised when she said that she hated you. But it's natural that you'll like and hate some people. It's no use to get concerned over such small things. Even when she's said it explicitly, why do you pretend to get along with her?"
426
427"I see. Well, I also hate Ayanokouji-kun, but we still talk normally. I don't really mind it."
428
429"Hey…"
430
431What the hell, why say it to my face…
432
433"That's what I'm saying. If someone else says that they hate another person, it's fine, but if someone says that they hate you, don't you feel bad?"
434
435"…Were you testing me?"
436
437While saying "I don't know, was I?", she started coming her hair. Completely forced.
438
439"I don't intend to bother her, but Kushida-san and I are like oil and water. I think there's no need to fight with her."
440
441In other words, it probably means that she won't join a group chat with Kushida in it.
442
443"In the first place, why does she hate you?"
444
445Ever since the start of school, there wasn't much contact between the two. Since when did she start hating Horikita?
446
447Kushida did say that it was her goal to get along with everyone.
448
449"I don't know. She probably doesn't know much about me either."
450
451Even if that's the case, it looks like there's something in between Horikita and Kushida.
452
453"Are you that curious? Go ask her yourself."
454
455That's impossible.
456
457Kushida Kikyou is normally an angelic and perfect girl, but she inadvertently showed me a different side of her.
458
459It's impossible to tell from her kind smile and her tone of voice, but I still remember her remarks from back then. I don't think Horikita knows either.
460
461"No need for that. I'm fine with Kushida as she is now."
462
463"That's just disgusting, you know?"
464
465"…right?"
466
467Even though those words came from my mouth, it sounded disgusting to me too.
468
469
470																4
471
472
473After I finished my dinner, I returned to the dorms. Taking out my phone, I checked my balance. I had 8320 pr remaining. It hasn't changed since the morning.
474
475Considering that we got 100,000 points at the beginning at the year, it's a really small amount.
476
477I spent a lot of points to buy Sudou's point.
478
479"It would be huge if we got our 87 points."
480
481In yen, that's 8700 yen. Although it's not enough, it's still relatively big money.
482
483"Save me, Ayanokouji!"
484
485While I was playing with my phone on the bed, the door suddenly opened. It was a flushed Sudou.
486
487"…Why are you in such a rush? Or should I say, how'd you even get in?"
488
489I remember locking the door when I returned to my room. I don't think I forgot to do it because I do it out of habit now. Did he kick his way through the door or something?
490
491Just to make sure, I checked the door, but it wasn't broken.
492
493"This is the room where our room meets, so we held a discussion and decided to make a duplicate key. Didn't you know? It's not just me, everyone else has a key too."
494
495He was spinning the key in his hand.
496
497"I learned this important fact just now…"
498
499Somehow, it looks like my room is no longer safe against invaders.
500
501"Anyway, that stuff doesn't matter. I'm in a really dangerous spot right now! Help me out."
502
503"It definitely matters. Give me the key."
504
505"Hah? Why should I? I bought this with my own points. It's mine."
506
507What kind of faulty reasoning is that? If you've committed a crime, it's still a crime, no matter what you say.
508
509Even if we're friends, it doesn't mean that I'll allow anything.
510
511"If you're worried about something, how about asking Ike or Yamauchi?"
512
513"Those two are no good. They're stupid."
514
515As he was talking, Sudou sat down on the floor.
516
517"Buy some carpet. My butt hurts."
518
519I don't have enough to spend money on the interior.
520
521In the first place, even though my room was designated the meeting place, we've never met in here ever since the party. Even if I bought carpet, only I would be sitting on it. The very thought of it feels surreal.
522
523When I got up to get some tea, the doorbell rang.
524
525The person who poked her head through the entrance was Kushida, the Madonna of class D. She's cute whenever I see her. She saw Sudou, who was still sitting on the floor.
526
527"Oh, Sudou-kun's here."
528
529"I'm just asking, but do you also have a duplicate key?"
