Chapter 18 - Hello Again Mr. President

---Notice---

I hope everyone enjoys the chapter powerstones are greatly appreciated and so are reviews and opinions on the story thus far.

--------------------------------

"Keep your friends close, but your enemies closer." ~Niccolò Machiavelli

The classroom fell into a hushed realization of their loss, a potential trauma that could be manipulated to assert control over another class through the fear of loss.

"Let's go, Ibuki," I say, turning to leave.

"Wait," a voice calls from the back, stopping me. It's Horikita. "You're aware of what transpired here, aren't you? That's why you came?"

I pause, weighing my response. "I am aware," I admit, causing a stir among the students.

Hirata, voicing the class's confusion, asks, "Why did this happen? Who's responsible?"

"My involvement with my class prevents me from divulging details, but rest assured, this outcome was unforeseen by most in Class C. Your class was the intended target of a bad actor, but I can say no more," I replied apologetically.

Ryuen enters, his presence commanding attention. "Defending me, even in anger? How noble," he mocks.

The situation, while unexpected, is clear. Ryuen's reputation precedes him, and it would be evident to most that he played a part in this scheme.

"I acted for the class, not for you," I retort, concealing my true intent.

Ryuen dismisses the sentiment and then, noticing the whiteboard, remarks on the number of expulsions. "Curious… there should have only been enough points to save one at most," he thinks, his gaze of realization landing on me.

Horikita, ever perceptive, inquires, "You orchestrated this?"

Ryuen's smirk widens. "Yes, I did. Do you require an explanation?"

Horikita shakes her head. "No, I understand what you did."

Silence envelops the room as the reality sets in. They look to Horikita for future clarification.

Ryuen gestures for me to leave. "You're finished here, aren't you?"

Without a word, I exit, glad to avoid further questioning.

In the hallway, Ibuki and Ryuen catch up. "Move along, Ibuki. Us men have matters to discuss," Ryuen commands.

"Don't order me around," Ibuki retorts, standing her ground.

"It's fine; you dont have to worry, Ibuki. Ryuen will say what he must, regardless," I assure her.

She scoffs, "I wasn't concerned. Fine, do as you please," and departs, leaving Ryuen and me to our conversation.

"It may appear as an unnecessary move, but I've eliminated a potential threat in Class D, along with several of its members, and harmed Classes A and B financially," Ryuen declares after a pause.

"Frankly, I'm not even upset anymore. I've done all I can. However, contemplate your actions; my advice comes not only from a personal dislike of your tactics but from a strategic standpoint. You've now become a target," I say, maintaining eye contact.

He returns my gaze and erupts into laughter, "HAHAHA, you're overlooking a crucial detail. I've been marked since the start of school. The quantity of competitors aiming for me is irrelevant. Rest assured, I will not be bested by anyone here," he asserts, his gaze sharpening. "I presume you share a similar sentiment; I doubt there are many who can match up to you in this school as well."

"You're neglecting a key factor; you're clouded by your win over Class D. Your actions essentially used me to trap the intellectuals from each class. It's premature to dismiss Class D as a non-threat. The fact that Class D triggered the trap itself indicates an unidentified talent among them," I explain.

"I haven't fully processed the situation... but you're right. Who could it be?"

"Bold of you to seek my perspective after what you did," I retort.

"Don't be like that; we're still classmates in this game. Cooperation is important."

I exhale softly before replying, "Very well, it cannot be Hirata."

"Indeed, his insight appears insufficient to notice the trap I laid. Plus, his demeanor suggested he felt utterly defeated; he has no mental fortitude." Ryuen concurs.

"I have doubts regarding Koenji as well. His academic performance is praiseworthy, yet his indifference to Class D's predicament and mockery of the class suggests a lack of genuine interest. He may be feigning ignorance, but his behavior didn't seem to surprise anyone in the Class," I analyze.

Ryuen counters, "What about Kushida, the girl with the big bust? She distributed the exam papers to Class D, and her grades on the whiteboard were impressive."

I nod in agreement, "However, her demeanor doesn't strike me as that of a leader. Upon my arrival in Class D, the animosity directed at her seemed to bother her more than the impending expulsions. After that, her focus shifted to amassing points rather than examining the situation her class was in, which differs from the analytical approach we'd expect from the genius who saw behind your trap."

