15

" The outcome is clear even if we don't wait for the results.I couldn't have scored better than 80- no, probably not even 80.So... it's your victory, Horikita-san." Kikyo said with no emotion.

" Is that so... I thought you would place higher if you focused on your studies. "

" This is just the kind of person I am.You won this bet.Are you satisfied, Horikita-san? "

" Can I believe it then?That you'll cooperate with me in the future?" Suzune ask with a calm tone." Let's start by trusting each other. "

As Suzune spoke, she held out her hand.She wanted to come to an agreement with a handshake.

Kikyo was completely motionless.She stared at Suzune's hand with colorless eyes.

" I hate you, Horikita-san. "

" I know.But I think I can work hard to change that. "

" It seems that I'm beginning to hate you more and more." Kikyo walked past Horikita without so much as an attempt at taking her hand." I won't interfere, but I will never cooperate with you.Don't forget this. "

Suzune sighed." It's a shame, but it can't be helped.Those are the conditions, after all. "

" Don't forget, Horikita-san.The only condition is to refrain from getting in your way. "

While Kikyo's gaze was weak, the dark color of her eyes still latched onto the duo males.

" That's- " Suzune was about to continue but paused.

Kikyo left without another word, as if she was saying that she didn't want to face Suzune for even one more second.

Suzune cross her arms dejectedly." I should have weighed the stakes of the bet a bit more carefully. "

After parting ways with Suzune, the duo of males thought about the future.

__________________

' The Ryūen Kakeru of my imagination is not the type of person to leave things unfinished like this.Horikita certainly did a good job this time.She confined Ryūen, who manipulated Kushida, with a well-placed preemptive strike. '

Kiyotaka remained stone cold as he walk.

*Bring!

Kiyotaka's phone began to vibrate.Karma also looked at the message though his friend's shoulder.

Ryuuen Kakeru: [What are you scheming?I'll make you pay the price for using me.]

Ryuen sent another short message, followed by another one shortly afterward.There was a file attached this time.It was an image file.After Kiyotaka opened it, it turned out to be a single photograph.

It's a photo of Kei.

Karma furrow his brows.

' As expected, Manabe and the others confessed after all.Ryūen's move to corner us here undoubtedly has to be for that reason.The fact that he has this photograph in the first place means that her background is known to a certain extent. '

Depending on the situation, Ryūen's fangs will also turn towards the person pictured in this photograph.No, it's more like hanging the bait in front of him is a declaration of war.

" He should've stayed silent after all." Karma said.

' To think that he would reveal the information he obtained so easily.Is he enjoying this?I was already getting somewhat tired of his obsessive searching. '

Kiyotaka closed his cell phone and Karma hardened his wills at the same time.

Kiyotaka close his eyes.' It seems that there's no reason to go about this half-heartedly if our goal is to dampen his mental strength. '

Karma grin.' If he's intent on waging war, we'll match up with him. '

" Come at us with full force so you have nothing to regret afterward. "

" We'll play this game with you on your own playing field. "

______________________

Kikyo meets up with Ryūen on a rooftop.

Ryūen laughs and reveals he also changed the questions last minute.

" You haven't noticed yet?Suzune took the steps ahead of time to prevent your exam questions from being formally adopted.Thanks to that, we not only failed to come out ahead, but also narrowly avoided expulsion.The whole class was depending on this strategy." Ryuuen inform the shocked Kikyo.

Kikyo then began to hyperventilate." Wait a second... Ahead of time?Such... No way... "

" Just wait for the results of the exam if you don't believe me.Ten to one, Class C lost to Class D. I can't afford to show you the correct answers to the exam questions if I don't receive anything in return.That's the natural turn of events. "

Kikyo clicked her tongue." Tsk...! "

" Though I'll tell you this, Kikyō.You have no right to bear any grudges against me so how about thanking me instead?" Ryuen said ignoring Kikyo's seething look.

" Thank you!?I lost to Suzune, you know!?What do you want me to thank you for!? "

" For you to get caught in this trap without even knowing it, you sure take things easy." Ryūen reaches into Kikyo's blazer and reveals someone from D-Class had put cheat sheets all over it, so she could be expelled.

" When did this cheat sheet manage to... "

Ryuuen look up at her." You don't have any idea?Have there been any strange things going on around you recently? "

" It's possible... no, but... I went to the final strategy meeting with Horikita and the others at Karaoke last week.I suppose something a little strange did happen then.It's not clear why, but a girl began to throw accusations around and then poured her juice on me out of anger.After that, she insisted on taking it to the dry cleaners to make up for it." Kikyo explain.

" I'll take a guess at who that girl is.Karuizawa Kei, right? "

Kikyo became frantic." ...How do you know that?Don't tell me you saw it? "

" How could I have possibly seen it?The reason is simple." Ryūen tapped his finger against the side of his head to emphasize his deductive capability." No doubt, that was a set-up. "

" Not possible.I gave my blazer to the Laundromat, but I definitely checked the pockets when I handed it over.So even if Karuizawa had tried to set a trap back then, wouldn't it have been meaningless?" Kikyo denied.

" Didn't someone want to know whether or not you had a spare uniform? "

" Spare?Even if that were the case, it's still impossible. "

Ryuuen raise a brow." What makes you so sure about that? "

" Are you saying that everyone there had set a trap for me and I wasn't able to see through it?I'm not an idiot.I'm always observing the behavior and conduct of the people around me.I definitely would've felt something out of place if they were all lying to me. "

" Well, that's probably right." Ryuuen gave a lopsided smirk." However, the number of people who were lying to you was two or three at most.Nevertheless, the important question here is who thought of it.Not Suzune or Karuizawa, at least.They're not the type who could do something like that. "

Kikyo stressfully bite her nail.' It must be Akabane, no doubt. '

" Not long before the exam, there was a letter that charged Ichinose with illegally getting her points, right? "

Kikyo turn to Ryuuen." It's the one where you set her up.Why was that?There didn't turn out to be anything illegal after all. "

" It's a strategy that adequately shows what type of person the mastermind and Akabane are. "

" What? "

" I'm not the one who sent out that letter.The guys in Class D who set you up did." Ryuuen said simply." Do you think I would bother putting a letter preaching of Ichinose's suspicions in every first-year student's mailbox and printing my name on each one?No, I wouldn't, but since my name was written on the letters, it's only natural that everyone will think I'm the principal offender. "

" You should've denied it if it wasn't you. "

" Do you think I would?" Ryuuen trace his thoughts." I've thought about it, but it's unclear.Hey, Kikyō.I don't know about your past, and I'm not really interested in that sort of thing.However, if you continue persistently trying to have Horikita drop-out of school, you're going to be wiped out. "

Kikyo glare at the male as she bark." Things aren't looking good for you either.Isn't it bad for Class C to lose this special exam? "

" That's right.With this, your Class D is now within reach of promoting to Class C. "

Kikyo smirk." How do you feel about getting dropped down by that defective Class D? "

" It feels fantastic.Whether it's with class A, D, or whatever, the showdowns so far have only scratched the surface of what there is to reveal. "

Kikyo's smirk deflate." ...What does that mean? "

Of course, Ryūen wouldn't answer.

