CLUE 7: The Disappearance of Kyotaka Ayanokoji 4

POV : Suzune

The bell rang, signaling the end of the morning classes, and I noticed everyone hurriedly packing up their belongings. Many seemed in a rush, acting as if they had an urgent need. Seriously... If only they put as much effort into their studies and academic performance, I'm sure the class would be much better off.

Chabashira-sensei: All right, everyone, we'll reconvene after lunch.

After this remark, Chabashira-sensei withdrew, packing up her belongings, her high heels echoing in the hallway adjacent to our classroom. I had already gathered my things and sighed in frustration before leaving the classroom, finding myself in the corridor.

"Seriously... This day is boring. What's going on with Ayanokoji? What is this mystery? I need to learn more..."

I had to step back and reflect on this situation. Ayanokoji's disappearance? A week for most students and just one day for some, like me. I couldn't dismiss the possibility of a complex exam orchestrated by the ANHS, even if it seemed a bit far-fetched. There had to be a rational explanation, a flaw in their system. Perhaps Ayanokoji had found a way to bypass the rules. I knew he was hiding his true potential, which could explain such a situation. But why would he flee the school like this? Maybe he had been abducted, but that didn't answer the question of why someone would want him.

"But then why does everyone think it's been a whole week?"

I refused to accept the idea that time had literally passed for a week or that we had been transported through time. There had to be a rational explanation, even if I couldn't find it. I needed a lead to follow, a plausible theory to begin unraveling this mystery.

"Tss... Really... He causes me even more trouble when he's not here."

More people seemed to believe that a whole week had passed, even outside the ANHS. It was unlikely that it was due to technology or drugs. The clues seemed to indicate that a full week had indeed passed.

But why us specifically? Why Hirata, Karuizawa, Kushida, and me? Perhaps there were other students in the same situation in other classes. Maybe class leaders like Sakayanagi, Honami, and Ryuen were also involved. Where Hirata, Karuizawa, and I might cooperate, I feared Kushida might be an obstacle.

I needed to think more, find answers, logical clues to solve this mystery. I knew it couldn't be a simple coincidence, and I had to uncover the truth.

Hirata: Hey, Horikita! We finally found you! Uh, do you have a minute? We'd like to talk about everything that's going on, you know, about Kiyotaka and... all of this.

When I heard a familiar voice, I finally stopped and turned around. Hirata, Karuizawa, and Kushida were there, together. Although their gathering might seem unusual, the current circumstances easily explained the reasons for their seeking me out.

It was evident they wanted to discuss the strange situation at the ANHS, especially Ayanokoji's disappearance. A completely logical reaction, as any sensible person would have questions in a situation like ours. Moreover, the temporal issue that set us apart from other students reinforced the need for collaboration.

After a moment of reflection on Hirata's proposition, I crossed my arms firmly. Not long ago, I would have probably refused, preferring to act alone based on my own convictions. However, a particular person had made me understand that isolation wasn't the solution, that allies were crucial in such situations.

So, for this time, these three would be my partners. Hirata had already proven to be a reliable teammate. As for Karuizawa, I didn't have a strong opinion, but she would do. However, Kushida would likely be a different story. Since Ayanokoji was also in her sights, she had no reason to help us. It was even conceivable that she was involved with Ryuen and his group, acting to confuse us more than anything else. This possibility needed to be closely examined. The discussion about the traitor's identity and revelations would take time and should be postponed for later. Currently, our priority was to focus on the ongoing case and the search for clues.

I lamented these complications. Seriously, as if Class D didn't already have enough troubles to deal with, why did we also have to contend with this? Ayanokoji was undeniably an essential pillar for the class, and finding his trail was imperative, by any means necessary.

Suzune: Well, I guess that's the best option... Since we're all in the same boat.

Kushida: Yeah, we planned to go to a quiet place together during lunch break and discuss all of this... It's really mysterious, don't you think~? I mean, what could have happened to Kiyotaka? Do you think something happened to him? That would be really terrible... I hope he's okay...

Karuizawa: Seriously, what could have happened to him? This school isn't the type to let a student get abducted, right? Honestly... this whole story is so annoying. It feels like everyone here has lost their minds with this one-week thing and all!

Suzune: In my opinion, maybe we're giving this school too much credit... No system is perfect, and it's not impossible that someone found a loophole. By the way, Karuizawa, why do you seem so affected and concerned about Ayanokoji's disappearance? Doesn't that seem a bit suspicious...? I mean, I remember you saying he annoyed you, right?

Karuizawa: I could see her getting angry. Hey, what are you implying? It doesn't matter! It's a student from our class disappearing, and all this mess with one day or one week, it's just nonsense. It's not only about the class but us four, the only ones thinking it's just one day! So yeah, obviously, it affects me, got it?

Suzune: No, you see... It seems to affect you on a more personal level. Being concerned about the situation is one thing, but you seemed genuinely bothered that it involved Ayanokoji specifically, and that's what seems suspicious to me. I'm convinced that if it were someone else, you wouldn't have reacted with so much impulsiveness, right?

Karuizawa: Hey, drop it, okay? I would have reacted the same way with the whole class; it's normal! But for Miss "unfeeling" over there, of course, worrying about others is suspicious, huh? And frankly, it's none of your business; all this has nothing to do with Kyotaka's disappearance! So, cut the jealous act a bit, will you?

Suzune: Her last comment is starting to make me angry too. I don't see how saying that makes me jealous! I'm just stating facts, and don't you realize that in an investigation, especially in a disappearance case, every little detail about the missing person's life and relationships, no matter how small, is crucial? I just find it suspicious that the person who claims to have found him annoying since the beginning of the year is suddenly so concerned about his disappearance to the point of calling him by his first name.

