Chapter 2: My class.

7:00 a.m. April 2.

*call*

*call*

I reached over to the bedside table and turned off the alarm on my phone. This morning came so fast, even sleep didn't have time to pass normally... eh.

Arthur: It's a fucking morning… Am I really going to have to get up like this for 3 years?.. Horror.

I got out of bed and went to the bathroom. After completing all the necessary procedures, I began to do morning exercises. As they say, a healthy body, a healthy mind.

After I finished charging, I put the kettle on and decided to take a cool shower. It's strange, today my body somehow feels sluggish, maybe this is a consequence of flights and relocations? Hopefully it won't last long. After the shower, I went to my jacket and rummaged in my pockets, but to my horror, I remembered that I was in Japan.

Arthur: [Блять!] (Fuck!)

This country is really strict with everything, right? And how do you tell me to deal with this? Possible…

Yes, upon arrival in Japan, not a single store did not sell me a pack of cigarettes. Strange, isn't it? I may look older than a high school student, but cigarettes are only on paper. Although there is an option to get them, I don't have them right now. Well, we'll just have to drink tea and go on a search.

***

After the morning procedures, I went outside in casual clothes, dressed not in the dress code of a high school student, but as a handyman at the age of 20. I brought 4 sets of clothes with me. Sporty dark, sloppy, which I'm wearing now, casual, for walking with friends and business, for official meetings, etc. Thank God it is allowed to bring personal clothes, it saved me several thousand points.

I was approaching the store, but decided to go to the back entrance. There I saw two workers. One is a man in his thirties with stubble, dressed about like me, and the second is a girl of about 25, who looks like a cashier. Both are smoking, bingo!

Arthur: Hello seniors! There will be no cigarettes, it's just that the store is still on break, it's not possible to buy.

They looked at me for a second, until the man took out a pack and when he was about to give one piece, the girl started talking.

Girl: Makoto, what are you doing? And if it's a student? You'll be fined later!

Arthur: A student? Ha! If I were an apprentice here, I would definitely find a better job later. But unfortunately I'm from Kamagasaki, so I'm not lucky in this life. So don't worry, girlfriend, Makoto can give me a smoke break!

The girl looked at me for a second, but then she just looked away.

Makoto apparently decided that this was an endorsement, since she was the decisive one among them, gave me a cigarette.

Arthur: Listen, one or two, you won't get impoverished, right?

I said, holding up two fingers. Makoto just shrugged and took out the second one.

Arthur: Ay, ay, ay. Two pieces? As they say, two for the dead. Why feel sorry for shit, give me the last leg to move and I'm off.

Makoto was already beginning to suspect what was wrong, but he just pulled out another one. I wasted no time taking it and left them for the shop. By the way, it's true that the store is not working. I went to the next one and thank God it was open. When I entered it, there was a guy at the cash register, and I went up to him and spoke.

Arthur: Bro, give me two packs of those purple ones.

He looked at me suspiciously, but still took out two packs and punched them to me. It probably worked that I had a cigarette behind one ear. After all, if I have a cigarette, then I've already bought them, right? So I am an ordinary employee and there are no problems with the sale.

After leaving the store, I went to the dorm. I already opened the window there and smoked normally. Yes, I probably need to buy an air freshener or a fan.

***

The time was already approaching, and I left the dorm on my way to school. There were different students walking along the road, some in a group, some, like me, alone. While I was thinking, someone called out to me.

...: Arthur.

I turned around and saw Ayanokoji. Huh, he can't even scream with a more emotional tone? I stopped and waited for him until he came up.

Ayanokoji: Thank you for waiting. When I left the room, I saw you entering the elevator. I think we live on the same floor.

ARTHUR: And? I live in room 402.

Ayanokoji: I'm in room 401.

While we were talking, we started moving towards the school.

Arthur: Ayanokoji, why do you have such a face? In terms of not changing? Is it a disease or an injury?

Ayanokoji: No, it's from birth.

Arthur: Mmm, so the voice is also monotonous because of the muscles, or rather the vocal cords?

Ayanokoji: You could say that.

It's a strange feature, but it doesn't seem to bother him, because he doesn't shy away from the answer. Perhaps he's already come to terms with it, or is he just not paying attention to it?

Arthur: Listen, what do you think about this school? I'm wondering if you've noticed anything interesting or unusual?

Ayanokoji: Maybe a strange number of points that we were given. This is probably the only thing that interests me, I didn't notice anything else.

Arthur: [Бог правду любит] (God loves the truth)

Ayanokoji: What? I didn't hear that.

Arthur: Just like that, I'm talking about school. Isn't this all a hoax? The scores are weird, plus I noticed free stuff. Is it possible that the points are limited? It's all strange.

Ayanokoji: …

By the end of the conversation, we had already reached the classroom. There we parted and sat down in our seats. Horikita was already sitting here and when we sat down, she looked at us as if asking, why are you together?

When I was about to say something, Ayanokoji was the first to start.

Ayanokoji: If you ask, yes, we went to school together and we are still roommates.

Horikita: You're out of luck, Arthur. Your neighbor will have a "don't make trouble" atmosphere.

