11

Starting from the next day's homeroom, Class D begins training for the sports festival.Class B and Class A are both doing reconnaissance on the other students.Class C, however, remains in their classroom without looking outside at all.

" Are you worried about Ryuuen-kun?" Suzune ask Karma who shrug.

" Not really, a little? "

Suzune looked unconvinced." What you mentioned earlier, about Ryuuen-kun already having a strategy?I suppose this means that his plans are already in place.Reconnaissance isn't necessary for him.Anyone would want information on the other classes.They should want to know who is physically gifted, who'll participate in which contests, and so on.But him... "

Kiyotaka sighed." The important thing is not to be satisfied just with knowing that Ryuuen has a plan. "

" What do you mean? "

" Normally, when someone has a secret plan in place, they do whatever it takes to ensure that their enemies don't figure it out.However, Ryuuen Isn't even trying to hide the fact that he's up to something.He's making it obvious by not bothering to do any reconnaissance." Kiyotaka explained.

Suzune hummed." It's almost like he's showing off.You know, I can't help but wonder where your powers of observation came from.But, since you've forbidden me from asking questions, I suppose I must always ask Karma-kun. "

Karma winced." Yeah no. "

Suddenly Sudou appeared infront of Suzune, he looked a bit shy.

" Suzune.You have a minute? "

Suzune glared at the big male." I've told you numerous times.Please do not call me by my first name. "

Sudou flinched." Aw, what do you mean?Does it really bother you that much?Plus, Akabane also calls you like that. "

" He isn't wrong about that, Suzune." Karma smiled.

Suzune, out of nowhere, raise her hand that is holding a compass which end shines from the sharp tip." I don't want someone I'm not close to using my first name, if you continue to call me 'Suzune' after this warning; I'll have to take more direct action to make you stop. "

Karma beamed." See, Suzu-chan is perfect! "

Suzune then glared at Karma, but because he technically didn't call her 'Suzune', she didn't take any actions against him, making Karma have the pride of victory.

" In that case, if I get the best results out of anyone in Class D during the festival, will you let me call you by your first name?" A spark suddenly appear in Sudou's eyes.

Suzune cross her arms." Hard work is its own reward.Why should I agree to such an idiotic bet? "

Sudou nervously scratch the back of his head." Well, it's just... Not too long ago, you saved me.That's why I want to do things properly, so we can... No, I think I'd like to be friends with you, first.This is the first step. "

Suzune told him that he can use her name which Sudou smiled in response, the only catch is that he can be best out of everyone in their grade.

Karma slightly sighed.' I guess she and Ayano-kun do have something in common... They're both dense. '

Sudou grasp his fist, his body suddenly flowing with passionate fire." All right!It's a deal, then.If I place first in our grade level, I'll call you by your first name. "

You'll also like

Suzune eyed at Sudou dead-eyed." However, in the event that you don't get first place, I'll forever forbid you from saying my first name.Prepare yourself. "

" Y-Yes maam.. "

________________________

Class D starts practice to determine and improve everyone's skill levels in each event.

Sudō is markedly better than everyone else in every sport, and as a result, takes the lead in training his classmates for the upcoming competitions.

Karma laughed at the shocked expressions from the audience around him." Well, he seems to be taking this rather seriously. "

Suzune watch Sudou standing out." It's the first time that people have relied on him.Leadership might actually suit him, don't you think?As for me, though...well, I wouldn't mind praising him, but— "

" Look, I'm tellin' you that ain't it!" Sudou's yell made Suzune take her words back.

" Gah!Puh...yuck!Dude, c'mon.Stop! "

Suzune sighed.Yosuke was currently checking some girls' positions in the carriage formation.The three watch as Yosuke acts as a gentleman to the troubled girls who needs help.In result he recieved many thanks in return.

Kiyotaka turn to Suzune suggestively." Why don't you help teach the girls, too? "

Suzune dejectedly shake her head." I don't want to teach them.Besides, I don't think anyone wants me to teach them, either.I'm already trying my hardest to produce results for myself.How can you be so laid-back?I suppose, if you're sure you can win, that's fine. "

" Nope, I'm not confident." Kiyotaka replied.

" That sounds about right.You always get average scores.You're neither fast nor slow.Your results don't stand out at all.I try hard to uncover my classmates' true abilities.I'll ask you this just once, but...are you holding back, like you did with your test scores?Same goes to you, Karma-kun. "

Kiyotaka sighed." Would we do something so pointless? "

Karma felt a bit of euphoria, Kiyotaka add 'we' again, another score.

Suzune then turn to Karma." The odds of that are about fifty-fifty to me.So, do you? "

" What you see is what you get." Karma plainly said as he take a sip on his milk.

" So, you're neither good nor bad.That means I shouldn't expect great results, hmm? "

" Some events yeah? "

Karma can feel himself blowing a fuse if she stop shooting arrows at him and Kiyotaka.

" Then you should practice more, starting now." Suzune's words sound like a command.

Kiyotaka looked more unmotivated." If we could improve in such a short time span, this wouldn't be a problem.Unlike studying, trying to do this all at the last minute the night before is kind of pointless. "

" Wouldn't it be a good idea to focus on events where you can improve quickly, though?For example, just learning how to grip a rope or form a carriage will increase our chances of victory." Suzune point out.

" Maybe." Karma automatically said with no intention of listening any further.He's more focus on going to the major competition with a limit of patience.

" Hey. "

Both boys turn to her.

" Every class's physical abilities will determine who wins and who loses.Right?" Suzune ask.

Karma can't seem to know what Suzune is pointing out but he answered anyway." This is a sports festival so obviously physical abilities are the key. "

" Yes.Still, that kind of thinking is limited.If I focus on my own performance, I'm confident that I can produce good results, but something's been troubling me for a while.I might not be able to reach Class A just by improving my own skills." Suzune explained.

Karma snort." Could it be that you'll win if you enjoy it?This is the long-awaited sports festival, after all.Forgetting that this is a test and having fun is an option. "

Suzune furrowed her eyebrows." You also agreed to promise me that you'd cooperate with Ayanokouji, didn't you?You two said you'd help me reach Class A. "

Both boys bore their eyes unto hers.

" That's what we're doing, isn't it? "

" We'll participate in the festival.That's cooperating. "

Suzune glared at them.

" Are you two serious? "

Kiyotaka looked indiferrent." You said so yourself, didn't you?Physical ability will determine victory or defeat. "

" But there are other aspects to the competition besides physical ability, too." Suzune argued back.

Karma then punch his fist with an evil smile." Okay.So, on the day of the festival, should we give the Class B and C students stomach aches and make them bow out?If we do that, we'll have a total victory.We'll win by an overwhelming margin. "

Suzune's brow twitch." Stop joking. "

Karma frown." Look.It sounds like you're saying that a high level of physical ability won't be enough. "

" So, you agree that something else is required? "

" You'll learn the answer to that soon enough." Kiyotaka replied.