My reply seemed to further irritate and provoke Karuizawa, who was now grumbling while giving me continuous angry looks. This girl embodies laziness itself, a devoted follower of the least effort. Always glued to her phone, she recklessly squandered her private points the first month, only to bitterly complain when she ran out the next month. Quick to complain about the slightest inconvenience, without investing any effort or taking the time to think. I found her sudden closeness to Ayanokoji highly suspicious.

I strongly doubted that she had the intelligence to find a loophole in the school's security system. Her IQ wouldn't allow her to achieve such a feat. However, she could very well be an accomplice, connected to the true instigator of this abduction. An operation of this magnitude would probably require at least one or two accomplices, especially considering Ayanokoji's character. It was unlikely that he would let himself be taken, especially with his proven skills demonstrated in his confrontation with my brother earlier in the year. It would only take offering him a large sum of points or a significant advantage to corrupt him. Thus, Karuizawa became a suspect, just behind Kushida and just ahead of Hirata.

After all, the people closest to oneself are often the most suspicious, right? Kushida would likely be the primary suspect, although I didn't think she would admit it if it was really her. It would also be necessary to check if other people besides the four of us think the same way about the time lapse since Ayanokoji Kyotaka's disappearance, one day rather than a whole week.

As for Hirata, as nice as he was, every person is corruptible, and he was no exception. Until I had proof that he wasn't involved in this matter, he would remain on my list of suspects, in the last position behind Karuizawa.

If any of them were an accomplice, they could reveal what had happened and who might be the instigator of the abduction, if the abduction theory turned out to be correct.

"Tss... As if I have nothing else to do, solving puzzles worthy of a detective novel... This is not how I'll reach Class A, seriously!"

... ... ... ... ...

After my response, Karuizawa seemed about to retort angrily. However, she was suddenly stopped by Hirata, who didn't hesitate to position himself between the two of us as if separating two people about to fight.

Hirata: Hey, hey, calm down, okay? I'm sure Kyotaka is fine and safe... And as Karuizawa said, the school can't be that negligent, right?

Kushida: Y-Yeah, you know, as Hirata put it! Girls, no need to fight like this, okay? We're all in the same boat, so let's cooperate and brainstorm on this mystery together, okay?

Unfortunately, it seemed that Karuizawa had no intention of letting Hirata and Kushida speak. I suspected it; this was likely to become boring quickly.

"This girl is really annoying, she just keeps irritating me more!"

Seriously, who did she think she was to talk to me like that? My statements were just reflecting common sense, logic, and deduction. Getting angry like this wouldn't help us get out of this situation. Didn't she distinguish between "suspect" and "guilty"? I had never explicitly stated that she was an accomplice or guilty, just that, given the circumstances, she was a potential suspect. If that was unbearable for her, why not look directly for evidence of her innocence rather than react like this?

Her behavior itself was very suspicious, and her actions were starting to irritate me more and more. This time, Karuizawa and I were face to face, each wearing an expression of irritation, although different. Hirata extended his arms between us, as if trying to separate us, and Kushida supported Hirata in this effort, standing right next to him with a falsely embarrassed expression, accompanied by a slight embarrassed smile.

Karuizawa: Hey, you two, stay out of our business! I won't let myself be insulted for free by an arrogant brat! Yeah, you might be smart, but it doesn't give you the right to throw it in everyone's faces, okay? And on top of that, if we follow your crazy idea... you become a suspect too! Forget that you've been hanging out with Kyotaka since the beginning of the year. So, between us, you're more suspect! You might be trying to divert attention with your accusations to hide something, right?

Suzune: Well, where are your proofs to support these arguments? As you pointed out, I've been talking to him since the beginning of the year, so why would I decide to do this all of a sudden now? Meanwhile, I've seen you several times recently in his company. So tell me, if you're so innocent, why were you hanging out with him? Do you maybe have something to hide? Or were you trying to gain his trust to trap him or something? Furthermore, I beg you, make the distinction between being suspected and being guilty. I never explicitly said that you were guilty. I simply said that, like the four of us here, you are a potential suspect not to be ignored. Moreover, your current behavior makes you even more suspicious, doesn't it?

Karuizawa: What are you babbling about now? It's normal for me to get angry after being thrown in as a potential suspect for something as stupid as a classmate's abduction! And the reasons why I was hanging out with him, that's none of your business!! Like you, you won't reveal the reasons for your associations, I'm sure, right? And besides... What you're saying is complete nonsense!! How does the fact that you've been hanging out with him since the beginning of the year make you less suspect... As you supposed for me, you could have just schemed for him to trust you and then trap him! You also have no evidence against me, and the fact that you're so eager to make me the culprit makes you even more suspect! What's gotten into you, huh? Do you absolutely want to direct suspicions towards me to get yourself out of trouble, is that it?

Suzune: Did you just throw arguments at me without any evidence? If I remember correctly, I just said that I don't officially designate you as guilty but rather as a potential suspect among others. Being just as involved in this matter as you are, as a potential suspect, it seems normal to me that you reveal at least partially the reason for your recent interactions, away from prying eyes, between you and Ayanokoji, right? Your sudden closeness is what makes you suspicious... And I don't think I said either that I'm not a potential suspect. After all, I probably don't have enough evidence to remove myself from this list. However, to facilitate this investigation, giving the reasons for my interactions with Ayanokoji since the beginning of the year shouldn't be a problem since it partly concerns discussions related to school and the class. As for your insinuations of "scheming," as you put it so well, I could say the same about you, couldn't I? And that's exactly what I just did. Now, if you have no intention of understanding that, since apparently some neurons have been removed from your brain, then stay in that state of mind and simply stop talking. I don't think a person devoid of logical sense can solve anything, right?

Kushida: U-Uh, Suzune, isn't this going a bit too far? There's no need to go that far, right?

Karuizawa: What are you saying? Am I dreaming, or did you just insult me? That's the best, you cold bitch! Do you think you're allowed to talk like that, huh? It's you who keeps pointing at me as the number one suspect from the beginning, as if it were obvious that I'm the culprit! You've always been like this since the beginning of the year, playing the card of your alleged intellectual superiority! But deep down, you're just an insensitive bitch who thinks she knows better than everyone! You have no right to talk to us as if we were beneath you!