Arthur: Well, when you said that, I didn't even hear anything from his room yesterday, it was so quiet there, as if he wasn't there. Is it possible that you, Ayanokoji, were walking somewhere yesterday?

Ayanokoji: No, I was in the room, I just decided to rest earlier.

Wow, these two have the ability to cut off the way to move the conversation to the next topic.

While we were talking, the bell rang and the teacher came in. Surprisingly, a couple of people weren't here, but the teacher didn't even take a roll call.

***

Lunch time. Sudo came in later than everyone else and immediately lay down on the desk. Yeah, the teachers didn't even say anything for talking. Are the girls sitting on their phones, and the boys, well, some, or rather those two, are sitting and laughing at the whole class, reading comics? Oh, it's called manga here. But the teacher did not make a single comment. It's all strange.

While I was thinking about this incident, and Horikita and Ayanokoji were arguing, almost everyone left the class. Okay, I'm going to get something to eat too.

When I got up, which coincidentally was with my two best friends, we headed for the door. Horikita left, and Ayanokoji and I stayed there, glancing at each other briefly, then at Horikita retreating.

Arthur: Listen…

As I started to speak, someone interrupted me with a sudden shout from Ayanokoji.

...: Ayanokoji-kun?

Yes, it was Kushida, with straight brown hair that reached her shoulders. I'm not trying to focus on anything, but the school recently allowed shorter skirts. Obviously, the design of her uniform is just from the new model. And in her hand she held a purse with a bunch of dangling key chains. You could even say that it was the wallet that was clinging to the key chains, and not the other way around.

Kushida: I'm Kushida from your class. Do you remember me?

Ayanokoji: Yes, of course. What do you need?

Kushida: Generally… I'd like to ask you something. I won't take up much time. Ayanokoji-kun, tell me, are you on good terms with Horikita-san?

Ayanokoji: Not really. We just met. Did she do something?

Kushida: And you, Arthur? Do you get along well with Horikita-san?

I just looked at her with a bored look. Obviously, she wants to communicate with her through us. But something else is bothering me. She's not even trying to hide it, is she?

Arthur: Yes, Kushida, I have a good relationship with Horikita.

Suddenly she smiled even brighter and was about to come closer to me when I raised my hand with an open palm in front of her.

Arthur: And that's why I won't spoil my relationship with her, and I certainly won't become a messenger. If you want to contact her in any way, then do it directly.

Kushida: But she rejects me all the time, or just ignores me. I can't get to her.

Arthur: Well, then do not impose yourself, because this will have an even worse effect on communication. Well, you can create a need for yourself in front of her, but I don't think it will work the way you want.

Kushida: Are you sure you can't help me with this?

She opened her eyes even more, trying to beg me to help her. But no, I won't fall for it, the time has passed when I could fall for it.

ARTHUR: No, I'm sorry. But I think you can do it, good luck!

I didn't wait for anything else, turned around and went to the dining room, leaving Kushida and Ayanokoji alone.

***

After I took a bite to eat and came to class, Horikita was already here. I went over to the table and started eating lunch, starting a conversation with her.

Arthur: Horikita, Kushida tried to ask me to talk to you or to help her communicate with you in some way. Of course, I refused her, I told you to find a common language on your own, but something bothers me.

Horikita: Thank you for not delving into this question, because she has already approached me several times and tried to make friends. So what's your question?

Arthur: When did she first talk to you?

Horikita: Hmm, I think it was yesterday, but what?

Arthur: Did she contact you right away?

Horikita: Well, yes, but what are you getting at?

I mean, that's how it happens, right? Well, let's skip this point. Maybe I just attach a lot of importance to it.

Arthur: [Не видишь дальше своего носа?] (Can't you see beyond your nose?)

Horikita: Excuse me? I didn't hear what you said.

Just at this moment, Ayanokoji enters the classroom and heads to his seat.

Arthur: Ayanokoji, what did you take for breakfast?

Horikita was still looking at me, but decided not to bring up the issue again. Maybe I took away a couple of balls for myself, but if she found out what I said, then probably the communication would just stop.

Ayanokoji: A bun and iced tea.

Ha, how difficult it is with him. Don't ask what I took? Yeah, social impact is definitely not for him.

While I was sitting in silence, the stern voice of a girl sounded on the loudspeaker. Trying to be strict haha.

"There will be a club exhibition at Gym number one at five o'clock tonight! If you are going to join the club, we invite you to gym number one! I repeat, today..."

While I digested this information and munched on my sandwich, Ayanokoji listened to Horikita's refusals. Maybe we should go take a look?

Arthur: Horikita, can we just go and see if there's anything that might interest us? Surely nothing will change from a regular trip to the gym?

Horikita: ... Okay, if you both really want to go there, then fine.

Arthur: Hooray! Ayanokoji, do you have something that you specifically want to watch?

Ayanokoji: Probably not, I'm just wondering what clubs there are.

So the classes continued, nothing special happened. The students also behaved terribly, and the teachers did not pay attention to them. Does everyone really care?

***

After the call, the three of us got together and went to the gym. Wow, he's more of that than at the opening ceremony.

As we made our way to the hall, a crowd of about 100 students appeared in front of us. So much, right? I wonder how many students will eventually join the club?