Suddenly, Somebody was walking toward them."Horikita-san, you're up next for three-legged race practice."

" Okay. "

Suzune then left.She was partnering with Onodera.The five pairs of girls lined up in formation, and then launched into the race.They came in third.

The worst team was Sakura and Inogashira.Suzune and Onodera decided to practice the three-legged race again.That time went no better than the first.

" Those two are kind of slow, huh?" Sudou comment seeing the girls almost tumbled when one of them did the formation wrong or when their too late to act.

Karma can't decline, they were the worst so far, they didn't use communication to help the problem.

Onodera, Suzune's partner looked frustrated." Hey, Horikita-san, can't you try to keep pace with me better? "

Karma deadpanned, although her full name is Onodera Kayano, she seems like a soloist from her built.

Suzune didn't help as she talk back." It's certainly true that we aren't moving in sync, but that's not my fault.You're too slow. "

" What?" Onodera looked attacked.

" Shouldn't you strive to match the faster partner?Deliberately slowing my pace to suit yours makes no sense. "

Yosuke sweatdrop." Okay.How about we give it a try, Ayanokouji-kun? "

" Roger." Kiyotaka replied.

" We should too, Akabane." Said Miyake Akito, another classmate from Class D and Karma's partner.

Karma smiled." Roger. "

" To begin with, let's just focus on running." Miyake suggest.

" Then we can try and fix whatever goes wrong.Okay?" Yosuke ask.

Both Kiyotaka and Karma nod at their partners and tied their legs together per Hirata's and Miyake's instructions.

" Okay then." Yosuke instructed." Let's take our first step. "

The three boys nodded, and waited for their partners to move their legs so they could match them.

It's a while until Kiyotaka began to shift." This is really uncomfortable. "

Miyake nod in agreement." It is, isn't it?But, as you run, try matching your breathing to our movements. "

" Okay?Let's start running. "

As soon Yosuke said that, Miyake picked up their pace slightly with him as Kiyotaka and Karma copied.

Miyake let out a thumbs up at Karma." Yeah, that's it. "

Yosuke smiled at Kiyotaka." That's it!You've got it! "

Both pairs ran a small lap, came back, and untied the cord.The movements between the four boys became natural like normal running as they move anytime without any problems.

The girls immediately squealed.

" So fast!Just like we'd expect from you, Hirata-kun! "

Yosuke laugh in response." It's really, really easy with Ayanokouji-kun as my partner.Let's all practice and do our best during the festival, okay? "

He'd just finished his own practice, and now he was heading off to give other students advice again.

Miyake undo the tie for him and Karma." It was a good run, Akabane."

Karma felt warm as he was pondering whenever his pace is too fast for Miyake.He smiled." Yeah. "

" See you later. "

With that, Miyake left.

_____________________

Two weeks later, in mid-September, Class D continued their daily practice sessions.

Sudō makes a good coach as he helps his classmates improve.Yosuke holds regular meetings with Katsuragi to discuss how to best approach each event.

But Suzune is still having problems with the three-legged race.

" I think it'd do you some good to compromise a little more." Kiyotaka suggest to Suzune who looked about to decline.

" Many people have told me that.I won't compromise, because I'm trying to get the best time.Isn't that a good thing? "

Karma slumped." So you don't plan on yielding? "

Suzune look away." That's right.I don't intend to accommodate someone else's slowness. "

" Then no one will want to practice with you. "

" If I'm expected to yield, my partner must put in the effort first.I can't work with someone who refuses to even try to improve. "

The two boys looked unimpressed.Karma sighed as he turn to Suzune.

" Stick your foot out." Karma ordered.

Suzune looked confused." Excuse me? "

Kiyotaka walk towards her." Partner with me for the three-legged race. "

" Why should I? "

" Although I'm jealous your partnered with Ayano-kun, there's a mixed-gender three-legged race.And he may have the power to keep up with you." Karma reasoned.

Suzune is still unconvinced." You'll only drag me down. "

" According to your theory, my speed isn't the issue, only my effort." Kiyotaka said.

" Fine.I'll tie us together." Suzune crouched and tied the cord around their legs, as if telling him not to touch her.

As soon as she's done, Karma smacked Kiyotaka's back." Well then, let's go! "

" That hurts. "

At the beginning of the race, Kiyotaka mirrored Suzune.However, he soon started going at his own pace.

" H-hey! "

Despite Suzune's panic, he mercilessly went faster.She did everything she could to keep up with him, but her stamina and strength couldn't match his.

Karma laughed at the background.

Kiyotaka turn to his partner." You said that keeping up with your partner isn't difficult, right? "

Suzune panted." That's... I know! "

Kiyotaka decided to shift gears.

" Tch! "

Karma, who was going after them just in case, grabbed her as she stumbled.She breathed raggedly.

" This wasn't about fast or slow.Your practices went wrong because you didn't look at your partner." Kiyotaka explained.

Karma then help balance Suzune." The important thing is to work with your partner.How about letting them take the lead? "

" I... " Suzune wipe her face.

" Think about it." Kiyotaka waited.' Kushida Kikyou is the second problem.She is something of a supporting character—working backstage, but never taking the spotlight. '

Karma knew what Kiyotaka is thinking as he stared at the same girl.

' However, we know about the darkness within her.It was a fact that Kushida hated Horikita.But both Horikita and Kushida are vital to Class D's improvement. '

' Therefore, the only way to resolve the issue is to have them confront one another.' Both boys nod at the plan.

All classes continue doing reconnaissance on each other, although it is the participation tables that hold the most vital information, so each class is careful not to leak the contents of those tables.

" Please accompany us for a bit after this." Kiyotaka ask.

Suzune arch a brow." If I said no. "

Karma shrug his shoulders." Then who will take the fault if Class D failed. "

Suzune groan but complied." Fine, what do you want? "

Kiyotaka then drag Suzune towards their direction.Karma jog forward as he cup his fists.

" Kikyo-chan~, do you have a moment? "

Kikyo flinch but turn around." Hmm?What's wrong, Ayanokoji-kun, Akabane-kun? "

Even though she tried to hide, she was sweating a little, making Karma smirk, but to others it was a smile.Kikyo also turned to look for a moment at Suzune.

" Do you have anything planned for tomorrow?" Kiyotaka ask Kikyo.

