Classroom of the Elite Vol 5+

Jitsuryoku Shijou Shugi no Kyoushitsu e Vol. 5

Prologue

Sudou Ken's Monologue

To be honest, I'm not a proper human being. I don't need someone else to tell me that. I decided to become strong and stand for myself when my mother, who worked in the entertainment business, left me. The small presence of my father's back. He spent every day living somberly as a mere janitor. I felt sick looking at that sight. Being the idiot I am, I gave up on my studies and decided to enter the world of sports. I was into sports like tennis and table tennis at first but they never really clicked with me. I could practice all I wanted, but I could never reach the top ranks in those sports. Then I had my first encounter with basketball.

Normally, I dislike playing with others as a team, but miraculously, I was able to make it work in the case of basketball. That was why my skill with it increased. I even got a recommendation for the high school with one of the best basketball teams in the country. But I got entangled in violent activities, and my application was rejected. And that was when I realized it. That I am scum born from scummy parents. That is why I chose to enter this school instead. A place where I won't have to pay money for education, and a dream school where even my future could be guaranteed---

Chapter 1: Sports Festival Begins

"The surnames of the students divided up in order of the zodiac animals were the key to figuring out the 'target' then".

The location was the table furthest back in the crowded cafe 'Palette'. The close of summer vacation. I, along with Hirata and Karuizawa, and also Horikita, with those bizarre members, surrounded the lunch table. The purpose was to review the shipboard special exam that had taken place in the midst of the summer vacation. We were verifying the answer to the search for the 'target' that took place in mixed teams divided up into groups of the 12 zodiacs.

"The rabbit is the 4th in the zodiac. Ayanokouji-kun, Ichinose-san, Ibuki-san and Karuizawa-san. It would continue in that order".

"I see. If that's the order then I'm the 4th. That's why I was the 'target' then".

As though impressed, Karuizawa nods. But even so, the two girls here, at first glance, should have appeared mismatched but through the existence of Hirata, for some reason, the incompatibility between them was erased. It's a mystery.

"But you know, that rule is extremely simple. Almost anyone could understand it. That means the Dragon group Horikita-san and the others belonged to was the 5th so Kushida-san would have been the 'target', right?"

Having heard the answer, Karuizawa inserted the straw into the pack and sipped milk from it.

"That's right. Certainly, if you know the answer, it's simple. However, to arrive at this answer in the middle of the exam is no easy matter. Just with the three 'targets' in your own class, you won't be able to find proof of the rules that determine the 'targets'".

Including oneselves, if the names of all 3 'targets' for a class were known, it could be said that one would finally begin to see the possibility.

And besides, even if one realizes that the order of the surnames that correspond to the order of the zodiac is how the 'target' is determined, there is still no changing the fact that the first time answering is risky regardless. Because, by some chance, if the wrong answer were to be given, one would incur a considerable amount of damage.

Of course, if one wins the bet, then it's possible to overturn everything in one stroke.

"What worries me is Class C. I think during the middle of the exam, Ryuuen-kun discovered the rules".

Hirata's conjecture is most probably spot on. If that's not the case, he would not have been able to do all that.

"But, isn't it strange? If that's the case, why did he make a mistake?".

"I was also uneasy about that too. Even though there was a massive risk involved, if he understood the rules then ultimately it wouldn't have been strange even if he had seen through all the 'targets'. In other words, there should have been no mistake".

However, judging from the situation, Class C gave a wrong answer. Horikita then voiced her deduction she had made from a slightly different perspective.

"Even if Class C is seemingly dominated by Ryuuen-kun, couldn't it be that it's not monolithic? There should be more than a few people dissatisfied with his dictatorship".

"Certainly, that's true. The right to answer is given to all students, so students who did not comply with Ryuuen-kun's plan or those he failed to control making a blunder. That line of thought cannot be ruled out either. If they gave a correct answer, they stand to gain a massive amount of points after all".

The conjectures of Horikita and Hirata follow a good line of thought. However, it's also a fact that one cannot say that for certain. As for why, if there was a traitor, Ryuuen would thoroughly root out that individual.

Even if they deleted the mail and overcame that, if it's him, he might even go as far as to check their private points.

"What do you think about this, Ayanokouji-kun?".

Due to such an act from Horikita, both Hirata and Karuizawa turned their eyes towards me. I ended up unconsciously choking from that overconcentrated gaze on me.

"I don't know, I have no clue at all".

As I said that to deceive them, perhaps they lost interest in me in one stroke but their gazes scattered away.

But since Karuizawa alone was still looking at me, I returned her gaze and after a slight delay, she averted her eyes.

"Either way, right now our first priority is to establish this relationship. It makes me happy that I'm able to talk like this with Horikita-san and Ayanokouji-kun".

Up until now, Horikita had not wanted to hold the discussion Hirata had desired. However, after the end of the special exam for the two of them, it probably meant that changes have begun to appear in Horikita's mindset. From being cornered herself, she's begun to realize the fact that she cannot fight alone.

"It can't be helped, right? The zodiac exam was a special one where you absolutely cannot overcome it alone. If this can be predicted to be the same in the future too, a certain degree of connection will become necessary".

That seems to be the biggest factor behind Horikita changing her mind. However, that is correct. There is a limit to fighting alone in solitude. From now on too, one can expect many small trials from society that one cannot fight against alone.

"But even so, you successfully managed to escape Ryuuen-kun's grip".

Unlike Horikita's team, Karuizawa who was the 'target' of a different group, brilliantly managed to overcome the exam without having her identity be discovered. The indirect benefits that brought to Class D are by no means small.

"Well, I suppose. I have a surprisingly good poker face. Right, Yousuke-kun?".

Clinging to Hirata's arm, Karuizawa smiled with upturned eyes. It was almost unbelievable that the relationship between those two had once soured. It's beyond my interest whether or not this is just an act or not though.

"It was because before Ryuuen could answer, someone else gave the wrong answer after all. It was thanks to that".

But since when did she start calling Hirata by his first name?...Yousuke. I'd like to call him that too for a bit but it's impossible. Hirata and Karuizawa, it may be a new relationship created from the complicated situation between those two. Hirata returned Karuizawa's smile, then turned towards Horikita.

"I have a proposal to make, would that be ok?".