I've heard how some senpai are already advertising their clubs to others by giving them flyers or just telling them about their activities.

Ayanokoji: I wonder if there is any particularly popular club in this school? For example... something like karate.

Horikita: Apparently, the clubs here are very good. I've heard that their participants often break out at the national level.

Arthur: There should be fight clubs here, but about karate... since Japan is the birthplace of karate, then it should be taught in every school, right?

Horikita: I don't know about every school, but mine didn't have such a club. There is a dojo, but as a club it is not very popular.

Arthur: Hmm, that's weird… Well, okay, we just have sambo on almost every corner, even at school there are often sections on it.

Horikita: Sam-bo? Haven't you heard about it, was it invented in your country?

Arthur: Well, you could say that it was invented in the Soviet Union, but now it is very popular in Russia. There is also combat sambo, so yes, it is very popular, at the boxing level.

Horikita: Himself.. bo and combat sambo? What's the difference?

Horikita looked at me with a curious look, as if she hears the things I'm telling for the first time and is of little interest to her. Ayanokoji is also listening attentively, it seems that everyone in Japan is interested in learning about the culture of other countries, right?

Arthur: Well, in short, sambo is literally an independent defense. It is designed to neutralize the enemy with quick interceptions and go into combat on the ground with further strangulations and seizures. And combat sambo teaches punches, which can help a lot on the street, mainly it is done to overcome disadvantages compared to boxing and kickboxing.

Horikita listened to me with complete concentration, but when she was about to ask something, Ayanokoji spoke faster.

Ayanokoji: So it's basically wrestling, something similar to judo?

ARTHUR: Ha! I'll show you something similar, it's a separate style, and any judoka will say that sambo is a great sport!

Ayanokoji: ...

Arthur: Okay, soryan. It's just that we have an eternal dispute between judoists and sambo wrestlers. So don't pay attention.

Ayanokoji: It's okay.

We continued to discuss some clubs as we walked between exhibitions. There are many directions here, there are such as a drawing club, photography, astronomy, even board games. Wow, we didn't have such people, although some of them consist of only 3-4 people, but their faces show the pleasure of their chosen activities.

Arthur: Do you always have so many clubs here?

Horikita: Well, mostly clubs are created and reduced every year, but about the number remains. If you find several people with common interests, then you can create your own club. Of course, there are some nuances, but there are no specific problems.

Arthur: What about…

When I was trying to ask about the possibility of creating clubs, a girl appeared on the podium and a voice sounded that was on the speakers at lunchtime.

Tachibana: Thank you for waiting, newbies! Representatives from each club will tell you in detail what exactly they do and what needs to be done to join. My name is Tachibana. I am the secretary of the student council and responsible for holding today's club exhibition. Nice to meet you!

A little girl with purple hair tied in two buns. They're called loli in Japan, aren't they? Although she seems to look a little grown-up or... is she trying?

After her, other people lined up behind her. Are these representatives of the clubs? But why are they wearing the clothes of their classes? Is it so that the students would immediately understand who to go to?

Judoka: Hey, if you want to change, try joining some sports club. Don't you want to do judo? Their senpai looks like a good guy, capable of motivating even a callous loner like you.

Ayanokoji: What did you see in him that was so good and motivating? He looks like a gorilla who is ready to kill someone at any moment.

Horikita: Well, he's probably good at convincing others that judo is a fairly simple form of martial arts.

Arthur: You have no idea how simple it is…

Ayanokoji: Come on!

It seems that these two are having a very sluggish conversation. Maybe then they will start to communicate well, basically this type of communication develops into a good friendship.

Ayanokoji: Even so, sports clubs are clearly not interested in newcomers to sports. This is evident from their greeting alone.

Horikita: But I don't think so. The more students they have, the more money they will allocate from the school budget.

Ayanokoji: It turns out that they are just luring newcomers to them in order to increase funding…

Horikita: It is quite effective to recruit a lot of students, get an increase to the club's budget, and then keep them as "dead souls". Machinations rule the world.

Ayanokoji: It turns out to be a kind of spoiled world… You're thinking very darkly.

Arthur: Is that how it works here? We mostly keep to the word.

Horikita: On the word? So any club can come up and ask for more funding?

Arthur: Um... I probably put it badly, but we don't have student club representatives. Teachers run everything, that's why there is such a light contract between them. And if you want to have more finances, then there must be victories.

Ayanokoji: This is basically a good concept, the club will not be discriminated against for something insignificant, but the very problem of students' lack of responsibility.

Arutr: Yes, maybe you're right.

Hashigaki: My name is Hashigaki – I am the head of the archery club. I think a lot of people here will find my club too boring and old-fashioned, but it's a really interesting sport that can be fun. We welcome all newcomers and if you are interested, join us! — a girl in a traditional archer costume began to represent the club on stage.

Horikita: Look, they seem to be happy for beginners. Why don't you try joining them? You'll increase the club's budget.

Ayanokoji: I definitely won't join a club for such nonsense! Besides, popular guys usually come to sports clubs. Loners who don't really know anything will probably immediately take a back seat.

Horikita: Is your thinking a consequence of a corrupted personality?

Ayanokoji: Maybe, but the sports club is definitely not mine.