Hirata: Hey, calm down, both of you, stop it! It's going too far, okay? We don't need to go this far, as Kushida said, we're all in the same boat, so no need to get angry at each other, right?

After Hirata raised his voice suddenly, our gazes turned to him. He had a serious expression, while Kushida, feigning panic, gestured frantically by his side. When I turned around, I caught Karuizawa glaring at them angrily. She crossed her arms, giving me a look full of rage and disdain before violently averting her eyes while clicking her tongue.

"Tss... At least this time, she'll shut up and stop talking."

The irritation towards Karuizawa persisted in me. Seriously, this kind of person annoyed me to the highest degree! It's because of these individuals that it's so difficult to rise to Class A. Besides, who does she think she is? She hasn't done anything for the class since the beginning of the year, so why should we listen to her? Although she is in the same situation as us, it would be better if she contributed by keeping quiet and simply listening.

While an electric atmosphere lingered between us, marked more by exchanged glances, Hirata finally spoke, probably recognizing some sort of improvement now that we had all stopped talking.

Hirata: Hirata vigorously waved both arms in front of us, seeking to dispel the tense atmosphere that had settled between Karuizawa and me. Hey, it's good you two, okay? Don't you think there are more important things than bickering about this? I mean... We should focus on our observations and discuss everything we know about Kyotaka's disappearance before designating who is suspect or not and who could be behind all this, right? So, please... No need to bicker like this; we're a team, at least for the duration of this whole thing, don't you think?

Kushida: Kushida then followed Hirata, reinforcing his words. Yeah, we're forming a great team now! So, let's work hard together and go search for Kyotaka, okay~? We should all get along well to face anything... So please, make peace, okay?

Kushida, with her usual "angelic" attitude, winked at us and displayed a charming smile, leaning forward slightly with her arms neatly placed behind her back... Tss, such a hypocrite. Among all the students, she's the last person I want to hear uttering naive remarks. What are you scheming now, Kushida? And what plan do you have in mind? Your involvement in this matter is totally unnecessary... I'm sure you're up to something, and I'll find out your intentions at some point, be sure of that!

Suzune/Karuizawa: I ask you to use the correct terms, I respond with frustration and irritation, glaring at Hirata and Kushida. We're only a team out of necessity, so please don't put me in the same category as her. / As I formulated my response, Karuizawa reacted instantly, turning sharply to retort strongly and impulsively at Hirata. A team? What a joke, forget about it for the future! I'd rather die than associate with that idiot!!

After giving a similar response simultaneously, we finally turned to each other. I could feel the anger emanating from Karuizawa's gaze as she stared at me with hostility, crossing her arms. My dark gaze met hers, creating a palpable tension between us, despite Hirata and Kushida's efforts to diffuse the situation.

"I might have been better off working alone in the end!"

This collaboration with her was more likely to lower my IQ than bring anything constructive. Our intellectual differences are too vast, and I doubt we can ever get along, no matter the situation.

Suzune: At least on this point, we agree. I suppose your neurons must have worked intensely to come to the conclusion that they wouldn't allow you to function properly and follow even our conversation.

Karuizawa: Yeah, yeah, alright, we get it! And by the way, how are your ankles, not too swollen? Miss "I'm perfect," you don't have a problem on that front, I hope? Or maybe you just need to relax a bit? How long has it been since you've "relaxed," after all, huh? How long has it been since you've touched yourself, huh? Not often, I imagine, considering your only occupation is your books!

This comment only heightened my irritation, and I couldn't help but click my tongue while giving her an even darker look, which she instantly returned. I really couldn't stand this girl! Her rudeness left me speechless, and I didn't even know how to reply anymore. Everything that came out of her mouth was either a stupid insult or a ridiculous argument worthy of an oyster!

I was seriously reaching my limit and just wanted to get away from there! In the meantime, we were wasting precious time because of this insignificant creature, slowing down our progress in investigating this matter.

Hirata: Hirata persisted in trying to calm this palpable tension, waving his two arms in front of us and displaying an embarrassed smile. Please, seriously, stop, you two! Or at least, just ignore each other! Then, I could hear him mutter something, probably to himself and Kushida. Hehehe, it really doesn't look promising, it seems...

I would categorically refuse to be associated with her; it was simply unthinkable! I would rather receive a thousand sarcastic remarks from Ayanokoji than this. The tension between us showed no signs of easing as our gazes remained just as piercing, now establishing a heavy silence, punctuated only by Karuizawa's grumbling, my irritation ticks, and Hirata and Kushida's attempts to calm the tense atmosphere.

Female Voice: Hey, Horikita, Karuizawa, Kushida, and Hirata! What's up over here, friends?

Suddenly, in an instant, with just that female voice coming from behind me, a few steps away, the tension was instantly dissipated, now replaced by surprise rather than irritation on my face, it seems.

Hirata and Kushida had already turned a quarter turn to the side, observing the person who had greeted us so cheerfully, completely contrasting with the tense atmosphere that had prevailed among us a few moments ago.

As for Karuizawa, the person within her line of sight seemed to first emerge from a daze, as if she had just been abruptly awakened, before exhaling heavily and resuming her usual bratty attitude.

As for me, I simply turned conventionally, arms still crossed, to discover a person I recognized approaching us slowly, waving her hand cheerfully and wearing a smile capable of dispelling any tension, which had instantly completely extinguished the tense atmosphere.

"Ichinose Honami, the leader of Class B, huh? What is she doing here?"

Shouldn't she be with her classmates somewhere, having lunch or something like that? What is she doing in our class? Is she here to see Kushida, given that they are quite close? It's plausible, but she seems to have something else on her mind... Another person somewhat like us? Well, I wouldn't mind the reinforcement of someone with a few extra brain cells in this team, replacing the annoying presence of Karuizawa. Especially the leader of Class B, she could really be helpful in our investigations.

