12

Suzune heads towards the infirmary.

' Karma-kun and Ayanokouji-kun verbally demolished me.Having been surprised by that, I wasn't able to answer satisfactorily. '

She is diagnosed with a sprain and decides to utilize substitutes even if it means paying for them with her own Private Points.When she was about to leave through the main entrance, Kikyo ran over.

Kikyo panted." I'm glad I was able to find you, Horikita-san. "

Suzune cross her arms as she turn to Kikyo." ...What is it?I have business to attend to later "

Kikyo smiled." Yep.Sorry, but this isn't a good place.Would you please hear me out? "

" Can you please explain here? "

Kikyo nod and lean near Suzune's ear as she began to whisper." ...Umm you see, it seems Kinoshita-san, who ran into you and collapsed, suffered a serious injury.Right now, it looks like it's bad enough that she can't even get up, that's why...umm, Kinoshita-san is saying she'd like you to go see her. "

Hearing those words, she couldn't conceal her surprise.Suzune ask." Where is she right now? "

" This way. "

The two girls then return to the infirmary to see her.Kinoshita and Chabashira are in the infirmary.The former is crying in bed.The latter pulls Suzune aside.

" Kinoshita-san ran into you during the morning's obstacle course race and fell.Do you recall that?" Kikyo ask Suzune.

" Of course.She ran into me and fell after all. "

Chabashira sensei turn to Suzune." Kinoshita is saying that you, Horikita, deliberately caused her to fall. "

Suzune look away." No such thing.It was a coincidental accident "

" I'd like to believe that as well but the situation isn't looking good.Kinoshita has testified that during the middle of the race, you kept on repeatedly looking back at her.For verification, we checked the video footage and you indeed checked Kinoshita's position twice." Chabashira informed.

" That is because she's the one who repeatedly called out my name.That's why I looked back. "

Chabahira lean back." She called your name, huh?I see.However, even if that happens to be the case, there's still a huge problem.She said you forcefully kicked her in the shin. "

" I didn't do anything." Suzune firmly said.

" Of course, I believe in your innocence.However, as long as we cannot eliminate the possibility that it was intentional, it's natural for us to deliberate on it. "

Suzune comment." That's stupid. "

Chabashira arch her brow." If you ignore this, the problem will grow.Obviously this has reached the ears of the other teachers as well, and the longer this drags out, even to the student council.If that happens, the aftermath will be disastrous.You haven't forgotten what happened when Sudou fought with Class C, have you? "

Even when Suzune gives an expressionless expression, she feels troubled.' If this drags out, my brother will inevitably learn of this as well. '

" But it doesn't seem like Kinoshita's going to listen, she's saying she'll report this to the school.Judging from her testimony and the footage, it doesn't seem like we'll be able to close this case." Chabashira add.

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" How did you happen to hear of this, Chabashira-sensei?Who else knows of this currently? "

" Kushida consulted me on the matter.She said she didn't want to make a big deal out of it but didn't know what to do." The teacher replied.

Kikyo flinch before looking nervous." Sorry, Horikita-san.Kinoshita-san insisted that I consult a teacher on this no matter what... "

Suzune sighed as she closee her eyes." Thank you for your concern.Because if it had been a teacher from another class, this would have escalated into a big deal.But I have my doubts.Where exactly did you hear this from Kinoshita-san? "

" Because I'm good friends with Kinoshita-san... " Kikyo answered shamefully.

" So that's how it is, huh." Suzune murmured, there is no escaping this, a problem coming in after another.

Kikyo raise her head." Would you like to speak with Kinoshita-san? "

Chabashira shrug her shoulders." I don't know.Right now she seems a bit frightened so she might be emotionally unstable... "

Kikyo looked worried." Please, sensei. "

" Alright, then let's try talking to her a bit." Chabashira finally says after a few seconds of silence.

Just as Chabashira grants permission, Ryūen arrives.

He doesn't look any concerned at all." Looks like it's become quite a big problem. "

Suzune stared at the newcomer with an unreadable expression.

" Ryuuen-kun... "

__________________________

Ryuuen laughed sneeringly and stopped in front of them." I came here after Kinoshita asked for me.To think someone would have deliberately caused that injury of hers. "

He then entered the infirmary.The girls too followed him.Entering the infirmary, Ryuuen brushed off the curtain that is veiling the bed in which Kinoshita is receiving treatment.

" Hey, Kinoshita.You ok?Looks like you've been through some tough times. "

Seeing Ryuuen-kun, Kinoshita-san openly trembled in fear.

Ryuuen walk near the injured girl." I hear you've injured your leg?Show me. "

He pulled Kinoshita-san's leg out from beneath the sheets.

" This is bad.Not half bad, all things considered... "

Under Ryuuen's hand was Kinoshita's painful-looking leg wrapped up in bandages.

Kinoshita sniffled." Sorry...I tried to hang in there and participate in the next contest too but...my leg just wouldn't listen...that's why...ahh! "

" Don't blame yourself, Kinoshita.I know you tried to participate in the three-legged race." Ryuuen said as if to sooth the girl.

Suzune grip her palms as she glance at Kinoshita with suspicion." ...It was an accidental collision.Kinoshita-san, what exactly are you trying to accomplish by saying I made you fall? "

Kinoshita averted her eyes.

Ryuuen then stood in front of her." According to what Kinoshita's been saying, you fully intended on making her fall.You deliberately did it, didn't you? "

" Cut the jokes.Are you saying I'd do something like that?" Suzune ask.

Ryuuen smirk." You can never tell what someone will do.Besides, look at the facts.Kinoshita, who happens to be better than you at sports, sustained serious injuries and had to withdraw.On top of that, she was planning on participating in all the Recommended Only Participation events later.In contrast, you continued participating in the contests in spite of your injury.You're asking the impossible if you want me to not be suspicious of that. "

Kinoshita then speak up." Horikita-san...you told me after I fell...that I definitely won't win... "

Suzune cross her arms." I said no such thing.Are you even aware that you're spouting lies? "

" Horikita, you were only looking back during the incident with Kinoshita." Chabashira stated.

" I admit I was looking back.However, it's only because she called out my name many times over from behind me.At first, I ignored her.But clearly things seemed strange and so I looked back. "

" I never called you, not even once." Kinoshita said through gritted teeth.

Ryuuen then reasoned out." The person in question herself is denying it, sensei.Besides, even if Kinoshita happened to call Suzune's name, what's wrong with that?Just calling a name doesn't amount to foul play. "

Kikyo step forward." I think it's unfortunate that things turned out like this but I don't think Horikita-san is the type of person to deliberately injure her opponent like this. "

" But Horikita-san told me...that she absolutely won't let me win...!" Kinoshita quietly said.

" That's probably just your desire to not lose getting to your head, is it not?I think Horikita-san was also surprised by the fall, I think she was desperate too. "

The girl look away from Kikyo." But—I can't forgive her...now I have to take a break from even track and field practice... "

" ...Don't you feel any shame?Painting lies and ensnaring someone, is that fun for you?Or could it be that Ryuuen-kun set everything up?I doubt that it's mere coincidence you conveniently showed up here." Suzune began to accuse.

" So you're blind to your own shortcomings and now it's the injured Kinosh*ta's fault as well as mine, huh?You're quite a terrible woman." Ryuuen comment.

Suzune scoff." Don't make me laugh.You provoked Sudou-kun a while back; I won't let you say you forgot.You're trying to use that same trick this time around as well, aren't you? "

" I don't mind if we can strike a quick and easy deal. "

" Strike a deal? "

" I'm talking about you shouldering any losses incurred by Kinoshita and Class C. " Ryuuen said.

" That's not funny; I don't even have to listen to this. "

Ryuuen shrug uncaringly." Then we're done.You won't strike a deal but you're telling us to not report this to the bigwigs.That's too selfish of you, Suzune.This won't fly. "

" What exactly should we do...?" Kikyo ask carefully.

" If you'll fork over 1 million points then I'll have Kinoshita withdraw her complaint.That way we'll be able to prepare a substitute for the Recommended Only Participation events and Kinoshita will be able to acquire a 'special income' thanks to me as well.Simple enough right? "

Suzune can feel her face twitch in anger and frustration." I haven't done anything.I don't need to hand a single point over. "

" Then go ahead and prove it, Suzune. "

Kikyo then raise her hand as she ask kindly." Umm...would it be no good with just my points alone...Ryuuen-kun? "

Ryuuen tilt his head." Hm? "

Kikyo explained." I don't think Horikita-san's the kind of person to deliberately do something like this.That's why I don't want to make a big deal out of this.But...I don't think Kinoshita-san's the type of person to lie too...an unfortunate coincidence, couldn't it be just that...that's why... "

Ryuuen smiled." A beautiful friendship.But that's no good. "

While distorting her face in pain, Kinoshita raised her upper body.

" If they look at this situation, the school should understand too that this is a serious matter.They won't stand for this vicious stance that would do anything if it's for the sake of an inferior person's victory." After that Ryuuen turn around, preparing to leave.

" Wait... "

That word clearly reached Ryuuen.They stopped walking.

" What is it, Suzune?You have no intention of responding to discussion, right? "

" If I pay, then you'll make it so that this never happens right...?" Suzune hesitantly ask.