Arthur: What did you do in high school?

Ayanokoji: An exciting club "Going home". I advise you to try it.

Arthur: …

Club trip home? Don't schoolchildren have the slightest initiative to develop? I didn't seem to see the depravity of children, then why?

Horikita: Don't listen to him. Any activity is a path to self–improvement. Either you use it to develop yourself or to get pleasure, but this individual does not have personal growth, so his advice is a path to degradation.

Ayanokoji: Tough.

Arthur: [Зато правда] (But it's true)

Horikita: Huh? It's not the first time I've noticed, but do you speak another language? Is it Russian?

Arthur: Well, yes... but I don't do it on purpose, I just sometimes mechanically start speaking my native language.

Horikita: I see.

The representatives of the clubs came on stage one by one, and suddenly Horikita tensed up. She turned slightly pale and looked at the stage.

Horikita: Damn it!

Ayanokoji: Is something wrong?

Arthur: …

There were other representatives of the clubs on the stage, while they were performing there was nothing remarkable. But what is it with Horikita? Did she see someone or are these sudden flashbacks? I decided to call her and touched her shoulder while Ayanokoji was calling her.

Arthur: Horikita!

Horikita: ...!!!

Why did she flinch? And her eyes are dilated. Don't tell me it's some kind of seizure due to injury?

Horikita: I... it's okay, it's just…

When she wanted to continue, a not very tall man with black hair and glasses came on stage. He stood in front of the microphone and was silent. He was just silent.

Ah!?

Does he want to check something or is he doing it specifically for the atmosphere? And it looks like he's some kind of big shot, right?

It took about thirty seconds until some of them couldn't stand it and started shouting at him.

— Come on, try your best!

— Did you forget to bring the text cards?

—Ha, ha, ha!

But he didn't even twitch, but just continued to look at everyone in the hall. Ten, twenty, thirty. Finally, he stopped talking.

— My name is Horikita Manabu. The president of the student council!

Oh, maybe it's her relative. Are they that similar, brother? A cousin?

— The Student Council is also looking for first-year students who could replace graduating students. We do not have strict requirements for applying for any of the positions, however, those interested should not be members of other clubs. In other words, we do not accept members of other clubs.

— And also, we are the Student Council, we are not looking for simple–minded people. Not only because they will have to take responsible positions, but also because they will inevitably become a stain on the reputation of the school. The student council is only responsible for solving problems with students, because the school requires a lot from us. Those of you who understand this can become possible candidates.

The audience was silent even after the end of his speech. He left the stage, but no one dared to speak until Loli-Senpai started talking into the microphone. Is she his girlfriend?

— Thank you all! I declare the club exhibition closed! We are opening the application area for everyone who wants to join. It will remain open only until the end of April, so all interested students can later bring applications directly to the clubs.

It seems that I have nothing else to do here, but Horikita.

I looked at her, but she was still looking at the stage. This is not normal, is it possible that this is a psychological trauma? Maybe I can figure this out somehow, but for now I'll go. If I try to find out something now, it won't be very convenient for her, plus we don't really know each other.

Ayanokoji tried to talk to her, but I stopped, put my hand on his shoulder and said.

Arthur: Don't stick your nose in someone else's millet

Ayanokoji: …

Good.

He looked at me a little uncomprehendingly, but then he agreed anyway. I turned around and walked out of the hall. So. Where should I go? After this atmosphere, I want to smoke, maybe for a building of some kind?

I started to make my way to the store when I saw a strange scene. A small girl with a cane watches the entrance to the store. Is she hesitating to go in there or is she waiting for someone?

Walking slowly towards her, I called out to her.

Arthur: I'm sorry, but you're looking at the store like that, maybe there was a problem, you forgot your card at home, but you need to go buy something?

Girl: …

She turned to me and looked at me with her narrowed eyes. Wow, she's beautiful, just really. It is somewhat similar to the atmosphere of Horikita, but at the same time different. The atmosphere of superiority, but not pronounced, but more wisdom as if. She smiled sweetly and started talking.

Girl: It's okay, I'm just waiting for my friend. She should be leaving the store soon. So no, no problem.

Arthur: Oh, well then, if anything, my name is Arthur.

Sakayanagi: Fu-fu-fu, my name is Arisu Sakayanagi, nice to meet you Arthur-kun. I'm from Class 1-A, and you?

Arthur: Oh, I'm from class 1-D, and no, no honors, I'm not really used to them.

Sakayanagi: All right, Arthur. Tell me, how do you like school?

Arthur: School, right? It seems to be interesting in places, I like it. Perhaps with its own characteristics, but I can't say more.

Sakayanagi: Can't you? I wonder what you're saying. Maybe you've understood something that others haven't really taken in yet?

I looked at her with a more interested look, perhaps she is something more than the other students. What did others not understand? She also likes to choose her words correctly.

Arthur: I think we understand each other, Sakayanagi. Okay, maybe I should go, so I'll go.

Sakayanagi: Arthur, aren't you interested in chess by any chance?

Arthur: Chess? I'm afraid it's not customary to play them here, but I'm more of a fan of backgammon, checkers and cards, but maybe I can play here. What's the point of the question?