" Do the best you can and aim for the upper class." Ryūen said this and then turned around, intending to leave.

" This cheat sheet...!?Wait!Isn't there something a little strange!? "

Ryuen stop." Kuku... "

" Tell me what's going on, Ryūen." Kikyo plead.

" You noticed? "

" Why does someone in Class D have the test questions that only you and I should have?I can't think of any reason. "

Ryuen turn his head to glance at kikyo." That's right.The reason why X and Akabane were able to use these questions is because I gave them to them. "

Kikyo gripped harder making crumples visible." So you betrayed me. "

" That's not true.It was a necessary deal to make with them.However... They understand me well." Before Ryūen sent the pictures, he had received several messages from X.

X: [Provide Class C's finalized questions and answers for the end of term exam.Otherwise, make significant changes to the questions and answers you provide Kushida Kikyō.]

Usually, Ryūen wouldn't respond to something like this.However, X and Akabane had given him useful information that benefited Class C with no strings attached.

The information was that Horikita Suzune had seen through Ryūen and Kikyo's tactics, and had made a preemptive strike.If not for this information, some of his classmates who were behind in their studies might have had to drop-out.

Knowing this, Ryūen had three options available to him as to how to proceed.Ryūen's final option was to change out the exam questions and let Suzune win the exam.

Ryūen couldn't help but laugh as he thought about how his strategy of using Kikyo was in turn, used against him.

Ryuuen then spoke." But I'm about to push them over the edge.If the mastermind doesn't show his true colors- "

He opened up the image file that he sent to X once again.

" At that time, I'll just have to destroy him, along with Akabane. "

Ryuuen pov:

It was during elementary school that I realized I was abnormal.During an excursion, I found a huge snake near our camp.I recall my class being in an uproar from it.There were various reactions.I grabbed a huge rock I found nearby and swung it at the head of the snake.I didn't even fear being bitten.There was a scream, and the panic of the teachers followed.I didn't even register it.

I was just confused why there was such a need to be afraid.That was my first contact with a hidden side of myself.This was my first victory."Fear" and "joy" are two sides of the same coin.That truth was paper thin in this world.The world is ruled by 'violence'.I saw the corpse of the snake beneath me and my heart was filled with joy.Ever since then, I have had many enemies both internal and external.

Sometimes, when I was surrounded by enemies, I kept on exercising 'violence' to win.And before my overwhelming might, all of them fell at my feet.I was never afraid.I always only thought about revenge and turning the situation around on my enemies.They all eventually fell prostrate before me.The real 'elite' is a person whose capacity for 'violence' is unparalleled, and a human being who never feels 'fear'.

But here a problem lies, with every fallen enemy every day started to grow boring for me, because in the end, there was not a single person capable of beating me.If there is something that could finally beat me, that thing can only be described as "death".But, when I started this school, I met an existence that I thought was like me.

It was Akabane Karma.We both use violence, and feel joy when beating our enemies.

During our battle at the sports festival, when I saw his eyes... I felt as if I was a mouse in front of a snake.At first, you could say I felt fear, but it soon turned into excitement.In the end, I lost, but it didn't affect me much, because I thought we were the same.But when he told me his reason for going to this school, I realized... In front of him, a person, who only lived for entertainment, I was just another prey or toy for him to play with.

But I also realized another thing.He told me that the mastermind behind him was a monster, and that could only mean one thing... The mastermind behind it is death itself.

_______________________

It's Mid-December.Ayanokōji Group meeting - Yukimura reveals that no one from the first years got expelled.

" Class C doesn't really look like it's better at studying than us though.Miyachi says he'll be here soon.Looks like he just left his club." Hasebe explain.

Sakura fiddle with her fake glasses." But we got through the exam so isn't that a relief...?Besides, it's also not exactly good news to hear of someone from another class getting expelled. "

" Well, there's nothing better than being able to get along.But wouldn't that be difficult with the way this school is set up?To aim for the upper classes means kicking down another class after all." Hasebe said.

Karma snap his fingers pointing at Hasebe." Exactly.I get what Airi-chan's trying to say but if we don't kick them down then we'll get kicked down ourselves.To be a winner at this school means sacrificing three other classes.There's no need for us to be the sacrifices. "

" I suppose so... " Sakura softly said." For instance, is there really no trick we can use?Like having all class points be equalized in the previous exam?That way, everyone can be happy and we can all graduate as Class A. Like that's going to happen though.. "

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" I think that'd be great." Hasebe exclaimed.

" Unfortunately, I think that's impossible." Miyake said after.

" How can you say that? "

" I've heard the seniors talking about this.If we happen to be equal after the final exam then additional special exams are apparently held to determine our rankings "

" What sort of exam?" Kiyotaka aski Miyake.

" Don't know.They're just rumors at best.Apparently we've never had a situation like that where different classes end up with the same points. "

Karma lay his head feeling himself shrug carelessly." In the end, I guess that means there can only be one Class A. "

After a while, the group change their conversation topics.

Hasebe lean onto Sakura." Airi, you got your digital camera right?It's popular these days, I suppose.I guess I can understand that better. "

" Instagram.A hobby unique to girls, huh?It's really hard to get." Yukimura muttered.

Hasebe quickly sit up." Hey, that's sexual discrimination right there.There are a lot of boys doing it these days too, you know? "

Yukimura can only raise a brow." ...Really?I don't think it's a good idea to spread personal information about yourself like that though. "

" I don't get it either." Miyake said.

Karma turn to Kiyotaka." What about you, Ayano-kun?Do you do it too? "

" No.I'm not really knowledgeable about those things." Kiyotaka's face didn't change but it shows a bit of thought.

" Kiyopon doesn't really look like the type to do those things.If you used Instagram then that'd feel lame.Ever gone partying at a night pool carrying some ice cream and looking cute...Hmm?" Hasebe comment.