As she approached us, I noticed Kushida, by my side, rushing towards Ichinose, also waving her hand to greet her, sporting a smile even wider than Ichinose's. The difference was obviously that hers seemed forced.

Kushida: Hey, Honami!! Hi ~ Hi!! How are you this morning?

...

POV : Ichinose

I had distanced myself from my group, telling them I had something to do. I headed towards classroom 1-D to meet with some people, perhaps in the same situation as me, to discuss Ayanokoji's disappearance and form a team. As I approached the classroom, I was surprised to find a strange group consisting of Kushida, Hirata, Karuizawa, and Horikita... An entirely unusual group, something I didn't expect at all.

I greeted them, and I saw Kushida rushing towards me. She was one of my friends from Class D, whom I liked a lot because she was really kind to everyone. She greeted me with a wave, and I enjoyed seeing how she always seemed to be in a very good mood and excited.

... And in this group of three people who stayed in their positions, I also noticed Hirata, who sighed strangely in relief... Did something happen? Coming in, I thought I heard something like an argument or something, it wouldn't have surprised me if something had happened between Horikita and Karuizawa, after all, they are diametrically different. So it seems that this argument stopped when I appeared... Glad to have helped then, Hirata! He was also a very kind boy, whom I appreciated. He was one of the leaders of Class D, I think, along with Horikita.

Karuizawa, on the other hand, seemed initially surprised to see me, before simply sighing in relief, a relief heavier than Hirata's, and strangely relaxing, leaning against the corridor wall, crossing her arms and just looking in my direction. I didn't know this girl very well, all I know is that Ayanokoji started getting closer to her during the special VIP exam on the boat, I need to learn more about that... Every lead counts, after all.

As for Horikita, she seemed to maintain a "superior" attitude, a usual demeanor that made the world around her seem to fade away... Well, at least there's improvement compared to the beginning of the year, that's for sure. Thank you, Ayanokoji, ahahaha! Anyway, personally, I have nothing against her. She is a diligent student, after all.

Ichinose: Hey Kikyō, of course, I'm doing fine. And you, how are you? I heard some noise around here, so I came to check it out.

Kushida: Yeah, everything's still going great~! She turns to me and stands by my side, glancing at the three other members of this somewhat bizarre group. Well, there was a little something, you could say... But hey, we can also say it's behind us now, right?

Ichinose: Hehehe, yeah, you know, disagreements happen from time to time. The important thing is that everything ends well in the end, right?

After speaking these words with a benevolent smile, trying to appear friendly and amiable... I observed an irritated Karuizawa regaining composure and looking at Horikita with a disagreement clearly visible on her face. She responded in an annoyed manner, pointing her index finger at Horikita.

"Hehehehe, well now, I think I can grasp the issue between those two... I sympathize, Hirata."

Karuizawa: Everything ending well, huh? How could it end well if I end up teaming up with that damn pest! If you hadn't shown up, it probably would have never ended.

As if in a verbal joust, I saw Horikita turn away for a moment and look at Karuizawa with irritation once again before retorting something in a voice similar to Karuizawa's.

"In a way, they certainly resemble each other. But for a particular reason, I believe I'll keep that remark to myself..."

Suzune: And what do you want now? Is it my fault your brain is too limited to grasp my points? But at least I have to agree with you on one point. Collaborating with you is undoubtedly the most exasperating aspect of this whole situation.

Finally, even with my arrival, it seemed like they were almost back into some kind of duel. It looks like this could even last for hours at this rate, and these two are just as stubborn as each other... I hope they'll soon address what really matters.

After all, whether it's been a week or a day, Class D is much more concerned about Ayanokoji's disappearance than me or anyone from other classes. Especially Horikita, as she seems to be the one closest to him since the beginning of the year... I could imagine why she would get angry very quickly, especially if she also believes it's only been a week... But my intuition tells me it will be different with them. The mere fact of seeing all four of them here, discussing, is evidence in itself, after all.

Hirata: Please, you two, don't start this again! Otherwise, we won't even have time to do anything... There are more important things at the moment, don't you think?

Ichinose: Of course, I think you have more important concerns, right? Besides, bickering among classmates is not ideal... Why not cooperate and find common ground instead, don't you think? Approaching them closely, I offered them another smile, the one I know so well.

After my spontaneous intervention alongside a slightly panicked and anxious Hirata looking to end this perpetual conflict, he seemed relieved.

"Don't worry, Hirata, I understand how you feel..."

I gave him a small smile, which he returned with a nod, and finally, we all found ourselves together, Kushida included since she had just run back to us, grouped, all five of us.

Karuizawa and Horikita still seemed at odds and irritated, albeit somewhat calmed, as they replied something that finally put an end to it, looking at all three of us.

Karuizawa: Yeah, yeah, I get it. It's not like it's going to fix things; I'm wasting my time arguing with this pest anyway. She finally averted her gaze from her with a sharp turn to the side, crossing her arms.

Suzune: Right, we agree on that point. If we keep wasting our time on useless quarrels, we won't get anywhere. We just wasted our time because of this pretentious one with the IQ of an oyster.

"Looks like it's not going to be a piece of cake, huh?"

I sighed inwardly, displaying a somewhat embarrassed smile... Then, I finally spoke up just after their two responses... I guess, given the circumstances, it was probably the best to hope for at the moment. So, I was just going along with it for now.

Ichinose: Well, I guess we'll just go with that for now; it's already not bad, right? I chuckled in a somewhat embarrassed manner.

Hirata: Yeah, there are much more crucial things right now than bickering. He also flashed a slight embarrassed smile while nodding.

Kushida: Friends, why don't we all put our brains together, huh? Together, we'll surely find the solution! And by the way, Ichinose, would you like to join our little expedition to find Kyotaka? She gives me one of those angelic smiles.