Sakayanagi: Maybe we'll play sometime, I'm just interested in getting to know you as a person, maybe I'll even like this game. Oh, and also, do you? What did you mean by that?

Arthur: Oh, I just came from another country, Russia. We didn't have a particularly negative attitude towards chess there, one might say even more negatively.

Sakayanagi: I see, but what about the party afterwards?

Arthur: I don't mind so much, then let's exchange numbers?

Sakayanagi: Okay, come on.

After exchanging the phone, I headed to another store. This girl, she is extremely good, easily notices her surroundings, even closes small gaps in communication on purpose. So I'd better go smoke somewhere else, or she'll probably get me.

***

I stayed at home all day yesterday, working on kvass. Yes, the first batch will be ready today, and the second one will be tomorrow evening. I'm going to school now, but I'm going out a little earlier, maybe someone I know goes out at this time?

When I came out of the dorm, I saw Chiaki walking alone to school. I quickened my pace and headed towards her. Coming closer, I decided to call out to her.

Arthur: Chiaki!

She turned around a little surprised, but when she saw me, she immediately smiled.

CHIAKI: Arthur! Good morning. Are you going out at this time?

Arthur: Good morning, no, I just decided to go out today, it was just boring at home. Don't you want to go together?

Chiaki: Come on, I don't mind.

Listen, you promised that we would go shopping and we should have gone yesterday!

Arthur: Oh, I was watching clubs yesterday, so it slipped my mind. But you could come over and ask, I wouldn't mind.

CHIAKI: Ha! So I'm also to blame?

Arthur: [Ловко это придумал, учись] (You came up with it cleverly, learn)

Listen, we can go today if you want.

Chiaki: Did you say something before that?

Arthur: Oh, I just speak Russian sometimes, it turns out randomly. But how about going out tonight?

Chiaki: I don't mind, the girls and I were just going to go today, because we didn't go anywhere yesterday. Yes, Hirata will be there too, so don't worry about it.

Arthur: So you didn't go anywhere yesterday and you blame me yet? What is it called, female logic?

She looked at me with a slightly offended look and just turned away. So we came to the classroom, where we went to our places. 

— Good morning, Yamauchi! As soon as Ike showed up in class, Yamauchi called out with a smile.

— Good morning, Ike!

Are they so early? It's weird, but okay.

— Wow, it's so interesting in class that you can't even take a nap…

— Yeah, this school is the best, and swimming classes are starting soon! Of course, swimming is good, but the main thing is girls! And when it comes to girls, we must not forget about swimsuits!

Arthur: What… [Дегенераты] (Degenerates)

I looked at these scum, but seriously. They know that everyone can hear them, right? At least turn on your brain, you idiots.

I saw Ayanokoji get up, did he want to join them? Is he serious?

Arthur: If you join them, I will write the word "Pervert" on your door every day.

Ayanokoji: …

He looked at me a little surprised, but still decided to sit down and not push his luck.

— Hey, Professor, come here!

"Hee hee, did you call him?"

A chubby guy with glasses, who had already acquired the nickname "Professor", came up to them.

— Professor, can you make a video with girls in swimsuits?

— Leave it to me! I'll pretend to be sick and skip class to watch them.

— Video? Why do you need it? Sudo asked.

— The professor is going to make a breast size rating. If possible, he will try to get a photo.

— Hey, hey! — apparently, Sudo didn't like Ike's plan either.

My God, do they even realize that at least in Japan this is an article? Like, not every family will want to pay a fine for moral compensation because of their dim-witted child.

Arthur: The dregs.

Horikita: At least someone understands that what they are doing is not right. But Ayanokoji, you looked at them as if you wanted to join in. You're not good at trying to make friends, are you?

Ayanokoji: ... No, of course not. At least I've had enough of talking to you.

Arthur: [Врёт и не краснеет] (Lying and not blushing)

Horikita: Hey! Don't sign me up as your friend!

Ayanokoji: I'd rather be a friend of the desk than fall so low.

Horikita: Well, that's good.

They have a strange quarrel, but still yes. To be friends with them is not to respect yourself.

Suddenly, Ike waves at Ayanokoji, trying to call him.

— Hey, Ayanokoji!

Ayanokoji looked at Horikita, who was looking back expectantly, and then his gaze shifted to me. He remembers my threat, right?

He seemed to remember her well, so he turned his head towards Ike and shook it. Right! That's a good answer.

Since he refused, the guys lost interest in him and started discussing something among themselves. So the lesson began and everyone went to their places.

***

The lesson in the pool began.

I don't really like showing my body, so I just went to the observation deck. Interestingly, only the same Professor was sitting here. No girls, right? It seems that girls are always girls, they dress for a long time and do not go one at a time, they wait for the rest.

While some of the boys were talking there, some of the girls came out, but the rest went to us, to the observation deck. Decided not to show up to these guys, huh?

The guys were apparently disappointed that not all the girls came out. But it's like Kushida, right? Wow, they're shooting at her, especially Ike. And she doesn't even react, just smiles. What's wrong with her? Is she pleased or something? Haha, it's weird.

Horikita, by the way, is also among those who went to class. She looks good, just too much.

Arthur: [Она так горяча, можно умереть] (She's so hot, you can die)

...: Hi, um... Arutr, right? Chiaki told me about you.