Karma wanted to laugh at that thought, but chose not to.It really is a funny thought of Kiyotaka using Instagram.

Kiyotaka let out a sigh." Well.It'd a bother and I don't really like showing myself to others. "

Karma pout.' Now that's a pity reason. '

" I completely agree." Yukimura add.

Hasebe twirls her hair casually." I know I'm really out of date and not very fashionable so I can't really object much to that.I apologize to anyone who happens to like Instagram. "

Haruka raised her hands and apologized.

" Just because I personally dislike it, rejecting something that's popular out of hand is certainly a stupid thing to do.I didn't think it through." And Keisei also apologized.Mainly to Airi.

Airi patted her chest in relief.

Suddenly Miyake raise his hand." Sorry about changing the topic here but there's something I'm curious about.Doesn't Class C seem strange these days?

" Class C?They're always a strange bunch though.What do you mean?" Hasebe curiously leaned forward with wide eyes.

Karma know what Akito is trying to point out.It's about the people who've been following us these past few days.It looks like Akito's also realized.Even now, there's a boy hiding himself while peeking at us.It's 'Komiya', a Class C student and one of Ryuuen's henchmen.

More importantly, the problem is that there is another person who 'isn't from Class C' observing this group and Miyake hasn't noticed that presence.

_____________________

Karma lean closer to his group as he whisper." During our study session a while back, those Class C guys made contact with us right? "

Hasebe's face twisted into caution." You mean Ryuuen-kun and Shiina-san, right?Could it be that they're also? "

To add more suspicion Miyake add." Yeah.It's a different person this time though.Today, Ishizaki and Komiya showed up at the archery club.Said they came to have a look so the seniors accepted it but they were glaring at me the whole time so it was hard for me to do anything. "

" Did they do anything?Like jeering at you or sneezing just when you're about to release the arrow to disturb you?Or maybe they threw little rocks at you?" Hasebe ask.

Miyake sighs heavily." Of course, they can't do anything in front of the instructors and the seniors.By the time practice ended, they went back. "

Both Karma and Kiyotaka stayed deadly calm.

" Don't you think it has something to do with Class D's growth?We ended up with 0 points not too long after enrolling yet here we are, almost close enough to scratch Class C's back." Yukimura suggest.

" There's also the results of Paper Shuffle to consider, so we may actually end up becoming Class C by the time the 3rd semester rolls around.They must be panicking." Karma said with a smile, they must be.

" If things end just like this then after the winter vacation there's a high possibility we'll be promoted to Class C. " Yukimura said." Class D's growth after its massive tumble must be reason enough for Class C to panic and it's natural to try and figure out the reason behind that growth. "

Karma smirk.It would be fine, since Class D themselves don't know who the mastermind is together that there's a few people knowing Class C will have a little behind of information.

Hasebe lean on her seat with an expressive hum." Despite acting high and mighty all the time, Ryuuen-kun's still a leader.He's totally going to lose face. "

Miyake nod." I see.I suppose their desperation is understandable. "

Hasebe tilt her head." But we haven't really changed all that much, have we?It feels like by the time we realized, that gap already shrunk.Why is that?Is it just because Class C took a tumble?

" If we're talking about just Class D then we triumphed over the other classes during the island exam.We were beaten by Ryuuen during the zodiac exam but we made a comeback during the Paper Shuffle the other day.Compared to that, Class C's been neglecting their class points, haven't they?" Karma said.

" Even on the island, they quickly used up all the points allocated to them." Miyake mutter.

" In other words...is Class C self-destructing?" Hasebe ask.

Kiyotaka nod." You could see it that way.Even their rule violation this time around is pretty self-destructive. "

Miyake sighed." Class C seems to have enjoyed their vacation.I'm somewhat jealous that they didn't have to go through all that. "

Yukimura scoff." Rubbish.That Ryuuen always reckless...no, he's a man-child who thinks doing things normal people wouldn't do makes him cool.That's why it's means nothing if the class loses. "

Karma suspect that Ryuuen got private points in return for him using their S-points for partying and giving Katsuragi the leftovers.

Hasebe wave her hand." You boys sure have it easy.Don't you think so too, Airi? "

Sakura meekly nod." Y-Yeah.That's right.There are quite a lot of girls troubled by this.I think a bit later and I might have also been in trouble... "

" Why would you've been in trouble if it had been a bit later?" Yukimura, who doesn't know the first thing about a girl's troubles, looked at Airi strangely.

" T-That's. "

Sakura, unable to tell him that it's about a 'girl's day', averted her eyes.

Hasebe chuckled anxiously." How should I put this, Yukimu~.That ignorant side of yours can be cute but when it comes to stuff like this, you need to read the mood?That sort of thing."

" ...What do you mean? "

Karma motions his hand over to Yukimura's shoulder." People have their own problems, is what it means. "

" I haven't a clue.What do you mean by 'their own problems'?" Yukimura then shake his head knowing he's unable to receive an answer.He then change the topic.Turning to Kiyotaka he ask.

" Hey, Kiyotaka, Akabane.Why don't you tell us the information you got from Horikita? "

Karma stop sipping his milk." What do you mean? "

" I'd like to know what Ryuuen's thinking and what he's planning on doing.Considering what happened in the sports festival and during Paper Shuffle, we need to be united as a class. "

" It also feels creepy for me having Ishizaki and his ilk stuck to me.I agree too." Miyake said as he shiver.

Kiyotaka trailed." It's just hearsay but... "

" I'm fine with that.Please tell us. "

All four of them turned to Karma and Kiyotaka at once.

Karma then let out a sigh." Alright.We won't be responsible for any mistakes. "

After adding that, they explained the events of the uninhabited island, cruise exam, and the sports festival.

" I guess that's the gist of it." Kiyotaka said in a small tone.

Now having obtained any new information, Yukimura crossed his arms while seemingly deep in thought." Like what Haruka ask, why did Ryuuen go out of his way to stay behind on the island? "

" According to Suzu-chan, it's because he trusts no one.To gather information on the other classes and make an inference from that seems too heavy a burden for any other student. "

Yukimura send his fingers on his chin." As expected of Horikita...I wouldn't have been able to think that far ahead. "

Miyake scratch his head with little frustration." Isn't that understandable?Food and hygiene problems, the manual got burned and underwear was stolen.Class D was in tatters.We couldn't afford to sound out the other classes. "

" In hindsight, we really had a tough time. "

Hasebe then smile as she tried to cheer the boys." But Horikita-san's amazing.To think she saw through all that in the exam.I can understand why Horikita-san would be marked.She saw through Ryuuen-kun's strategy after all. "

" As a matter of fact, it seems they're still disturbing us even now." Kiyotaka said.