In response to Hirata's proposal, Horikita persisted in remaining silent without answering. It's an expression of her intention of wanting him to speak.

"Firstly, in order to bring the class together as one I'd like to bring Kushida-san into the fold. I think she will be able to supplement the four of us in parts we cannot compensate for. Starting with Ike-kun and Yamauchi-kun, there are few people capable of bringing the majority of the boys together as one, you see".

Indeed, it may very well be that the one qualified to rein in the students of that sort is Kushida. However, I don't know whether or not Horikita will easily greenlight that. From enrollment up until now, the relationship between those two was constantly bad.

"Unnecessary. I won't deny it in the sense that she is capable of controlling them, but it's something we can do on our own. For that purpose, I've reached out to you and Karuizawa-san. If the two of you will lend your power, then this problem can be beaten. It may be a different story if you prove uncooperative like a certain someone though".

She looked at me with a side glance. What a rude person.

"Certainly, if it's Ayanokouji-kun, he may not follow our lead".

The two of them, with the exception of Hirata, nodded in agreement.

"It's a big misunderstanding if you think of me as the uncooperative one. For lengthy things, I'm just one amongst the crowd obediently falling into line. Truly, I'm a person you can control like you said yourself. In other words, I'm a person with a small presence".

"The ones who claim to be people with a small presence are the ones who aren't so. That is one answer".

"Then are you a person with a small presence?".

"Me? There's no way I could possibly be a person with a small presence, right? Do you mind not mocking me?".

".....s-sure".

At this point, it was a flow that couldn't be considered as anything other than sketch comedy but it doesn't seem at all like Horikita was telling a joke. It's incredibly difficult to judge whether or not she's playing the fool but without a doubt, she's probably being serious.

1

As for the afternoon class, it has become a 2 hour long homeroom. When the instructor for Class D, Chabashira-sensei, arrived, she began to explain indifferently.

"From today the classes will resume again. However, in the 2nd semester, from September to the start of October for a period of one month, in anticipation for the sports festival, there will be increased physical education classes. Keep that in mind for the distribution of the new timetables. And also, along with the timetables, material regarding the sports festival will also be distributed. The students from the front will distribute the printouts to the back".

The moment they heard the word sports festival, screams rose up from a part of the class. Of course there are students who are anticipating the arrival of the event but there are also plenty of students who feel antipathy towards an event that is focused mainly on sports.

"Once again, the school's HP will be presenting the same details as the printouts. If necessary, remember to use it as reference".

"Sensei, is this also one of the special exams?".

As the class representative, after raising his hand, Hirata asked that question.

'Obviously that's the case' was the reply everyone had thought would come back but.....

"You lot are free to interpret it however you want. Either way, there's no mistaking the fact that it will have a massive influence on each and every class".

Saying that, Chabashira-sensei opted for a vague answer that was neither an affirmation or a repudiation. From the unathletic students, a further scream arose. If this were a normal school, it would have been possible for them to hold back on or skip it entirely as they wish, but since this is an event on which the fate of the class rests even if they happened to be unathletic they simply avoid it.

"Sha".

On the other hand, a portion of students who had confidence in their athleticism like Sudou were in high spirits as though saying 'this is it'. It could be said that for them, this is the first exam in which they can contribute to the class other than intellectually.

"Ayanokouji-kun, here---".

In the midst of the surroundings that were becoming restless, Horikita, who had been reading the material bit by bit, noticed something and pointed to the printout.

I too, turned over the page and checked that part. And when I did, what was written there was unexpectedly the examination system. It was only for a moment, but I felt as though Chabashira-sensei had looked at me.

"There are probably already those who have seen through it and noticed but this sports festival has adopted the method of dividing all school years into two separate groups and have them compete against each other. You lot in Class D have been assigned to the Red Team. And Class A too, will be competing in the same Red Team. For the duration of this sports festival, it means Class A will be your allies".

Class B and Class C were part of the White Team and the sports festival will be the Red Team vs. the White Team.

"Woah, seriously? It'll actually be something like that!?".

It couldn't be helped that Ike would be surprised. Regardless of whether it was a written exam or a special exam, the basic idea was that it was a fight between separate classes. He must have assumed this stance wouldn't break. By the way, what would a complete team battle be? It would be a different form of cooperation than the previous shipboard special exam. On top of that, it would be a cooperative battle that goes beyond school years. The dweller beside me was pretending to be calm, but inside, she must have been panicking.

Her brother, Horikita Manabu, belongs to Class A of the 3rd years. Depending on the circumstances, we may have to hold talks with him.

"At last it's an opportunity for you to make contact with him, huh?".

"...don't talk about that here".

Just by lightly touching on that, she got angry. Apparently, I made a verbal slip and Horikita glares at me. The sharp pencil glinting at the tip she's gripping in her hands is ominous so I'd like her to stop it.

"First of all, look over the outcomes that can come of the sports festival. I don't feel like explaining many times over so make sure to listen up well this once".

Chabashira-sensei taps the printout while explaining the vital checkpoints.

Lending my ears to her, I simultaneously dropped my gaze down to the printout. What was written there is as follows.

(Rules and Groupings of the Sports Festival)

The sports festival's competitive system is built upon dividing all school years between the Red Team and the White Team.

The classification will be Class A and Class D in the Red Team. The White Team will consist of Class B and Class C.

• Allocation of points for all participants in the competitions (Individual Contests)

Depending on the results 1st place 15 points, 2nd place 12 points, 3rd place 10 points, 4th place 8 points will be allocated.

1 point each will be deducted for placing lower than 5th place. In the case of team competitions the winning team will be allocated 500 points.

• Allocation of points for participants of recommended competitions

Depending on the results 1st place 50 points, 2nd place 30 points, 3rd place 15 points, 4th place 10 points will be allocated.

2 points each will be deducted for placing lower than 5th place (The relay which will be the final contest will be awarding 3 times the points)

• The impact of the outcome of Red Team vs. White Team

From the totality of all the school years the losing team will have 100 points equally subtracted from their class points across all school years.

• The impact of separate ordering of school years

From the total count the class that takes 1st place will be awarded 50 class points.

From the total count the class that takes 2nd place will not have any change to their class points.

From the total count the class that takes 3rd place will have 50 class points subtracted.

From the total count the class that takes 4th place will have 100 class points subtracted.