Ryuuen raise a brow." So you're admitting that you committed foul play in order to win? "

Suzune shake her head." This time, I lost to your strategy.That's why I'll be paying for that. "

Ryuuen gave a laugh before nudging the girl beside him." Did you hear that, Kinoshita?She doesn't think she's done anything wrong at all.Can you forgive her? "

Kinoshita looked down." ...I won't forgive her... "

" Hear that?Unless you acknowledge your fault sincerely, we have no intention of responding. "

Suzune ask repeatedly." If I pay a million points, you'll make it so that nothing happens, that's what you said.There are no other conditions, right? "

" Certainly.But that was only the case a while ago.You declined once right?The same conditions won't apply now." Ryuuen then smirk." Try kneeling and begging right here.Maybe Kinoshita's feelings and my own might change. "

Chabashira furrowed her eyebrows as she frown." Wait, Ryuuen.This is too much. "

" Teachers shouldn't butt into this.This is a problem between us students.Don't think this problem will be over just because the sports festival ends, ok?I'll dig this matter back up thoroughly no matter what and fight against you.After school, you bring Suzune to me. "

Saying that, Ryuuen and Kinoshita both left the infirmary.

Kikyo turn to look at Suzune with a worried expression." Are you ok?Horikita-san... "

" I'm fine.. Excuse me." Hurriedly, Suzune left her classmate and her teacher behind as she left the infirmary.

As she walk across the halls she whisper in a tired tone." This is pathetic... "

As she approached the entrance, she noticed the presence of two people who walked into the school building.

Suzune can feel herself choke." Nii-san

Secretary Tachibana noticed her presence and diverted her gaze towards her, but Manabu did not even spare her a glance.

" Do you understand exactly what sort of situation Class D is in right now in this exam?" Suzune flinch at the cold voice Manabe gives off.

" ...I am currently realizing it.But please do not worry—I won't be troubling you, Nii-san." Suzune quietly replied.

' That's right; that alone is something I must absolutely avoid doing.This incident is caused entirely by my shortcomings. '

" Please excuse me. "

And by that, Suzune manage to pass by her brother succesfully.

After that, she continues searching for Sudō.She returns to where Class D is gathered, hoping Sudō had returned on his own, but he has not.

Suddenly she felt a cold shiver as something touch her back.

" !! "

Suzune quickly look behind her and see Karma holding up two hands.

" Woah woah.You okay?" Karma laughed at Suzune's face.

Suzune glared.

" Don't worry, I'm not here to make fun, do you know where Sudo is, time wasting." Karma said.

Suzune sighed." No, not yet.But the places he could go to are limited.If he doesn't want to be seen, then the possibility that he's returned to the dormitory is high. "

Karma hummed." Hey, is your leg okay? "

" I'd be lying if I said it didn't hurt, but it's not like I can't run.Will you come along? "

" No sorry, I'll be in your way anyway." Karma declined.

" I see... " Suzune muttered.She then started walking, but before she could leave-

" Suzu-chan... "

The said girl turn around.

" What is it, Karma-kun?I'm in a hurry- "

" You didn't tell us everything, right? "

Karma looked at Suzune directly, making her sweat a little.

" What are you- "

Karma then held his hand up to stop her talking." You don't need to tell me anything, I can already guess what it is, but... "

Karma then smiled a little, making Suzune shocked, because it was his genuine and gentle smile." We're also your allies, so when you're in a pinch, you can also rely on us. "

Suzune was surprised." R-right.Well then, if it's all, I'll be leaving. "

Suzune then sped off to find Sudo, but because Karma was already going back, he didn't see a little red on her cheeks.

_______________________

The latter half of the festival begins with the Recommended Only Participation events, where elites chosen from within the ranks of the class are expected to participate.The first event is Scavenger Hunt.

" Speaking of which, Ayanokouji-kun will be participating in the scavenger hunt right?" Yosuke ask the said male.

Kiyotaka sighed." If possible I'd rather not though... "

" The problem is the absentee, Sudou-kun... " Yosuke then raise his head." I think a substitute will be necessary.When it comes to individual contests, our class is probably the worst.That's why in order to win in overall points, we have to win here. "

" Then, the question is who to use as a substitute." Kiyotaka said.

" 100,000 points are required for a substitution after all.The substitutes we can use that I think would be fine are Ike-kun and Yamauchi-kun. "

Karma nod in understanding." Because if they take 1st place, they'll be able to acquire points for their tests? "

Smart yosuke.

Yosuke smiled." Yeah.I think it's a good idea to make use of that merit. "

.

.

.

Ike, who was chosen after winning rock-paper-scissors against Yamauchi, joined the participating group.

Ike takes on the first race and manages to get 1st place in his run.

Kiyotaka joins in the second run.

" Now then, what exactly is going to be written down... "

He inserted his hand into the box.He snatched one paper out.He unfolded the paper: "Bring along 10 friends".

" ...You've got to be kidding right? "

" What are you spacing out for?!Hurry it up, Ayanokouji! "

ke shouted out to him like that but there's nothing he can do about it.

Karma, on the other hand, was trying his best to hold his laughter, because he could see what was written on the paper, mabye because of his training with the rifle.

" I'd like to request a change... " Kiyotaka said.

He stood by for 30 seconds and drew his second lot: "The person you love".

Kiyotaka curse." No, no, no...no, no, no, no. "

When Karma heard and read that, he burst into a laughing spree and fell on the ground, holding his belly." Hahaha!O-Oh god...!Hahaha! "

" C-Change. "

On the third attempt, he manages to get one that tells him to find a table clock.However, he cannot find one in time before other contestants finish their run and accepts finishing in the last place.

///

During that time, Suzune finally finds Sudō in the dorm's lobby.

" Sudou-kun. "

Sudou perked up by Suzune's voice." ...Horikita.Why did you come here...?Could it be you're here to persuade me? "

" Do I look like the type to come all the way here to persuade you?" Suzune cross her arms.

" Then why?Did you come here to scold me again? "

Suzune shakes her head." If you withdraw, Class D will stand no chance. "

" Aren't they in trouble right now? "

" Yes.I guess right about now they're at the very bottom and to turn things around, taking 1st place consecutively on the Recommended Only Participation events will be necessary.Even then, it'll still be pretty much impossible for us to stand at the top. "

Sudou look away, guilt and anger shown on his face." I just couldn't stand being on the losing side of it.What that bastard did was against the rules. "

Suzune walk near the male." If you were someone people could trust in and rely on, then rather than me you would surely have a lot of classmates here instead, to convince you to come back. "

Sudou gave the table a light kick.

" That attitude's the problem here.Class D's always been bossed around by you, the midterm exam, and the incident with Class C, snapping and going on a rampage this time around. "

" I don't care about something like that." Sudou said with tch.

" Your weakness is that you're too easy to figure out.What would happen if you didn't happen to study?What would happen if you were to instigate violence?You lack the imagination to think ahead." Suzune explained.

" Ahh damn it all, it's already over!Leave me alone already!Your preaching is making me want to vomit! "

" If you dislike it, you're free to hit me. "

Sudou looked baffled." Huh?That sort of thing...there's no way I could do that sort of thing... "

Suzune glance straight towards Sudou." Is it because I'm a woman?I may be late in saying this, but I'm quite strong.I'll knock you down before you first reach me. "

Sudou sighed." I thought the sports festival would be a piece of cake as long as I'm good at sports.And it is a fact that I didn't lose to anyone from the other classes.But you know, it's in the nature of team contests that you can't do anything as long as someone's there to pull your leg.Both in capture-the-flag and in the cavalry battle, I lost no thanks to those useless guys.I just couldn't stand that. "

" I can tell just by looking that you hate losing in a field you're good at.But is that really all? "

The male then continued." ...For them to pay attention to me and respect me I guess?I thought maybe I could have something like that for myself.I wanted to show up the ones who made fun of me...lame, right?And with this I'm also a complete pariah, huh?Well, that's fine.It just means I'll be going back to how it was like in middle school for me. "

Suzune became silent after that.After a moment she spoke. " ... It's strange.These feelings of yours are basically the same as my own. "

Sudou looked confused." What do you mean? "

" The desire to be respected by someone.The desire to continue fighting on your own.I'm the same.Thinking back, the signs were there.Back during the midterm exams, I felt irritation towards the students who could not study, including you.I felt angry at people who couldn't even do what's natural.I just couldn't muster up the desire to cooperate with you.Compared to that, you did brilliantly in this sports festival, because at the very least, you carried the ones who could not handle sports. "

" Then you understand my feelings.Right now, I want to be alone." Sudou stood up from the sofa." I don't care about that anymore. "

Suzune furrow her eyebrows." So you're going to throw a tantrum just because things didn't go your way? "

Suddenly, he bell rang, signaling the end of the lunch break.

" Go back, Horikita." Sudou said.

" No.I cannot go back until I've brought you along. "

" Then do as you wish. "

Sudou starts walking again and he enters the elevator.

Suzune grip her palm." I'll be waiting here for you to come back.Forever. "

" ...Do as you wish. "

The elevator door closes shut.Up until the very end, she did not avert her eyes from him.

____________________

Back to the sports festival, Class D just got soundly defeated by Class B in a Four-Way Tug of War event.Sudō and Suzune's absence meant that they had to make more substitutions and as a result Hirata has lost a considerable amount of points.

" Doesn't look like Sudou-kun's coming back yet." Yosuke informed with a sigh.