I turned my head and saw a beautiful blonde, she seems to be in the company of girls from Chiaki, right? She's cute.

Arthur: Yes, and you?

Karuizawa: Karuizawa Kei.

Arthur: Nice to meet you, Karuizawa. Are you Chiaki's friend?

Karuizawa: Yes, girlfriends. But by name? Are you that close to her?

She sat down next to me and took out her phone while chatting with me. Are you parodying Caesar? Do several things at the same time?

Arthur: Yes, she asked me to call her that, since she calls me by my first name. But what did she say about me?

She looked up from her phone and looked at me with a playful smile. I guess I shouldn't have asked that question, right?

Karuizawa: Oh, just talking about how I met a nice guy before school. By the way, you're from another country, aren't you? She said that it is customary for you to treat girls pleasantly, is that true?

Arthur: Well, yes, it is not customary for guys to mock girls in any way, only in exceptional cases.

Karuizawa: In exceptional cases?

Did her gaze go out a little? Does she expect generosity to all the girls? Or is it something else?

Arthur: Well, you see, if a girl behaves diligently, then she will be treated the same way, but if she is conditionally a bitch or she behaves defiantly, then there will be no warm welcome for her, but she does not go beyond the usual ignoring.

Karuizawa: Oh, I see. Why didn't you go to study, you don't like swimming?

Her gaze took on an interested shade again. She's sociable, isn't she? Compared to those two lovebirds, she is looking for a reason to communicate herself.

Arthur: Well, I just don't like to show my body, so I guess it's no surprise to skip a swimming lesson. And you? Why didn't you go to class? Is it because of those idiots?

Karuizawa: Huh? N-no, I just don't like to show my body either.

Arthur: …

She lowered her gaze and just looked at the pool. He doesn't like to show his body, does he? But you want to swim, don't you? Okay, I won't mind my own business.

While we were talking, the teacher started holding a swimming competition. Does the winner get points? It is not acceptable to hold such competitions in ordinary schools, but here… Does it look like a common thing?

While the girls were competing, Horikita came out of the water. Drops dripped from her hair onto her body. Her wet skin glistened a little in the sunlight, but her gaze prevented most guys from even looking at her.

Arthur: [Слишком горячая, кто ее родители? Создатели?] (Too hot, who are her parents? The creators?)

Karuizawa: Did you say something?

She looked at me in disbelief and followed my gaze. Thank God I moved him to the pool and watched the teacher and the students next to him.

Arthur: Nothing like that, there are just so many girls who swim fast. We didn't have many, very few athletic girls.

Karuizawa: Do your girls not play sports?

Arthur: No, maximum fitness and that is to support the appearance. But mostly they don't like sports, but just partying and ... recreation. Yes, they really like to relax.

Karuizawa: But here we also have a lot of girls who like to relax, especially karaoke or shopping.

Arthur: ... Well, you could say so, the interests are similar in name, but they don't do it much differently. But not the point. The guys are coming now, who are you betting on?

Karuizawa thought for a while, putting her finger to her chin. Is she seriously thinking? It seems to me that she will give the very answer that I was waiting for in order to develop this topic with at least someone.

Karuizawa: Well... I think Hirata should take the first place.

ARTHUR: Ha! Hirata? Listen, I have a question, why do you all treat him like that? I even heard one girl confessed to him. What can they find in it?

Karuizawa gave me a doubtful look. It looks like I took a couple of points off myself, but I don't care. She thought for a second and replied in a slightly biased tone.

Karuizawa: He is kind and athletic. It can be said that innocent in some moments is the dream of any girl. Why are you asking? Are you jealous?

Arthur: I'm jealous, right? ...I just don't get it. Our girls wouldn't even look at him. Why? Because they mostly turn out to be people who can't protect themselves, let alone their girlfriend. Also, the relationship itself is boring, there is nothing attractive, there is no romance. We like more determined guys who can put a point where it is necessary, where it is necessary, they will decide everything more, how should I say, hmm... is that selfish? He will put himself and his girlfriend in the first place, rather than others, except for close friends of course.

Karuizawa looked at me a little surprised. It seems that such an image of a guy did not come to her mind. And? Did she smile? Just for a couple of seconds was that smile sincere or regretful?

Karuizawa: We have almost no such guys, and if there are, there are critically not enough of them. So basically, the type of Hirata is chosen against the background of others.

Arthur: Not enough, right? We have a lot of them, but they are just not as pronounced as the "kind and righteous" type. I'm even willing to bet that I'll find 2-3 people in our class who will match. They're just overshadowed, or something, and the girls don't look at them.

Karuizawa: I see, maybe you're right. By the way, do you want to exchange numbers? You don't even seem to be in the class chat.

ARTHUR: Yes? I don't mind, come on.

That's how the physical education lesson went. I got to know a girl named Karuizawa Kei better, what can I say? She is active, cheerful and you can even see the sweet side. And guys, it turns out there's a bunch of trash here, I hope there won't be any tough situations.

***

Pov Ayanokoji.

Lessons are over. The students began to disperse on their extracurricular activities, discussing the places where they intend to have fun today. I looked at Kushida and signaled that I was starting to implement the current plan.