Miyake nod in agreement." I can understand the island and the cruise but why are Ryuuen and his men getting involved with the other Class D students recently.They even came all the way over to the archery club to check on me.That isn't normal, right? "

" They may be trying to uncover a weakness in Class D. Because Horikita has no weaknesses at all, they may be trying to destroy her surroundings instead." Kiyotaka explain.

Yukimura slowly hums undersatanding." I see.That's a possibility too... "

" As expected of Kiyopon's girlfriend. "

Kiyotaka's brow twitch." Don't just go and make her my girlfriend. "

" T-That's right.I think you're being rude to Kiyotaka-kun." Sakura pipe up feeling troubled.

" Then she Bakama's- "

" Haruka-chan~ don't even think about finishing that sentence~." Karma said that with a sweet smile, but he had an annoyed expression." Besides, what makes you think she's close to me? "

" Ahaha.Sorry, sorry." Hasebe then turn to Kiyotaka." Even if she isn't your girlfriend, you do like her, don't you?Or perhaps you're with some other girls. "

" I don't like her and I don't have a girlfriend either." Kiyotaka said sternly wishing to end it.

Luckily Hasebe dropped it." I see.Then that means we're all going to be lonely this year". "

Kiyotaka tilt his head." Lonely? "

Karma moved Kiyotaka's body with his finger to a direction." Look around Ayano-kun.It's almost Christmas. "

Sitting on a bench placed in front of a restaurant in Keyaki Mall, Karma said.

Yukimura sighs exasperatedly." It's not like it's such a special day, is it?It's just a day like any other. "

" That may be so for you, Yukimu~.But it's surprisingly difficult for us girls. "

" R-Rumors might crop up... " Sakura add.

Hasebe snap her fingers." Yep, yep.Like who's dating who and who isn't dating who.And even though you're single because you want to be single, they'd end up looking at you like you're something pitiful. "

" ...We're 1st year high schoolers.Our studies are our priority." Yukimura mumbled.

" But did you fantasize about it~?You're blushing~." Karma tease.

" Shut it. "

" Anyways, this mango juice is way too sweet.Way to go." Miyake made a vomiting gesture and pushed the cup towards Kiyotaka.

Hasebe snort." But it's delicious though?By the way, I personally think there's going to be a variety of things happening to Class D over the winter vacation. "

Sakura perk up." That's...referring to who's going out with who? "

Karma shrug." Probably.If there are boys and girls dating each other then there will also be boys and girls who break up.A lot of things happen over Christmas, after all. "

Hasebe and Karma nodded repeatedly as though they had seen many couples like that before.

" Bakama is such an expert, have you ever been heartbroken? "

Miyake then swat the air." Let's leave aside the couples.Do you think there will be any breakups?Right now the only couple in Class D would be Hirata and Karuizawa, right? "

Hasebe cross her arms." That's not necessarily the case.Unexpected couples may form without you knowing, Miyachi. "

Karma nod dramatically." Romance isn't something that's limited.If there's a girl you like, you must act before someone else steals her away from you. "

Miyake sweatdrop at the dramatics." Unfortunately, archery's the only lover I need. "

Hasebe pout." Lame.It's not even like you're that passionate about it.Uncooool— "

" ...Shut up." Miyake averted his eyes shyly as though he's a bit embarrassed by it." Anyways, I have my club.It might be a different story if I did have a girlfriend but currently I'm not planning on getting one. "

Karma grin wider." By that, you mean you DO want to get one~? "

In true interview style, while mimicking the action of holding a microphone in their hands, Hasebe and Karma interrogated Miyake.

Miyake quickly cover his ears from the two." I have no intention of causing an uproar like Ike and the others but this is the same for both boys and girls, right? "

" ...Well, I'm not going to deny that as long as I get my ideal man.Yukimu~ seems to reject romance itself but what'll you do if you meet a girl who likes you, Yukimu~? "

Miyake hummed." What I'll do...would depend on the relationship between me and that person.That sort of thing. "

Karma tilt his head." Hmm.So you won't date her unconditionally just because she's cute. "

" I see, I see.You're a serious boy. "

" Shut up." Miyake muttered.

As the others were busy talking, Sakura turn to Kiyotaka." Kiyotaka-kun, d-do you have any plans for Christmas? "

Karma heard and let out a hoot." Are you asking Ayano-kun out, Airi-chan~? "

" How bold~ " Hasebe giggled.

Sakura jumped and wave her hands everywhere." N-No, what's not what I mean!It's not what I mean, ok!? "

Karma let out a defence position." What about it?Ayano-kun just said he doesn't have a girlfriend yet a while ago. "

Sakura shake her head." That's not it, I mean; I wanted to know what you're planning on doing.When you spend Christmas alone, I'm curious about what you do. "

" Got nothing special in mind.I think I'll just coop up in my room?" Kiyotaka said lamely.

Yukimura shrug." Christmas's just another holiday, right? "

Karma pout." Haruka, we got two sad potatoes over here!! "

Hasebe shake her head pityfully." You two miserable creatures.. "

" Fu...fufu. "

Watching them, Sakura started laughing quietly for some reason.She desperately tried to stifle her laughter but she didn't quite succeed.

Karma pause and turn his head to the giggling girl." Is there something wrong? "

Sakura flinch." S-Sorry.No, I'm just...happy so I laughed. "

" You're happy so you laughed?" Hasebe ask.

Haruka and the others tilted their heads as though they didn't quite get it.By the time the duo of males realized, tears were already slightly welling up in Sakura's eyes.

" I've never had this much fun before.I'm very happy right now." Sakura explain as she rub her wet eyes." I wanna talk like this with everyone. "

" I don't really get it but that's fine then.I'm also having fun." Hasebe said with a smile.

_________________________

The Ayanokoji group then decide to go for dinner.

Suddenly Kiyotaka pat on Karma's shoulder as he raise his head on the others." I'm off to the toilet.Why don't you guys go ahead? "

" Then we'll wait here." Miyake said.

" No, it's going to be crowded at this hour.It's more efficient to go ahead and queue up.I'll leave the seats to you." Kiyotaka said.

Karma pat on Kiyotaka's hand." Let go of me. "

Kiyotaka then leans onto Karma." I have business alone for a while, it's concerning the Class C. "

Karma gives a bored look." Of course I know, I'd just thought you won't be able to handle it on your own." He then smirk." Fine. "

Everyone else seemed convinced and so they headed to the Keyaki Mall restaurant.