Kikyo shake her head." No, not that I remember anything else to do other than cleaning my room. "

Karma then place both hands into a prayer." If you're fine with it, can we borrow some of your time for the morning only? "

Kikyo suddenly felt wary but she regain her smile." Sure thing.But how unusual for Ayanokouji-kun and Akabane-kun to invite me out. "

Kiyotaka nod then turn to Suzune." By the way, Horikita will also be coming along. "

Suzune looked attacked." Hey- "

Karma quickly clamped her mouth shut from hearing her complaints.

Kikyo sweatdrop." Sure, I don't mind that at all...but what do you mean by the morning only? "

" Including Kushida wanting to once again conduct reconnaissance on the enemy is what we thought.. We were invited to do so by Horikita but there are many things I don't know. "

Kikyo smiled." I might be the most suitable one for that.Yeah, roger.What time would be good?The earlier it is, the better, right? "

Karma then remove his hand from Suzune's mouth since she has no chance to retaliate anymore." That's right.If possible, something like around 10 o'clock?Is that fine? "

" Completely fine.Then tomorrow we'll meet up in the dorm's lobby?" Kikyo had promised to go back with her friends as she left.

Suzune looked pissed off." What are you on about? "

" Of course, because we never told you about it.But reconnaissance isn't such a bad thing, right?" Kiyotaka suggest.

Suzune cross her arms." If it's reconnaissance, then you two and Kushida-san should have been more than enough? "

Karma blinked." ...Are you seriously saying that? "

Suzune glared." What?I wouldn't say something like that as a joke. "

" We're standing out too much here.Let's talk on our way back." Kiyotaka state as he held Karma's shoulder." Also, we've figured out Ryuuen's strategy. "

Suzune then looked suprised." Already? "

Karma smirked." Not just us it seems.There is one other person greatly involved in the outcome of that exam. "

Kiyotaka grip Karma's hand as Suzune followed the two boys.

__________________________

The three students then reached the main entrance and retrieved their shoes from the shoe rack.Then they went outdoors and resumed conversation.

" You and Hirata never revealed to anyone the fact that Kushida is the 'target', right?" Kiyotaka ask Suzune.

" Naturally. "

Karma tilt his head." But what about Kushida herself?If she intentionally revealed herself? "

Suzune ignored Karma didn't call Kikyo 'Kikyo-chan' as she looked taken back." Impossible, right?Something like that... there are no benefits in it for Kushida-san. "

" You can't say with certainty that there are no benefits, right?For instance, how about something like making a backroom deal to reveal that she's the 'target', in exchange for private points from another class.Something like that." Kiyotaka explain.

Suzune looked hesitant." Even if that's true...it's an act that disadvantages Class D. In the first place, if someone turns traitor then it's all over, it's a gamble far too dangerous. "

" There are many ways to build trust." Karma stated.

" Are you saying she'd betray her allies to gain points temporarily? "

Kiyotaka shrug." That may be so and that may not be so.The reason is something only Kushida knows. "

" So you brought me and Kushida-san together...to ascertain the truth?" Suzune confirmed.

Karma smiled." It's because you and Kushida seem to share something extraordinary like fate after all.If there's something worth more than private points to turn traitor over, it would no longer be strange. "

As they looked at her to check, Horikita awkwardly averted her eyes.

" There's nothing like fate between me and Kushida-san. "

" If so, can you say with 100% certainty that she won't betray the class over you?" Kiyotaka ask.

Suzune grip her palms." That is—. "

Karma sighed as he eyed at her." If there's something you're thinking about, we should confirm it.No, if we don't confirm it it'll be over, you know?You can imagine it too, right?No matter what kind of exam it may be, as soon as a traitor appears from within your allies then the class no longer has any chance of winning. "

After a while, it's time to rest and head to the dormitory letting Suzune have time to think.they then bid her farewell.

____________________

On Saturday morning, Kiyotaka and Karma spend some free time in his room with the 3 Idiots of D-Class.

" There's a student named Sakayanagi in Class A, right?The one whose legs are crippled.Do you remember her?" Kiyotaka ask the three idiots.

" That beautiful girl, right?Of course I'd remember her." Ike exclaimed.

" Have you not heard the rumors about that girl?" Karma ask.

" Rumors?You mean with men?How should I put it, that girl doesn't have much of a presence.Like she won't be the topic of a conversation at all. "

Karma then looks at his own reflection in the glass of milk.' I thought so about Nagisa too, and it cost me. '

Yamauchi then pipe up." From a few I've heard that she's the class's leader but she's quite mature isn't she? "

Doesn't it mean she's born intelligent?Karma is not really suprised as some students in this school has special cases.

* Ring

The sound of the mail received came from both Karma and Kiyotaka's phone.Then as he and Karma checked its contents, they could feel suspicious gazes from Ike and Yamauchi.

" You two... have been receiving quite a lot of mails recently haven't you?" Ike ask as he squint his eyes.

Kiyotaka blink." Ehh?No, I wonder.Isn't it usual? "

The suspicious eyes only became more pronounced.

Yamauchi had the same face as Ike as he whispered." It can't be that you two have found yourself girlfriends or something like that, right? "

Karma sighed." Relax, that's not it. "

" There's no way I could find a girlfriend before you guys.Right?" Kiyotaka said making the two idiots returned to a milder attitude.

Sudou roll his eyes." I don't care about Ayanokouji and Akabane not being popular.More importantly, let's talk about me and Suzune's future. "

" Speaking of which, Ken, you're partnering up with Horikita for the mixed gender three-legged race right?" As soon as Ike ask that, Karma perked up.

Oho?Karma's face developed a matchmaker smile.

Sudou began to puff his chest." Yeah, along with giving her victory as a present I'm going to getting more intimate— "

Sudou had been trying to cultivate such an uninteresting discussion but their phones rang yet again.But this time it's not a mail but an alarm.

Due to several attempts of letting the three idiots not suspect them with anything, the two boys excuse themselves before leaving.

____________________

Kiyotaka, Karma, Kikyo, and Suzune meet in the lobby before heading out to scout out the various sports clubs practising that day.

They stop by the grounds where the soccer club is practicing.

" Ohh, they're going at it.They're lively today as well, this is amazing! "

The figure of a tall man wearing the club's uniform walked past the spectators, namely the four of them.

Kikyo recognized the male as she smiled." Good morning, Nagumo-senpai. "

Kikyoa called out to him.On the other hand, Suzune gave an almost imperceptible response.

It's because Nagumo's a candidate for the next student council president and someone whose abilities equal that of Suzune's brother after all.

Nagumo let out a grin." Hmm?If I recall, you're Kikyo-chan right?You're on a date with a boy- no two boys on your day off.Not too shabby. "

Kikyo let out a nervous giggle." Ahaha, it's not like that though...I got curious and came here to watch. "

" Take it easy.My club doesn't know how to hold back so I think you're right on the mark if you've come to measure their skills. "

Nagumo winked, and then headed down to the ground field for a meet up.The mood of the soccer club changed dramatically, starting with Yosuke, when Nagumo joined them.