Our goal – Horikita, as usual, began to get ready to go home.

Ayanokoji: Horikita, are you free now?

Horikita: I don't have time. I need to go back to the dorm and get ready for tomorrow's classes.

To prepare for classes? I'm sure only she has something to prepare for here.…

Arthur also got up and left, but gave me a disapproving look. Did he realize that Kushida and I were up to something? Interesting guy.

Ayanokoji: I would like to ask you to go somewhere with me.

Horikita: What are you up to?

Ayanokoji: Do you think I have any ulterior motives?

Horikita: If you call me somewhere out of the blue, of course I will have doubts. But if you have something to talk about, I don't mind listening here.

Of course, I had no such thoughts.

Ayanokoji: Did you know that there is a cafe on the school grounds? There are too many girls there, so it's hard for me to go there alone. There is a feeling that the guys are superfluous there.

Horikita: Of course there are most girls, but I haven't heard of places where guys are not allowed to enter.

Ayanokoji: Yes, but guys don't go there on their own. Only with the girls.

Horikita thought hard, trying to remember something about the Pallet.

Horikita: It seems to be true. It's unusual for you to make such rational arguments.

Ayanokoji: I still want to go there. I thought I might invite you.

Horikita: Well, yes, considering that... you just don't have anyone else to call, right?

Ayanokoji: It sounded rude, but yes.

Horikita: And if I refuse?

Ayanokoji: There's nothing I can do, I'll have to give up. I can't force you to waste your personal time for my whims.

Horikita: I see. Apparently, you're telling the truth. But I'm not going to stay there for long, is that okay?

Ayanokoji: Yeah, we won't stay long.

I mentally added "probably." If Horikita had found out that Kushida was involved, she would have lynched me right there.

Thanks to Kushida's request, having the opportunity to invite Horikita, I thought it was a good chance to make friends with the latter.

After all, Horikita went with me without much objection, either to the club exhibition or to the cafe. Considering how difficult it is for me to make friends with someone, it's just a miracle.

Leaving together, we soon reached the Pallet Cafe, which was located on the ground floor of the school building. The girls had just started to gather to have fun there after class.

While we were sitting and talking, Kushida came up to us.

Kushida: Oh, Horikita-san! What a coincidence! Ayanokoji-kun is here too!

Ayanokoji: Well, yes.

Kushida greeted me, pretending that we had met by chance. Horikita gave her a suspicious look, and then turned to me.

Of course, we thought it all out in advance. Kushida's four friends occupied two tables, and when Horikita and I arrived at the Pallet, I signaled them to make room for us. After a while, two more left so Kushida could come up to us.

As a result, our meeting looked like a coincidence.

Kushida: Did you and Ayanokoji-kun come together?

Ayanokoji: Yes, by accident. Are you alone?

Kushida: Yes, today I am…

Horikita: I'm leaving.

Ayanokoji: Hey, didn't we just get here?

Horikita: You don't need me anymore, since Kushida-san is already here.

Ayanokoji: No, you won't bother us. Kushida and I are just classmates, after all!

Horikita: You and I are just classmates too. Besides," she looked at us coldly, "I don't like it. What are you two up to?

It looks like she figured out our plan the first time.

Kushida: Nothing, it's just a coincidence! Kushida blurted out completely out of place.

I wish I could avoid that outcome. It would be more correct to shrug and say, "What are you talking about?"

Horikita: This place was initially occupied by girls from class D. And then, those two next to me were also from our class. Is it just a coincidence?

Ayanokoji: Wow, did you notice that… and somehow I didn't even notice.

Horikita: And also, we came here right after class. No matter how fast they came here, they managed to stay here for a couple of minutes at most. Is it too early to leave, or am I wrong?

Horikita is much more observant than I expected. Not only did she remember the faces of her classmates, but she also understood almost instantly what was going on here.

Kushida: Uh... — confused, Kushida looked at me pleadingly. Horikita caught that look. It's all over for us.

Ayanokoji: I'm sorry, Horikita, we set it up.

Horikita: That's what I thought. The situation was suspicious from the very beginning.

Kushida: Horikita-san, be my friend, please! — without hiding anything, Kushida addressed her directly.

Horikita: How many times have I told you to leave me alone! Don't worry, I'm not going to be a pain in the ass for the whole class. Or is it forbidden?

Horikita: And also, Ayanokoji.

She looked at me with her sharp gaze, as if she was scolding me.

Horikita: As Arthur said, meddling in other people's business is not good. Remember that.

With that, she turned around and left the cafe. She remembered his words, right?

At this point, Kushida and I were left alone. Did Arthur know that the situation would turn out this way? Maybe he just didn't want to get between Kushida and Horikita, or is there something else?

***

After class, I went into the dorm to change into my party clothes. A gray cap with a curved visor, a dark gray loose T-shirt, a patch with the Russian flag on the left shoulder, black crop shorts, gray socks and white and black New Balance sneakers. He also put on a gray mechanical watch and white wired headphones. I stood in front of the mirror and looked at myself. I fixed my hair a little and put a little makeup on my forearms. I seem to look good, I won't be ashamed of myself.

Coming out of the dorm, I saw Harata.