"It's a simple matter, it means it's necessary to compete by going all out without letting your guard down. Because the penalty that the losing team incurs is by no means a light one".

Certainly to have 100 class points be subtracted is a huge matter, but there are several other points I'm worried about too.

"Umm, sensei. How many points does the winning team get? There seems to be no mention of that".

In response to that simple questioning from Hirata, Chabashira-sensei utters a single, cruel word.

"Nothing. Only that there will be no minus to their points".

Uge, are you serious? That doesn't sound good at all".

Pandemonium. It couldn't be helped that the class would become restless. Up until now, in exchange for the huge risks, there was also an unfathomable compensation that had been prepared. In this sports festival, that could barely be seen at all.

"Remember the class-specific points have also been properly calculated so keep that in mind too. Even if Class A leaps forward into action and the Red Team you lot belong to wins, in the case where the total count of Class D happens to be the lowest ranking, you will still be incurring a 100 point penalty".

In other words, even if we enjoy ourselves and our team happens to win, rather than make a profit we would in fact lose out. What this setup means is 'to fight with all of one's power and not let up' and that is the emphasis here.

But even if we say that, even if Class D alone goes into action it's still pointless. Even if by separate school years we take 1st place and receive 50 points if we lose to the White Team it will still mean a 100 point loss. On top of losing, if we end up placing 4th place then in total it would be a penalty of 200 points. On the premise that the Red Team will win, Class D must also contribute majorly. Looking at it like this, it can be seen that it's far stricter than the other exams but at least something like a special bonus is also within sight.

• Individual Competition Rewards (May be used in the next midterm exam)

For students placing 1st in the individual competitions 5000 private points or the equivalent of 3 marks in a written exam will be awarded (in the case that the marks are chosen endowing another individual with them will not be permitted).

For students placing 2nd in the individual competitions 3000 private points or the equivalent of 2 marks in a written exam will be awarded (in the case that the marks are chosen endowing another individual with them will not be permitted).

For students placing 3rd in the individual competitions 1000 private points or the equivalent of 1 mark in a written exam will be awarded (in the case that the marks are chosen endowing another individual with them will not be permitted).

For students ranking the lowest in the individual competitions 1000 private points will be subtracted. (In the case that the points in the student's possession are lower than 1000 they will incur a loss of 1 mark in a written exam instead).

• Regarding Foul Play

Remember to comply with the rules of each competition on top of perusing the rules. The violators will be treated in the same manner as disqualification.

Those acting with malicious intent may be withdrawn. The expropriation of points acquired by those individuals up until then will be considered as well.

• Best Performing Student Reward

For the student who receives the highest score across all competitions 100,000 private points will be awarded.

• Best Performing Student Reward For Individual Classes

For the 3 students of each school year who have received the highest scores across all competitions will receive 10,000 private points individually.

Although it is unfavorable compared to the previous exams until now, a broad range of privileges have been properly prepared from the difficult ones to the easier ones. And what needs to be paid particular attention to are the merits and demerits of the reward for the individual competitions. Information that we have never heard up until now have been added to them.

"S-Sensei! These privileges you get when you come in at 1st place and 2nd place! What do you mean you can receive marks for written exams with them!?".

Right away, Ike requests an explanation of the details from Chabashira-sensei at the front.

Perhaps that was strange but Chabashira-sensei unusually lets out a slight laugh.

"It's exactly what you think it is, Ike. From the prizes you win at the sports festival, you can acquire marks you can use to supplement your written exams. In particular, you're bad at English and Mathematics, right? It means the marks you've acquired can be used in any way you like. For each mark you acquire it just means it'll be incredibly useful for your next test".

It couldn't be helped if they became restless from that but for those students whose sole speciality happens to be sports, screams of delight also rose up. If they spring into action in the sports festival and acquire marks, they can use them to supplement their scores in the case that they get failing grades later. In other words, it means the possibility of them evading expulsion had risen.

Looking at it from the perspective of students who are skirting the failing grade, it could truly be described as a situation they have been waiting for.

It isn't a huge blessing for honor students like Hirata and the others but for that, even if unnecessary they can still simply acquire private points. Ultimately, either way there's no mistaking the fact that it's a reward to be grateful for.

Even leaving the 3 Idiots aside, there are more than a few students who feel anxious regarding their academic abilities. Since in regards to the written exams, the ultimate penalty of expulsion awaits, it seems they cannot afford to let their guard down at all.

However, for such a nice story obviously there is a flip side to it.

• After completion of all competitions, within a school year a total count of all points will be conducted and the bottom 10 individuals will be penalized

Since the penalties will differ based on each school year remember to confirm with the instructor in charge.

Such troublesome contents were also written at the bottom of it.

"Sensei, what kind of penalty is this going to be?".

"For you 1st years the penalty imposed will be a score deduction on your next written exam. The bottom 10 students score-wise will be receiving a deduction of 10 marks so beware of that. As for how the deduction of scores will be applied, that will be explained as the next written exam draws near so I won't be taking any questions on that here. Again, the announcement of the bottom 10 will be conducted similarly and will be announced on the occasion of the explanation regarding the written exam".

"Geeeeh!?!? Seriously!?".

In other words, if Ike happened to place at the bottom of his school year then on the next written exam it would mean that he would have a further 10 marks deducted from him on top of skirting the failing grade. It would probably mean he has to face a considerably difficult exam.

Having received a brief explanation on that matter, next up would be checking the details of the competitions coming up in the sports festival.

In dividing up the events that will be held during the sports festival into categories they can be split up between 'Universal Participation' and 'Recommended Only Participation'. Universal Participation is, literally, an event where all the students of a class participate.

The individual 100 meter sprint is also like that, and group competitions such as tug of war also fall under this category.

On the other hand, Recommended Only Participation means a competition where only the students selected from their respective classes participate. They say 'recommendation' but as long as the class can come to an agreement even a self-recommendation will suffice. It won't matter even if a single individual participates in multiple Recommended Only Participation contests.

The point is, it's an event that's decided through discussion. The contents of this are the scavenger hunt, the mixed gender three-legged race and the 1200 meter relay.

It can be expected that the most eminent and talented individuals will be participating. In this sports festival, since the rise and fall of the points will be determined purely by the results the rules are also overwhelmingly simple.