Karma can feel so much familiarity with that kind of boy." Hey, is our school ok with letting someone hold positions in both the student council and a club? "

Kikyo tilt her head." It doesn't seem to be expressly forbidden but he appears to have left the club now.But even though he's quit, he's still the best so he shows up to practice from time to time and coaches them. "

The four then turn their attention to Nagumo.

" Can you go like that, Nagumo? "

Nagumo walk towards the student." Yep.I overslept but then after running a few laps my body's getting all warmed up. "

As a student swapped with Nagumo and the match resumed, in an instant, both the ball and the players all gathered around Nagumo.

He seems to be on the team opposing Hirata and Shibata's.As the situation changed, Nagumo's play shone.Yosuke challenged Nagumo to steal the ball away.His movements should have been just as sharp as before but almost as though dandling a baby, he ended up being splendidly passed by.

Right afterwards, Shibata also charged at Nagumo but Nagumo interwove several feints together and dazzled him before passing him too.

Passing one more person, he let loose a powerful shot from mid-distance.The ball which flew in a terrifying curve exceeded the keeper's prediction and quickly enough, he scored a goal.

Karma whistled." So the title of succeeding student council president isn't just for show~.

Suzune cross her arms." ...It's just athleticism though. "

The duo of males snuck a glance at Kikyo.She was smiling as usual and not a single trace of her true nature could be seen.

Karma wondered the relationship between Suzune and Kikyo, does Suzune knew about Kikyo completely, did Kikyo have connection between Suzune somehow?

Suzune finally sighed." I quit.I'm starting to feel like just thinking about it is a waste of time. "

" Ahaha, that's right.Right now our priority is to conduct reconnaissance and gather information right?" Kikyo ask.

" I suppose.. " Kiyotaka nod.

Kikyo scroll her focus on Suzune."Horikita-san is also properly keeping our class in mind...that makes me happy. "

" I intend to do what's necessary to rise up to Class A, so it can't be helped. "

Kikyo giggled." I have to work harder so I can contribute to everyone else too. "

As the males watched the practice go on for a while, the players who had finished with their match started their break.As if to do the same thing, Nagumo calls Yosuke over and talks to him.

Then, perhaps realizing that they had been watching the match, Yosuke approached them.He looks glad to see them." Good morning.How unusual for you to be in a place like this. "

Shibata, a Class 1-B student also came running over and an unusual 6-person group was formed." Sō: Good morning, Kikyo-chan.And also—Ayanokouji, Akabane and Horikita-chan, was it?Are you on a double date? "

Kiyotaka shake his head." No, that's not it. "

" What's up today?This is an unusual combination." Yosuke comment.

Karma answered." Reconnaissance.We've come to mark the students from the other classes that we ought to keep an eye on. "

" Ohh.So that means right away Shibata man's been perfectly marked?" Shibata swiftly stepped forward to show off his speed.

Karma can't lie if he says that he needs to compete with Shibata's speed, the way he runs, his legs shifts naturally to go faster.Like a wind.

Kikyo clap as she compliments." Shibata-kun is as fast as the rumors say. "

Yosuke scratch the back of his neck." Shibata-kun's someone we need to pay special caution to.In Class B, he's the fastest.As for me, I'd rather not run in the same group as him. "

Shibata smiled proudly." Even if you say such things, I won't let my guard down, Yousuke.Because you're fast too.How about Ayanokouji and Akabane? "

" I'm not slow." Karma shortly replied.It's better to demonstrate it physically, he likes it that way.

Kiyotaka then spoke up." Since I'm part of the go-home club please take the hint. "

Shibata crossed his arms together and laughed.

Having observed the soccer club's practice in general, they left that spot.And they decided to go around and watch the other clubs conduct their activities.But even so at the very most this is only the official story.

Suddenly, Suzune turn to Kikyo." Kushida-san.I have no interest in you. "

Karma purse his lips to keep him from laughing." Woah, that's a harsh word all of a sudden... "

Suzune ignored Karma as she added." But right now there is something I must ask you.I wonder if you could answer me. "

Kikyo smiled." What is it? "

" Did you tell Ryuuen-kun or Katsuragi-kun about you being the 'target'?It's fine if you don't answer.Because it's meaningless to dig up the past.That's why I'll just ask one thing.Is it fine if I trust you as a comrade from the same class from now on? "

Kikyo frown." I want to aim for Class A along with everyone from Class D. I don't know why you said something like that to me but I want you to trust me. "

Kikyo then smiles at Suzune even as she makes her appeal with a serious expression.

Kiyotaka let out a breath." Then, we'll be heading back.We'll leave the remaining reconnaissance to the two of you. "

Suzune grimace." Huh?Hey, what are you talking about, Ayanokouji-kun, Karma-kun? "

Karma was dragged by Kiyotaka but he turn his head to Suzune." The one who thought of this strategy in the first place was Suzu-chan.It'll be enough if you have Kikyo-chan's connections right? "

They then moved to leave this place.

______________________

Class D continues to practice for the rest of the month.With one week left until the sports festival, they finalize the participants for each event.

For the 1200 meter relay at the end, the anchor will be Sudou.Right after the discussion ended smoothly, Suzune stood up from her seat.She headed towards Sudou's seat.

Sudou sees Suzune." What's up? "

Suzune let out a breath before she firmly replied." There's something I want to talk about.Can you come with me? "

Sudou gave out a little squeak, probably thinking a confession." S-Sure." He hurriedly stands up.

Suzune notice Yosuke walking towards the rear of the classroom." Also Hirata-kun, may I have some of your time as well? "

Sudou quickly became disappointed.

Kiyotaka stands up from his seat and nudge Karma's back.Karma look towards Suzune and agreed for both of them to eavesdrop a little bit of their conversation.

Suzune cross her arms at Yosuke and Sudou." It's about the 1200 meter relay that will take place at the end of the sports festival.I'd like you to hand over the anchor position to me. "

As she declared, Sudou immediately rejects." No, but...The anchor is usually handled by the fastest one right?Or are you uneasy with having me as the anchor? "

" No that's not it, based on your practice, your extremely fast. "

Sudou became confused." Then isn't it better if me as the 5th runner- "

" You're good with the starting dash too, Sudou-kun.In that case, I thought having you be the 1st runner and cast aside our opponents would be a viable strategy." Suzune continued on to the second runner to other positions.

" But... The anchor is usually left to the guy who's fastest in the team right? "

Suzune didn't retaliate." This is a meritocratic school.It's no good to decide based on assumptions and preconceptions.The other classes should also be thinking of various strategies. "

It's more of a reason to refuse, Sudou furrow his brow." It's not like you, Horikita. "

Suddenly, a squeaky voice interrupts." Umm...can I say something?Ahh, sorry.I overheard a bit.And that's why I thought maybe there's some other reason why Horikita-san wants to be the anchor. "

Suzune turn her head to see Kikyo looking at her direction.