Once again, I could tell I appreciated Kushida's positivity and way of acting. She was someone you could easily rely on, and that could probably help a lot. And it was the same with Hirata! His kindness was something really great.

Anyway, it seemed like I was right... So, they formed a team to search for Ayanokoji or something like that? But the fact that this team consisted of people it's really strange to see all together, then I could only assume there was something... Probably the same thing as me, and that motivated me even more, starting to feel much less alone now!

But I couldn't help but wonder... Why me? And why these four? I mean, is there even any logic in it? I seem to be the only Class B student aware of all this... But in Class D, why would they be four? I guess that was something to figure out as well, right?

Finally, everyone had returned to a more usual attitude for them, and it was Horikita who spoke up first, crossing her arms and looking at me in a strangely suspicious way.

"I might seem suspicious to her?"

After all, I had just come to them like that all of a sudden, without really explaining more in detail... To people, moreover, who are surely in the same situation as me regarding the strange timing around Ayanokoji's disappearance.

Suzune: Okay, this time let's get to work seriously; this is a crucial matter for the class... But before that, Ichinose, what are you doing here, and why aren't you with your class? Why didn't you join the others for lunch as usual, and why did you come directly to us, turning your gaze to Class D? Knowing the supposed leader of Class B, I can't help but think there's an intention behind all this, right?

Hirata: H-Horikita, you're pushing a little too hard... You don't need to ask her like that... You could go a bit gentler and be a bit less aggressive, right?

Karuizawa: Tss... What's the point in telling her that? She has no idea what it means to "go gently"; she couldn't care less, all that matters to her is herself and her ankles! She clicks her tongue again.

Suzune: I'm just asking an obvious question! She has no valid reason to come to us. As a member of our class and a leader at that, she has no real connection to this matter and is therefore not really concerned. This means there must be a hidden objective behind her coming, plain and simple!

"Yeah... With these two stubborn heads, it's really going to be tough..."

However, I could understand why Horikita seemed suspicious of me. Since, in essence, she wasn't entirely wrong. As I imagine they don't know the connection I have with this matter either, it's normal to suspect me in the current state... But even if I wasn't affected by it or relayed in some way, I would still find a way to find Ayanokoji. After all, he's someone who has helped me a lot several times... And he's a very good friend, so I probably won't ever let him down, and I can be sure of that!

But after what Horikita had just formulated, I saw Hirata waving his two hands in front of her again, indicating to her to go more gently... Well, it's true that you could say she doesn't take kid gloves and says things very frankly. As for Karuizawa, well, she simply reacted in disagreement with Horikita... Which didn't really surprise me anymore at this stage, I had to admit.

Ichinose: Oh, don't worry, really! I understand Horikita's suspicions about me; she's not entirely wrong, after all! Ahahaha! In fact, I wanted to see if there were other people in the same situation as me regarding Ayanokoji's disappearance... And I figured that since Class D is his class, well, I should probably find most of those people here, right? So I came, and apparently, I did the right thing, didn't I? After smiling, I took a short pause. For you too, it's only been one day, not a week, right?

Suzune: So, you're implying that you're in the same boat as us, aren't you? This means that it's not only people from Class D involved in this matter... I understand, so you're affected by all this too, I suppose. She seemed to sigh, showing some frustration.

Kushida: Oh, so that means you're joining us, right? That's great! With the Class B leader by our side, we'll have no trouble, I'm sure! We'll find Kyotaka in no time, all together~!

Hirata: Yeah... It's indeed surprising, but not that much when you think about it. Since there would probably be no reason for only people from Class D to be in this situation, so it's rather logical. Anyway, glad to have you with us, Ichinose. I'm sure that by working together, as Kushida said, we should find Kyotaka in no time.

"I believe my explanation had its effect..."

Karuizawa, on the other hand, didn't find it necessary to comment and simply watched the others as they spoke, nodding in agreement. Well, at least I managed to gain their trust for now and join them in their team... It's better to have several people for this kind of situation, as it's not a simple little puzzle... There are far too many variables to consider, in addition to Ayanokoji's disappearance itself. We'll have to think about everything that could have happened, probably reconstruct events chronologically, and take into account every detail. After all, he simply disappeared without a trace... So we don't know yet if it's a kidnapping, an escape, or something else... We'll have to explore every little lead and every element that could guide us to the solution.

"All of this is likely to take some time... Ayanokoji, I really hope you're safe and nothing has happened to you."

All I could hope for now was Ayanokoji's safety, which was my priority... That's why we need to find him as quickly as possible.

Ichinose: Exactly, with the five of us, there's no reason we can't make it! And it's even truer if other people from the other classes join us in this team. The priority is still to find Ayanokoji, and the more of us there are, the more certain I am that we'll find the solution much faster than we initially thought!

Suzune: Being excessively optimistic right now will only discourage us in the future if it doesn't come true... Besides, I really want to avoid including students from Class C in our group; it would probably only complicate the process.

Karuizawa: Yeah, for once, I'm on the same page as her! We're not just going to welcome anyone into our group just because they're in the same mess as us with this one-day instead of one-week thing! And we're definitely not inviting guys from that messed-up Class C into our team! Our team is already not great, but if we add more problems, it'll be useless.

Ichinose: W-Well, I understand your point of view a bit; Ryuen's class may not be where you find the most... friendly students, but still, we need all available forces, right? I gave them another smile; Karuizawa sighed and leaned against the wall, simply listening to the discussion, while Horikita gave me a somewhat provocative look. And besides, I'm convinced that the entire Class C isn't necessarily of the same ilk, right?

Kushida: Oh yeah, there are really nice people in Class C! I've had the chance to talk to some of them, you know?

I really have to thank Kushida internally for the support she's providing here; it adds a bit more weight to my perspective. Well, they're not entirely wrong. Ryuen's class is known for hosting the most, how should I put it... rebellious students? But that's also because of Ryuen's somewhat tyrannical leadership. In reality, there are many nice students in that class, normally...