Karma rest his head behind his arms." Well...leaving aside Sudou, Suzu-chan will probably pay for herself later. "

" Isn't it about time you let them bear the cost too?The ones participating, I mean." Kiyotaka motion to Yosuke.

Yosuke hummed." There's the class's victory to consider too but if we can rank higher and win prizes here it'll give us an advantage in the exams to come.It's best to still participate.If they have to pay their own way through, there are probably a lot of students who would pass up on this. "

Yosuke tries calling out to see if there's anyone interested in participating in a mixed gender three-legged race.But before he could, Kikyo came running over.

" Umm, Hirata-kun.Could you let me help out too?I'd like to participate in the three-legged race.Of course, I'll pay the points for it...can I?" Kikyo beg." I can't let Hirata-kun be the only one bearing the burden.Besides, I also want to try my best to contribute for Horikita-san and Sudou-kun's sake as well... "

Yosuke looked suprised but smiled after." Of course that's a welcome offer.Since Kushida-san's pretty good at sports too. "

" Thanks!I'll go tell Chabashira-sensei that I'll be participating in Horikita-san's place then." And with that, the girl ran off.

" As fot the boy.. " Yosuke trailed off.

Suddenly Kiyotaka raise his hand." Hey, Hirata.This contest, is it ok if I act as Sudou's substitute?I'll pay the points for it too. "

Yosuke tilt his head." Well—sure.Of course I don't mind...but are you fine with that? "

Having received permission, Kiyotaka immediately went after Kushida.He cut into the conversation she was already having with Chabashira-sensei.

" So, Ayanokouji, you're going to be Sudou's substitute?" Chasbahira ask for confirmation.

" Yes." Kiyotaka shortly replied.

" This is unusual, considering you like playing spectator, while Karma does all the work. "

Kikyo pipe up." So Ayanokouji-kun's going to be replacing Sudou-kun.I'm looking forward to it. "

Kiyotaka nod his head." Likewise.I'm not very fast so you'll have to forgive me for that. "

Karma frown.' Such a coincidence must cute girls flock around Ayano-kun or is it... '

Kiyotaka and Kikyo begin preparation for the race.They're joined by Class B's Ichinose and Shibata, another improvised pair since there are also absentees in their class.

While they are tying the strings, Kiyotaka interrupts Kikyo.

" Kushida. "

" Wait just a bit longer ok?I'll be done tying in a bit." Kikyo said.

Kiyotaka proceed to ask." It's you, isn't it?The traitor who leaked Class D's participation table to Class C. "

Kikyo pause her movement.

She then let out a laugh." ...Come on, Ayanokouji-kun.What's the matter with you all of a sudden?Even for a joke, that's far too cruel— "

" I and Karma saw it." Kiyotaka interrupted as he stare right into the girl." You snapped a picture of the participation table we drew up on the blackboard with your phone. "

" That's just a record so I don't forget. "

" To only memorize one's own turn through writing it down by hand.Wasn't that the consensus? "

" Really?Sorry, I forgot." Having finished tying the string, Kikyo slowly stood back up with her usual smile directed at him." By any chance, did that cause you and Akabane-kun to suspect me? "

Kiyotaka's expression didn't falter." : Sorry but I'm confident I and Karma are right.If not, Class C wouldn't be able to attack us this conveniently. "

Kikyo giggled." You two are really close if you call Akabane-kun by his first name.But I wonder, even if someone were to leak Class D's participation table by any chance, that doesn't necessarily mean Class C will be able to conveniently win right? "

" That's true. "

" Hey, Ayanokouji-kun." Kikyo stare directly at Kiyotaka.

" Assuming I'm the culprit responsible for leaking the class's information—and me snapping a picture with my phone was the deciding factor, then that must mean you and Karma-kun knew the participation table had been leaked right?Then why didn't you alter the participation table later?Couldn't you have submitted a new participation table later as a countermeasure?If you had done so, the participation table I snapped a picture of would become outdated and meaningless, don't you think so? "

" Then we'd keep quiet and submit the new participation table.Even if we do that, as long as the traitor's a student from Class D, they'd still be able to check and inspect it anytime they want.If they simply asked Chabashira-sensei to show them the participation table, it's well within class rights for them to see it." Kiyotaka said.

Kikyo sighed." I get the gist of it but I'm not the culprit you know?But I don't want to suspect my classmates either. "

" Then shall we confirm it with Chabashira-sensei?Whether or not any students have gone out of their way to check the list after the participation table was submitted.If such a person exists then surely they'd be the culprit. "

After Kiyotaka said that, Kikyo closed her mouth and for the first time, her smile disappeared.However, she smiled deeply again right away.

" —Fufu.You're really something else, Ayanokouji-kun." Kikyo laughs." It can't be helped if the cat's out of the bag.That's right; I leaked the information on the participation table. "

" You admit it then?" Kiyotaka ask.

" Yeah.It'd have been surely exposed either way if you had asked Chabashira-sensei.It was only a matter of time.Besides, even if I told you the truth, Ayanokouji-kun, I'm confident I won't be exposed.You haven't forgotten, have you?My uniform that you touched?If that's revealed, it'll become a big deal, you know? "

Kikyo finished with the same sweet tone as if it was a normal thing to say.

Kiyotaka stayed indifferent.' So she still doesn't know that Karma told me about that recording. '

Kiyotaka close his eyes." Certainly, I won't be able to expose you as the culprit.But, by the way, tell me something.The exam on the cruise, that result came about because you informed all the students of the fact that you're the 'target' through Ryuuen, right?And you asked Ryuuen for a favor in return for you leaking that information. "

" Ahaha...yeah, I see.So Ayanokouji-kun really figured it out. "

" Yeah." Kiyotaka then get right to the point." Why would you betray the class?I wanted to know the exact reason behind it. "

" It's because I want to 'expel Horikita Suzune'.That's the reason." Kikyo replied.

" I just couldn't figure out the reason why you're so persistent when it comes to targeting Horikita though. "

" Sorry but I'm going to get Horikita-san expelled.No matter what you say, I won't change my mind on this." The girl sneered.

Kiyotaka nod." In other words, in order to accomplish that, you'd even sabotage Class D? "

" That's right.I don't mind not being able to climb up to Class A. I'll settle for getting Horikita-san expelled.But don't get me wrong.Once Horikita-san is no longer here, I'll wholeheartedly cooperate with everyone from the class and aim for Class A. That's the fact that you, Ayanokouji-kun, are now on my list of people to expel.In other words, after the two of you have been eliminated, I'll aim for Class A. But... "

Kikyo then looked at Karma with the glare while he was not looking.

" I will definitely expel that bastard, no matter what. "

She then returned to her usual smile.

Kiyotaka take a glance at Karma before returning to Kikyo." Haven't you considered the possibility that Ryuuen might expose you? "

Kikyo smirk." I'm not an idiot either so I haven't done anything that would leave any evidence behind.Ryuuen-kun's capable of casually tricking people and he's also a liar.Well, whether or not he'd betray me is a gamble I made though. "

Then not long, the three-legged race started.

As it occurs, Kiyotaka was deep in thought.

' Kushida, if you by some chance, which I believe will not happen, expel me or Horikita, Karma will destroy you.But... '

Kiyotaka then looked at Kushida with some darkness in his eyes.

' If you expel Karma, my one and only 'ally', then I'll make sure that the rest of your school life you will be in hell. '

____________________________

Back in the dorm, Suzune has been waiting for roughly an hour when Sudō finally reappears.

" You...did you seriously stick around?" Sudou asked in surprise.

" You finally came back, Sudou-kun." Suzune said, ignoring Sudou's comment.

......

" Isn't it already over?The sports festival, I mean. "

Suzune cross her arms." That may be so.But if we go back now, we may still be in time for some contest. "

Sudou grip his palm." But what's the point, we're still going to lose. "

" Since you've come all the way back here, I assume this means you feel like going back to the competition? "

" Nah.I just came here to check if you're still here or not... "

Suzune cut in." That's right.I've been sorting out various thoughts in my head while waiting an hour for you.What kind of person I am, what kind of person you are.I've been rethinking it.After all, you and I are similar. "

" We have nothing in common.You and I are just too different. "

" No." Suzune shake her head." You and I are similar.The more I think about it, the more I feel that way.Always alone.Always lonely.But you believed you could do it and carried on that way.If there is a difference between us, it would be that the acknowledgement we crave either derives from a single person or from a group of people.I've told you about the student council president before so you know about it right? "

Sudou raise his head." Yeah.That guy who's always putting on airs right?Looks like quite a guy. "

" He's my older brother." Suzune said.

" Speaking of which, you said something about having quarreled with him...right?" Sudou feels awkward digging under Suzune's childhood.

" Our sibling relationship is far from being a pleasant one.The reason behind that is my lack of talent.My outstanding brother dislikes being associated with someone as incompetent as me.That's why I tried my best to become someone talented.In both studies and sports.Even now. "

" Does he really not acknowledge you?Even though you're trying this hard." Sudou ask again.

" Yes.Not one bit.But I finally realize now.I'm not talented at all.During this sports festival, I was beaten here and there all just as Ryuuen-kun had intended and I wasn't able to leave behind a single satisfactory result.There's no way my brother would acknowledge someone like me.The reason I'm aiming for Class A is so that my brother would acknowledge me.That hasn't changed.But I have realized the methods I've been using to achieve that are wrong.I'm not alone."