Yosuke then face Suzune." If that's the case then would you mind telling us? "

Sudou lean forward as Suzune made a complicated face.

" Because I think my brother...is the anchor... " Suzune explain shyly as she awkwardly shift her eyes away from the two boys.

Yosuke's eyes widen from realization." Your brother, that's...the student council president... "

Suzune nod her head." Yes.He's my brother. "

All three of them showed surprised expressions at that fact.

" You want compete with your brother as the anchor?" Kikyo specified.

Kiyotaka turn his head away from the group." A lot of things happened and they're currently estranged. "

" A lot of things happened and they're currently estranged." Karma said with interest.

For a moment, Horikita glared at them but immediately turned back towards Sudou and the others.Karma chuckled.

" We're spotted. "

Sudou scratch his nape as clench his jaw." I still want to be the anchor even now but if that's the case then I don't mind handing it over to you. "

Kikyo beamed." I think it's also fine.If Sudou-kun's satisfied. "

" Got it, then I'll submit it after swapping Horikita-san and Sudou-kun.Will that be fine?" Yosuke ask for confirmation.

" Thank you... " Suzune quietly answered.

____________________

The first day of the sports festival arrives.All the students gather for the opening ceremony.The preparations for the festival include medical staff, tents for each of the teams, and cameras set up to help with judgement calls for every event.

The first event is the 100-Metre Dash.Out of a total of ten groups, Kiyotaka and Karma will be running in the seventh group.

Sudō runs in the first group and easily takes first place.When it's the seventh group's turn, Kiyotaka comes in fifth and Karma in third (he was conserving his energy), while Yosuke comes in first.

Afterwards, Kiyotaka and Karma notice Sudō's absence and see him approaching Kōenji.Hirata notices as well and moves to intervene.

Kiyotaka and Karma follow.

" You bastard, being absent and all, don't fuck around with me! "

As they opened the door, they could hear Sudou's intimidating voice from inside.Sudou had closed the distance to the point it seemed as though he was about to take a swing, but it almost seems as though Kouenji has not even noticed his existence yet.

He's looking bold as he admired his reflection in the glass of the window.But that attitude of his only ended up adding fuel to the fire and stocking Sudou's anger.

" Looks like you won't understand unless I beat you up, Kouenji." Sudou threatened as he tighten his fist.

Yosuke scold." Sudou-kun.If the teachers found out— "

" Shut up.This problem is our class's internal affair, right?Doesn't matter even if I beat him up. "

Koenji let out a unintimidated chuckle." As usual, you are an unsavory man.I came here because I wanted to quietly spend time alone though.As you can see, today I'm feeling ill.I declined so I wouldn't be a bother. "

Sudou stepped forward, almost loosing his control." Don't lie to me!Leaving aside practice, you're skipping out even on the actual event! "

Yosuke gasp." No, Sudou-kun! "

Before Yosuke could draw near, Sudou could no longer stand it and raised his fist.However, Kouenji caught the powerful punch in the palm of his hand.

" Stop it.Someone like you cannot beat me." Koenji state calmly.

Sudou grit his teeth." Then bring it on.I'll break that pride of yours. "

" Yare Yare." Koenji sighed." Both you and her, it sounds like you both want to tell me I'm unreliable. "

" Her?" Sudou ask.

" He's probably talking about Suzu-chan. "

Karma's voice made the two look at him, and for the first time during the confrontation, Koenji showed a reaction, which was a smirk.

" Karma-Boy's correct.That Cool Girl that you're so passionate about.She's been emphasizing it quite a bit until today, to make sure I participate seriously in the sports festival. "

" You mean...? "

" In any case, leave.I am not feeling well. "

" You bastard—! "

To prevent it from happening again, Yosuke got in between Sudou and Koenji.

" I think it's better to calm down a bit.Koenji-kun's attitude is also a problem but since he's saying he's not feeling well, he should have the right to rest." Yosuke then turn to Sudou." Also, violence is obviously prohibited. "

" That's definitely a lie.He said the same thing back." Sudou exclaimed.

" A baseless accusation.It's just that my bad health doesn't show up well in my attitude." Koenji spoke between.

" You're planning on skipping the rest of the contests?Huh?!" Sudo yelled.

Koenji just smirk." Of course, I will participate if I make a recovery. "

To not lessen the heat, Yosuke nudge Sudou." The next contest is going to be starting soon, Sudou-kun.If you're absent as our leader, it'll affect our morale too. "

Sudou's shoulders finally soften." ...I get it. "

As if accompanying him, Yosuke left the cottage together with Sudou.But before the duo could follow them-

" You know, Karma-Boy... "

Hearing his name being called, Karma turned towards Koenji." Hm? "

" If you want to fight me- " Koenji raise his head to meet Karma's eyes." I wouldn't mind taking some of my time to do it. "

Karma looked surprised." How- "

" Your slightly growing bloodlust would be my answer. "

Karma's surprise disappear, replacing it with the same smirk." You're right, I would've liked to fight you, Goldie... "

Karma then sighs. " ... But not right now, or else Suzu-chan will have my head. "

Koenji finally rest his body as if to dismiss them." Well, so be it. "

_________________

The duo of male then also followed their classmates.Grumpily returning to Class D's tent, Sudou sat down on a pipe chair.

" Shit!Next time I'll seriously send that bastard flying!Shit! "

Sudou unleashed his wrath on anyone approaching him by snapping at them making the students from other classes cower.

Suddenly, one of the first-year girls' groups for the 100-Metre Dash has just finished.Suzune entered the course as the last round of the 1st year girls was at hand.

Sudou watch the black-haired girl." At least there's healing in watching Suzune I guess... "

As the duo watched Sudou in turn, Sakura breathlessly came back to their side.

" Haa, haa...p-painful... W-Were you watching me, Ayanokouji-kun?" She looked up at him with sparkling eyes from behind her glasses.

" You did well." Kiyotaka plainly answer.

That alone made Sakura blush." T-Thank you!This is the first time I wasn't in last place. "

" Be careful not to push yourself.If you get in over your head, you might fall and hurt yourself." Kiyotaka adviced.

" O-Ok! "

Karma shakes his head in disapointment.' Even though he says that, he's still dense about her feelings.Poor Sakura. '

Sakura looked out at the next girls race from beside them.

They also focused on the other girls who would be running against Horikita.On the third course was Ibuki Mio.Their race ends with Suzune winning by a small margin.

They approached Suzune, who had returned, and called out to her.