However, the composite nature of the points for the team competitions and the individual competitions is unusually troublesome. Being cautious of the enemies here, Class B and Class C, is obvious but in addition, it is also necessary to keep an eye on the ally, Class A, too.

In theory we'll be helping each other out but in order to come out on top in the total count of each school year's points, it is necessary to ensure one's own class can occupy the top spots in each competition as much as possible. The uninhabited island and the shipboard cases both, too, were set up so that it would not be possible to complete them simply.

"The events that will be held during the sports festival and their details are all exactly as described on the printouts. There will be no changes at all to them".

"Ugege, this is really hard! It's nothing like middle school!".

• Universal Participation Events

100 meter dash

Hurdle race

Capture-the-flag (Boys Only)

Ball-toss game (Girls Only)

Tug of war divided by gender

Obstacle course race

Three-legged race

Cavalry battle

200 meter dash

• Recommended Only Participation Events

Scavenger hunt

Omnidirectional tug of war

Mixed gender three-legged race

3 school years mixed 1200 meter relay

A grand lineup of 13 competitions. The numbering indicates in which order the competitions will be held. Apparently the dissatisfaction is due to the large number of Universal Participation events being held.

"Normally it should only be 3 or 4 events, that a single person does! More importantly, is it even possible to do them in a single day?".

"I'm grateful for your concern but the school side has also naturally taken it into consideration. There will be no cheerleading or dancing or coordinated group gymnastics amongst the events. At the very most, in the sports festival you will only be competing in terms of stamina and athleticism".

The resistance of the unathletic students also proved fruitless as they were simply dealt with like that.

"And also of utmost importance is the fact that there is something called a participation table here. On the participation table the details of all events are described. You lot will be using this participation table to decide amongst yourselves in which order you will be participating and record it down and an outsider, that is me, will submit it for you. Since I believe no middle school has adopted a system like this, I'd like you to be careful so as to not make a mistake".

"To decide what order on our own, how far can we decide...?".

A question from Hirata that is an obvious one. Since it was obvious, the response from Chabashira-sensei was also quick.

"Everything. All the competitions that will be held on the day of the sports festival, up to who runs in which group, all of it will be decided by you lot through discussion. After the deadline for decisions, no matter what the reason, any further changes will not be permitted. That is the vital rule of the sports festival. The submission window will be between 1 week prior to the sports festival and 5 pm of the day before the festival. If you end up exceeding the submission time limit then in that case, you will be randomly allocated so be cautious".

So it means it's a sports festival where we have to think up the strategies ourselves, think and win. It's clear that when it comes to the sports festival, the existence of the participation table might as well be called the lifeline of the class itself.

"I have a question to ask, would be that fine, Chabashira-sensei?".

Having silently listened up until now, Horikita raised her hand.

"Ask away as much as you want. Now is the time, after all".

Looking on at that, Chabashira-sensei lightly laughs. Both Hirata and Horikita, to a certain extent, understand the mechanism behind this school. It's because they understand that asking questions to the utmost of their ability here will be for future's sake. Especially because it's now, while there is still presently no effect on the points, that all existing doubts should be resolved.

It's because there is a possibility that on the day of the sports festival itself, if we ask questions about this and that, she might be unable to answer anymore or it might already be too late.

"There is the fact that once the decided participation table has been accepted, no further changes will be permitted but on that day of the festival, if there is an absentee what should we do? If it happened to be an individual competition then in accordance with the description it will be treated as an absence but for group competitions....in particular, for the cavalry battle and three-legged race that will be taking place with multiple people, if even only a single person were to be missing then the competition itself won't work".

"Regarding the Universal Participation contests, in the case that you fall short of the bare minimum amount of people necessary and vacancies appear, you will be marked as unfit to continue and you will be disqualified. In the cavalry battle you mentioned, it would mean you would be unable to form 1 horse. As a result, you will have to have your showdown under the condition of having one horseman missing. The three-legged race is the same too. It would be wise of you to choose a healthy and strong student as your partner".

Shared destiny. It's vital to choose a student who excels in athletics, and in the same vein, it's also precious to ensure you team up with a comrade who's healthy and uninjured.

"However, there are exemptions in place as relief measures. In regards to the main star of the sports festival, the Recommended Only Participation events, it is permitted to utilize a substitute. However, if you go around choosing substitutes freely then the participation table itself will become meaningless and in the most extreme cases, you'll end up using lies to prepare your own substitutes. As a result, we have established special conditions. In exchange for setting up a substitute, it has been decided that you will be paying points as compensation".

So they mean to have us pay a price to prevent acts of cheating.

"Adding onto that I'd like to ask but even if your health breaks down or you sustain a heavy injury, if the person in question themselves wishes for it they could be allowed to continue without being substituted? Or would it mean having to see the doctor?".

"Basically we leave that up to the students to autonomously decide on their own. Because self-management will become indispensable once you enter society. On the day of a vital conference, just because you have a fever doesn't mean you can simply take a break. It may become necessary to struggle and keep up the appearance of being fine".

Basically the point seems to be that even if we end up sick, in the name of self-responsibility we cannot simply stop participating.

"But even so, if your condition gets to the point you cannot even be a spectator then you would have no choice but to stop though".

"I understand. Then, for that substitute, how many points would be necessary?".

"100,000 private points per competition. You're free to see it as expensive or cheap as you wish".

".....I see. Thank you".

It's not an amount we cannot afford but neither is it a cheap one.

However, depending on the circumstances, we must take into consideration that a substitute may become necessary.

"If there are no more questions forthcoming then I'll be ending this talk".

She looks around the classroom. A number of students looked as though they were feeling doubtful and glancing at each other as well as talking in hushed tones but they did not move to ask Chabashira-sensei.

"The next period will be moved to the first gymnasium and you will be meeting students from different classes and different school years. That is all".

Checking the time, Chabashira-sensei mentioned that there is still time left for the homeroom.

"There is still 20 minutes of study time remaining, you are free to use that remaining time as you wish. You're free to either chat away or have a serious discussion".

Since with the authority of the teacher, permission had been given, the suppressed silence exploded all at once. Individual groups formed up and they began to talk about the sports festival on their own. Gathered under Horikita was Sudou as well as Ike and Yamauchi.