530
531"Uh, yea? Isn't it so that we could meet up… by any chance, did you not know, Ayanokouji-kun?"
532
533She took out a key from her bag and showed it to me. It looks exactly the same as my key. Apparently, Kushida thought it was done with my permission.
534
535"Um, this… should I return it?"
536
537She apologetically gave me the key.
538
539"It's fine. There's no point if you're the only one that returns it. It doesn't seem like Sudou wants to return the key."
540
541Is it really alright for Kushida to have the key? No, well, in my delusions, you could say that it feels like I have a girlfriend if she keeps the key. Men are calculating creatures.
542
543"Since Kushida has also come, can we move to the real topic?"
544
545"It can't be helped… well then, what's the issue?"
546
547After they came to my room, it's not like I can bluntly refuse them.
548
549With a meek look on his face, he slowly started talking.
550
551"You know how I was called out by the teacher today? Then, uh… actually… I might be suspended from school. And for a while, too."
552
553"Sus… suspended?"
554
555That's unexpected. Compared to the beginning of the year, Sudou has been pretty well-behaved. He hasn't been talking or dozing off during class, and is doing well in his club activities.
556
557"By any chance, did you insult or slander Sensei?"
558
559When Chiyabashira-sensei stopped Sudou from going to his club today, he looked unhappy.
560
561He probably got mad and said some reckless remarks once again.
562
563"I won't say."
564
565"Then did you grab her by her collar and threaten to kill her or something?"
566
567"I'm not saying anything."
568
569Without any hesitation, Sudou refused to speak. Is that really not it?"
570
571"It's probably worse than what you're thinking…"
572
573I thought that my first two guesses were pretty bad, but to say that it's even worse…
574
575"Oh, this is how things happened, Ayanokouji-kun. I beat up and assaulted Sensei and then spit on her!"
576
577"That's cruel. …or should I say, your wild ideas are way too cruel…!"
578
579"Ahaha, it's a joke. Of course, I wouldn't go that far. Sudou-kun as well."
580
581Even though I thought Sudou would immediately deny it, he jolted in surprise from Kushida's joke.
582
583I guess it shows how rattled he is.
584
585"What's wrong?"
586
587"Actually, I beat up some kids from class C yesterday. And earlier, Sensei said that I would be suspended… This is probably punishment for that."
588
589Surprised from Sudou's words, Kushida unintentionally looked towards me. I couldn't swallow the situation at first. That Sudou had been involved in trouble again. Were my worries spot on?
590
591"Beat them up… that, uh, why'd you do it?"
592
593"For your information, I wasn't at fault, ok? Those class C brats were in the wrong. I just responded when they tried to provoke me. And then they went and told on me. They were being untruthful, too."
594
595Somehow, it seems like Sudou also hasn't been able to gather his thoughts. I understood what he was trying to say, but I still didn't know why the fight started nor the details of the fight.
596
597"Wait a second, Sudou-kun. Can you say it once more, but slower?"
598
599Kushida encouraged him to calm down and tried to get him to tell us how the fight started.
600
601"Sorry, I must've left out too many parts…"
602
603Taking a few deep breaths, Sudou started from the beginning once again.
604
605"The club advisor and I were talking about being able to be a regular for the summer tournaments."
606
607I heard that he was good, but I didn't expect talks about becoming a regular so soon.
608
609"Isn't that super good, Sudou-kun!? Congratulations!"
610
611"Nothing's decided yet. It's just that the possibility exists."
612
613"Even that's great. We just entered high school, after all."
614
615"Well, yea. Actually, I was the only first year to be nominated for becoming a regular. And even then, it's not like I'm definitely becoming a regular. On the way home, those guys… Komiya and Kondo, who are also in the basketball club, called me out to a special building. They said they had something to talk about or something. I could've ignored them, but I've argued with them quite a few times during club activities, so I thought I would settle this. Of course, I went to meet them, you know? And then this Ishizaki guy was there, waiting for me. Komiya and Kondo were this guy's friends, and said how they couldn't stand that a class D student like me was being considered as a regular. He then told me to either quit or face a painful experience. I refused and beat them up, but then all of this happened."