" That was close." Karma stated.

Suzune took a breath." ...That's right.I was surprised.Ibuki-san was faster than I had expected. "

Kiyotaka look at Suzune." We understand you've been reaching out to Kouenji. "

Suzune looked a bit perplexed how he knew before she relaxed." It seems to have been meaningless from the start though. "

For just a brief moment, Suzune looked at Kouenji, who's elegantly spending time inside the cottage.

" I had misgivings about him skipping out but ultimately it ended up that way." Suzune explained.

" In a certain sense, more than anyone else, he's maybe the one most disinterested in Class A. " Karma looks dazed.

Or mabye he thinks Class A is a pain and that the students there might be annoyed by how Koenji acts and put the blame on him if things go wrong.Karma would imagine that.

" If I were like Kushida-san, a person well-liked by the class, I wonder if I could've moved him into action." He hears the girl murmur.

Kiyotaka stared." I wonder.I don't think he's the type to comply with Kushida or Hirata's persuasion though. "

" To think you'd say something like 'if I were like Kushida'." Karma mimicked.

" I never hated her or anything in the first place." Horikita realized she had made a verbal slip and sealed her lips tight." Pretend you didn't hear that just now. "

Suzune ended the conversation.Then she turned to look at the 3rd year contests that will be starting soon.

They watch Manabu Horikita take first place in his group for this event, and once all the groups are finished, the total points for each team are announced, and the Red Team comes out ahead.

The Hurdle Race is the next event.Kiyotaka and Karma are in the same group as Ryūji Kanzaki this time.

" We're up against each other right away it seems." Ryuji trailed off.

Kiyotaka look at Ryuji." ...Go easy on me. "

Karma roll his eyes.

Ryuji look back." I've heard that you're quite fast from Ichinose. "

" That's misinformation.Didn't you see my rank in the 100 meter dash earlier?It's 5th place, you know." Kiyotaka reasoned out.

" That is indeed the result, but it didn't seem to me like you were taking it seriously. "

Karma tilt his head." There's no advantage in holding back one's ability at this sports festival, right? "

Ryuji hummed." The probability of it is low but it's not like doing so is completely meaningless from a strategic point of view.Besides, even amongst the same school year, you, Ayanokoji, are a pretty calm man.That type of person is scary after all.And you, Akabane, got into many fights and you always came on top, which means you've a good physique. "

Karma shrug." Well, think what you like. "

After no less than a second The race starts, and the chosen competitiors began running.

Kanzaki ends up taking first place, while Karma in second and Kiyotaka ends up in third place.

' He's pretty fast, but I would've been able to beat him in speed if I chose to get serious, but... ' Karma then squints his eyes.' I'm saving my strength for that event... '

Yukimura huffed tiredly." ...Haa, good grief...I can't keep up. "

" Was it bad?" Kiyotaka ask.

Yukimura scrunch his brow." Ayanokouji, Akabane, huh?I want to curse this combination.Seventh group and 7th place... "

Karma tap his forehead." It depends on your mindset.If it's Yukimura, even if you fall to the lower ranks, there won't be any trouble for you on the tests right? "

Yukimura look down." I won't get a failing grade.But there's still no change to the fact that my scores will plummet.Besides, this result will be a liability for the class and the team too... "

They then move over to watch the girls' Hurdle Race.Suzune is once again paired with strong competition from Class C.

She finishes her Hurdle Race in third place.The next event is Capture the Flag.Class A and Class D will be facing Class B and Class C, the latter of which consists of Ryūen leading a team of his classmates who seem fairly strong.

The first match begins, with Class D and Class C on the offensive and Class A and Class B on defence.Despite Sudō's strength, he isn't enough to break through, and the first capture goes to the White Team.

Class D switches to defense for the second match while Class A fixes an offensive.Class C attacks again, and in the chaos, Sudō is punched and kicked several times by Class C, who makes it look natural so that no foul play is called.

In the end, the White Team wins the second bout of Capture the Flag as well.Next is the Tug of War event for the boys while the girls compete in the Tamaire event.The Red Team comes out the winner for the latter, and the Tug of War begins.

Sakayanagi, who had been there observing them from the start as a visitor, had a small smile of enjoyment on her face.Even from a distance, she should be able to see that Katsuragi and Hashimoto were quarrelling.

" So what's it going to be, Katsuragi-kun?Can we really win with this strategy?" Hashimoto ask but it sounded like a mock.

Katsuragi close his eyes." We're agitating even the students from Class D. We should proceed with the contest calmly. "

"That's not an answer—".

Katsuragi tried to calm them down but about half of the students following Hashimoto's lead did not obey.

Yahiko quickly went to Katsturagi's aid." Katsuragi-san's telling you to do it, so hurry it up!Don't give us this shameful act! "

Yahiko forcibly handed the rope to one of the boys.

" I have no intention of refuting the doubts you feel towards my leadership.But if we lose here due to our meaningless squabbling, before things like cooperation and skill come up, the blame will fall on Sakayanagi, you don't mind that then?" Katsruagi remind.

" You don't see anything; do you, Katsuragi-kun?" Hashimoto sniggers.As the teacher acting the role of the referee approached, Hashimoto gripped the rope as though he had arrived at the designated position." Then, shall we?It'd peeve me if we make them think we're lacking in unity as you said. "

Class A's civil war seems to have simmered down and so they get into position.The first bout begins, and the Red Team wins.Ryūen then rearranges his classmates' positions along the rope, and the second bout begins, ending with the White Team's victory this time.

Then the third bout begins, but after some struggling, Class C suddenly let's go, and while the Red Team wins, they also cause most of Class A and Class D's students to fall over.While the Red Team takes the overall victory of the Tug of War, their morale is low in the aftermath.

Next is the Obstacle Course Race.Sudō ends up in the same group as Shibata, but also two unathletic students from Class C. He takes first place once again.The Three-Legged Race is next for the boys while the girls' Obstacle Course Race is still ongoing.

Suzune is matched up against Class C's Yajima and Kinoshita this time.She manages to overtake them during the race but repeatedly looks back at Kinoshita, and shortly before reaching the finishing line, the two seemingly collide with each other.

Suzune ends up in seventh place while Kinoshita is unable to finish due to injury.

Suzune walk towards the two boys." What's wrong, Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun? "

Karma turn to Suzune." If this 'coincidence' were to occur again, then we may no longer be able to write it off as a mere 'coincidence'. "

Suzune cross her arms." As I thought, you think so too?I think the other students are also beginning to gradually realize it too.But for this to happen means—that things are moving in a bad direction, right? "

" If there are any students that have caught onto this, can we leave you to care for them?" Kiyotaka ask as he face Suzune.