Suzune then look at Sudou with a new light." That for the first time, by having allies; I may be able to get closer to that peak. "

" Horikita... "

Sudou balled his hands into fists forcefully and hit himself on the forehead with them.

" Ahh...what the hell is this feeling?I don't know but I feel like my eyes are finally open... " He said so as he took a step towards her." I'll cooperate with you, Horikita.I...I feel like my existence outside of basketball has been acknowledged for the first time.That's why I want to reply to those feelings of yours. "

Suzune then start beaming with a natural smile towards those words of his.

' A feeling I've felt for the first time.I wonder what this throbbing in my chest is.The only thing I could tell is that it isn't something like friendship or love.Something separate from those...that's right, embarrassingly enough I now have someone I could call a comrade. '

Suzune didn't seem to hate the feeling.

' Different from both Ayanokouji-kun and my brother, but someone like Karma-kun.What I lack.Something I surely am in shortage of.However, I wonder if I've taken that small first step. '

The wind.It was calming, good and comfortable.But it can also be interpreted as a sign of a disastrous storm.

__________________________

" THE 3RD RECOMMENDED ONLY MATCH IS STARTING SOON.THE 1V1 CONFRONTATION. "

People from all years, who participated in this event, started to go to the field.One of those people was a red-head with gold eyes, which were of a predator or rather a killer.

Karma smirked.' This is it... '

Unbeknownst to him, many people were watching him, especially the class leaders and the greatest masterpiece of the white room, but they were also watching a magenta-haired guy, who was also participating in this event.

" THE PARTICIPATION ONLY EVENT IS STARTING.FIRST MATCH.CLASS 1-D VS CLASS 3-B. "

Both fighters get into the middle of the field.The sempai was smirking, because he thought that he could easily beat any defective from Class-D, while the troublemaker from that class was quiet.Many people believed that the sempai would win-

" Start!!" The announcer said and the fight begins.

The sempai then began to mock." Hey, you're that Akabane-guy, right?You attacked some of my pals, so I'm gonna punish you- "

-But Karma wouldn't allow some random guy to beat him.

Before sempai would notice, Karma was already in front of him.Sempai was shocked, but before he could say anything, Karma kicked his jaw with a high kick, rendering his opponent unconscious.

" Woah! "

" That guy is good! "

The crowd began to roar, not caring if it ended fast.

Kiyotaka blink.' That was fast, but why-... oh, I get it.So, he chose to get serious in this event, huh?Well, I better watch his fights to fully understand his potential and skills. '

The event continued, but most people only watched Karma's and Ryuuen's fights.

In the end, it wasn't hard to guess who would fight in the finals.

Ryuuen let out a wild grin." Kukuku, so we finally have our match, huh, Akabane.Hm, what's wrong?Could be that after Suzune's- "

" You know, Ryuuen... " Karma then started stretching, but he also started to emit something." Your strategy and tactics against Suzu-chan were quite good, but... "

Karma stood up straight." As she's my ally, I have to punish you for attacking her like that, so... "

Karma then released more than half of his bloodlust, making some people shiver uncontrollably.

Kikyo widen her eyes.' What... '

Ichinose can feel herself suffocate.' Is.. '

Katsuragi place his palm on his chest.' This.. '

Ryuuen can feel himself stiffen.' Feeling..? '

While some were shivering, there were two people who looked at Karma intently, mainly his eyes.

Sakayanagi looked at Karma with newfound interest.' So this is... '

Kiyotaka place all his focus on his friend. ' ... His true eyes. '

Karma lick his lips." I'll kick your ass here and now...! "

( Soundtrack for dramatic purposes, skip if you don't want )

Even though sweat was dripping from his forehead, Ryuuen smiled a crazy smile, mirroring Karma's.

Ryuuen then start to fire." Come, AKABANE KARMA! "

Karma smiled as he did the same." With pleasure, RYUUEN KAKERU! "

Both fighters advance, and they try to attack one another, but their fists only graze each other.Karma then kicked Ryuuen backwards.

The pair repeatedly tries to attack the other.Ryuuen then jumped and tackled Karma to the ground, but before he could punch him, Karma threw him off.

Karma wave away his bruised hand.' If I take these blows poorly, I'll be down for sure. '

Like he interpreted, Ryuuen's blows are powerful.

Ryuuen tried to attack him again, but using his leg, Karma threw leaves at him, and with the other leg he kicked him in the head, making him fall to the ground.

Ryuuen dodges a downward blow, and taking advantage of that, he kicks his hand away, making Karma hiss.

Ryuuen's eyes are focused.' Now's my chance! '

However, once Ryuuen leaped toward Karma to land a blow, Karma head-butted his forehead, making Ryuuen stumble.

Before Ryuuen could attack again, Karma strikes his face with his elbow.

Karma laughed." I won't let you.The second you try, I'll hit you. "

Karma then leaps forward, grabs Ryuuen by his hair and repeatedly knees him in the stomach.

" I'll knock you out and take my sweet time dealing the coup de grace!" Karma smiles, and makes Ryuuen look at him by grabbing his hair and collar.

" Don't underestimate me!" Ryuuen roared.

Ryuuen then gets free from his hold and punches Karma's nose.Karma, who still has that smile, turns his head to the side, and innocently asks-

" That's all you got? "

Karma then delivers a harsh punch to Ryuuen's face, making him fall to the ground, but before his fall, he attacks Karma's face with his leg, making his lip bleed, but Karma still has that smile.

Ryuuen continually lands blows on Karma, with the latter doing the same.

Ike sweat nervously at the sight before him." Shit, if Karma allows Ryuuen to continue with those punches, he will lose! "

" I doubt it." Kiyotaka remark.

Yamauchi turn to Kiyotaka with the same troubled face." Ha?What are you talking about, Ayanokoji? "

" He's taking on those hits on purpose. "

Sakayanagi and Katsuragi both watch the fight.

" He knows what type of man Ryuuen-kun is, so that's why he's doing that." Sakayanagi said.

Katsuragi's eyes bulge." You mean... "

Sakayanagi smiled." Yes, by taking on all those blows repeatedly, he shows Ryuuen-kun that he can easily defend against them- "

Kiyotaka's eyes didn't leave the scene." If he wins like that, even Ryuuen will have to accept defeat. "

Karma then uppercuts Ryuuen, making him fall on one knee.

Karma grinned." Game... "

Ryuuen then quickly averts his eyes to the above, seeing Karma's leg.

" ... Over. "

Karma then lands an axe kick right on Ryuuen's neck, making him fall to the ground.

At first, nothing happens, as there is complete silence in the air, but then the announcer speaks.

" The winner from the boy's side is Akabane Karma from 1-D! "

Many people cheer, with class D the most one cheering.

" Hell yeah!" Ike shouted while pumping his fist.

" He beat Ryuuen!" Yamauchi stared at awe.

While people are cheering, Class C is at a loss for words.

Ishizaki whispered." He defeated... "

" ... Ryuuen." Ibuki finished with fear in her eyes.

Suddenly Karma turn to the Class C students." Oi, class C! "

When they heard Karma's voice, students from that class turned towards him.

" Up until now you won, but only because of Ryuuen.Only now that he's out, what're you gonna do?" Karma then puts his hand on his forehead and laughs." Oh right, nothing!Without him you're even lower than us, defectives. "

That comment makes Class C snap.

" Shut up! "

" Got to hell! "

While hearing those comments, Karma only sticks his tongue out.

He then directs his attention to the female side, and the winner's name is 'Kiryūin Fūka' from 2-B.

When Karma heard her name, he smirked and thought of only one thing.

' Interesting. '

While he thought of that, two people who stared at him intently, thought about one thing.

Sakayanagi smiled." So this... "

' ... Akabane Karma's true potential." Kiyotaka can feel himself drawn to the male.

Sakayanagi chuckled." Fufufu.This school just got interesting. "

Kiyotaka continued to stare at Karma, but his poker face started to change.At the same time, Karma started stretching and looking for his friend.

' The battle with Ryuuen did warm me up, but the one I truly wish to face against, has to be... '

' If there is an opponent who can truly entertain me in this school, it has to be... '

Both males looked at each other, and Karma smirked, but he was shocked and his smirk only widened when his friend responded with a smirk of his own.

' Him! '

The final event of the sports festival is the 1200 Meters Relay Race.The rules for the final event require that boys and girls be mixed.From each class of all three school years, the runners must be evenly balanced between male and female.

" Hah, hah.Sorry, I kept you waiting!What's going on?" A breathless Sudou came back, with Suzune arriving soon after.

" Sudou-kun, you came back." Yosuke state in surprise.

" ...Sorry, it took me some time to take a dump." Sudou then awkwardly scratch the back of his neck." Sorry.All because I snapped, I ended up almost hitting Akabane and Hirata and caused morale to plummet.It's also my fault that Class D is in such dire straits. "

Before anyone could blame him, Sudou said that and gave a deep bow.Hirata and Karma, after a brief moment of surprise, laughed happily.

Ike blink." What's up with you, Ken?This is unlike you. "

" I have to admit I'm in the wrong if I have done something wrong.Please let me apologize to you too, Kanji. "

Ike laughed as he wave his hand back and forth." It's not like it's your fault I lost or anything.I'm not good at sports...I'm sorry I wasn't of any use. "

One apology led to another.But then, Yamauchi, Ike and some students smirked, making Sudou and Suzune confused.