"I wasn't present to observe, but if that's your assessment, then I agree—she's likely not our target. What about Horikita, the smart and feisty one?" Ryuen probes.

"She aligns more closely with our mastermind's thought process, yet one thing troubles me,"

"And that is?" Ryuen prompts.

"Given your limited social interactions, you may be unaware, but rumors suggest Horikita actively avoids Kushida. If true, why would Horikita entrust Kushida with distributing the midterm exams instead of someone like Hirata?"

"Good question. If I wanted to avoid someone, I would ensure complete distance, not entrust them with responsibilities," he acknowledges.

"Precisely. Considering all this, we can also easily conclude that the mastermind of Class D wasn't among the seven facing expulsion. This leads us to a singular conclusion," I state, pausing for effect.

Ryuen interjects, "An individual posing as average in the class."

"Exactly. And they may now hold resentment following your recent stunts," I respond, a smirk forming.

"Hahaha, they're in no position to challenge me or Class C, given their current predicament," Ryuen laughs, and I nod in agreement.

"So, what's our next move?" I asked, but before Ryuen could respond, the school's announcement system was activated.

"The student council requests the presence of Light Yagami immediately," announces the speaker before abruptly cutting off.

I pause, my gaze fixed on the announcement system. Isn't this a bit early? I ponder silently.

"What's the meaning of this? Surely, there hasn't been enough time for any significant discussion regarding your point usage," Ryuen remarks, a hint of curiosity in his tone.

"It could be one of two things: the student council president's sister, Suzune Horikita, the girl from Class D, is impacted by your stunt, so he may have taken an interest in this case; it's just a speculation, but it could partially explain this call."

"And the other reason?" he probes further.

"Given my previous encounters with him, it's possible he's taken a personal interest. He's probably caught wind of the expulsion incident involving Class D, orchestrated by Class C. It's a significant event, after all. He's chosen to address the matter promptly," I explain, my hand on the door to the student council room.

"Then, I wish you luck," Ryuen says, lifting his hand in a half-hearted gesture of farewell as I step inside.

"You've arrived swiftly," Akane Tachibana observes, already in the main room.

"I happened to be nearby," I reply happily.

"Understood. Come with me," Tachibana instructs, leading me down a familiar corridor lined with multiple meeting rooms. She stops before one, reaching for the handle.

***Manabu Horikita***

"Your third visit already. Typically, such frequent encounters in my office would imply imminent expulsion or a personal connection," I state plainly as Yagami steps into the room.

He chuckles softly, taking a seat, "I'd prefer the latter, in this case."

I glance at the documents before me, Tachibana standing by my side, and inquire, "Are you aware of the reason for your summons today?"

"Is it concerning your sister?" Yagami interjects with a hint of confusion.

His rapid response and certainty catch me off guard. It's a rare quality, to be so unwavering in one's convictions, to act without doubt. Is this who Yagami truly is? A man led by conviction rather than calculation? I must tread carefully; I cannot afford another misjudgment, not after Nagumo.

"And why would you assume that?" I probe.

"I have a younger sister myself, whom I miss dearly. If I were in your position and her class faced multiple expulsions, I would be very concerned," he explains.

"Interesting. And your sister, is she similar to you?" I ask.

He laughs, "Far from it. We're often told we're complete opposites, though she shares my sociability."

I offer a small smile, "It's good to hear you value her well-being."

"Without question," he replies promptly.

"Let's address the true purpose of this meeting," I say, my expression hardening, "Do you genuinely believe your presence here isn't due to the ten suspensions, reduced to five, orchestrated by Ryuen of Class C, or the half-million private points allocated by your class for collaborative use?"

"I'm certain of it," Yagami states with assurance.

"And your reasoning?" I press, my gaze intensifying. 

"I've committed no act to warrant this summons, President. If you've done your due diligence, you'd know I was manipulated by Ryuen, leading to the expulsions in Class D."

"Ryuen's methods are indeed questionable, and I can empathize with your predicament," I acknowledge, "but the expenditure of 500,000 points remains a significant concern."