"Horikita. Let's talk about how we'll overcome the sports festival".

"I agree, I agree. Let's think about a way to snatch 1st place~".

Horikita, who was watching the men swarming around her like it was somebody else's business, sighed deeply .

"I wonder why only people like this come to me....".

"It's a sad reality, isn't it?".

'Absolutely right', even as Horikita said that it seems she's intent on thinking about it seriously as she opened up her notebook.

"Fine. First of all, I'll hear out your opinions".

"Ok, ok!".

The one who enthusiastically raised his hands right away was Ike. Horikita pointed the tip of her pen at him and urged him to speak.

"I'd like to have fun and win!".

"I cannot acknowledge that as an opinion. Do you mind cutting out the low-level remarks?".

She cuts him off short. Well, it couldn't be helped even if Ike's hopes were cut short.

"There is a way for Class D to win".

The one who confidently opened his mouth was Sudou.

"I'm not expecting anything but I'll hear you out".

"I don't know about Universal Participation but you know, I'll be participating in every recommended only contest. If I do that, we'll win".

Sudou, who had more confidence than anyone else when it comes to athletics, insisted on that.

"The level of the remark itself was on the same level as Ike-kun's but while simple, it's a surefire way. Even within the class, you stand out as someone who excels in athletics after all. It's not a bad idea for you to participate in all recommended only contests. Even if the same individual participates multiple times there's no problem as far as the rules are concerned".

I also agreed, but it seems Ike and Yamauchi were dissatisfied with it as they voiced their criticisms.

"We also want our own chances. I mean, if we place within the first 3 places then we can get points that way".

"Are you saying you'll do that even if it lowers the chances of the class winning?".

"No, I mean that's true but.....we want lots of chances or how should I put it...".

"When it comes to recommended only contests usually the athletic people are the ones who participate. It's impossible for you, Kanji".

"You don't know that, right? There's also such a thing as coincidence, you know. It should be fair".

"From now on, discussion regarding the class is unnecessary I suppose.....".

Even if she was able to argue down Ike here, anticipating that there would be more students within the class who think similarly to Ike, Horikita said that. However, this time around, it seems that remark got Sudou all fired up.

"The athletic ones will participate as many times as they want. That's first priority, right? You're being naive, Suzune".

I understand well what Sudou wishes to say. Horikita is also not rejecting it. Even from the perspective of honor students who are simply good at their studies, a student like Sudou taking action in the sports festival would be ideal.

If a student like Sudou who is in constant risk of receiving a failing grade manages to acquire a bonus here there'd be no problem. However, if you ask if the entire class will reach a consensus then it's not that simple of a matter. Because the privilege acquired from winning a prize here would be all the more attractive to students with low academic ability. For those students who are constantly at risk of being expelled, they would want it so badly hands would leap out of their throats.

"I'm intending on supporting your desire to participate in all events. However, that doesn't mean that I will unreservedly back your participation in all contests".

"What do you mean?"

"Stamina is not an unlimited resource. If you consecutively participate then naturally it will be exhausted. Consecutive victories are a difficult thing".

"But even so it's still better than leaving it to unathletic people, right? Even if I'm tired, I can still perform better than those guys".

Looking at the boys, including me, with a glance, Sudou laughs scornfully. Ike and the others seem frustrated but they cannot argue against it.

"Even if we continue this discussion here an answer won't be forthcoming. Let's decide it at the next homeroom".

Horikita, having determined that further progress won't be happening here, said that as she quickly ended the discussion.

2

During our second homeroom period it has been decided that students across all school years would be having a meeting. Over 400 people, including instructors and students, gathered in the gymnasium. The entire student body from the 1st years up to the 3rd years divided up between the Red Team and the White Team. Horikita seemed restless as she looked around at her surroundings. She is probably looking for her brother, Horikita Manabu, who serves as this school's student council president. However, the location is unfavorable. If this many people are present, even if she knows which class he belongs to, it would be difficult to spot him.

And besides, perhaps she's worried about causing her brother trouble, but she seemed to be restraining herself with a reserved gaze and as such her field of vision seemed narrowed.

If she loves her brother that much, I think it would be better for her to act more boldly though. But for Horikita that is probably a task far more difficult and impossible for her to perform than anything else.

Looking back at it now, she's never gone to meet her brother yet even once. All of their contacts have been initiated by him. As the assembled students began causing a ruckus, a few students stepped forward. Everyone's eyes turned towards them.

"I am Fujimaki from Class A of the 3rd years. It has been decided that I will be taking charge of the Red Team for this event".

Apparently it doesn't seem like Horikita's brother is taking charge here. I had thought he would be taking charge of everything since he is the student council president but that doesn't seem to be the case.

But then if so, that makes me curious as to what exactly he does do.

"First of all, I'll be giving the 1st years an advice. This may be unnecessary to a portion of you, but I'd like you to keep in mind how critically important this sports festival is. The experience you will gain from the sports festival will definitely be made use of on a different occasion as well. In future exams as well, there will be times when parts of it feel like games to you. However, each and every last one of them are battles on which you bet your survival in this school".

From the senior students such ambiguous yet appreciated words of advice came.

"Since you don't have a feel for it yet maybe you might not be motivated right now. But since we're doing it anyways we'll be aiming to win, hold strongly onto that feeling. That alone is something everyone should keep in mind".

Having said those weighted words, Fujimaki looked around at the Red Team once before continuing.

"The only event in which all the school years will be participating in is the 1200 meter relay at the end. Other than that, all the other events will have the school years divided up. After this, please assemble according to your school years and discuss your strategy going forward".

Following Fujimaki's words, Class A led by Katsuragi began to assemble in droves.

Class D seems to be wavering slightly. They were feeling nervous towards the gathering of those elites. In the 1st semester too, Class A's grades were overwhelming and no one else could even come close to them.

"It seems we'll be forming a united front in a bizarre manner but let's get along. If possible, I'm thinking we could join forces without any quarrels amongst teammates".

"I feel the same way too, Katsuragi-kun. Let's get along".

Standing at a close distance to one another, Katsuragi and Hirata both declare their intention to cooperate.

Looking at it from Class A's perspective, there are no benefits in teaming up with the lowest class, Class D. However, unless cooperation is established, teammates would end up pulling each other's legs. Rather than trusting each other like siblings, it would be more appropriate to say a pact is made so as to prevent disputes.