616
617It was a hurried explanation, but I got the general gist of things. It looks like Sudou's satisfied with his explanation.
618
619"And then you were portrayed as the bad guy, huh."
620
621With an exasperated look, he nodded. Those class C students started the whole thing, and when Sudou refused to quit, they resorted to the use of force… that is, violence. However, Sudou, who was experienced in fighting, turned the tables and beat them up. Naturally, they were injured. But, there was no evidence, so they lied to the school that Sudou beat them up for no reason.
622
623"Sudou-kun's not the problem if the situation was started by class C."
624
625"Right? I seriously don't get it. I don't believe that teacher either."
626
627"We should tell Chiyabashira-sensei tomorrow about what happened. How Sudou-kun isn't at fault."
628
629Things aren't that simple. Sudou must've told the school what he just told us now. But since there's no evidence to back up his claim, the school decided to punish him."
630
631"When you told the school, what did they say?"
632
633"They said they would give me time until next Tuesday to prove it. If I'm not able to, I'm suspended until the summer. On top of that, the whole class will be deducted points as well."
634
635It seems like the school has decided to wait. But, it seems like Sudou is more worried about not being able to become a regular, rather than getting our points deducted or being suspended. I guess he couldn't stand the thought of his chances being ruined.
636
637"What should I do?"
638
639"Sudou-kun, you tried to tell the teachers truthfully, right? It's strange, since they didn't believe your story, even if you did nothing wrong. Right?"
640
641Kushida was looking for a positive response from me, but sadly, I couldn't give an affirmative reply.
642
643"Well, I wonder… I don't think this is that simple."
644
645"What do you mean by 'I wonder'? Are you doubting me?"
646
647"At the very least, the school doesn't trust you, right? For example, it wouldn't be strange if Kushida was agreeing with you just so that our points wouldn't decrease."
648
649"That… that may be true."
650
651This time, the trouble won't be solved by proving who started the fight.
652
653The three of them might be suspended for a week, for example.
654
655There are three people that say that they were beaten. Without sound proof, Sudou will most definitely be punished. And that means only one thing.
656
657"Even if the other party is the one at fault, Sudou might still take some of the blame."
658
659"Hah? Why? It was legitimate self-defence. Right!?"
660
661Sudou, unable to understand, hit the table with his fist. Kushida jumped in surprise.
662
663"My bad, I got slightly upset."
664
665Seeing Kushida's frightened face, Sudou apologized.
666
667"Hey… Why will Sudou-kun still take some of the blame?"
668
669"Sudou hit them, but they didn't hit Sudou. That's a big reason why, I think. It's a more difficult problem than just saying 'self-defence'. If they came at you with a knife and a metal bat, things would be different. Normally, if they were going to pick a fight, they would probably prepare for it. 'Self-defence' is when you have to defend yourself against sudden, dangerous attacks. In other words, I don't think this is exactly 'self-defence'."
670
671This is the best I can think of, given the circumstances.
672
673"I-I don't understand. There were three people, three. I think it's sufficiently dangerous."
674
675I think the number of people has to be taken into account, but this case is a delicate one. If the school thinks that the number of people than I think, then Sudou might be declared innocent.
676
677But it's dangerous to think optimistically.
678
679"I think the school gave a few days because they also found it difficult to come to a decision."
680
681The proof we have right now… the only possible key we have is the injuries of the other three.
682
683"Then… they're planning on heavily punishing Sudou-kun, huh."
684
685"Whoever brought it up first has the upper hand. The victim's testimony works as evidence."
686
687"I still don't get it. I'm the victim! This isn't a joke. If I get punished, I won't be able to become a regular for this tournament!"
688
689Those class C boys purposely lost to Sudou to crush his chances. They're trying to stop him from becoming a regular, while bringing down the rest of class D as well. That kind of plan seems likely.