Concluding that Kiyotaka's off to the toilet, Komiya a Class C student followed Karma and the others.

Kiyotaka then started walking in the direction opposite to the toilet.And he approached a lone girl who sat where they had been chatting.

" May I have a moment?" He called out to the girl sitting on a one-seater chair.She's Class A's Kamuro." I'm talking to you. "

Kamuro perk up." ...Me?What? "

Kiyotaka took a few steps forward and sat on a different one-seater chair.A prickly sort of atmosphere settled in between them.

" You've been tailing me recently.Do you have business with me? "

" Huh?What the hell are you saying? "

" On the way back after school yesterday, Keyaki Mall two days ago, four days ago and the way back six and seven days ago.Keyaki Mall four days ago.Quite a lot of coincidences, wouldn't you say? "

Kiyotaka turned the screen of his phone towards the girl and went through a slideshow of pictures.

Kamuro gaped." That, but when... "

" As someone who's tailing me, you can't afford to look at me when I'm turning in your direction.It's understandable that you wouldn't notice me snapping photos of you in that window. "

" What if I'm tailing you?Got a problem with that? "

" Not really.It's not like I'm being directly harmed by it or anything.I'm not really planning on asking you to stop. "

Kamuro cross her arms defensively." Exactly, right?It's just a coincidence. "

" But what do you think your boss will think if she finds out about this? "

" Boss?What the hell are you talking about?Been watching too many movies? "

Kiyotaka rephrase." Then I suppose I'll report this to Sakayanagi. "

" ...Hold on a minute. "

As Kiyotaka put his hands on the armrest and moved to stand up, Kamuro stopped him.

Kiyotaka turn to her." You're quite devoted to Sakayanagi.Day after day you're made to follow me for long periods of time and you still do your job properly.You two must be close. "

Kamuro jolt before she grit her teeth." Absolutely not.I'd cut all ties with her now if I could. "

" Then why do you obey Sakayanagi? "

" Doesn't matter why, right? "

" If you're not doing it out of goodwill then that must mean she's grabbed you by your weakness. "

" ...What are you trying to say? "

Kiyotaka's gaze loomed over her." I'll report the clumsy nature of her tailing to Sakayanagi.If I do that, your inability to act as her arms and legs will be exposed and that weakness of yours she's grabbed hold of may come to affect you later. "

Kamuro frown deeply." So you're threatening me.You're threatening me too. "

' 'Too', huh?Looks like Sakayanagi's not just using Kamuro, she's also grabbed hold of some weakness of hers. '

" What's with you?Isn't it strange that Sakayanagi's targeting you? "

Kiyotaka let out a measly shrug." Don't know.I haven't a clue.What'll you do then? "

Kamuro point at him." You're threatening me but if I ever feel like it, I can also tip Ryuuen off. "

The male can almost feel himself laugh hoaresly." I thought I'd threaten you but you're threatening me in return, huh?Then let's do this.Feel free to tail me anytime.I won't speak out.And I don't report it back to Sakayanagi either.Let's say in exchange for that, you won't tell anyone other than Sakayanagi about me. "

Kamuro raise a brow." A give-and-take exchange? "

" I don't think it's a bad deal. "

" ...That's for sure.I'm not interested in Ryuuen either." It appears Kamuro's agreed, since she nodded and stood up." I'm going back now.I'm tired. "

Kamuro went straight for Keyaki Mall's exit.As the female went out of the restroom, another student appear behind the shadows.

It was Karma, he lean on the wall feeling irked.

Karma curse.' Just Class C my ass. '

He look down at an unconscious Komiya he drop by the restroom wall.Knwoing that a Class C is spying Karma can't help it but knock the daylights of of him.

As Kiyotaka exit the restroom Karma reveal himself.

He of course was able to have time to eavesdrop Kiyotaka's conversation with a Class A student.

" Sneaking behind my back, how untrusworthy Karma." Kiyotaka comment.

Karma can feel himself twitch.

" Who's the one untrustworthy?!Besides I felt going to the restroom earlier at the restaurant and felt a need not to anymore. "

Kiyotaka obviously doubt that very much.

It took a split second before Karma smirk again." Must be quite a troublesome weakness that's being held against her.That Class A girl I mean. "

Kiyotaka lean on the wall beside Karma." But thanks to this, careless interruptions will no longer occur. "

________________________

" Damn it, who the hell do they think they are? "

Sudou, entering the classroom while grumbling, passed by his own seat and approached Suzune." Listen, Suzune. "

Suzune didn't revert her eyes as it glued to the book she's currently reading." What's the matter? "

" It's those Class C guys or more like, it's Ryuuen.They've been tailing me since morning.They even blocked my way when I was walking down the corridor.I'm really getting pissed off. "

" You haven't gotten physical with them or used any sort of violent language against them, have you?" Suzune ask.

Sudo huffed." Of course not.I ignored the cancer and came here. "

Suzune let out a satisfied hum." I see.Looks like you followed my instructions to the letter. "

Kiyotaka turn to Suzune curiously." Instructions? "

" Suzune told me to just ignore something if I know I won't be able to handle it properly.Well, I guess maybe I bumped into their shoulders on my way through.The guys from the other classes should also know I just got caught up in it so it should be fine, right?" Sudo explain to the male.

Suzune nod her head." That's right; surely even they won't use that against you. "

Karma who's behind the three join the conversation." So?What did they say to you? "

" They called me an idiot and a monkey, childish names like that.They were picking a fight. "

Bang!!

Sudo punched his own palm to let off some steam.

" Akito also... " Kiyotaka corrected himself." Miyake also had the Class C guys stuck to him during his club activities. "

Suzune furrow her brows." Miyake-kun too?They're being very active these days. "

" What do you think their goal is?Are they trying to cause another incident like the one they used against me?" Sudo ask as he grip his fist.

" I don't know.I can't say anything at this point.But I'll think of a countermeasure.Even if they approach you again like this, be sure to not get physical." Suzune remind.

" I get it.I won't break our promise.I won't do anything even if they start throwing punches. "

After satisfactorily concluding his report, Sudou returned to his seat and casually struck up a conversation with Ike and the others.

" I wonder if Sudou-kun's finally become a well-adjusted person." Suzune spoke as she focus on her book once again.

Kiyotaka can feel a bit of an improvement." Yeah, his manner of speech is still somewhat rough around the edges but it should be within the range of acceptability. "

" Looks like it's necessary for him to take the next step too." After saying that, Suzune took a notebook in hand and started writing on it with a pen.