"Hey, what's up with that girl...?".

Beside me, Ike softly whispered that. But it's not like I don't understand his urge to whisper that. I feel the same, and even Horikita probably does too. A single student from Class A felt out of place here.

But no one spoke out. Because it didn't feel like the time to do so.

"I believe each class has their individual strategies but---".

Regardless of whether or not he had noticed such a mysterious gaze and feeling from Class D, Katsuragi indifferently continued to speak as the inside of the gymnasium once again became rowdy.

"So are you saying you have no intention of cooperating?".

From slightly afar, a girl's voice reverberated through the gymnasium. Everyone's eyes turned towards her to see what was happening. That voice belonged to 1st year Class B's Ichinose Honami. Beyond her gaze, a class worth of students were making a move to leave the gymnasium. Among them, a single student who was walking with his hands in his pockets, turned around. It's Class C's leader Ryuuen Kakeru.

"You do know I'm leaving out of goodwill, right? Even if I offered to cooperate it's not like you guys would believe me anyways. Ultimately it'll end up as a thorough investigation right? If that's the case, it's just a waste of time".

"I see. So you were thinking of saving us time. I see".

"That's precisely right. You'd better be grateful".

Laughing, Ryuuen began walking out with all the students of Class C in tow.

It was a scene that confirmed to us that there are no disruptions to the dictatorship of Class C.

"Hey, Ryuuen-kun. Are you confident you can win this time without cooperating?".

To the bitter end, it seems Ichinose is intent on cooperating with Ryuuen, as she tries pulling him back.

But Ryuuen did not stop walking.

"Kuku. I wonder".

Laughing slightly, the entire student body of Class C began leaving under his command. Class D did nothing but watch that from afar, but just a moment, Karuizawa's expression turned gloomy.

That could not be helped.

During the shipboard exam that took place before the summer vacation, she had fought with the girls from Class C, Manabe and her group. Due to that, her past of 'having been bullied' was revealed. But the only ones who know of that conflict are me and Yukimura. And since said Yukimura's knowledge of it does not extend to her past of having been bullied, it's not anything I'd need to pay special attention to.

For just a brief moment, Manabe turned towards Class D and looked at Karuizawa. But only for the briefest of moments. She immediately averted her eyes and as though nothing had happened, followed Ryuuen.

"They seem to be having problems of their own. To think they'd have to cooperate with Class C".

It's not like Class D could simply be taken charge of either, but it's still better than Class C I suppose.

It was also a scene that once again served as a reminder that Ryuuen held his entire class's right to decide in his hands. Looking at that, Katsuragi gives Horikita an advice.

"Since we're allies with you guys from Class D this time I'll give you a warning. Don't underestimate Ryuuen. He can laugh while sliding up to you and leap to attack without warning. You'll suffer severely if you let your guard down".

"I'm grateful for your warning, but from the way you said it I wonder if it comes from your personal experience".

"...I have warned you".

Not going into depth about it, Katsuragi returns to his initial position.

"I wonder if that means he's made a move this early".

A single student from our camp who was staring out at Class B and Class C, whispered that. It was from the girl who conspicuously stood out here that I was curious about earlier.

It was a girl sitting all alone with downcast eyes. In her hands she was gripping a slender cane. No matter who looks at her, the fact that she has trouble walking would have clearly been conveyed.

"She is Sakayanagi Arisu. Since she is disabled she'll be utilizing a chair, I'd like you to understand".

The one who offered an explanation was not the person in question herself, but rather, Katsuragi.

"So that is Sakayanagi.....".

It's the other leader of Class A who, according to rumors, split up Class A's forces between herself and Katsuragi.

Her body was slender to the point one could almost be convinced as to why she was absent during the journey to the uninhabited island, and since her legs were not in a good condition she's sitting in a specially prepared chair.

Even as the gazes of her surroundings ended up being focused on that figure of hers, she herself showed no signs of paying any heed to them.

Is her somewhat short hair dyed or not? It's silver. It's become a strong distinguishing feature of hers. Her skin is pale. It seems her name is Arisu, and truly, it almost feels like she came straight from Wonderland.

"She's real cute.....".

It couldn't be helped even if the boys of Class D caused an uproar like that. A cuteness different from Kushida's and Sakura's, a different kind of beauty. That ephemeral figure of hers invokes feelings of wanting to protect her.

But the boys could not muster up the usual air of joking around and do something like call out to her.

Perhaps it was the strength in her eyes that, no matter how faintly, gave off the feeling of a strong will in her. They may have felt that if they drew close to her, something bad would have happened. Having realized she was bathing in their attention, Sakayanagi gently smiled.

"As for me, it is unfortunate, but I will not be of much use to you. I will be losing every competition due to absence".

A faint, yet strong will.

She apologizes for the weakness of her body.

"I will end up inconveniencing my class and Class D both. For that, first of all please allow me to apologize".

"I don't think it's anything to apologize for. No one's going to be hounding you on that after all".

Starting with Hirata down to Sudou, nobody said a word of complaint regarding that to the girl. Nobody attacked her for something that just could not be helped.

"The school is also being harsh. From the start, if her body cannot handle it they should have overlooked it".

"That's right, don't mind it".

"I am most grateful for your kindness".

Contrary to her reputation, Sakayanagi appeared to be overwhelmingly polite and mature. She did not even slightly give off the impression of being the aggressive type as the rumors say. On the other hand, her opposition, Katsuragi, kept on quietly looking at Sakayanagi with a side glance. However, the reason the student known as Sakayanagi had a strong presence was neither because of her cane nor her chair.

From the perspective of Ike and the others who don't know anything, it must have only appeared as though Class A and Class D were sitting separate of each other. However, from my perspective, it was clear from a glance. The students of Class A were clearly sitting as though there was a demarcation line between Katsuragi and Sakayanagi.

It was evidence of the factional conflict within Class A. The Katsuragi faction, at first, appeared equal if not superior to the other faction, but now not even a glimpse of that could be seen.

It was because a few boys and girls, including Yahiko, stood by Katsuragi while almost every other student was in Sakayanagi's faction. It made me think she was deliberately causing this scenario so as to show off her own power.