" But man, you missed the best part!" Ike enthusiast.

Suzune raise a brow." The best part? "

Yamauchi smugly grin." Yeah, you should've seen how Karma beat Ryuuen! "

After hearing that, Sudou and Suzune turned towards Karma with a dumbfounded expression.

" You've beaten Ryuuen.No way." Sudou said with disbelief.

Karma smirk." Yeah, after seeing you two get attacked by Class C like that, I thought that it would be nice to return the favor.So... "

Karma then held up his hands for a high five.

" Give it here. "

After a second, Sudou grins and gives Karma a big high five.

" Hell yeah! "

Karma then hissed as he retreat his hand." Ouch.Man, you have a good right hook. "

" Karma-kun. "

Karma turn to Suzune." What is it Suzu-chan- "

Suzune sighed." I don't say that normally, but- "

Suzune then did something that Karma did not expect.She actually smiled and gave him a high five." Good work. "

After staring at his hand for a moment, Karma turns to Suzune." Are you okay, Suzun-chan?You don't look like- "

Suzune glared at Karma." If you continue this line of thought, Karma-kun, I will punish you with my needle compass. "

Karma then quickly stopped talking, and looked at Suzune with a sweatdrop from his forehead." Ok Ok, don't need to get violent here! "

' I better stop talking, or else I'll end like Ayano-kun. '

Sudou then turn towards Yosuke with a serious expression." If you haven't decided on the substitute for the relay then please let me run. "

Yosuke looked thoughtful before speaking." There isn't a single student other than Sudou-kun we could leave it to, right, everyone? "

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Suddenly, Suzune raise her hand." May I ask for a substitute runner...?I won't be able to produce satisfactory results with this leg. "

" Are you fine with that, Horikita?You tried so hard to be in this relay, right?" Sudou asked with concern.

The girl sighed." ...it can't be helped.In this state, I'm not even sure I can win against Ike-kun.Sorry. "

In this somber and grim meeting, after Sudou had done so, Suzune also gave a deep bow.

Having heard that, Yosuke nodded and decided that Kikyo would be participating in her stead.Then, with Sudou as the first one on the list, there's Yosuke, Miyake, Maezono, Onodera.The five of them with Kikyo as Suzune's replacement took on the challenge with that lineup.

" Umm...sorry about the suddenness, but the truth is I— " Yosuke got cut off by Miyake.

" Please wait, I apologize but...would you let me withdraw too?Actually, I sprained my ankle during the 200 meter dash before noon...I thought it'd get better with some rest but it's still hurting." Miyake confess.

Yosuke let out a worried smile." In that case, it looks like we'll need a replacement from the boys as well. "

Kiyotaka then proclaimed." Then would it be fine if I ran?Of course, I'll pay the points for the substitution. "

Ike looked unsure." Ehh, you will, Ayanokouji?Speaking of which, you...are you fast? "

" I'm all for it." Kiyotaka shortly said.

" Also, we can't say that Class D has its best members." Yosuke instructed." That's why our strategy should be seizing the initiative and securing our lead.How about that, Sudou-kun?Considering the rules too, I think we'd secure predominance if we can run ahead.If we can get the start right and if it's Sudou-kun, who runs fast, doing the overtaking then we may be able to gain some distance in one stroke.I'll maintain that lead and hand it over to the next student. "

Sudou nod as he roll his shoulders." ...Well, no helping it.There's no other way if we want to win. "

Sudou will go first.Yosuke, whose speed is assured, will be going second.After that, the three girls, including Kikyo, will have their turn and in the end, it'll be Kiyotaka's turn.

From across all school years and from across all classes, the chosen elites gather at the center of the grounds and amongst them the figures of the older Horikita as well as Nagumo of the 2nd years could be seen.

" I'll leave it to you, Sudou-kun! "

Yosuke shouts and in the same vein, Kikyo and the other runners also send shrill cheers flying Sudou's way.

Sudou, looking determined, enters the course.Class D is on the innermost lane.It's set up such that Class A of the 3rd year is on the outermost lane.

Karma smiled as he watch Kiyotaka.' Now then, I better watch Ayano-kun, because I have a feeling that he will do something interesting. '

As excitement peaked, the last relay finally began.

___________________________

Sudō makes a good start and manages to take the lead.

The baton is then passed to Yosuke who continues to maintain the lead.However, the girls can't keep up their pace with the boys and seniors from other classes and Class D start losing positions.

" Looks like we won this fight, President Horikita.If possible, I'd have liked to run against you. "

Glancing at the approaching top runner, a student from Class A of the 2nd year, Nagumo laughed." Even in overall points, we're likely to win.Looks like the dawn of a new era. "

Manabu just push his glasses." Are you serious about changing it?The school, I mean. "

" Up until now, there's been a lack of fun when it comes to the student council.It stubbornly stuck to protecting tradition.Such things are already unnecessary, aren't they?That's why all I'll be doing is creating new rules.For the ultimate meritocratic school system, that is. "

Nagumo slowly started to walk forward.

The baton is passed onto the representative of the 2nd year's Class A: Nagumo.Shibata follows not too long later in 2nd place.

" Alright, nice!Leave the rest to me!" Shibata exclaimed.Shibata, with fiery eyes, started running as though chasing after Nagumo.

Manabu turn to Kiyotaka who's standby." To think you're the anchor. "

Kiyotaka didn't manage to look at the school president." I'm just replacing an injured man.Originally, your sister was slated to be in this position. "

" I see." Manabu's voice stays indifferent." She's struggling in her own way then.I've been watching your class and up until a while ago I thought of you guys as a hopeless class.But in this final relay, I don't feel any of that from you guys.What happened? "

" You sure are keeping an eye on us.Class D of the 1st year isn't really something you ought to be paying attention to, right? "

" I keep an eye on all classes.No exceptions. "

Kiyotaka scroll his pupils at Manabu." If something has changed then it'd be your sister. "

" ...I see.I'll ask you this.What about you?I can't feel any passion from you, the complete opposite from Akabane. "

Kiyotaka let out a small shrug." I'm the usual me.I have no interest in this sports festival.I can already tell the outcome.And I think Karma was fired up because he could fight Ryuuen.You won't be able to see it after you graduate but...our class will become stronger. "

Manabu scoffed." I have no interest in such an assumed future. "

As the older Horikita glanced at his approaching teammate, Ayanokoji stopped him with his words.

" Then in that case, would you happen to be interested in seeing exactly what kind of person I am? "

Karma, who was close to them and could hear their conversation, was dumbfounded.' What? '

" What?" Manabu looked incredulous.

The timing's about right to start on an approach run.However he stopped.

" If you'd like me too, I don't mind racing against you." Kiyotaka said.

Karma was even more shocked by this, but then he smirked.' Ayano-kun always makes things interesting for me. '

Manabu smirk." ...You sure are a man who says the most fascinating things.Was it just my misunderstanding?Up until now, I thought you hated standing out and avoided taking any direct action.Even in this relay, I had thought you'd simply let things play out and end. "

" If you'll abandon any possibility of making it to 2nd place in order to race me then I'll accept.It's not every day a 1st year and a 3rd year are lined up side-by-side to compete. "

In response to this unexpected provocation, the older Horikita stopped entirely and turned to face him.

" Interesting." Manabu murmured.

Kiyotaka's face turned cold.' Normally, I wouldn't make such a challenge, if not for two facts.The first one is that I want to face Horikita Manabu, who stands at the top of this school.And the second one is... '

Ayanokoji then glanced at Karma, but there was an excited gleam in his eyes.

' Is that I want to accept Karma's challenge.After the fight with Ryuuen, he made me, a being with no emotions and a poker face, feel excited and smirk.And he wasn't even serious, but yet, when we made eye contact, it felt as if he challenged me.And as he excited me, I will show him my strength and respond to his challenge. '

Manabu no longer made any move.The one most bewildered by this would have to be the fifth runner for Class A of the 3rd years.

" You did well." Manabu said to the 3rd year.

" Ahh, ehh, ahh... "

The 3rd year left while in shock at the attitude of the older Horikita who had received the baton.

Naturally the spectators who had realized this bizarre situation turned their eyes towards the older Horikita.

Class A of the 3rd year, once 3rd place, was overtaken one after another and at last, Class D's Kikyo approached Kiyotaka.

Kikyo too, realized this bizarre situation but she ran over at full speed.A distance covered in a few more seconds.

" I'll just say this before the race." Kiyotaka said making Manabu look back to him.

" What? "

As the two of them started on their approach run, Kiyotaka said this one sentence.Just one sentence made the hair on the back of Karma's neck stand up and he smirked fully.

" —run with everything you've got. "

For an instant, the older Horikita laughed.At this very moment, the baton passed over to Ayanokoji.

" Ayanokouji-kun!" Kikyo yelled.

Kiyotaka dashes forth with full throttle.The two runners quickly close the distance and overtake the runner in front.Both of them head to the last curve.

' Alright—I'm going to accelerate even further— '

Cheers rang out throughout the grounds, but Karma didn't care about them, he was only watching the runners, and then he thought about his friend, while sweat was dripping from his forehead.