" What do you mean by the next step? "

The two boys tried to peek but Suzune immediately closed the notebook.

" Right now, what we should be focusing on isn't Sudou-kun and his troubles.Still, Ryuuen-kun's being rather active.I wonder if this means he's plotting something again right off the bat? "

Karma lay his elbow on his seat." But isn't that strange?It's not like there's a special exam going on right now or anything. "

Suzune cough on her fist." Looking back, exams aren't the only occasions he's used to attack us.And it seems he's also done something to Ichinose-san and Class B unrelated to the exams too. "

" But I wonder what he's after this time." Kiyotaka said.

Suzune glance at the male." Do you really not know?Or are you faking it? "

" What do you mean?I don't understand. "

" He's looking for the mastermind controlling Class D from the shadows.And in order to do that, he's begun making moves without care for the consequences. "

" In other words, he's looking for you?" When Kiyotaka said that, she gave him an intense glare.

" Using me as your cloak of invisibility will no longer work on Ryuuen-kun." Suune then trace her fingertips on the notebook cover." Besides, I should say he's lost interest in me. "

Karma grin." Does this mean you weren't all that unhappy about Ryuuen's interest in you? "

" That's not what I mean.Do you want me to kick you? "

" I don't want to be kicked. "

Suzune then let out a grunt." This has nothing to do with me, because it's your role to bear the full brunt of it.Both of you. "

" We know that.Being forcibly dragged out by you seems to be our fate." Kiyotaka said.

" I'm surprised you're accepting it Ayanokoji." Suzune almost smirk.

Karma roll his eyes." Because there's no other choice but to accept it.You're not going to draw back now, are you? "

" So—do you have a strategy in mind?" Suzune stared at the two boys." I'm asking you whether or not you have a countermeasure against Ryuuen-kun's search.If we don't execute our strategy now then things will go past the point of no return. "

Karma shrug as he hug his seat." We have nothing in mind. "

" There you go again... " She sighed deeply and openly showed irritation." I have a request to make. "

" I'll pass if it's a troublesome one." Kiyotaka said in a tired tone.

" I won't deny that it's a troublesome one but it won't take long." Suzune then retrieved a book from inside her bag.

" Didn't you say last week that you wanted to read this?" Suzune ask Kiyotaka.She placed the book, which had the seal of the library on it, on the desk.

Karma lean forward and raise a brow." 'Farewell, My Lovely', huh? "

Kiyotaka just stare at the book.' I've been interested in it for a while now and I've gone to the library several times already but for some reason, this book seems to be very popular here since it's always on loan. '

" Also, by the way, today's return date.That's why it would be great if you could head over to the library, return it and then borrow it yourselves." Suzune said.

Karma groaned." Are you making us do this because your too lazy to? "

" Basically. "

Kiyotaka then close his eyes." ...Alright.We'll happily accept it. "

" I'll leave it to you." After saying that, Suzune handed the book over to them." I don't mind when you go as long as you do it today during either lunch break or after school.But do make sure to do it.If I get an overdue notice, you'll be taking responsibility for it. "

Karma cross his arms childishly." We know that. "

Kiyotaka pat Karma's shoulder." Strike while the iron is hot.We're going now Karma. "

______________________

Directly in no time, they arrived at the library.

Honestly Karma would forget or ignore the whole return process since it's not his business the first place but who's to blame.

" We're already here so we might as well borrow another book... " Karma muttered.

It's very troublesome to do some errands without anything in return to satisfy Karma.

" Yeah... "

Kiyotaka drag an almost disheartened Karma around the area.utnil they stop to the mystery section.

As they're picking a book, Karma sees a struggling girl and decides to help her.

As he grabs the book, he notices that it's Hiyori Shiina from class C.

Hiyori turn her head and notice two familiar faces and beamed.

" Hello, Karma-kun.And if I recall you're ...Ayanokouji-kun, was it? "

" Yeah." Kiyotaka furrow his brows.' She's calling Karma by his first name.. They got acquainted earlier I presume. '

" Hello, Hiyori-chan.Here... " Karma handed her the book.

" Thank you very much. "

Kiyotaka turn his focus at the book Hiyori's currently holding." Do you like it?Bronte. "

" Personally, I neither like nor dislike anything.But the book was in the wrong place, genre wise, so I just thought to return it to its proper position.By the way, the book you have with you...is "Farewell, My Lovely" right?That's a masterpiece. "

And with that, it seemed something lit up in Shiina's eyes.

Karma sweatdrop." We managed to borrow it from a friend today. "

" You're certainly in luck then, it seems Raymond Chandler is very popular amongst the 2nd-year students and there's been a battle over this book for a while.I've been wanting to read it for a while now." Hiyori enthusiast.

Kiyotaka hummed." We seem to have done something bad.Monopolizing it. "

" I don't mind.I've read it before after all.And besides, while looking for that book, I was blessed to run into another one.It seems the library in this school has a large collection of books.I might graduate before I could read them all." She said while holding the Bronte book in her hands and smiling slightly.

" I see, that might be so." Kiyotaka then politely bow his head." Sorry for disturbing you. "

Before the two boys leave, Hiyori called for them.

" Umm...are you looking for another book to borrow by any chance?" Hiyori ask softly." Since you're already here, wouldn't you rather borrow another book? "

" We thought we'd leave it for another time—what are you doing?" Karma see Hiyori picking something from the shelves.

Shiina had already taken her eyes off them and was looking around in the mystery corner of the library.

" Have you already read the Dorothy L. Sayers series?" She ask the boys.

Kiyotaka shake his head." No.I've read Christie, but not Dorothy yet. "

Karma stayed quiet, it's not really his best interest but he's a bit curious on Kiyotaka's interest in books.

Hiyori hummed in thought." If so—how about 'Whose Body?' I recommend it.Also the Lord Peter series, if you read one of it you'll surely want to complete the series too. "

She pulled the books off the shelves and presented them to the two boys.

Karma blink." Umm. "

Hiyori look up." I'm sorry for speaking out like this, did I annoy you? "

" No, it's fine, but I guess we can borrow this.. "

" If you'd like." Hiyori faced them with a happy expression." I don't think it's lunchtime just yet.If you're ok with me...would you like to eat together with me? "

" Eh?" Karma feels confused.' How did it come to this? '

Hiyori nervously scratch her cheek." There's no one in Class C who likes reading novels, so I have no one I could talk to. "

Kiyotaka place both hands in his pockets." This won't be a problem?Right now Class C is in an uproar looking for someone from Class D right?I think I'm being counted as one of the suspects here. "

" Please don't worry.I was only making a move formally for Ryuuen-kun." Hiyori said." From the start, I was never interested in things like conflict anyways.Or is it a problem for you to talk to me? "

" No, your no problem to us right now." Karma said calmly.