Suzune: It won't work like that, Kushida. Haven't you noticed the people chosen here, initially? These "chosen" students to be like us all follow a certain logic, and at this point, it's quite evident that we weren't selected randomly... What I mean is that people with an "incorrect" timeline of events don't just emerge by pure chance. There are several possibilities, but among them is probably the fact that we are the most important individuals in our respective classes. For example, Hirata and I are the leaders of Class D, just like Ichinose is for Class B. Then, Kushida is a very "important" person, not just in Class D, but she has friends in all classes and is liked by everyone. As for Karuizawa, I don't really know, but it's likely related to the fact that she's almost connected to everyone in the class, being a socially iconic figure among at least all the girls. This means that following this logical reasoning, it's more likely to see Ryuen himself appear in the same "state" as us rather than anyone else from Class C, just like Ichinose here. So, it's unlikely that we'll face a completely random person from Class C.

As Horikita laid out her observations, everyone listened with palpable interest, absorbing every word and probably trying to correlate it with their own analyses and observations. Each seemed captivated, wearing serious expressions, taking every word from Horikita seriously and calmly.

Well, she wasn't wrong... I had come to the same conclusion, after all... However, I preferred to make sure by exploring further and checking if it could be correct after meeting other people likely to be in the same situation as us. Horikita had apparently stated this view before confirming it in detail. In reality, there might be another possibility regarding the selection of people... Anyway, no matter the conceivable scenarios, the conclusion always remains the same: If other individuals from Classes A and C are in the same situation as us, then among them, Ryuen and Sakayanagi will most certainly be there. There's no doubt about it.

Kushida: Oh? Really? Now that you mention it... I hadn't even thought about it, ahahaha! You're super sharp, Horikita. With you in the group, I'm sure we'll handle this like bosses!

Hirata: Yeah, Horikita, you see things in a well-thought-out way! And now that I think about it... It's even quite logical, actually, that it's happening this way. But it does give the feeling of some kind of game, you know, where only the most competent and crucial participants are gathered... It's pretty strange.

Karuizawa: Yeah, yeah... It makes sense. But seriously, if we get worked up about every little weird thing in this case, we'll never get out of it... This story itself is already too weird!

Ichinose: Wow, Horikita, that was really impressive! Your observation was super detailed, well done. I give her a smile, which she only responds to with a "humph" or something like that. In fact, I had come to the same conclusion as you... Initially, I wanted to see what was going on with Classes A and C, but in the end, you really observed well.

Suzune: Humph, it was just common sense and logical reasoning... Arriving at this conclusion was inevitable, especially for a Class B student like you.

Ichinose: Ahaha, yeah, you got it right. As the leader of Class B, luckily, I didn't miss this reasoning, hm?

I finished my sentence with a slight smile towards Horikita, even though she only reacted with a sigh of exasperation. Hopefully, our relationships will improve as we work together in the coming days.

Anyway, after a few moments, Hirata applauded gently before speaking again. His usual kindness and warm smile were still present, drawing our attention to him and what he was about to share.

Hirata: Alright, everyone! How about we move to discuss elsewhere? We thought of going near the park; there shouldn't be many people at this hour, so what do you say? We could discuss in more detail everything regarding Kyotaka's disappearance, right? He concluded his sentence with a broad smile lighting up his face.

Karuizawa: Yeah, I agree with Hirata. Besides, we don't want just anyone overhearing our conversation, right? And then, it's really not cool to stay here, in the middle of a damn corridor, discussing important stuff like this.

Kushida: Hehehehe, yeah, I hadn't really thought about that! And it's even nicer to do it outdoors, right? It'll be more friendly to think together about all these complex and important things.

Suzune: In the current situation, I doubt that the place where we're discussing is a concern for anyone. However, discussing all of this here in this corridor is probably not the best idea. We might as well go to a more discreet place, like the park, to avoid prying eyes.

Ichinose: I'm up for going to the park. Let's all go there and think about all of this, okay? We still have the rest of the lunch break for that, and we can meet up again tonight after classes anyway.

After concluding my response with a smile once again, I noticed everyone nodding at the same time. They then turned towards the corridor exit, heading to the park away from prying eyes. In the same stride, I joined them to investigate with them the mysterious disappearance of Ayanokoji Kyotaka, hoping to find a reliable lead and bring him back.

"Don't worry, Ayanokoji. Whatever happened to you, I promise I'll get you out of it."

...

...

...

POV : Ryuen

Mio: Hey, Ryuen, don't you want to drop your shady little schemes for a moment, huh? Where are we going now? Well, rather... What exactly are we planning to do? Knowing how you operate, you probably have some shady plan in progress, as usual.

From the corner of my eye, I could see an annoyed Mio following me, sporting the same irritated expression as usual.

"Never change, I love seeing you like this."

I walked with Mio, hands in my pockets, slightly leaning forward, in a direction, exiting my classroom. I sent Ishizaki and Albert on their way, just to let them stay out of this mess. Yeah, it only concerned me and this girl, Mio. We were the only ones who didn't go crazy because of this one week instead of one day thing.

It had already piqued my curiosity, but now, the really interesting things were about to start... Kukukukukuku, and there was no way to escape it. I wondered what was going to happen, and what plan was in store for us... So, knowing perfectly well who would be faced with this and who would stay sane among us, I headed in the direction of meeting these people and chatting with them. Just a little, I'm sure they'll be thrilled to see me... Kukukukukuku!!

Ryuen: Well, what's up? Are you so hooked on me that you want to know every move I make, huh? You need to be more direct, you know, kukukukuku!

Mio: Seriously, shut up! Tss, of course, you don't intend to tell me, huh? That would be too simple, damn it... What's wrong with you, seriously?

Ryuen: No need to get all worked up, sweetheart. Besides, I think you've already figured out what we're planning, right... We have a matter to settle, after all, don't we?