' Man, he's truly a monster... ' But then Karma smirked and there was an excited gleam in his eyes.' But that just makes me want to face him even more. '

Kei let out an breath of air, flabbergasted." ...That was super-fast. "

//////////

After the contest, Kei said that to Kiyotaka while averting her eyes from him.Karma was also walking beside them.

" Isn't it just that my opponent happened to be slow?" Kiyotaka once again, tried to lay it low.

" Maybe so, but you really should've seen everyone's reactions." Karma said the last part with a smirk.

Kiyotaka wave Karma's comment away." Leaving jokes aside, ultimately I didn't beat the student council president, did I? "

Kei sighed helplessly." Well, there's no helping that. "

" The person running in front of you fell." Karma said.' Although, if it wasn't for him, I would've bet all my money that Ayano-kun would have won. '

Kiyotaka ended up finishing behind Manabu because a runner in front of him fell and blocked his way, enabling Manabu to overtake him.

The performance still gathers attention from all over the school including his classmates.

Sudou stomped over to Kiyotaka." Ayanokouji!Aren't you a fast one!Have you been holding back until now!? "

Sudou forcefully slapped Ayanokoji on the back.Karma cringed, because he knew that it's painful.

Karma rub Kiyotaka's back as kiyotaka stands up straight.

" Running is about my only forte after all.But that was overdoing it.I guess this is what you'd call hysterical strength. "

" That still doesn't explain it.That speed, I mean.You liar." Slightly dragging her foot behind her, Suzune came over.She used her hand as though it were a blade and stabbed Kiyotaka in the abdomen.

Karma chuckled as he support Kiyotaka." You guys, this isn't the sort of treatment you should be giving a soldier who fought his best. "

" Why are you taking his side?" Suzune looked at Karma with a little glare.

Karma let Kiyotaka's arm wrap around his neck.' I hope you're glad now Ayano-kun, because by trying to help you, I inquired the wrath of a demon! '

Kiyotaka groan slightly." It hurts. "

Since Suzune came over to them, Kei took her distance so as to not be a disturbance.

From afar, Sakura was also looking at them, mainly Kiyotaka but since there's a crowd around them, she did not approach.

Suzune the start scolding the two boys." If you had run like this from the start, then things would've been different.But why did you suddenly get serious?Now you'll be basking in attention.Same thing could be said about you, Karma-kun, as you beat the Ryuuen-kun, the leader and the dictator of Class C. "

" Sorry." Both boys said.

Karma then look to the side and beamed." Looks like they're going to be announcing the results soon.Let's go. "

___________________

The sports festival concludes and results are announced.

The Red Team wins the competition, defeating White Team.For the first year classes, Class B gets 1st place, followed by Class C in 2nd, Class A in 3rd and Class D in 4th.

Sō Shibata of Class B is the MVP of the first years, ahead of Sudō.

" Guaaaah!So that's how it is after all! "

Having lost his last hope, Sudou screams out.He continued to stare at the electronic notice board in frustration even after the closing ceremony had ended.

Yosuke chuckled lightly." Sudou-kun, you didn't place first in our school year.You do remember the promise right? "

Sudou sighed as he scratch the nape of his neck." ...Yeah, it's regrettable though.But a promise is a promise.I'll call you Horikita from now on. "

" That's some impressive dedication." Suzune laughed in a slightly teasing manner.

' No way... ' Karma gasped before grinning.' Is Suzu-chan teasing him?! '

" I forgot to tell you this but I just remembered that you one-sidedly pushed those conditions onto me and I haven't made any requests in turn yet." Suzune said giving Sudou back his hope.

" What's that mean? "

" If you take 1st place, then you'll call me by my first name.You proposed such selfish terms to me so isn't it natural that I make a request in turn now that you've failed to achieve that? "

Sudou look down." Well, that's right... "

Suzune cross her arms." That's why I will punish you for not being able to achieve your objective.Never again will you use violence without a justifiable reason.I forbid it.Can you promise me that? "

" ...It's a punishment, right?I'll keep that promise." Sudou said with a determined nod.

Suzune add." Of course, don't forget that you're not the one who gets to decide what a justifiable reason is.That's either up to me or a third party. "

Sudou obediently abided by that as well.

Suzune slowly turned her back and started to walk off." That's right...during this sports festival, much like you, I was unable to live up to everyone's expectations. "

Sudou awkwardly look to the side." Ahh?It can't be helped, right?Since you got injured and all. "

" Even so, I cannot forgive myself.That's why I also need to be punished." Suzune said so as she turned around and then- " That's why if you wish to do so, I don't mind allowing you to call me by my first name. "

Sudou looked shock." Hah?O-Oi? "

" That is my punishment.Although we're in last place, thanks to that I was able to gain hope for the fights to come.I am truly grateful." Suzune said with a small smile.

" ...O-Oh." Sudou rubbed the bottom of his nose and looked in the other direction." Oooooooohhhhhhh, riiiiiiight! "

Sudou shouted loudly as though to blow away all fatigue and raised both his hands to the sky." This sports festival is awesome!It's awesome, Suzune! "

Karma pat Sudou's shoulder." Good for you, Sudou. "

" Yeah! "

" Sorry about butting in while you're celebrating but do you have some time to spare? "

Just as they decided to wrap it up and approached the school building, someone called out like that.The one who said that was a composed looking girl.She was a student from Class A, Kamuro Masumi.

" After this, after you've finished changing that is, would you accompany me for a bit?" Kamuro ask towards Kiyotaka.

Kiyotaka turn to the female." ...Why me? "

" Because I have something to tell you.5 o'clock.Come to the front gate. "

The three boys looked speechless.Sudou the first one to recover looked accusingly at Kiyotaka.

" O-Oi, Ayanokouji.What's up with that, what's up with that?What's up with that kind of situation!? "

Karma place a hand on his chin.' Is this a confession-no I can't sense anything like that from this girl. '

Kiyotaka ignore Sudou as he's focus on someone else." Oi.What do you mean by having something to tell— "

Kiyotaka tried to stop her but the girl simply left.

" What's up with that?Has the springtime of youth come for you as well?" Sudou ask as he nudge Kiyotaka's side.

Karma rub the side of his neck." As much as I hope spring will come for Ayano-kun, it doesn't seem like that's the case though... "

" There's still the possibility that the girl, after seeing you show off as the anchor, fell in love with you at first sight." Sudou suggest.

Karma doubt that very much.Love at first sight doesn't exist in Karma's dictionary, therfore, he believe it as fairy tale.

" ... Good grief... " Kiyotaka whispered.

After seeing off that unfamiliar girl, Kiyotaka and Karma changed clothes in the locker room and then returned to the classroom.

Since they were instructed to disperse at the closing ceremony, half of the students were already on their way back.

" This round was a complete defeat.Truly." Suzune, who replied as such, showed not a hint of gloom on her face." But as for me, I feel like I was able to mature during this sports festival.I never thought the day would come when I'd use the words 'using failure as fuel' but...truly, that's what I feel. "

" That's right.If you feel like you were able to mature then isn't that just fine?" Kiyotaka said.

" This class will become stronger.And we will definitely ascend to the upper classes." Suzune said with no doubt.

Karma shake his head." That doesn't suit you, Suzu-chan.It's sending shivers down my spine. "

" ...I suppose so.That is unlike me." Suzune shyly averted her eyes." But there are still tons of problems before we can do so.There's a domestic problem we have to clean up too.But firstly, in order to do so, I'm going to need kowtow. "

" Kowtow?" Kiyotaka repeat.

" It's something that has nothing to do with you." That was Suzune's last words.

With that, both Ayanokoji and Karma left, but before going from the classroom, Karma glances at Suzune, but in the end, also leaves the classroom, making Suzune the only person left in the classroom.

Kikyo then returns after having left the classroom once, and they both leave to meet Ryūen, but they failed to notice that someone was following them.

" Yo.So you didn't run away after all, Suzune." Ryuen smiled as he massage his bruised neck.

Suzune let out a hmp.' Even when your completely defeated in combat by our classmate yet your acting as if it's nothing.. '

Suzune scoff." I'll be damned if I run away here.Of course I'd come. "

Ryuen chuckled." Your heart's in the right place.You've become a finer woman than you were before. "

Suzune then raise her hand." But before I talk with you...let's put an end to this farce already, shall we?Kushida-san. "

Suzune look to the side were Kikyo stands.

Kikyo blink." Ehh?Farce?What do you mean by that? "

Suzune cross her arms.

" I don't really mind you playing the good guy here but that's not what you're after right?This sports festival.You leaked the information.That's why Class C was able to pull it off so brilliantly.The fact that I'm here like this now with Ryuuen-kun is also for that sake...am I wrong? "

Kikyo looked attacked." ...Come on, where did you hear something like that from?Hirata-kun?Ayanokouji-kun?Karma-kun? "

" No.These are my own thoughts.I couldn't shake off that sense of unease.He's the only one here right now.Isn't it about time we confront one another?" Suzune said as she looked like she's about to fight.

" Confront each other? "

" At the very beginning, I saw you on that bus trying to convince Kouenji-kun to give up his seat.To be honest with you, I didn't recognize you back then.But I immediately remembered you afterwards... Kushida Kikyo-san.I remembered that a student like you had attended my 'middle school'." Suzune revealed.