" That's a relief, I would hate for classes to fight each other over such trivial things like that.I believe making friends is the most important thing. "

Kiyotaka then turn to the two." Shall we leave then?It seems time is passing us by. "

" Please let me finish borrowing this book first. "

____________________

After going to the cafeteria choosing meals, Karma notices that Hiyori can't take both the tray and her bag at the same time, so offers to help.

When he gets the bag he notes that it's usually heavy.

Avoiding the crowds as much as possible, they found empty seats and sat down facing one another.And they then belatedly began eating lunch slowly.

" Do you usually eat here at the cafeteria?" Kiyotaka ask Hiyori.

Hiyori let out a small giggle." No.I normally buy my lunch at the convenience store in the morning and I usually eat in the classroom.Do you come here often, Ayanokouji-kun, Karma-kun? "

Karma stopped eating his salmon." Convenience store food isn't very delicious.Nothing beats food fresh out of the oven. "

Hiyori then picked up the food with her chopsticks and brought it to her mouth in a very dignified manner.

Karma observed her movements in admiration.The way she handles her chopsticks is exceedingly elegant.

Like a princess.But a princess eating convenience store food is a bit bizarre.But it did reflect the way she acts and talk.

" Hmm, I see...the school cafeteria's food is certainly delicious.I'll make sure to keep it in mind." Hiyori mumbled.

" Could it be that this is your first time eating here?" Kiyotaka ask.

" I suppose the cat's out of the bag? "

" Then that means this could be the trigger for you to come here from now on. "

" Yes. "

Afterwards, they talked a bit while finishing lunch.

" I'd like to continue where we left off at the library.If it's not a bother, would you please read this?" Hiyori places something on the table.

Don!

A heavy sound no one wouldn't have expected from it at first glance resounded.

" Have you read any of these books before, Ayanokouji-kun, Karma-kun? "

She just took four books out of her bag.William Irish and Ellery Queen, as well as Lawrence Block and Isaac Asimov.

Karma laugh nervously." You've got quite a taste- I mean good taste. "

" You can tell? "

" I'm also a fan of the mystery genre." Kiyotaka comment.

" I do read whenever I had free time, yeah." Karma murmured.

" I see. "

Hiyori happily laughs while bringing her hands together.

" These aren't from the library, are they?" Kiyotaka guess as he scroll his eyes on the book placed.

" They're all mine.I'm carrying them around in case I meet someone who shares my interest in them one day so I can lend it to them.It was only a book at first but before I found someone like that, they just kept piling up. "

Karma chuckled with a raised brow." Is that so? "

" Please don't hold back, take whichever one you like." Hiyori offered.

Kiyotaka didn't hesitate to grab a book." Then...I suppose I'll go with Ellery Queen since I haven't read that one yet. "

" Then I'll take William Irish." Karma said as he pick his preffered book.

The moment Hiyori was about to open her mouth she closed it.

She remembers the time where she last saw Karma's gloomy expression and stare at the Karma now.

Next time, she should have a conversation with him but only if he allows it.

For now Hiyori let out a smile." Please do. "

The two boys promised to return it to her at a later date just as the bell signaling the end of the lunch break rang.

__________________

After school, Karma get a message from Hasebe saying to come to the usual place at the mall.

The moment Kiyotaka tried to reply, a verbal sword from the neighbor came flying at him.

" That grinning face of yours is giving me the creeps." He heard Suzune comment.

Kiyotaka turn to Suzune, she must be talking about Karma." Whose? "

" Yours.You do have some self-awareness, right?Even without me having to point it out? "

Kiyotaka stop himself from sighing." I can at least say with confidence that I wasn't grinning. "

" Is it just that you're even more serious than I am or perhaps you're playing dumb...?I'm talking about your inner self." Suzune said as if it's obvious.

Karma chuckled." You're fitting right in, aren't you? "

And with a throwaway remark like that, Suzune took her bag in hand and walked off alone.

Karma shake his head at Suzune's retreat, but he deadpan at Kiyotaka who's busy talking to himself.

" I was grinning, huh? "

////

They then arrive at the meeting.Even Miyake is there, due to taking a leave from his club.

" I guess so.Class C's really giving us grief, aren't they?Ahh, speaking of Class C, I saw it, I saw it.How detestable, Boss, Bakama. "

Saying anachronistic words like that, Haruka elbowed Karma in the ribs.Karma hastily push her arm away.

" You saw?What?" Kiyotaka ask in a confused tone.

" What do you mean 'what'?I'm talking about Kiyopon and Bakama eating together with Shiina-san from Class C. I'll have you know Airi's been worried about that ever since to the point she's been spilling her rice all over the place." Hasebe said as she stifle her laughter.

Sakura immediately panicked." Wah!You promised you wouldn't talk about that, Haruka-chan! "

" Sorry~.But Bakama is there too so it can be possible that he himself got a date instead." Hasebe giggle with a wink.

" Don't say that while you give me that nickname." Karma groan.

" Look here, experiencing romance for the first time in your 1st year of high school is already considered too late.Back when I was in elementary school, some of my classmates were already dating middle schoolers and high schoolers." Hasebe explain with a proud voice.

Yukimura's jaw dropped at Hasebe's shocking declaration and he was left dumbfounded.

" I-I've never heard that before. "

" That just means you never paid any attention to your surroundings, Yukimu~.Most girls aren't interested in a childish classmate after all." Hasebe said as she look at Karma.

Karma massage his forehead." Sorry to rain on your parade but there's no such thing going on with us. "

" Really?You sure you're not just trying to avoid the embarrassment? "

Kiyotaka then change the subject." We had some business at the library during lunch break.We just happened to run into Shiina there by coincidence.I think it's probably the same as Akito being watched by Ishizaki and the others at his club. "

Miyake frown." So you've finally been marked too, Ayanokouji, Akabane.Does that Ryuuen guy really hate the idea of being overtaken by Class D that much? "

Yukimura push up his glasses." No, that may not be the case.You've heard the recent rumors about there being a mastermind behind Class D too, right?I didn't give it much thought until now but that may be the reason why Ryuuen is tailing us.Ayanokouji, Akabane, what exactly did Shiina ask you anyways? "

" I-I see, so that's how it is.So it wasn't a date or anything." Sakura pats herself on the chest in relief after learning it's completely unrelated to that.