Mio: What? What are you talking about? What matter exactly? Don't tell me you seriously intend to get involved in this, Ryuen?

Ryuen: Thought you were smarter than that, little Ibuki. But no, come on, you must have grasped what we're scheming, right? I chuckled to finish my sentence.

Mio: Seriously, what are you getting into? I had the impression that it didn't concern us and that you agreed. This is a matter specific to Class D, isn't it? I don't see why it would be related to us, no matter this strange one-week or one-day thing. It has nothing to do with us, and it's even better if the other lunatic is no longer around. It's even better, isn't it? So, why do you want to get involved in this? Since when are you like this, huh?

Ryuen: I burst into even louder laughter, apparently irritating Mio even more. What, no sense of humor, seriously? Come on, you'll hurt me. Haven't you learned to know me after all this time, huh? It's super obvious, isn't it? It promises to be quite interesting and entertaining... Plus, there's a good chance that the monster is behind all this. Kukukukukukuku! Of course, I'm going to get involved, who could resist something so amusing that pops up like this all of a sudden?

Mio: Tss, both of you... You and this Ayanokoji, you really have a problem, both as twisted as each other, a bunch of mental degenerates! You just want to do this for fun, if I understand correctly, right? What's seriously wrong with you! And then, what do you plan to do anyway? It seems that there aren't even real clues or anything.

Ryuen: A mocking laugh kept escaping me, apparently even more annoying to Mio. Kukukukukuku! Who said we didn't have clues, huh? It's so obvious, can't you see? The standing itself is already a damn clue, right? Only those who are in the same mess as us can untangle this shit, and we even represent the starting point of this damn trail, if you get what I mean. I kept laughing between sentences as we walked around. Oh yeah, and I bet we're not the only ones in this situation... In fact, it's as clear as crystal that we're not the only ones, and it's also obvious as the nose on your face to guess who these people are if you look into it a bit. Kukukukukukukukukukuku!

Mio: A sarcastic laughter escaped from my mouth, even more annoying to Mio, who couldn't help but click her tongue before answering. Tss... So that's why you kicked out Albert and Ishizaki, huh? Now, I get it better... But seriously, what's going on in your head? All this just for fun? And who are we targeting now, huh? Guys from Class D, I suppose?

Ryuen: Your compliments, they always warm my little heart, you know, my dear. My sarcastic answer apparently even more annoyed Mio, who clearly showed her annoyance in her gaze. But well done, you understood it well! You've won a direct ticket to my room tonight, if you're interested, my dear. I winked at her with a falsely seductive gesture before bursting into laughter, causing a feigned disgust reaction from Mio, who now seemed downright furious. But yeah, we're heading for the guys from Class D again, our main targets for the day, it seems.

We still stroll together in this damn corridor, chatting as usual with Mio, this girl who, let's admit it, I'm seriously starting to not be able to do without.

I had already planned to set my pawns in motion after the little bomb dropped this morning, and I intended to go directly to the source of the mess. But honestly, I don't give a damn about saving the monster or whatever absurd thing. No, what I want is to solve this mystery for fun, find this damn monster, and pulverize it myself once I've spotted it. If I can have it as a hostage in addition, that's a bonus, of course, kukukukuku!

Mio: Great, these brainless idiots again... Tssss... And seriously, what do you want in the end? I mean, as crazy as you are, you're not the type to go to all this trouble for nothing, just for fun, especially for a case like this, right? Don't tell me it's also to save the other lunatic because even with all the evidence, I wouldn't believe a single one of those nonsense stories like that.

Ryuen: What are you talking about, seriously? I wouldn't have thought you'd become so stupid in such a short time, damn it, to not even know that. While I said that, I saw her face turn crimson, a kind of mad rage rising as she was about to answer me. But I cut her off by continuing. There's a good chance that this monster is the brains behind all this, and even if that's not the case, in any case, solving this case will give me the opportunity to smash it... Either by playing its own game, or by humiliating it once I've spotted it and avenged the humiliation it gave me last night... Yeah, a week, of course, kukukukukukuku! If I want to crush Class D, I have to demolish their real leader... And that leader is this monster. Then, I smoke Ichinose and her gang, and finally, that damn lolita, and I rise to Class A. Once again, I burst into laughter. It's too funny, yeah, downright hilarious!

Mio: Yeah, yeah, I hear this stupid refrain from you, it's enough... Tss, seriously, damn it, you're really ready for anything for that, huh? Just for a damn position...

Ryuen: Of course, it's clear, being ready for anything is my guideline, right? Haven't you started to know me after all this time, my little Mio? Honestly, you don't need to play the tsundere with me, you could just admit that you want me badly and come up with something like "I desire you so much, I'm completely obsessed with you," right?

Mio: Shut up, damn it! Crazy lunatic!

Ryuen: Kukukukukukukukukukuku! Thank you, really, your compliments have such a powerful effect on me that I'm all excited just hearing them! KUKUKUKUKUKUKUKUKUKUKUKUKU!!!

I just kept laughing at all of this... Laughing again and always in the face of all these funny and captivating things that had just started. Oh yeah, damn it, I say it without a problem, I'm damn happy to have ended up in this school! It's just crazy, everything is there for you to have a blast.

Next to me, there was still a furious Mio, clenching her fists to the point of bursting her veins... Knowing perfectly that retaliating would probably do her no good against me. It seems she's starting to get the hang of it in the end...

Female Voice: You seem to be having a good time, don't you? Would it be inappropriate for me to join your company?

But suddenly... As I continued to laugh like a lunatic, we were abruptly stopped by a voice I knew all too well... A voice that abruptly cut off my laughter and made me instinctively pivot. A person who really knows how to piss me off easily. Next to me, Mio was also stopped in her tracks, and she suddenly looked surprised, turning also to face that damn lolita: Arisu Sakayanagi.

...