 Arthur: Hirata!

He turned around, but my voice and eyes widened in surprise.

Hirata: Arthur, you look good. Did you choose your own clothes?

Arthur: Haha, of course, are you interested in the Moscow style?

Hirata: Well, the view is nice, maybe instead of girls, I'll listen to you when choosing clothes.

Arthur: Well, don't tell them that, or you'll be walking with them for a week as a sign of punishment, haha.

Hirata: haha, you're right.

He scratched his cheek in embarrassment and laughed. Yes, innocent? That's an understatement. Does he have any experience with the opposite sex at all?

So we discussed all sorts of little things and have already come to the Trading Cent. Wow, this is my first time here, so I expect a lot.

Four girls, Chiaki, Karuizawa and two other girls were already standing there. They're from our class, aren't they? Okay, let's get to know each other.

Hirata: Hello everyone! Sorry, we were a little late.

The four of them looked in our direction, first at Hirata, then at me. When their gaze fell on me, they were a little surprised. Looks like the style is good, right? Thanks to my experience.

Arthur: Chiaki? Will you introduce your friends? I already know Karuizawa.

Chiaki: ... ah... Y-yes. This is Sato Maya, and she is Shinohara Satsuki.

Arthur: Nice to meet you, Sato, Shinohara.

Sato: Y-yes, nice to meet you, Arthur.

Shinohara: ... Yeah

Karuizawa came closer to us and looked at me with a surprised look. Then she looked at the phone, wrote something there and her eyes widened.

Karuizawa: Eh?! Uh-this T-shirt, is it exclusive? How did you manage to get her? There are only 1000 of them.

Arthur: Well, I just really wanted it and overpaid a little to get it.

Karuizawa: Did you choose this outfit yourself? Or did someone help you? Maybe a girl? Hehe

Arthur: Yes, a girl.

Girls: Eh?

Arthur: Yes, the consultant at the store, she helped me a lot. Okay, let's go, I want to see how the Mall differs from ours.

Chiaki: Yes, let's go, otherwise we're already late for the reservation.

So we went shopping for about two hours. First, we went to the clothing department, where I helped Hirata with clothes, then we took food and went to karaoke. We're going home now, I'm walking next to Karuizawa, and on the other side, Chiaki. Yeah, I have a feeling this is going to end badly. 

Karuizawa: Listen, Arthur. Do you have a girlfriend?

Arthur: A girl? It's barely been a week, what kind of girl can there be?

Karuizawa: Well, I'm talking about your country, maybe she stayed there? And yes, what's the problem with having a girlfriend now, at the beginning of the year?

Arthur: Ha, if I had a girlfriend there, I would never leave her in another country. What about a relationship in a week? Do you think they will last long? The couple literally knows nothing about each other and trust is not like that. It's complete nonsense, to put it in two words. Either one does not perceive the other as a person and sees only the appearance, or both. So this kind of relationship is not for me.

Chiaki: Well, you're basically saying the right thing. You need to get to know the other person first, and then build something.

Karuizawa looked away slightly after my answer and thought hard about something. They are both interesting personalities. Chiaki is not frivolous, as it may seem at first glance. She can think and notice things that other girls won't see. And Karuizawa, well, so far she's acting like she's experienced, but that experience is not visible. And even when talking to me, she constantly thinks about something. Could it be... though why would she play? Strange.

So we went to our rooms, and I poured myself kvass, sat on the window and lit a cigarette.

The girl of the week, right? The people here are strange. Horikita, who is consumed by superiority, but seems to be afraid of her brother, although it may be something deeper. Kushida, who sticks to her and behaves strangely, seriously, being kind, or rather too kind is not very good. Hirata, justice? Why would he get hung up on everyone? Karuizawa, goes into thought at the mention of personal relationships, it's bad, isn't it? Chiaki, why is she acting like a fool with everyone? Why is he wearing this mask at all? Sudo is a typical bully, but his character… Is this exactly a common thing for a high school student like him? What is he like that for?

And the main person, Ayanokoji. What is he doing? It's like he doesn't know anything, but at the same time everything. As buto is limited in communication on simple topics, but attentive, even very much and tries to lie where it is not necessary.

What kind of class is this? Is everyone in this school like that? The elite? Yes, the ordinary Russian class will show more if they needed a person with an unusual character. But I don't care about that. I'm here for something else. I hope nothing will disturb my normal life.

I said, blowing smoke out the window.

A/H

So I finished writing the second chapter. Almost 7k words. Should I keep the format of large chapters? How do you like Arthur's thinking and attitude towards the class? Should I add more of his thoughts in regular dialogues or events?

Also, maybe it's too early, but I'll ask you again, which way is better to give him, in terms of love? If I give it, then this girl will have, let's say, a dynamic relationship.

There is also a question about his actions in relation to class competitions. He's lazy, very lazy. But he does it if he is interested in it. A walk to the shopping center, cooking kvass, going to the club ceremony. He is interested in this, but the situation with Kushida or going to the pool, it seems to him, is not very good and therefore becomes lazy. He simply refuses without the opportunity to change his mind. What do you think this will affect in the future?

Thank you for reading, please report spelling errors or the narration itself, I will be glad to change it if it is objective.