Right in front of her eyes, for the first time, Suzune saw Kikyo's change expressions.But that led to yet another smile.

" Of course you'd remember immediately.I was quite a 'problem child'. "

Suzune stayed expressionless." I don't believe that phrase is quite accurate.You were not a problem child, just like how you are in Class D right now; you were a student everybody trusted in.But— "

Kikyo cut Suzune's words." If we're on the same page then you understand, don't you?What am I thinking about doing? "

" Yes.I've already realized it.That you want me out of this school.But aren't you also taking a big risk?If I reveal the truth, you'll lose your current standing, no?But if it were revealed, wouldn't you be in trouble too? "

Kikyo's face pointed downwards." You're right.But...if by any chance, you happen to tell someone else about me, I will thoroughly hunt you down.That is to say, I'll drag the brother you love so dearly into this. "

" Then wouldn't it have been just fine to ignore me?You know full well I don't involve myself with other people and that I don't stick my nose where it doesn't belong, don't you?" Suzune ask.

" For now.But there's no guarantee that'll still be the case in the future.In order for me to be me, I need to make everyone who knows about my past disappear." Kikyo explain.

" In that case, now that I'm privy to this, does that mean I'm also your prey? "

" Depending on the circumstances, that may be so. "

Ryuuen chuckled at the girls." Kuku.You're a foxy woman.Well, it's precisely because I like that part of you that I decided to cooperate though. "

" Let me just say this, Horikita-san.I will expel you.To do so, I'll collude with even the devil himself." Kushida said so as she left her side to stand alongside Ryuuen.

" What a shame, Suzune.Betrayed by a promising ally." Ryuuen said.

Suzune glared at the two people infront of her.

" You were a step ahead of me this time, Ryuuen-kun.No...I suppose it's been this way for a while now.During the exam on the cruise, on the uninhabited island, during Sudou-kun's incident too.I've only kept on losing.Let's wrap this up then.Points and the kowtow, I mean.That's what you 'two' are after.There's no evidence after all, it's obvious I'll be framed as the culprit.You instructed Kinoshita-san to ensure I collapsed.I'm sure of that. "

Ryuuen shrug." That's your persecution complex speaking. "

" I don't care even if it's just my delusion.But I'd at least like to hear about it.What kind of trap did you set for this sports festival? "

" You're going out of your way to kowtow, if I had to imagine what your delusions are like it'd be something like this." Ryuuen laughed, enjoying it as he began talking about it as though it were a delusion.

" Sure, Kinoshita fell down.But of course, serious injuries aren't so easily sustained.That's why I had her pretend to be in pain and drop out of the sports festival.After that, it's a simple matter.Before she received treatment, I injured her myself.Like this." He said that as he stomped on the floor of the corridor with all his strength.

Suzune gaped in pure horror." You did it...?To her...? "

Ryuuen gives a smile as it was like nothing." She gave her consent when I offered to give her 500,000 points, you know?It sure is scary, the power of money. "

" If I happened to be recording your confession, what would you do then?" She said so as she brought out her phone.

Ryuuen raise a brow." You thought about that just now, didn't you? "

" As my final gambit, I'll try to manipulate you at least.But I'm shocked that you'd unexpectedly tell me all that." Suzune fiddled with her phone and played it back from a specific point.

" Before the sports festival, I had Kushida get her hands on Class D's— "

" If you file a complaint against me, or demand points and a kowtow, then I'll fight back with this evidence.If that happens, I wonder which one of us will be in trouble?" Suzune said with a hard glare.

Ryuuen's eyes widen." Ku...!Suzune...you... "

" I'm not looking for trouble either.That's why let's settle it with— "

" Kukuku...kuhahaha!" Ryūen bursts out in laughter." You really are an entertaining woman.I said so at the very start, didn't I?That the contents of our discussion are, at most, fictitious. "

Laughing fearlessly, Ryuuen retrieved his phone from his pocket.

" Do you know what this is?The full recording...no, it's visual footage. "

He said so as he pointed the camera on the back of the phone at her.Insurance that's more reliable than audio.

Suzune stay silent.' It means Ryuuen-kun's already assumed I'd attempt a final gambit.It means things won't go that easily...is what it is.If I submitted the audio data to the school with the inconvenient first half of it cut out then there'll be an investigation.

And Ryuuen-kun and the others would be under suspicion.But it's impossible to declare them guilty with just that.If I tried to pass off his words, which he spoke on the premise that it's a delusion, as truth then I'd be condemned for it. '

Ryuuen grinned deviously." Do you admit it, Suzune?The reality of your utter defeat, that is. "

Kikyo is also laughing boldly.Suzune accepts the situation and quietly get down on her knees.However, before she is able to do so, Ryūen's phone rings.But before he can check it-all people hear snickering.

" Man, you've got yourself quite a party. "

Everyone turned to look at the person who said that.He had bright red hair, golden eyes, and there was a smirk on his face.

" Mind if I join in the fun too? "

Suzune looked astonished." Karma-kun... "

Ryuuen also was surprised." What are you- "

" You should really check your phone, dictator-kun- " Karma then pointed at Ryuuen's phone." There's something really interesting there. "

Ryuuen then started to fiddle with his phone without sparing them a glance.

Karma smiled.' My gut feeling about Suzu-chan's problem was right on the mark. '

From that phone, they could hear what seemed like a recording made somewhere with a variety of noises mixed up in it.

" Listen up, you lot.To set a trap for Class D's Horikita Suzune.What we need to do to crush her.I'm going to offer you that strategy.I'll show you something interesting. "

It was Ryuuen's voice.He was explaining in detail what he had so proudly told Suzune a while ago.

Then Ibuki's voice sound.' I don't plan on going against your strategy but give me a chance to fight against Horikita— '

" In the obstacle course race, you run against Suzune and make contact with her.Do whatever it takes to make her fall.Afterwards, I'll take responsibility for your injury and plunder some money for you." Ryuuen instructed in the recording.

Kikyo tensed." What is the meaning of this, Ryuuen-kun?What's up with that audio? "

" That's very easy to answer, Kikyo-chan. "

Hearing that, Kikyo turned to Karma, but she was glaring at him.

" What did you- "

" As there was a traitor in Class D, there was also a traitor in Class C. And as the cat is out of the bag- " Karma then sat in a chair cross-legged as he continued.

" There is truly a 'mastermind' behind Class D and Suzu-chan.She and I knew everything about your plans from the start.Kikyo-chan's betrayal, the fact that Suzu-chan would fall apart before Ryuuen, the fact that Sudou would also be targeted and in the end snap, and the fact- "

Karma then smiled devilishly towards Kushida and Ryuuen." That your actions would allow Suzu-chan to grow and acquire an ally, so... "

Karma then bowed his head, while placing his hand on his heart, to them mockingly." Thank you for playing right in our hands. "

There was silence, but then Ryuuen started laughing.

" Kuhahaha!This is interesting!Interesting, I say!The one pulling the strings behind you is awesome!You got played, Kikyo.They'd already predicted that you'd turn traitor and hand over the information on the participation table's list to us.They had already predicted each and every little thing. "

Kikyo trembled." The betrayal was already assumed from the start...?Who could possibly be capable of something like that?Could it be Ayanokouji-kun?I didn't know he was that fast after all... "

" It wasn't hard to guess after your runt and Zodiac exam." Karma calmly but proudly proclaimed.

Kikyo then turned to Karma with the nastiest glare possible.

" You, be quiet- "

" Or what?" Karma teased." You know, Kikyo-chan, there's the thing. "

Karma then pulled his phone out, and there was a video of Kushida in her true persona." If I release this video, your life in this school will be over.But, if you try to attack me... "

Karma then smirked at Kushida showing his victory and her lost." You've got nothing on me.Maybe you've got some dirt on Suzu-chan, maybe on the mastermind, but on me... You've got nothing. "

After hearing that, Kikyo gritted her teeth.

Ryuuen stretch his limbs." Well, Ayanokoji is one of the candidates.Suzune, and also Ayanokouji and Akabane and depending on the circumstances, even Hirata may have someone pulling their strings.I'm going to slowly take my time smoking them out. "

Karma tilt his head." Is that really fine?What if me or him threatens you with the recording? "

Ryuuen smirks." If you had intended on submitting it to the school, then you would've done so later.Doing so after we've already filed our complaint would be most effective.I wasn't able to make her kowtow but as for me, I've accomplished half of my objectives.Not bad. "

" Well, thank you." Karma mock a bow before taking Suzune's hand." Now, I think we should get going. "

" Wait a second. "

Karma stops in his tracks and turns to Ryuuen with a confused expression.

" With your academics, power and skills, you would've easily become Class D leader, yet you chose not to.That bugged all the time after our fight, and now I'm asking you – Why? "

After a minute of blankly staring at Ryuuen, Karma burst into laughter, making Kuikyo and Suzune flinch, while Ryuuen just squinted his eyes.After a minute of laughing, Karma put a hand on his eyes and then with the other hand he held up two fingers.

" The first reason, is that if I'm a beast- "

Karma then looked at Ryuuen through the gap between his fingers.

" Then the mastermind is a monster." Karma finished.

Ryuuen made an interested noise as he stared at the red-haired." And what's the second reason? "

After chucking lightly, Karma opened his arms wide." My entertainment, of course. "

That answer made the three confused.