"True, yet it's not a matter that would necessitate a meeting mere minutes after the expulsion incident. Unless I'm mistaken, President, you've used it as a pretext to inquire about an unrelated matter. Moreover, I maintain that my decision regarding the points was justified—a sentiment I believe you share. Therefore, my presence here isn't due to that," Yagami counters.

"You find it reasonable to spend such a sum to aid an unknown individual without expecting returns?" I question, a trace of sarcasm lacing my words, yet his reply is unexpected.

"If actions like Nagumo's, leading to widespread expulsions, are deemed unjust and detrimental to the school—a view you and I share—then isn't it logical to oppose any threat of mass expulsion? Therefore, isn't it justifiable for me to combat such threats in any way possible?"

Nagumo's approach was flawed, setting a dangerous precedent with mass expulsions that could harm the school's fabric. It's clear that preventing such an outcome would benefit everyone, not just one class. The scale of the issue is significant; it's not just one or two students at risk, but seven. While he managed to save two, his direct intervention saved only one. His actions were measured, not rash, showing a deep understanding of his limitations. He knew his defense may not be accepted if he went overboard.

Yagami's smile was telling, reflecting our shared views on Nagumo, which we had discussed previously. His belief in his stance was evident.

"Indeed, the use of 500,000 points is not my primary concern, nor is it significant enough to warrant this immediate meeting," I concede.

Tachibana and I have discussed Yagami's potential. She once questioned why I hesitate to recruit him to the student council, given his apparent capability to counter Nagumo's influence.

It's not merely about shielding him from corruption. If Yagami is as exceptional as he appears, his placement in Class C is puzzling. The evaluators doubt his ability to forge genuine relationships, yet the truth of Yagami's character is known only to himself. As the evaluators said, 'We have no idea what Light Yagami is truly like, only what he chooses to show those around him. He is unreadable and unpredictable.'

Can I entrust someone with such an unpredictable nature with power?

Yet, in his presence, I sense someone I can trust, a contradiction to my reservations.

"Share your thoughts on Kakeru Ryuen," I prompt.

"Ryuen… Contrary to popular belief, I don't consider him to be a bad person. His methods are reprehensible, and he treats the school's challenges as mere games," Yagami pauses, reflecting.

Before he can continue, I interject, "How can you then defend him as not being a bad person?"

"Ryuen is like a prodigy who has never faced defeat. He views himself as superior, a mindset reinforced by his experiences. He acts with arrogance, not having encountered an equal. But misguided actions don't necessarily define one's character," Yagami elucidates.

I understand his perspective. Many arrive at this school with a sense of invincibility, only to have that illusion shattered. However, Ryuen may be an exception, having orchestrated the expulsion of five students by midterms—a feat rarely seen here.

Yagami resumes, "However, his actions remain indefensible. Competition should be fair and within bounds. How Ryuen exploited me to achieve his goals, resulting in five expulsions, is despicable. I will ensure it doesn't happen again."

"I agree. Competition is acceptable, but people should be honorable. Those lacking it earn no respect from me," I reply.

Yagami nods in agreement. Now, a decision looms before me.

"Yagami, do you still wish to join the student council?"

This is my course of action for now. If Yagami proves trustworthy, he could be the ally I need against Nagumo. He could be my successor, leading the school on the right path. While Nagumo's long-standing position in the student council complicates matters in dealing with him. However, Yagami's potential inclusion is different; as a new member, he would be easier to deal with and remove if necessary. I am also confident Nagumo won't be able to manipulate him, removing one of my main concerns regarding accepting my first year into the student council. Keeping a close watch on him and seeing how he plans on bettering the school isn't a bad strategy. Ultimately, my actions are in the school's best interest. If Yagami shares this vision or even one similar one, all will be well. If not, I will act before it's too late.

--------------------------------

Honestly dont have much to say here except i hope you enjoyed and give me your thoughts on things.

one thing i will add though because i feel some may think the president is being overly suspicious and he was not like this with ayanokoji, i believe the president would be more suspicious of a character like light because of his similarities to nagumo and the fact he seems overly perfect while ayanokoji on the other hand was easier to understand intentions wise and was obviously flawed in some way.