Sakayanagi herself did not participate in either the uninhabited island exam or the shipboard exam. No such declaration was made but there is plenty of possibility that she received massive penalties for absence during the shipboard special exam. In other words, she was created a situation where her allies continue to grow in number without her having had to produce any results herself. This isn't a matter of whether her appearance is cute or not. In all likelihood, unknown to us, Sakayanagi must have been accumulating accomplishments of her own and building trust in her. Besides, Katsuragi's own failures at the very least had an impact on it too.

It's not like I know the circumstances of other classes but basically, Katsuragi is someone who executes solid strategies. He doesn't seem like the type to continuously make simple mistakes but perhaps this girl is involved in his failures. Either way, Sakayanagi apologized for the shortcomings of her own body and showed no further signs of speaking afterwards.

Almost as though she were observing the actions and behaviors of Katsuragi and Hirata and the others. Maybe I'm overthinking it? It may just be that she's remaining silent after understanding that she won't be of any use during the sports festival. All I know right now is that even if I think about it, no answer would be forthcoming.

Katsuragi may or may not have noticed it, but he continues his conversation with Hirata to confirm each other's strategies.

"By the way, about our cooperative relationship, I'm thinking a relationship where we don't interfere with each other would be fine. You don't mind, do you?".

"In other words, you mean you won't share the details of the competitions you'll be participating in?".

"That's right. If we announce them clumsily it may lead to unnecessary problems. If information about that were to leak to Class C or Class B it would cause suspicion towards Class D and end up causing disruptions to our cooperation. Besides, having to analyze the capabilities of our ally Class D and taking all that into account would only be adding to the troubles. At best, we'll only be cooperating and fighting together. I've judged that this is optimal".

".....that may be so. I do understand that this is a school where it's difficult to establish a relationship in good faith, Katsuragi-kun. Also, even though we're allies in the sense that we're a group, there's no change to the fact that we'll still be competing against each other after all".

Hirata then confirms with the rest of the class whether they have any objections towards this. There were no objections.

Neither class could suddenly trust each other and reveal all their cards to the other.

If that's going to be the case, keeping an appropriate distance would be the safest. It seems Horikita too, is convinced as she did not say anything.

"Then again, it is a fact that we will need to hold a meeting beforehand in the case of group competitions. Regarding that, in the future I'd like to do something similar, you don't mind do you?".

"No, I think that's fine. I'll have a discussion with everyone too".

"Then I'll leave that to you".

The conversation between those two was straight to the point and without any waste of time. It seems like it'd go smoothly.

"Ayanokouji-kun. What kind of methods do you think are there if we want to win in this special exam?".

On the other hand, Horikita was trying to point out guidelines for the sports festival on her own.

"This time is the sports festival. All the school is trying to see here are the presence or absence of athletic abilities.....don't you think so?".

"In theory of course that's correct. I'm interpreting it as a competition ordered according to ability. If there's a factor other than athleticism affecting the results then wouldn't that just be luck?".

"Luck, huh?".

It sounded like an unbefitting remark to me but certainly that may be an aspect of this.

"Unlike studies, the opponents we will be competing against are chosen randomly after all. As a factor, it plays a huge role".

As a matter of fact, there is an aspect of this sports festival where the results can be influenced by how lucky you get with your team. Normally, even Horikita who is capable of beating 80% of the opponents here, will end up losing if she happens to draw the remaining 20% composed of formidable opponents. And on the opposite extreme, someone unathletic who can only beat 10% of the opponents here, if they happen to be pitted against someone even more unathletic than them, may just yet win.

"But what I'm seeking isn't something uncertain like that. I want something certain. Using athleticism as a basis, a method that doesn't purely rely on luck. There were infinite possibilities during the uninhabited island and shipboard special exams.....I feel that way now. But this time too, surely---".

Either from the severe mistakes made so far, or from the failures made so far, but right now I could see Horikita becoming even more obsessed with victory.

"Hey, what do you think the big difference is this time compared to the exams on the uninhabited island and the ship?".

".....difference? I think it's the same kind of special exam".

"Indeed I won't deny it's similar. However, the school side absolutely won't acknowledge it as being the same".

"I don't understand what you're saying. Because there's the cooperative relationship this time with Class A? But even on the ship groups were formed with different classes and an inexplicable team battle happened too....".

"That's not it. In the first place, the basic premise is different".

Towards my reserved way of speaking, Horikita showed frustration and I told her what I had realized.

"In regards to this sports festival, the school side has never once said it was a 'special exam'. We 1st years have been onesidedly calling it such but including Chabashira-sensei too, the other teachers have all only referred to it as the sports festival. Fujimaki of the 3rd years too. Even the printouts we were handed, the words 'special exam' weren't written".

Horikita did not realize, or rather, it didn't strike home for her.

"Even so, what's the matter with that? The mechanism behind it as well as the increase and decrease in points are all pretty much identical to a special exam".

"Certainly. There's not much difference in their contents. But their true natures are different. For instance, on a regular written exam, leaving aside the buying and selling of points in secret, in principle the majority of it tests your skills. Similarly, this sports festival too, should basically be seen as looking for your physical abilities and sense. Just by executing a clumsy trick there would be no impact on it. No, it's been structured so that can't happen. I think the class that genuinely challenges this will be able to exhibit their true worth".

Of course, it doesn't mean that tricks are impossible or meaningless though.

But if the sports festival has started then changing the general situation would essentially be impossible. Like how there are things you can do before and after a written exam but in the middle of the exam the things you can do are limited.

"The essence of this sports festival is to properly make preparations before the actual event. And, to leave behind results during the actual event, that is all there is to it. Simple is best".

"What I want to say is that preparation before the event. I want Class D to definitively win".

"Wrong. What you're trying to do isn't preparation. You're trying to conquer it and looking for loopholes".

"The difference between those.....I don't understand it".

"Preparation is, for instance, who will be participating in the contests in which order, or which ones in the other classes are athletic or unathletic, figuring that out. Discerning which order they will be going in. And, to make sure information about us doesn't leak. That sort of thing. To try and conquer it and looking for loopholes is to force someone into being absent prior to the competition or forcing them to retire halfway through it, that sort of thing. In other words, you're just saying you want a strong hand to play, right?".

It's natural that Horikita, who has always tried to attack from the front up until now and has lost up until now, would think that way. It's natural to want to do something to ensure you won't be overtaken by your opponents in this sports festival.