690
691"Let's ask the three class C students to speak honestly. If they feel like what they did is wrong, they'll definitely have feelings of guilt, right?"
692
693"Those guys aren't idiots. They won't speak honestly. Dammit… I won't ever forgive them, those bastards…!"
694
695Picking up the ballpoint pen that was on the table, he snapped it into two. It's not like I don't understand where he's coming from, but that's my ballpoint pen…
696
697"If trying to explain it didn't work, then we'll have to find some actual proof."
698
699"Yea… It would be great if there was evidence that proved that Sudou-kun wasn't at fault…"
700
701If things were that simple, this wouldn't be so difficult. Even then, Sudou couldn't deny it, and started thinking about the situation.
702
703"There might be something. It might just be my misunderstanding, but… When I was fighting with those guys, I felt a strange presence around the area, as if someone was watching."
704
705Even though he wasn't too confident about it, Sudou threw the idea out there.
706
707"So you're saying that there might be an eyewitness?"
708
709"Well, that's what I thought. There's no definite proof."
710
711An eyewitness, huh. If they saw the whole thing, it would be good. But in some cases, it might drive Sudou further into the corner. For example, if they only saw the situation after Sudou started fighting, it might be the final blow for Sudou.
712
713"…What should I do…"
714
715Sudou held his head in his hands. Kushida talked, breaking the heavy silence.
716
717"There are two ways to prove your innocence. The first is to go get the class C boys to admit their lies. Since Sudou-kun wasn't in the wrong, it is probably best to get them to acknowledge it."
718
719That's definitely idealistic.
720
721"Like I said earlier, that's impossible. They won't admit that they lied."
722
723Like he said, they probably won't admit it. If they confessed to the school that they liked about someone else to get them into trouble, they would definitely get suspended.
724
725"And then the other method is find that eyewitness. If someone saw you guys fight, we might be able to look for more evidence for the truth."
726
727Well, this is about the only realistic plan we have.
728
729"How do you plan to look for that eyewitness?"
730
731"Asking people one by one? Or asking each class works too."
732
733"It would be great if someone came forward, but…"
734
735I thought that our discussion had been going for pretty long, so I went to the cupboard. I took out the instant coffee and tea packs that I bought at the convenience store right after school started. Well, Sudou's not very good with coffee, though. After preparing a pot of hot water, I put everything on the table.
736
737"This might be a shameless request, but… can you keep this a secret?"
738
739Taking the cup from the table and blowing on it, Sudou asked us apologetically.
740
741"Eh… a secret…?"
742
743"If rumor of this spreads, it'll make its way to the basketball club. I don't want that to happen. You understand, right?"
744
745"Sudou, even then—"
746
747"Please understand, Ayanokouji. If I can't play basketball, I have nothing left."
748
749He grabbed both of my shoulders and pleaded. Things won't blow over even if the rumors don't spread. If word spreads that he used violence, the basketball club might not let him stay anymore.
750
751"Won't the class C students spread the rumors themselves? It would be convenient for them."
752
753That was what I was thinking about. It wouldn't be strange for them to spread the rumors themselves. As if he was saying "Seriously!?", Sudou held his head in his hands once again.
754
755"What if rumor got out already…?"
756
757"No, for today, the news of the incident probably hasn't spread."
758
759"Why do you think that?"
760
761"If those class C kids spread the rumor already, it would've probably reached us long ago."
762
763The school called in Sudou after school.
764
765Also, there wasn't any word about it during the day.
766
767At least, it hasn't spread widely yet.
768
769"So we're safe for now?"
770
771But how long will that last? Even if you put a gag order on it, it'll become a rumor sooner or later. Before long, it'll be known to the public. Right now, the only thing that's certain is—
772
773"Sudou-kun, you should probably try to stay away from this case."
774
775Kushida, also understanding this, advised Sudou.
776
777"Yea, it'll be bad if the related party tries to do anything."
778
779I replied, agreeing with Kushida's words.