" Your... entertainment...? "

" Yes, my entertainment.If something or someone interests me, then I will continue to pursue that interest; but if something's boring to me, then I will stop doing it.Because the mastermind and Suzu-chan are interesting to me, I help them.Because you and Kikyo-chan try to rob me of my entertainment, I go against you.As long as I'm entertained... "

Karma turned red with excitement.

" Nothing else matters. "

__________________________

Kiyotaka comes to the front gate where the girl is waiting as promised.

" You said you had something to tell me...?" Kiyotaka remind as if to confirm.

The girl didn't answer his question as she proceed to walk to another direction." Follow me. "

They go to the 3rd floor of the special building, where there's no surveillance camera installed.

" —What exactly— "

When Kiyotaka tried to ask her, the girl told him to wait and then walked off alone.She then went over to a corner in the corridor and quietly whispered.

" Can I go back already? "

The another voice came." Yes.You did well, Masumi-san.I'll be counting on you again. "

" ...Sure. "

The girl named Masumi quietly nodded and left.Another person, who turns out to be Arisu Sakayanagi from Class A, reveals herself.

" You called me?" Kiyotaka ask.

He asked Sakayanagi but she did not reply.Then for a brief while, Sakayanagi and Kiyotaka ended up staring at one another.In a school building at dusk, the lone girl stood before his eyes with a cane in her hand.

" That last relay drew quite a bit of attention, Ayanokouji Kiyotaka-kun. "

Kiyotaka scratch his neck." Yeah sorry but can I send an email first?I've got someone waiting. "

" Please go ahead. "

Kiyotaka sent what he had prepared." So...may I assume that it's you?The one who called me out here, that is. "

" Yes. "

" So what's the matter?If at all possible I'd like to wrap this up quickly. "

Sakayanagi smiled." After seeing you run, I remembered something.I called you here so I can share with you the shock I felt at that moment.It's almost like this is the lead up to a confession, don't you think so? "

" I have no idea what you're talking about... "

Clonk.Clonk.Propping herself up with a cane, Sakayanagi stood right next to Kiyotaka." It's been a long time, Ayanokouji-kun.Approximately 8 years and 243 days. "

Kiyotaka furrow his eyebrows." You're kidding, right?I don't know you. "

" Fufu.I suppose so.After all, our acquaintance isn't a mutual one. "

Clonk.Clonk.The tapping receded bit by bit.

' What exactly is this about?' Kiyotaka decided to wrap things up and started to walk in the opposite direction.

" White Room. "

When those words pierced through his ears and reached his brain Kiyotaka unconsciously stopped walking.It chipped away at his rationality and he started questioning 'why' and 'how'.

As sson as Sakayanagi got Kiyotaka's attention she add." It's unpleasant, isn't it?To be swept about by information that only the enemy possesses. "

" Well maybe so, but you two are a really unusual pair. "

After they heard that voice, Sakayanagi and Kiyotaka looked in its direction.

Out of the blue, one male was walking around the corridors of the special building.He then set on the window railing, with one leg on it and the other in the air.That male then grinned.

" Yo, Ayano-kun and Sakayanagi-san. "

Kiyotaka looked as if he's caught off guard." Karma... What are you doing here? "

Karma chuckled 'shyly'." Well, at first I wanted to tell you that the plan succeeded, but after finding you with the leader of Class A alone and here, the place where no surveillance cameras is, I just couldn't help but butt in. "

Sakayanagi smiled." Yes, you butt in the situation you don't understand Akabane Karma-kun, so I would like you to- "

" White Room. "

When Karma spoke those words, they both shut up.

" White Room was established 20 years ago.However, the institution was temporarily shut down for one year.The White Room began right from the first year of the first generation's life, with subsequent new generations being formed annually.Each generation is educated under different leaders, and receives the corresponding education, after which, it would then be evaluated and verified for which group had the most effective education.Hundreds of children have been trained under the White Room education system.Children of different generations wouldn't have been able to see each other. "

After he told them that, Karma put both his hands on the back of his head.

" That's the only information I was able to get, although... There was also a name in the information I've gathered.Just one name. "

Karma then pointed at Ayanokoji." Your name, Ayano-kun. "

Kiyotaka's breath hitched." ...You... "

Karma wave both his hands to let the male calm down." Don't worry, I told you, didn't I?We're allies, so I won't rat you out, plus it would get boring if you left "

Sakayanagi got off from her shock and smirk." Color me impressed, Karma-kun; I didn't think you can get more interesting after you beat Dragon-Boy. "

After hearing that, Karma slowly turned towards Arisu, who was smirking.

" Wait... you called Ryuuen that... " And in the next second, Karma was laughing hard, at the point he needed to hold his hands on his belly." Man, why didn't I think about it?!Hahaha! "

After his laughing spree, Karma wiped his tears and then again put his hands behind his head." Well, seeing your interaction is already entertaining, so you can go ahead, Sakayanagi-san. "

" Thank you.This is a nostalgic reunion and so I thought I just had to greet you. "

Kiyotaka blink.' Reunion? '

Kiyotaka looked back at Sakayanagi and Karma while still keeping his back turned on them.

' I definitely haven't seen her before; she truly is a girl who doesn't have a place in my memories.I haven't lost any memories in the past either.I met this girl, Sakayanagi, and Karma, at this school.There's no mistaking that fact. '

" Understandable." Sakayanagi spoke again." Because you don't know me after all.But I do know you.This must be a strange twist of fate.To be reunited with you in a place like this.To be honest, I never thought I'd see you again.But with this, all mysteries have been solved.The uninhabited island, the cruise and Class D's brush with expulsion.I just couldn't bring myself to believe all of those were Horikita Suzune's strategies.So you were pulling the strings behind the scenes during all that. "

" Whatever do you mean by that?We have quite a few strategists, you know. "

Sakayanagi tilt her head." By strategist, would you happen to mean Horikita Suzune-san?Or perhaps you meant Hirata Yousuke-kun?At first glance, many would also believe that Karma-kun would be one of them, but he's more of a wild card. "

Karma look at the two." Either way, now that your existence and mine existence has come to light, Ayano-kun, it doesn't matter who it is anymore. "

Kiyotaka sighed.' Karma's right, apparently she really knows me. '

" Please relax.First of all, I have no intention of telling anyone else about you. "

Karma raise a brow." Wouldn't it be easier if you did? "

" I don't want to be interrupted.I'm the only one worthy of burying the false genius." Clonk.The thin cane tapped on the floor." I've found some slight enjoyment in this boring school life. "

" Can you bury me?" Kiyotaka then ask.

He spoke those words with conviction.

Sakayanagi stopped and giggled." ...fufu.Fufufu.I apologize for laughing.But I did not intend on insulting the statement you made.I know very well just how awe-inspiring a person you are.I've just begun to enjoy this.Because I will be fulfilling my life's wish by destroying the greatest masterpiece your father has made. "

Kiyotaka look down.' I'd like to wish for that.My defeat would mean that man's defeat too after all.I thought from the bottom of my heart that I wanted this sad contradiction I carry to be destroyed. '

Then, the two turned to Karma, who was quietly chucking.

" Man, seeing you two interact is even more interesting than seeing Ayano-kun and Suzu-chan bickering. "

Sakayanagi turn to Karma." Now that I spoke with Ayanokoji-kun, I also wish to ask you one thing, Karma-kun. "

Karma beamed." Hmm~?What would the leader of Class A want to learn about lil' ol' me~? "

" It's simple, really... Who are you? "

Arisu sask with a smirk, and her eyes were glowing.Suddenly Kiyotaka did the same.

After a light chuckle, Karma faced the two with his trademark smirk, and his eyes were glowing as well." Well, if I would try to describe myself, I would use three titles. "

Karma then held up one finger.

" In a card game, you two would be a king and a queen respectively, but me... I'm a joker, a being that enjoys chaos and watches it unfold. "

Karma then held up the second finger.

" I'm a guy who has good intellect, physique and observation skills; and yet, I was trained to control my bloodlust and how to fight with a knife.In a way, I'm a being that stands between 'false geniuses' and 'true geniuses'. "

Karma then snickered and smirked." But those two titles wouldn't truly describe me.There is only one name for those who can control their bloodlust, fight with knives and guns, which is exactly what I am... "

Karma then held up a 3rd finger, and he was watching the two intently, with the two returning his gaze.

" I'm an assassin, nothing more, nothing less. "

Kiyotaka stayed silent.

Sakyanagi just grinned as she close her eyes.' Who to assassinate I wonder.. '

___________________

" Man, today was really tiring. "

Karma right now was sitting on a bench overlooking the sea while stretching.He then smirked.

" But, it was really interesting too. "

As he was watching the waves clash, he noticed someone staring at him.Karma glanced at this person within the edge of his vision, but then turned his head and stared right back at the said person.

It was a girl.

She was charming- no a beautiful girl with crimson eyes and long platinum blonde hair, although Karma paid attention to her unique appearance, but he didn't care about it at the moment, because his senses were screaming at him that she was interesting, making Karma smirk, and the girl was also smirking.

Both thought about the same thing at the same time.

' Interesting... '

Karma then stuck out his hand for a handshake.

" Karma.Akabane Karma. "

The girl then shook his hand and gave it a little squeeze.Karma squeezed back, and both people's smirk grew wider.

" Fūka... " The girl smiled." Kiryūin Fūka. "