POV : Arisu

Having sought the intimacy of my peers for a moment of personal reflection, I granted myself a solemn stroll through the labyrinthine corridors, my cane in hand, ensuring to maintain an air of grace.

"Among the plethora of challenges that ANHS offers, this one will undoubtedly remain my preferred choice, fufufufu!"

My internal laughter resonated harmoniously as I engaged in a thorough deliberation on Ayanokoji Kyotaka's project. The pieces of his chessboard moved with a speed that exceeded my expectations. A most pleasant surprise, a challenge thrown to all students. What will be your next move, Ayanokoji? Even from you, I must admit my astonishment. I wonder about the stratagems you will deploy. A genuine excitement fills me... Excitement fueled by the prospect of surpassing you in your own game, once the intricacies of your alleged disappearance are unraveled, fufufufufu!

...

"Oh, what do I spy here? For a surprise, I certainly did not expect this..."

Continuing my stroll, I was struck with astonishment upon discovering two individuals, one of whom, now familiar, had caught my attention.

"If it isn't our dear Dragon-boy and his delicate damsel? What a pleasant surprise! Have you also chosen to invite them to your amusements, hm? I wonder how many individuals you have deigned to select on this particular occasion."

Arisu : You seem to be having a good time, don't you? Would it be inappropriate for me to join your company?

After drawing their attention with my remark, I saw them come to a sudden halt, both him and his accompanying companion. His laughter ceased, and the woman by his side, Ibuki Mio, stopped fidgeting.

"What can I say? My impact on people can't be controlled after all."

After laughing internally once again, I could now face the two who had turned around, confronting me. Ryuen observed me with a somewhat indifferent expression before shifting to something more typical, while the woman by his side did nothing but stand there, crossing her arms, scrutinizing her "boss," probably to see what his reaction would be.

Ryuen: Oh, look who's here, our little Class A doll! What brings you here, huh? You're surely not the type to wander aimlessly in the corridors, are you? A small amused smile appeared on his face... Don't worry, it's mutual, my dear Dragon-boy.

Arisu: Of course, I would never engage in such absurd activity as wandering alone in the corridors... But I suppose you've already guessed the reason for my presence here and my destination, haven't you? After all, it seems you were inevitably heading to the same place as me, Dragon-boy.

Ryuen: After uttering his nickname, I could see him grit his teeth before becoming a bit more annoyed. Tch, don't call me that, you degenerate loli! You don't have your lackeys with you to bail you out here, right? He then let out a somewhat sinister laugh before continuing. Anyway, yeah, I probably already figured out that you were involved; it was pretty obvious after all... So, are you joining our little feast, huh? It's going to be quite fun in the end, especially if all the classes are involved! Kukukukukuku!

Arisu: Fufufufufufu!! For this occasion, I can only be perfectly in sync with you. It already amuses me... and I have a feeling it will only intensify as time passes, right... My dear Dragon-boy?

Ryuen: I saw his face cringe in annoyance once again... Yeah, it's even more fun this way. Tch, you better not call me that again, damn loli! After throwing that at me with a tone that was supposed to be threatening, he returned to his usual attitude. But well, on this one, I have to say I agree with you... Never thought I'd say that one day, kukukukukuku! So, the Class A princess is really joining our little game, couldn't have dreamed of anything better! I'm going to find out where the monster is hiding first and take the opportunity to ridicule all the classes at the same time, just to show you're worth nothing against me! Kukukukukuku!!

After witnessing his laughter, a sense of joy also overcame me in a peculiar way... His nonsensical statements and his persistence despite the inevitability of imminent defeat made the situation even more enjoyable.

... So, without adding a single word, I deliberately turned around and undertook a majestic half-turn, my cane resonating with subtle echoes on the floor as I progressed.

Ryuen: I could still hear his laughter echoing in my ears as he came back at me. Oh, are you already leaving? I thought you wanted to participate in our little festivities... Don't you want to see the tortured faces of those idiots from Class D? I still thought you had a bit more taste for fun than that.

Arisu: Without interrupting my progress, I replied to him with amused lightness. Hehehehehehe, don't worry, I'll join them very soon... But for now, I already have all the necessary information, no need to rush. So, I'll let you enjoy their company first; I have other projects to realize at the moment. So, see you soon, Dragon-boy! Hehehehehehehehe!

Ryuen: As I walked away from him, I could only hear annoyed mutterings behind me before his voice faded away completely. Tch, damn loli.

So, I headed in the opposite direction, deliberately circumventing my starting point, plunging into the labyrinth of corridors, Dragon-boy's voice now muffled.

"Perfect then, as I had presupposed."

No need to push my investigations further to identify the chosen ones of this enigma, or rather, the scholars destined to unravel this equation. It was a logical conclusion. My initial approach aimed to verify the presence of other individuals, besides myself, chosen for this quest. Now that I had spotted dear Dragon-boy and his companion, Mio Ibuki, it was easy to deduce the participation of Ichinose Honami and Horikita Suzune, discreetly embodying their respective classes, albeit unofficially, fufufufu! Next, I was inclined to believe that other members of Class D were also among the chosen... Among them, it was easy to speculate the presence of Kikyō Kushida and Yōsuke Hirata, as the most prominent figures in the class led by this fake genius. Finally, the last person must undoubtedly be the one called Kei Karuizawa, yes, after all... She embodies his perfect pawn, in a way.

For now, my inclination was towards silent observation of the unfolding events and the acquisition of first-hand information through them... It was plausible that a connection would be established with the very day of his disappearance. And at present, my information reservoirs were amply filled.

"The monster, hm? A most exquisite metaphor for this so-called 'masterpiece,' isn't it?"

Ryuen undoubtedly held information, as did others, probably... However, I could also conjecture that there were likely more substantial revelations in these places.

So, my dear Kyotaka, what are your intentions, huh? My enthusiasm is palpable... Well, it seems the time has now come for me. FUFUFUFUFUFUFUFUFUFUFUFU! Let the game begin, between you and me.