780
781"But, pushing the whole thing onto you guys is—"
782
783"I don't feel like this is being pushed onto us. We just want to help Sudou-kun. I don't know how far we can get, but we'll do our best. Ok?"
784
785"…Alright. I know this is a bother, but I will leave it to you guys."
786
787It seems like he understood that things would get more complicated if he tried to get involved himself.
788
789"Well then, we'll return to our rooms. Sorry for intruding so suddenly."
790
791"Don't worry about it, other than the fact that you made duplicate keys."
792
793Saying "I won't return it", Sudou put his key in his pocket. I should lock the door with a chain from now on…
794
795"Kushida, see you tomorrow."
796
797"Bye-bye, Sudou-kun."
798
799She saw Sudou off, who looked kind of sad. It's only a few rooms over, though.
800
801"Well then. Kushida, are you not going back?"
802
803"I just wanted to ask a few more things about what happened today. You don't seem like you're very enthusiastic to help Sudou-kun."
804
805Kushida looked at me with wavering eyes. I got the sudden urge to hold her hand. I stretched my back and shook off my bad thoughts.
806
807"It's not like that, but there's not much I can do. I can only respond to Sudou's story. If it was Horikita or hirata, they might be able to give some better advice."
808
809"That's probably true, but Sudou-kun came to rely on you. Even more than Horikita-san, Hirata-kun, or even Ike-kun, he entrusted his story to you."
810
811"I don't know if I should be happy or not."
812
813"Fu~n."
814
815I was confused Kushida's eyes turned cold for a split second.
816
817Speaking of which, Kushida once told me that she hated me directly to my face. She always has a gentle smile, so I forget from time to time, but I might get burned once again if it happens one too many times.
818
819"It might better if Ayanokouji-kun makes a bigger effort to blend in with the class."
820
821"Well, I'm more or less trying. It's just that not much has come out of it. This time, I don't have the courage to say that I will help Sudou."
822
823I guess she doesn't think that I worry about not being able to eat lunch with anyone.
824
825I may think that way, but Kushida probably knows that I have trouble.
826
827"Kushida, you're going to help Sudou, right?"
828
829"Of course. We're friends. Ayanokouji-kun, you'll—what are you doing?"
830
831"As I said earlier, talking to either Horikita or Hirata is better, right? Well, Sudou hates Hirata, so Horikita is the obvious choice."
832
833But I don't think that Horikita would have a good idea to solve this problem.
834
835"Will Horikita-san even help?"
836
837"I don't know. We'll have to ask. But she won't idly watch as class D collapses… probably."
838
839I was feeling a bit hesitant. After all, it's Horikita.
840
841"I know you're trying to avoid the question, but Ayanokouji-kun, you'll help too, right?"
842
843She steered the conversation back even though I was trying to change the subject.
844
845"…Is it fine if I'm no help? I'll probably be useless, you know?"
846
847"It won't be like that. You'll be useful somehow."
848
849She didn't say how I would be useful, though.
850
851"What should we starting tomorrow? Sudou-kun said that it would be useless, but I still think that it's a good idea to go talk to the three people he fought. Actually, I'm friends with Komiya-kun and his group. So, we might be able to persuade them. Hmm, is it dangerous…?"
852
853It seemed like Kushida couldn't throw away the option of talking to them.
854
855"The risk is high. Not considering who started the fight, it's the three of them that first brought it up to the school. They have the upper hand in this situation. Also, it wouldn't work. Since it was them, not Sudou, that picked a fight."
856
857There's no easy way to prove to the school that they lied. But if the school knows that they fabricated a lie and told them, class C would get a massive penalty."
858
859"Then, I guess looking for the witness is the way to go."
860
861Even that's pretty difficult. Without any details, it'll be impossible to find an eyewitness. Asking "Did you see something?" is an extraordinary waste of time and effort.
862
863I won't reach a conclusion now, no matter how much I think about this right now.
864
865If any change occurs in the situation, the flow of events might change a bit.