" But we didn't have a clue so we couldn't really answer no matter how many times she asked us.To be honest, it was really tough." Kiyotaka explain a different story but this time Karma didn't mind.

" Still, you seemed to be having fun though?" Hasebe can be heard muttering.

" So far nothing's happened yet.Directly, that is.These days, I've been crossing paths with Class C students more than usual.It may be that I'm also being targeted." Yukimura said.

Sakura suddenly raise her hand." I see...but they haven't done anything to me though? "

" Same." Hasebe raised her hand like Sakura did.

" Maybe we just haven't realized it like Keisei and someone might actually be tailing us." Kiyotaka guess.

Hasebe visibly shudder at the thought." Ehh~ That's what you'd call a stalker, right?Creepy.

" Being tailed, huh?That may be the case... The time I finish with my club activities and meet with you guys is often late, right?" Miyake whisper.

" Yeah.Usually around after 6 or 7? "

" I've been feeling there were more Class C students around that would be normal.The other day when we met up at Keyaki Mall, Komiya was there but suddenly he disappeared and he's here with a beaten up face." Miyake said.

Kiyotaka raise his brow at Karma who shrug in response.

Hasebe tried to look around but Karma stopped her.

" Stop it.We don't know what they're after, it's better not to react." Karma roll his eyes at Ryuuen's scheme.

" Creep." Haruka spitefully said while looking in the direction Komiya in without even trying to hide it." So it's really true?That Class D has a hidden mastermind? "

Yukimura looked irritated but kept calm." I'm sure Ryuuen thought it out.He's having us tailed precisely because he believes there's someone like that.But if so, then who could it be? "

Karma tilt his head." Hmm?You think there's someone like that? "

" If not, then none of their actions would make sense. "

" What do you think, Kiyopon?" Hasebe ask turning to Kiyotaka.

" That's assuming there's any meaning to the things Ryuuen thinks about." Miyake said.

" Regardless of whether or not a person like that exists, that's probably the reason why they're tailing us." Kiyotaka replied.

After hearing all of their opinions, Hasebe crossed her arms and spoke.

" So we're talking about someone who isn't Horikita-san and whose actions have gotten us through the exams so far, right?Someone like Yukimu~ perhaps?He's smart and as a matter of fact, he always tops our tests. "

Yukimura scoff." I did no such thing.I was only being swept along during the island exam and the zodiac exam. "

" Then maybe you, Bakama-kun? "

Karma rest his head backwards." Nah, I'm not that type of guy; I prefer to stick to tricks during my work. "

" Then perhaps Kouenji-kun?You know how his personality is but he's top class when it comes to brains and brawns, as well as Bakama-kun. "

Karma let out a snort." No way, Haruka.His personality is just like what you said.Do you really think he's the type of person who'd make a move for the class? "

" But maybe that's just faked?" Hasebe ask.

Miyake deadpanned." You're saying that absurd personality is just a front? "

" Maybe his real personality is a calm, calculating schemer...no? "

Everyone shook their heads at once.

" No way.He's just whimsical." Miyake said with a sigh.

Yukimura nod." Even leaving aside the personality issue, Kouenji being the mastermind is still very unlikely.He retired on the first day of the island exam.In other words, he wouldn't have been able to assess the situation one bit; if there's a mastermind besides Horikita during the island exam, it wouldn't add up for him. "

" Ahh—I see.You're rather persuasive, Yukimu~ "

Yukimura then add." Besides, it's only if the mastermind made a move in every exam so far.Even if they exist, they may not have gotten involved during the island exam.It's all guesswork, of course. "

Hasebe hummed at the explanation." I see.That does sound right. "

" But I do think there's a mastermind in our class. "

Karma smile." Why do you think so, Keisei? "

Yukimura shrug." Just a hunch.If I had to say then it would be because Class D's been making much progress so far, I suppose. "

" But how could Ryuuen-kun tell that the mastermind isn't Horikita-san? "

Since no one knows the reason for that, the conversation stalled for a moment.

" Mabye it's Hirata who helped Horikita, he's pretty reliable." Hasebe suggest.

Karma shake his head." He's not really a kind of guy but he's already marked by Ryuuen. "

Miyake nod in agreement.

Hasebe then groaned as she lay her head on her palm." That sounds tough...maybe about 10 people or so have been marked? "

" U-Um, Kiyotaka-kun. "

After hearing everyone out, Sakura reservedly started speaking.

Kiyotaka perk up." Hmm? "

" Please don't get angry but...could it be that the mastermind is actually Kiyotaka-kun? "

The three simultaneously turned to look at Kiyotaka.

Karma had a dumbfounded look.' How did she... '

" Why do you think so?" Yukimura ask.

" I-I mean, umm...Kiyotaka-kun's always calm and smart...and also dependable...also, I thought you've and Karma-kun been giving Horikita-san a lot of advice, so... " Sakura's words instantly got mumbled but the group knows what she's implying.

" Were Kiyopon's test scores any good?" Hasebe ask Sakura.

" If I recall, they were neither good nor bad." Karma answer.' You better be grateful to me for saving your butt, Ayano-kun. '

But if anyone where to check at all Kiyotaka's test core, it would be almost a hundred percent he'd be found out by the obvious set up.

" S-Sorry.I just, somehow, thought that...maybe because of the advice you gave without realizing, Ryuuen-kun may be targeting you and I felt sad about that... "

" Unfortunately, I'm the one always receiving advice from Horikita." Kiyotaka said soothing the stuttering girl.

Hasebe hum in thought." Well, I mean, Kiyopon does have a mysterious side to him.Adding the fact that he's close to Horikita-san and Karma-kun too, it wouldn't be out of place for him to seem suspicious. "

" That...might be the case.Maybe that's also why Shiina directly confronted him and Karma. "

Yukimura cross his arms." There's certainly reason to be suspicious of Ayanokouji.Even if there is no mastermind, just by being close to Horikita and Karma, it may give rise to doubts that there is a mastermind, right? "

" If so, that's disastrous for you, Kiyopon. "

" ...You can say that again." Kiyotaka murmured.

That didn't manage to cheer anyone up.

" A thorough marking by Ryuuen based on a misunderstanding, huh?It's annoying just thinking about it.If there's anything troubling you, feel free to consult us, ok?You too, Karma." Miyake said so while putting a hand on their shoulders.

" We'll do that. "

Although it seemed of a sad news to the group, Karma feels expectant.' When there's a good opportunity to do so, Ryuuen will definitely attack. '