But even so, if it's that easy to do something about it no one would be having a difficult time.

"At best, you're saying that it's necessary to fight openly and win?".

Regardless of which answer Horikita chooses from now, I have no intention of affirming or denying it. Why? Because the strategy to win isn't singular but always consists of two sides.

Whether it's the uninhabited island or shipboard or this sports festival. It is possible to 'win upfront' or to 'win through a loophole' both. The point is, the important thing is to choose a fighting style that befits the person.

Right now, she's neither heads nor tails. She's at the point where she's about to become one of those.

If we say Katsuragi and Ichinose are heads, while Ryuuen and I are tails, I wonder which one will she choose. I do understand her feeling of wanting to resort to 'tails' after having used that all the way up until now. But still, it's precisely because using 'tails' is extremely difficult in this sports festival that I'm warning her.

"What you think of it is up to you. Horikita, what do you think is the advantage Class D holds right now?".

".....it seems like the quarrel between Class B and Class C will carry some advantages for us, perhaps".

For a brief moment, I thought of ignoring it but I changed my mind.

Because Horikita Suzune has lived in solitude, her outlook is also overwhemingly narrow.

"You're trying to broaden your insight in order to win but isn't your outlook still narrow?".

"Are you talking about me having ignored Ryuuen-kun who refused cooperation with Class B? Since he rejected such a connection I think that's unmistakably something positive though".

"Do you really think that?".

".....after this Ryuuen-kun and Ichinose-san will reconcile and cooperate, that is also a possibility. It's not like Ichinose-san particularly likes Ryuuen-kun either but if it's for the sake of victory, she may throw aside her own feelings and cooperate. But, is it wrong to celebrate at this stage? Just judging it to be a positive is not such a bad thing, right?".

"That's what I mean by narrow outlook though".

"That's an annoying way to put it. Then, what do you see?".

"Up until now, what you have seen of Ryuuen? He won't stop thinking about winning. Even as he speaks casually, he'll always be taking action in order to build strategies to win. But why did he suddenly reject cooperation with Class B at this point? Do you think he truly abandoned cooperation without any thought?".

"Reason for rejection.....? Are you saying Class B and Class C are already connected behind the scenes, perhaps?".

It's necessary to think that way too but the truly important thing is on another vector.

"What we should be thinking of right now is not about his relationship with Class B. It's the fact that there is a high chance he's already thought of a strategy to win. If not, there are no advantages in throwing away dialogue. The possibility that he lied here to have a discussion with Class B should have more yield".

"That---I think the possibility of that is low".

"If the possibility of an earthquake or a fire breaking out is low, are you saying there's no need to prepare just in case? It seems like you don't understand the essential importance of preparing for an emergency".

"That...".

If such a thing does not come to pass, then there's nothing better than that but if you discard that from the very start then in the case that it does end up happening, our reaction would be delayed.

"At the very least, I think currently Ryuuen has more than one strategy to win".

"But.....if that's the case then it's abnormal. We've just learned about the sports festival. To win or anything.....".

"That is why it's necessary to understand that abnormality. What does a frontal attack mean, what does a loophole mean, can we think about those? And also, are there any way we can take 'precautions' against it? Why don't we desperately try to squeeze one out? To rise up to Class A, such things are necessary right?".

If we think about whether or not he has a winning strategy in hand at this stage, we would naturally narrow it down.

Of course, that is something I've started to see after reading Ryuuen's strategies and thoughts from Sudou's violence incident up to the shipboard exam. Right now, Horikita cannot see it yet, huh?

"Well, it'll be fine if we try various things. Let's prepare so that at the very least we'll be able to avoid failure".

"Do you mind not onesidedly making the premise that we'll be failing?".

I'm slightly looking forward now to seeing just how far Horikita is capable of thinking.

3

Even after class was done for the day, I remained behind alone in the classroom. From the window I could hear the voices of the students engaged in their club activities. Even though the sports festival was drawing close, each and every one of them were in high spirits and did not spare any effort in their daily training. Connecting the earphones to my phone, I opened up the file I received earlier and checked the situation.

"I see.....".

Now with this I've more or less grasped the situation.

If necessary, I had thought I would have needed to lay 2 or 3 traps from now on but it seems that will be unnecessary.

Satisfied with the superb course of events I decided to return to the dormitory.

"You've stayed behind unusually late, Ayanokouji".

On my way to the main entrance, I encountered Chabashira-sensei who was sprinkling water with a hose.

"That may be the case. Are you on duty?".

"Something like that. To be precise, the region around here has become something like my post, that's all".

Saying that, and looking like she was used to it, she continued sprinkling water.

"Unlike children, people in society are busy in various ways. In particular now that the sports festival is imminent. But still, what happened today? This is the first time I've seen you skulking around after school".

"Isn't that a bit of an exaggeration?".

"Have you completed your preparations for the sports festival?".

"I feel like I've more or less grasped it during the recent homeroom though. Is that not the case?".

Hirata, Horikita and Sudou included, all their strategies and tactics have been heard by Chabashira-sensei as well.

"If it's you, I had thought you'd be thinking of some eccentric idea or strategy though?".

"No such thing at all".

"Nothing at all? I'm sure you understand but---".

Saying that, Chabashira-sensei tried to bring the topic over to me but upon meeting my eyes, she stopped. Even if we talk about such unnecessary things in a place like this, no one stands to gain anything.

"I haven't forgotten what you told me earlier, sensei. But as to what to do is something I'm free to decide on my own".

"Certainly that's the case. I should not be butting in unnecessarily. However, if you continue to go this leisurely, it's also a fact that this would no longer be the case. If I should lose my reason for protecting you, I will abandon you. Because an ordinary teacher standing up to such pressure isn't a simple task after all. It'll be troublesome if you don't produce results worth protecting".

I don't care about such selfish expectations. Feeling irritation at being encroached upon daily, I decided to leave this spot. If only this instructor hadn't brought forth an unnecessary topic like that, I could have gone by without getting tangled up in this troublesome situation.

No...it may be that this problem is only a matter of time, sooner or later.

"I'll be excusing myself".

"Sure, be careful on your way back".

While she worried over the few hundred meters of the way back, I returned to the dormitory.