" Of course.That's my role after all.But isn't there something we can do...? "

" It'd be great if there is." Karma then notice something, approaching Suzune he ask." Does it hurt? "

Suzune looked away." ...Just a bit.But not to the extent of affecting the contests.If I rest up a bit I'll be fine. "

Karma then tried touching the part where Karma guess the injury lies.

As expected, Suzune reacted drastically as she wince. " ?! "

Kiyotaka arch a brow." This isn't going to have any effect, you say? "

Suzune slap Karma's hand away." Don't touch me.And also, don't mind me.I'll just have to bear with it. "

Karma sighed." Well I guess if you retire then you won't even be getting any points so we do understand your desire to hang in there. "

Suzune then became wary." More importantly, what concerns me is that girl.It's almost like that contact was done out of malice. "

The two boys immediately pay attention as Suzune explains.

" While she was running behind me, that girl called out my name many times over.Of course I thought it was strange.But soon after I turned back to look, we collided with each other and the rest went exactly as you saw it.

I would have objected but if this were an ordinary collision then she shouldn't have been calling out my name.Honestly, I can't keep up with it...to think we're still in the middle of all this... Rather than worry about me, you, Ayanokoji-kun, should be more worried about yourself.Your results are worse than mine, right?At least Karma got good results. "

" We'll do our best." Karma said as he gives a thumbs up." But, don't push yourself too, ok? "

Suzune gives a passive expression but it shows a little determination." I intend on participating in the contests even if I have to crawl to do it. "

Leaving behind Suzune they made a move to prepare for the next contest: the three-legged race.

Yosuke ran up to them." How's Horikita-san doing? "

" It's pretty serious." Kiyotaka answered." It looks like it'll affect the subsequent contests. "

Yosuke's face showed concern as he comment." That's a severe turn of events. "

The Three-Legged Race for the boys begins.

Sudō and Kanji Ike come in first for their group.Kiyotaka and Yosuke come in first for theirs.Miyake and Karma also come in first.

Then the girls' Three-Legged Race begins.Suzune and Kushida pair up for it, and while they start well, they end up in the last place due to Suzune's injury from the previous event.

During the break, Suzune leaves to get a compress for her injury.Karma and Kiyotaka didn't go anywhere, and instead remained in their camp while observing the other classes.

' The twisted relationship between Katsuragi and Sakayanagi was highlighted.Anyone can see with their naked eye that they're clearly divided between two factions.However, I could tell that there's blatant antagonism between Class A. It's something we didn't see in the previous exams, it's something that we cannot tell just from the fluctuations in points alone. '

Not too long after, as Yosuke came over to them after having returned from the restroom, they decided to call out to him.

" Hey, what kind of student is Sakayanagi?" Kiyotaka ask.

Yosuke smiled." I see you're also curious about her, Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun. "

" One would get curious if they heard that she's a leader surpassing even Baldy-kun." Karma comment.

Yosuke place his hand on his chin." She's very polite, good with people and also mature.That's why I didn't particularly think it was strange.Students from the other classes probably feel the same way too.But, it seems like it's different within Class A. I've heard rumors that she's aggressive and cruel. "

' There's probably a side we aren't aware of but we can't just take the words of the ones being attacked at face value either.Because we haven't even talked to her yet. '

" I don't think there's any need to be cautious of Class A this time.We're allies after all." Yosuke reassure.

" I guess so." Kiyotaka nod.' But what about Class C? '

Kiyotaka then signal Karma to leave with him.

' Class B seems to be the only ones genuinely enjoying the festival. '

After the break, the girls' Cavalry Battle begins.The four horsemen from Class C completely ignore Class A and focus on attacking Suzune instead.

Her headband is taken, and the rest of Class D is defeated shortly after, with only Karuizawa succeeding in taking one headband from the opposing team before she too loses her own.The boys' Cavalry Battle is next.

Sudō forms a team with Kiyotaka, Karma, Akito Miyake, and Hirata.While they are able to defeat most of the White Team with Class A, they run into trouble when faced with Ryūen.

" I've remembered your name, Sudou.I stepped on you earlier.It seemed painful." ryuuen proceed to taunt.

Sudou declared." Keep saying that.I'm going to be beating you down now. "

" You sound quite high-and-mighty for a mare horse leg.It feels pretty good looking down on a horse. "

" Hah.Just because you're riding on a horse doesn't mean you're all that. "

" Heh...then this is all meaningless unless we go at it one-on-one. "

Karma frown.If it happens then Sudou will be at a disadvantage, throwing fists based on instincts instead of using his head.

Before Sudou can retort, Yosuke stop him.

" Don't, Sudou-kun.It's a bad idea to rise to his provocations.Let's cooperate with Katsuragi-kun. "

Sudou scoff." Don't forget those words, Ryuuen!You heard him, Katsuragi.Don't stick your nose in this! "

Katsruagi raise a brow." What are you talking about?It's sheer folly to let this chance go.We should use a pincer attack to make sure he goes down. "

" If you stick your nose in this, I'll destroy your horse. "

Yosuke look down at Sudou." So you're determined to do it one-on-one no matter what then, Sudou-kun?...if we're doing it then let's win. "

" Naturally.Hirata, make absolutely sure your headband doesn't get stolen! "

Along with Sudou's forceful signal, the horse proceeds forward.Hirata is unable to grab Ryūen's headband from him and ends up getting his own headband taken, and the Red Team loses the Cavalry Battle.

They later figure out that Ryūen had slathered his headband with hair wax to make it too slippery to grasp, but there is no evidence of foul play, and Class D is forced to accept the loss.

Kei called out to Karma and Ayanokoji and Hirata once they came back from their cavalry battle.

" Hey, Kiyotaka, Karma.Isn't this bad? "

" What is?" Karma don't mind anymore for her to use his name.

Kiyotaka looked surprised." Wait, why did you just call me by my first name? "

Kei cross her arms." I've begun to call him Yousuke-kun so I'm doing the same for you too.More importantly, it's about Horikita-san.Isn't she having a hard time for quite a while now?Even during the cavalry battle just now, she was a mess.Even if I try to follow up for her if it's like that, it's just absurd. "

" Hm." Karma agreed.

" Well, I don't intend to blame her though.Her opponents are just too much. "

Kiyotaka replied." It can't be helped.She's being targeted after all. "

Kei perk up." So you mean it's not a coincidence that she keeps running into all these amazing people? "

" It's what you'd call harassment." Kiyotaka add.

" You're saying someone's harassing Horikita-san...?But, how... "

" By the way, it's not just Suzu-chan." Karma point out." They know everyone's group numbers for the contests.They fed weak opponents to the more athletic ones like Sudou and Onodera and for the unathletic ones like Sotomura, Yukimura and Ike; they had them compete against students who are capable of barely winning.Basically, what it means is that we're being toyed with. "

" ...The class's information slipped out...the list on the participation table was leaked?" Kei ask with a gasp of realization and horror.

Kiyotaka nod." That's right.All of this was set up in advance and the information was communicated to Ryuuen.

" That sort of thing...if I recall, Horikita-san's opponents were always—Yajima-san and Kinoshita

Suddenly Kiyotaka ask." What do you think of Horikita? "

Kei looked confused but she replied." What...I don't like her.She's conceited and impertinent. "

" But you're still worried about her." Karma smiled.He gets the feeling.

" Maybe I saw her as being similar to me.Right now, Class D is last place right...?Is there any way left to win?" Kei sounds as if there's no hope left.

" Not to worry.So far everything's going as we predicted." Kiyotaka said.

" So you have been putting some thought into it after all.So?How do we win? "

Karma chuckled." Win?Impossible right now.Right now what's truly important is that we do nothing. "

Kei gaped as she stared at Karma incredulously." Ehh? "

She would have thought Karma would be this crazy but not that crazy, is this what Kiyotaka think too?

" What do you mean by— "

" I'm seriously going to knock the shit out of that bastard! "

Karma sighed.Sudō has finally snapped.He moves to confront Ryūen, only to be stopped by Yosuke.

" I get what you mean, Sudou-kun.But I think we need to stay calm about this.You should know what'll happen if you attack Ryuuen-kun." Yosuke said as he struggled to keep Sudou in his place.

" Shut up!He's the one fucking around here!He's committing foul play!" Sudou accused.

" I do think there's a high possibility of it being foul play.But isn't it difficult to prove that?" Yosuke reasoned out.

" I'm the leader during the sports festival.Obey me, Hirata, let's gang up on Ryuuen together. "

Yosuke sighed." I'm not denying that you're the leader.Considering this sports festival, there's no doubt that you're the leader.But I want you to look around.Just how many people right now acknowledge you as their leader? "

Sudou looks around.Starting with Ike and the others, who cowered before his anger, most of the students kept their distance from the irritated Sudou.

Suzune too, was looking at Sudou's speech and conduct with exasperated eyes.

" I'm desperately trying for the sake of the class... " Sudou muttered

Yosuke glared at Sudou." Is that really so?Rather than wanting the class to win, isn't it just that you want to show off?Isn't it just that you want to show us just how amazing you are?At the very least, I think so.You're just being swept along by your emotions, and you decide usefulness and uselessness based on that. "

" Shut up... "

Yosuke continued." I feel the same way too, Sudou-kun.It's precisely because we're relying on you, Sudou-kun, that I want you to see the bigger picture.And I want you to respond to the feelings of all your comrades. "

" Shut up... "

" You should be able to do that, Sudou-kun.That's why— "

" I'm telling you to shut up! "

Sudou was about to punch Hirata, but someone quickly caught his fist.It was Karma.

" You should calm down, Sudou." Karma said as he grasp Sudou's fist effortlessly.

" Shut-! "

Sudou tried to attack Karma, but the latter moved closer to his face.

" I said... " Karma raise his head, releasing his bloodlust." Calm.Down. "

As soon as those words left his mouth, Sudou quickly put distance between him and Karma, and he was sweating bullets, along with some other students.

Karma let out a big breath before glaring at Sudou." You think you're the only one who's pissed.Right now all I want is to beat the living shit out of Ryuuen... But by doing so, we'll only play right into his hands. "

" What's going on? "

Chabashira-sensei walks over to Karma and Yosuke.Then looking at Sudou and the red mark left on Karma's palm.

" Did you try to hit him?" Chabashira ask.

Sudou look away." ...What'll you do if I did? "

Karma groan, stupid, he really just had to make it worse.

Yosuke quickly step in." That's not it, sensei. "

" I hardly see it that way. "

Karma point at his teacher." You're wrong.Because we're saying so, there should be no problem then. "

Chabashira goes silent until she let out a sigh." Certainly you're right.If the victim is saying nothing's wrong then first of all, there's no problem.However, objectively looking at it, there's the possibility that there's some kind of trouble going on between you guys.For now, keep your distance from one another. "

Yosuke nod." There's no trouble here and I don't want to cause any misunderstandings. "

" I understand." Karma said firmly.

Karma and Hirata took distance to stay out of Sudou's field of vision.On the other hand, Sudou was no longer able to suppress his rage and kicked a pipe chair near him with all his strength.

" Do whatever you want.Go ahead and lose, you small fries.This sports festival can eat shit. "

He walks away, leaving Class D behind to fend for itself for the rest of the sports festival.The festival continues, and Sudō does not return.

Ryuuen seem to walk up to Yosuke, asking what's wrong, recieving the answer he smirked." Luck's on my side after all. "

" I don't know how much longer your luck will last.Just by doing something, the current can change. "

Hearing Karma's voice, Ryuuen turned towards him." Ah? "

" What he means by that is we know what you're thinking." Yosuke said.

Ryuuen laughed scornfully as though saying he had no idea what he's talking about.

Karma continued." The fact that you've obtained the list on Class D's participation table as well as the fact that you know the physical abilities of Class D's students in detail too. "

Yosuke then walk infront of Ryuen with a stern expression." We're not idiots.There are a few trump cards we've kept hidden. "

Ryuen looked unconvinced." That would have been interesting if it weren't a bluff. "

" Then I'll say this." Karma trailed, looking at Ryuuen dead in the eye." Until this day ends, I'll be showing you something interesting. "

Ryuuen smirked." Something interesting?Then I'll be waiting in anticipation. "

_____________________

Kei walk towards Yosuke, Kiyotaka and Karma." So where is Horikita-san and what is she doing right now? "

" She's currently doing something only she can do." Kiyotaka answered.

" Could it be about Sudou-kun?" Yosuke guess.

Kei nod, it would make sense." It's not easy to win in the second half without Sudou, right? "

" That's right...as far as we're concerned, we're dependent on Sudou-kun." Yosuke said.

Keia said nothing as she seemed slightly dissatisfied with having to depend on Sudou.

-Bonus for fun-

" Karma. "

Karma turn around and see Kiyotaka staring at him.

" What is it? "

" Your hurt, you need to be treated." Kiyotaka said as he stare at the bruised mark on Karma's palm from being hit by Sudo earlier.

Karma scoff as he raise his hand." This?This is nothing.It might be red in the exterior but I can manage, you should go ahead. "

" No.Let's go, Karma, there's nothing to do here for now. "

Kiyotaka didn't offer any refute as he drag Karma to the infirmary by the hand, Karma finally let himself follow, ignoring the warm feeling he had felt when he's with his old classmates.

' So this is what it feels.... ... to be powerless, I wish I could get on with it and fight you right here. '